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A rigorous march has turned into a major win for homeless veterans, with more than $27,600 raised for CASA Mackay through the Just Keep Marching campaign. Led by 2025 Young Citizen of the Year Murray Macgroarty, the community-backed effort smashed its original target, transforming a personal challenge into real-world support for veterans facing housing insecurity. The funding, presented by RSL Mackay, will be used to assist veterans who are homeless or at risk of homelessness, helping cover short-term accommodation and other critical supports. Local service provider CASA said the donation will help fill key gaps, ensuring veterans can access emergency housing and practical assistance when existing options fall short. The campaign has highlighted the ongoing challenges facing veterans transitioning to civilian life, while showing the power of grassroots community action to deliver real, measurable change. The donation is expected to provide immediate assistance for vulnerable veterans and strengthen local efforts to reduce veteran homelessness across the region. RSL Mackay members met with CASA representatives on Tuesday, 10th February, to present the $27,660 donation for veteran homelessness support. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara Continued from cover… RSL Mackay Donation Boosts Veteran Homelessness Support Through CASA RSL Mackay presented a very generous donation of just over $27,600 to CASA Mackay in support of its ongoing work helping individuals experiencing homelessness, following the recent Murray’s Just Keep Marching fundraising campaign. The funds were raised through an extraordinary community effort led by young cadet and 2025 Young Citizen of the Year Murray Macgroarty, whose long-distance walk captured widespread support and significantly exceeded its original fundraising target. President of Mackay RSL Ken Higgins said the organisation was committed to ensuring the funds were directed where they were most needed. “We want to make sure the money went to where it should go to, and that's to veteran homelessness in this area,” he said. He confirmed the funds would directly support short-term housing needs for vulnerable veterans. While exact figures are difficult to track due to the transient nature of the veteran community, the RSL estimates there are a number of veterans doing it tough locally. “I would think there’d be probably 20 or 30 around the area that are coming and going,” he said. He also highlighted the challenges many veterans face when transitioning from military to civilian life. “One of the big problems with veterans is the transition from being very comfortable in their environment to now wandering around, and finding it hard to adapt to civilian life,” he said. Mackay RSL Secretary Georgia-Lee Ricketts, a younger veteran herself, said she understood firsthand how difficult the transition from military life can be. “I was discharged from the Army after 15 years, four years ago,” she said. “I know firsthand how difficult it really is to try and find a place in the community once you leave the military.” She said rebuilding life outside the structured military environment could be confronting. “At 35 years old, I had to try and learn to live my life as an individual, and it is really difficult.” CASA General Manager Will Stafford said the organisation was grateful to receive the funding and to partner with RSL Mackay to support veterans experiencing housing insecurity. “We’re delighted to receive this funding,” Mr Stafford said. “It was really amazing to follow Murray’s journey — that initial target of $5,000 to over $27,000 was incredible.” Mr Stafford said CASA and the RSL had worked together to ensure the funds would be used strategically. “After conversations with the RSL, we’ve got a plan to make this money work for veterans who are homeless or at risk of homelessness,” he said. He said homelessness numbers in Mackay had stabilised but remained a significant concern. “We’ve seen numbers stabilise — we’re sitting around 50 homeless individuals across Mackay.” “We want to see that number go down.” Mr Stafford said CASA had supported around 12 veterans in the past three months, and that the funding would allow CASA to fill critical gaps in support. “If we have a homeless vet or someone at risk of homelessness, we want to be able to ensure the existing framework’s able to support them, and if in the rare instance it’s not, we can use this money to support them in any way we can.” The donation will help ensure more veterans in Mackay receive timely support, practical assistance and a pathway toward safer, more stable housing. RSL Mackay presented a generous donation to CASA earlier this week, following Murray Macgroarty’s Just Keep Marching campaign, to support veterans experiencing or at risk of homelessness. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
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A 36-year-old East Mackay man has been charged with multiple weapons and drug-related offences following an early-morning police operation in Mackay late last month. Mackay Tactical Crime Squad officers, with assistance from the Dog Squad, attended a Bridge Road motel in East Mackay at approximately 7.30am on 31 January in relation to a wanted person, declaring an emergent search. Police allege that during the search, officers located a shortened firearm, ammunition, a quantity of dangerous drugs, and drug utensils. The man has been charged with two counts of possessing dangerous drugs, including methamphetamine and buprenorphine, along with one count each of possessing a relevant substance (butanediol), unlawful possession of a weapon (shortened firearm), authority required to possess explosives (ammunition), and possessing utensils. He has been remanded in custody and is due to reappear before Mackay Magistrates Court on 24 February. Police are urging anyone with information to contact Policelink via the online suspicious activity form at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting, available 24 hours a day. Information can also be provided anonymously to Crime Stoppers by calling 1800 333 000 or reporting online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au. Quote reference number: QP2600199545.
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Estelle is an older lady of refinement, experience and very strong opinions — and she is currently looking for a loving home to call her own. Coming into care in need of emergency surgery, Estelle bravely underwent the removal of her hip joint. While the procedure was dramatic, her recovery has been anything but. Slow, steady and nothing short of remarkable, Estelle has handled the process with quiet determination and would like it known that she is not fragile — she is seasoned. One of Estelle’s firmly held beliefs is that humans exist primarily for patting purposes. “Pat me, Human” is not a request, but a management directive. Her foster carer works from home in what appears to be a very important role, though Estelle remains unimpressed. She has observed that humans have two hands: one for emails and one for the cat. This, in Estelle’s view, is simply efficient workplace management. Estelle also lives by a strict interior design code: if it’s flat, it’s a bed. If it fits, she sits. And if there’s a laptop mat nearby, it is clearly intended for her comfort. She prefers to be wherever her human is — desk, couch, bed, paperwork or keyboard — with pats continuing, even while she sleeps. This is non-negotiable. Despite her age and recent surgery, Estelle is calm, affectionate and wonderfully companionable. There is no chaos or curtain climbing here, just gentle company and the occasional reminder that pats are overdue. To meet Estelle, contact Peta on 0423 500 650.
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Returning to school can be a challenge for many families, but thanks to the generosity of Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) staff, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students have begun the school year with the tools they need to succeed. As part of the Back to School Supply Drive, staff from across Mackay HHS donated hundreds of essential items, including pens, rulers, rubbers, glue sticks, books, scissors, lunchboxes, water bottles, backpacks, and other learning equipment. The donations were collected by the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Unit and delivered to the local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Health Service (ATSICHS Mackay) to support families who are doing it tough. Contributions came from various hospital units, including the Executive Leadership team and contracts department, demonstrating a strong commitment to health equity and efforts to help Close the Gap. Organisers say the drive does more than provide supplies; it eases the financial burden on families while encouraging students to attend school regularly, reinforcing the importance of the 'Every Day Counts' message. “A backpack filled with school supplies is the first step towards a mind filled with knowledge,” a spokesperson said. Through this small but thoughtful gesture, Mackay HHS staff are helping local students pursue their learning and big dreams, showing how community support can make a real difference in the lives of families and young learners.
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First-time nominees Corrsafe Enterprises are genuinely honoured to be recognised in the Whitsunday Business Awards. The newly launched program celebrates a wide range of local businesses, many being acknowledged for the first time. Owner Garry Matthias shared how meaningful the nomination is, saying:
“It really does make the nomination even more special. The Whitsunday Business Awards are brand-new, and to be recognised in the very first year feels incredibly meaningful. It’s a moment in time - a chance to stand alongside other local businesses who are shaping the future of our region. Being part of the inaugural group sets a benchmark, and I’m proud that Corrsafe’s contribution to the Whitsundays has been recognised from day one.”
Garry says the nomination reflects the team’s long-term commitment:
“This recognition isn’t just about me, it reflects the years of hard work, resilience, and commitment that Corrsafe has poured into supporting local families, industry, and our region as a whole. Being acknowledged by our own community means more than words can capture, and I’m incredibly proud to stand alongside so many inspiring businesses shaping the future of the Whitsundays.”
Corrsafe’s nomination stems from its impact on regional safety training, bringing world-class, nationally recognised services to Bowen and eliminating the need for workers to travel long distances.
"With one of regional Queensland’s widest scopes of accredited training, on-demand safety services, and a culture built on trust, care, and practical support, Corrsafe has become the region’s most reliable and responsive safety partner. Under Garry Matthias’ leadership, the business delivers not just training—but confidence, capability, and genuine community impact."
Garry thanked local businesses, workers, families, and the Corrsafe team for their support over more than 25 years.
At its core, Corrsafe remains committed to one purpose: "keeping people safe so they can go home to their families."
In a region surrounded by some of the world’s most iconic waterways, water safety isn’t just a skill—it is an essential life requirement. That is why the nomination of Aquatic Rush Whitsundays for the Whitsundays Business Awards is so significant.
Aquatic Rush Whitsundays has become a cornerstone of community safety, aquatic education, and swimming development, shaping confident swimmers, skilled lifeguards, and highly trained instructors who strengthen the Whitsundays every single day.
Aquatic Rush Whitsundays delivers a comprehensive range of learn-to-swim classes, guiding participants from their very first splash as babies through to adult beginners seeking confidence, wellbeing, or essential water safety skills. Each program is carefully designed to meet swimmers where they are—nurturing trust, technique, and confidence from the earliest ages.
But the organisation’s impact goes far beyond foundational lessons. Aquatic Rush Whitsundays also provides coaching programs for swimmers of all levels, from fun-and-fitness squads to competitive pathways that support athletes striving for peak performance. Many swimmers trained under Aquatic Rush Whitsundays progress through regional and state pathways, with some advancing all the way to national-level competition, an achievement that highlights the quality, expertise, and passion behind the coaching team.
What further sets Aquatic Rush Whitsundays apart is its commitment to comprehensive water safety, lifeguard training, and teacher training. Participants learn real-life survival skills, future lifeguards receive professional and nationally recognised instruction, and trainee swim teachers develop the knowledge and confidence to deliver safe, effective aquatic programs across the region.
All these efforts are guided by the organisation’s core philosophy:
“Aquatic Rush Whitsundays – the gateway to a lifetime of aquatic fun and fitness.”
This tagline reflects not just what they teach, but the lasting relationship with water they inspire in every swimmer.
The nomination for the Whitsundays Business Awards recognises the expertise, dedication, and far-reaching community impact of Aquatic Rush Whitsundays. Their daily work embodies excellence, responsibility, and a genuine commitment to fostering a safer, healthier, and more confident community.
In a region defined by water, Aquatic Rush Whitsundays is defining what safety, skill, and opportunity truly mean—and that is why this nomination is not only well earned, but deeply meaningful.
Option Insurance Brokers are beyond proud to have been nominated for the 2025 Whitsunday Business Awards’ Small Business Hero Award, with Managing Director, Doug O’Connor noting the nomination truly highlights the importance of small businesses within the region.
“We’re beyond excited about this nomination. As a family business, everything we do is centred around supporting people in our community. Being recognised locally tells us we’re on the right track, and it means a lot to us both,” enthused Doug and Jen O’Connor.
A locally owned, family-run brokerage, Option Insurance Brokers has earned the trust of the community through honesty, community visibility, and genuine care for each client’s induvial outcome.
“Our approach is personal, straightforward, and community focused. We take the time to explain cover properly, we’re easy to reach, and we stay involved through the entire process,” added Doug.
“There’s no call centre, no outsourcing, and no hidden agendas, just genuine support from people who live here too. We also spend a lot of time helping clients avoid underinsurance or gaps they didn’t realise they had. Those quiet wins don’t always get seen publicly, but they make a real difference to local families and small businesses.”
Doug and Jen hope to continue building strong connections within the shire, with the pair warmly thanking the community and other local businesses for putting their trust in Option Insurance Brokers.
“We’re grateful to be part of such a supportive region. We love calling the Whitsundays home, raising our family here, and building a business that contributes to the community in a positive way.”
What started as a tiny two-reformer passion project in the midst of the pandemic has grown into a community. Principle Movements has evolved far beyond its early days, and now they're found themselves nominated for the 2025 Whitsunday Business Awards’ Small Business Hero Award. This is their very first nomination, and a special milestone for the small studio.
“We’re really grateful for this nomination. It’s a big milestone for us and a reflection of the incredible support we’ve had from our clients and the whole Whitsunday community,” said Director and Founder Ashleigh McDonald.
Principle Movements combines strong movement knowledge with a personal approach
across both group classes and Clinical Pilates. In clinical work, Principle Movements look closely at how each person moves — their patterns, strengths and goals — and tailor sessions around that. In group classes, the same principles apply: thoughtful programming, clear options, and instructors who understand how to support different bodies safely and effectively.
“Our clients know they’re walking into a space where they’re welcomed by name, supported at every stage of their journey, and guided by instructors who genuinely care,” added Ashleigh.
“People often see the reformers and the energy of the classes, but not the layers underneath — the movement reasoning, the programming, and the care that goes into every session. Despite our growth, the heart of the studio remains the same: an inclusive, calm space focused on supporting each persons ability and how their body moves.
“In 2025, we were able to bring a long-time dream to life by partnering with National Pilates to host instructor workshops here in North Queensland — something regional teachers often miss out on unless they travel far or join online. But even with this growth, our biggest strength remains our team of knowledgeable, caring instructors.
“Whether someone is injured, pregnant, new to exercise or chasing specific goals, we take the time to understand their body and help them move with confidence.”
Whitsunday Sailing Outrigger have been prestigiously nominated for the 2025 Whitsunday Business Awards’ Customer Service Champion Award, an achievement both Stephen and Michelle Lynes are beyond grateful to accept.
A decade ago, the Lynes’ celebrated sailing business placed as runner-up in the 2015 Whitsunday Tourism Awards, making this year’s nomination all the more exciting.
“As owners of Whitsunday Sailing Outrigger, we’re absolutely thrilled to be nominated for the Customer Service Champion award. This recognition means a great deal to us because genuine customer care sits at the heart of everything we do,” said Stephen and Michelle.
“Being part of the inaugural Whitsunday Business Awards makes this nomination even more meaningful. It celebrates the spirit, innovation, and resilience of businesses in our region, and we’re honoured to be recognised in this first-ever awards program!”
Whitsunday Sailing Outrigger currently operates as the only commercial Hawaiian-Style sailing outrigger canoe across the entire country, setting the business apart from competitors, and other tourism experiences in the area.
“We believe what sets us apart is the experience we offer: a truly unique Hawaiian-Style sailing outrigger canoe adventure in one of the world’s most beautiful marine environments,” added Stephen and Michelle.
“Our focus on genuine hospitality, exceptional customer service, and sharing the rich heritage of outrigger paddling has recently earned us the TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Award 2025 for excellence and consistent 5-star reviews.”
An adventurous expedition, Whitsunday Sailing Outrigger allows clients to experience the beauty of the shire up close and personal, and as a locally owned, family-run business, the Lynes’ continue to go above and beyond to ensure each client enjoys an unforgettable paddle out on the water.
“Ohana, the name of our sailing canoe, is a rare and authentic experience that blends culture, adventure, and connection to the ocean,” explained Stephen and Michelle.
Whitsunday Sailing Outrigger’s operate three tours a day, offering a two hour, or 1 and half hour trip, and they are perfect for anyone looking to experience Airlie Beach. Stephen and Michelle pride themselves on catering to suit varying holidayers, and remain committed to providing the best possible levels of tailored, personalised customer service, making the nomination for the Customer Service Champion Award a reputable achievement in itself.
“We would like to sincerely thank the Whitsunday Regional Council, Bendigo Bank, and the Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce & Industry for hosting these awards. It’s refreshing and deeply appreciated to see a program that encourages participation by offering free entry for local businesses,” Stephen and Michelle noted.
“We’re grateful to our community, our guests, and everyone who has supported us on this journey. We love sharing the magic of the Whitsundays aboard ‘Ohana, our sailing outrigger and look forward to continuing to showcase the region in a unique and meaningful way.”
Across the Whitsundays, certain businesses help define the region. They reflect resilience, pride, community spirit, and a commitment to looking after one another. Murroona Gardens stands among them as a nominee for the Best of the Whitsundays: Business of the Year 2025.
For more than fifty years, Murroona Gardens has been more than an aged care service. It has been a cornerstone of Bowen—a place where generations of families have found comfort, where locals have built careers, and where the values of trust, care, and community continue to guide every decision. Recognition in the Whitsunday Business Awards is a tribute to residents, families, staff, volunteers, local partners, and the broader community who have shaped Murroona Gardens into what it is today.
Murroona Gardens embodies the very essence of the Whitsunday Business of the Year: excellence in service, leadership in community, and commitment to sustainable growth. It strengthens Bowen socially and economically. As one of the region’s largest employers, it provides stable careers, supports local families, and ensures resources circulate within the community. Being a not-for-profit means every resource is reinvested locally, multiplying benefits and fostering growth within the region.
Strong relationships enrich everything Murroona Gardens does. Residents are supported to live each day with dignity, purpose, and connection. Families trust the team during life’s tender moments. Partnerships with local businesses, schools, health providers, and community organisations create a foundation for a stronger, more connected Whitsundays. Every collaboration reflects the best of what regional communities can achieve together.
Looking ahead, 2026 will bring one of the most significant developments in Murroona Gardens’ history with the construction of a new 24-bed dementia small house model home. This project will transform dementia care, create local jobs, support trades and suppliers, and further strengthen Bowen’s economic resilience. It is a development built for the Whitsundays, by the Whitsundays.
Murroona Gardens is also a national finalist in the Australian Training Awards for Small Employer of the Year, with winners to be announced on 5 December in Darwin. Representing the Whitsundays on a national stage demonstrates the strength, capability, and spirit of regional Queensland, showing that investment in people leads to remarkable outcomes.
The passion behind Murroona Gardens comes from the community. Every resident supported, every family walked alongside, and every staff member choosing a career there contributes to its heartbeat. Recognition in these awards reaffirms the commitment to making each day the best it can be for everyone in the care community.
Murroona Gardens continues to serve the Whitsundays with pride, representing the region on every stage.
Garden Shack Whitsundays Nominated For Customer Service Champion
Garden Shack Whitsundays is celebrating its first-ever nomination in the inaugural Whitsunday Business Awards. Kat Williams has been nominated for Customer Service Champion, recognising her dedication and teamwork.
"It makes me feel appreciated and acknowledged for my efforts and the efforts of my fellow coworkers. It’s not just me that deserves this award,” Kat said.
The nomination is especially meaningful as Garden Shack Whitsundays has been operating for less than 18 months. The business, one of four ventures owned by the same team in the region, combines multiple services in one location. Since taking over the original Butterfly Effect nursery in May 2024, they have also introduced the Pool Shop Whitsundays as part of the Narellan Pools expansion.
Kat thanked her bosses, Kim and Robbie, along with Manager Maree and the Garden Shack team. “We all deserve this nomination as a team,” she said, highlighting the collaborative spirit driving the business’s impact in the community.
Aaron Murphy of Down To Earth Whitsunday nominated as Rising Star
Aaron Murphy of Down To Earth Whitsunday (DTEW) has been nominated for the Rising Star: Employee, Apprentice or Trainee award in the inaugural Whitsunday Business Awards. It is Aaron’s first recognition in a local awards program.
"I am very excited and grateful to be one of the nominees for the award,” Aaron said.
"I have been working hard all year and it feels good to be recognised for it among the other nominees. It makes me want to get better at my job and get more motivated as I go forward."
DTEW is known for its quality work across landscaping, concreting, construction, and fencing, with a strong team culture supporting learning and growth. Aaron highlighted the pride the team takes in every project and the variety of work they deliver.
He thanked the company for the opportunity to work and live in the region, noting that the nomination reflects both personal effort and the supportive, professional environment at DTEW.
Yooribaya Cultural Experiences has been honoured with two major nominations in the 2025 Whitsunday Business Awards, recognised in both the Business Leader of the Year and Small Business Hero categories. For founder and cultural educator behind the family-run enterprise, the acknowledgement marks the first formal award recognition for the business.
While Yooribaya has long been celebrated informally through partnerships, collaborations, and community engagement, being nominated in an official awards setting carries special significance. A spokesperson for the business said the team was “incredibly honoured” to be recognised in the inaugural awards.
As a family-run First Nations business, everything we do is grounded in cultural integrity, respect, and community,” said Robert Congoo.
“To be acknowledged in this way means so much – not just for our team, but for the Traditional Owners, Elders, young people, and business partners who walk along side us. This recognition highlights the value of cultural leadership in our region”
The launch of the Whitsunday Business Awards adds further meaning to the achievement. Being part of the awards’ first year, they said, reflects a growing regional appreciation for diversity, culture, and community-led business models and signifies a greater acknowledgment of the role First Nations cultural tourism plays in shaping the Whitsundays’ identity.
Yooribaya Cultural Experiences continues to stand out through its commitment to authenticity, cultural responsibility, and community connection.
Beyond workshops and ceremonies, the business delivers cultural education across more than 25 schools, collaborates on environmental and healing initiatives, produces sustainable products, and provides mentoring to organisations seeking respectful cultural engagement
Whitsunday Life Newspaper is proud to be nominated for two categories at the upcoming Whitsunday Business Awards: Business of the Year and Regional Game Changer.
For the past five years, Whitsunday Life has been dedicated to restoring the community’s free voice in print. The newspaper was born in response to the sudden closure of 14 regional papers. With almost a decade of magazine-publishing experience behind them, the company took on the challenge of launching a new newspaper to fill the void.
“It didn’t feel right that regional communities would lose their local papers,” said owner and publisher, Bec Douthwaite.
“From the outset, we were determined to return a free voice to the community. That’s why every printed paper is free, and all our online content is free as well—there is no paywall.
“A big thank you to all our loyal advertisers, many of whom have been with us since the start. You have made the revival of printed newspapers in our community possible.”
Since launching Mackay and Whitsunday Life in 2020, the publishing company has celebrated remarkable success, including more than 10 state awards—most notably the Best Free Newspaper in Queensland in 2024.
The company has also continued to grow, expanding into new regions after being approached by communities eager to see a printed newspaper return.
“It has been an absolute privilege to help neighbouring communities,” said Editor-in-Chief Rachael Smith.
“I remember fondly when we received a call from the Burdekin Economic Development Committee. They loved what we had achieved in the Whitsundays and asked if we could help bring back local news in their region.
“It was an ambitious and slightly daunting task, but we’re proud to say we’ve been successfully publishing a weekly newspaper in the Burdekin for the past two years.
“In 2024, we received another call—this time from the Mayor of Hinchinbrook, who had seen Burdekin Life and asked if we could do the same for his community.
“By November that year, we had launched, and we have now been delivering a free printed newspaper to Hinchinbrook for a full year.”
The company’s growth continues, with its magazine publications now expanding into Townsville.
“It’s incredible to think this is all being achieved from our little publishing house in Cannonvale. We have certainly grown, but our foundation remains firmly rooted here in the Whitsundays.”
The team has expanded significantly since inception, growing from five staff to more than 20. The central office in Cannonvale employs 10 local staff, while the remaining team works remotely across the regions they serve.
What sets Whitsunday Life and the broader Life Publishing Group apart is the uplifting and positive nature of their publications. While the journalists do not shy away from important issues, the guiding sentiment across all titles is one of optimism.
“You don’t need shock or sensationalism to sell newspapers, or to encourage someone to pick up a free one,” said Rachael Smith.
“We believe good quality, uplifting community stories about local personalities and faces reveal the true heart of a region. That is at the very core of our success.”
The Whitsunday Life office team. Photo credit: R Jean Photography
The Whitsunday region is set to sparkle this festive season, with a fantastic line-up of community Christmas events on offer. These Council-supported celebrations are bringing festive cheer to towns right across the region, giving locals plenty of opportunities to come together and enjoy the spirit of the season.
In Bowen, celebrations begin with the Bowen Community Christmas Carols on Friday 28 November at the Sound Shell on the Bowen Foreshore from 6:30pm to 8:30pm. Families can enjoy Christmas carols, delicious food and a sparkling fireworks display, creating a warm and welcoming night for the whole community.
Collinsville keeps the festive spirit going on Saturday 6 December, with the Collinsville Youth Coalition hosting its annual Christmas Carnival at the CYC Grounds from 6:30pm to 9:30pm. This much-loved event brings locals together for an evening of fun, connection and Christmas cheer.
On Friday 12 December, Bowen locals can enjoy the Bowen Locals 4 Locals Street Party at the PCYC on Hay Street from 5pm to 9pm. Expect market stalls, free face painting, live performances, food and a visit from Santa! It’s Christmas fun for all ages.
Also on Friday 12 December, Proserpine’s Main Street will come alive for the Twilight Christmas Fair from 5pm to 8pm. The evening will feature market stalls, live music, kids’ activities, Santa photos, delicious food and plenty of festive vibes for the whole family, supported by Amanda Camm MP.
With so many Council-supported community events to choose from, residents are encouraged to get out and enjoy the celebrations. Whether you love singing along to carols, wandering through markets, watching a Christmas movie under the stars or simply soaking up the atmosphere, these events are a wonderful way to feel connected and embrace the magic of the season.
Say hello to Antonio, a beautiful black Tom cat who’s been loved and cared for since the day he was born. Now around 6 months old, this handsome boy is ready to find his forever home — and he’s sure to steal your heart the moment you meet him.
Antonio is the perfect mix of playful, cuddly, and full of personality. He’s curious, affectionate, and has a charming habit that makes everyone smile... he actually plays fetch!
Whether he’s chasing his favourite toy or curling up for cuddles, Antonio’s gentle nature and big heart shine through.
He’s been raised indoors since birth, so he’s well-adjusted to home life and loves being around people. Antonio deserves a family who will give him plenty of attention, playtime, and all the love he’s grown up surrounded by.
About Antonio:
Antonio is more than just a cat — he’s a companion, a comedian, and a cuddle buddy rolled into one.
If you’re ready for endless love (and a few games of fetch!), email Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue Inc. on bcpri.adoptions@gmail.com today to learn more or arrange a meet-and-greet!
Lenard Winch Roberts was a member of the crew of the ill-fated HMAS “Sydney” - but Len was meant to live. This is his story …
Lenard Winch Roberts was born in Cardiff, Wales, on November 16, 1920, and, with his family, moved to Western Australia when he was only a boy. As World War II approached, Len enlisted with the Royal Australian Navy on June 9, 1939, and after doing his initial training aboard HMAS “Cerberus”, he was transferred to HMAS “Sydney”. Serving in the Mediterranean, they were in one major engagement in which one Italian cruiser was damaged and another sunk.
In 1941, after HMAS “Sydney” returned to Australia and was stationed in Perth, Len and a mate were staying at his mother’s place the night before the ‘Sydney” was due to leave port. A faulty alarm clock caused them to sleep in and miss the ship as she left on patrol for the Dutch East Indies. They spent some time in Fremantle Jail at his Majesty’s pleasure for missing the ship - a small price to pay considering the misfortune of so many others. On November 19, 1941, HMAS “Sydney”, the pride of the Australian Navy, was sunk by the German raider HSK “Kormoran”, posing as a Dutch trading ship. The entire 645 crew members of “Sydney” were lost though the reason the ship went down with all hands on board still remains a mystery.
When Japan entered the war soon after, Len and his mate were placed in charge of Chinese Stokers on a coal fired tugboat towing a damaged British ship to Melbourne. During this trip across the Great Australian Bight, they complained about the food and conditions. The British Captain pulled his revolver and told them he could shoot them for mutiny. Around this same time, Len’s brother, Roy, was posted missing after HMAS “Perth” was sunk. Roy spent the rest of the war as a Prisoner of War in Japan.
While posted to HMAS “Magnetic” in Townsville, Len met and married a Proserpine girl, Doreen Muller, in 1944. He then served on the heavy cruiser HMAS “Shropshire” taking part in the Battle of Leyte Gulf in the Philippines. In the Surigao Strait, “Shropshire” was instrumental in sinking the Japanese battleship “Yamashiro”. On another occasion, a mine jammed in the ship’s clearing gear and started bumping on the side of the ship. Len described that being locked up at action stations in the engine room and hearing the mine hitting the side of the ship until it was cleared and destroyed, was one of the most frightening moments he experienced.
Len served on other ships, namely HMAS “Madang” from 1945 – 1946 in New Guinea; a Corvette HMAS “Gladstone” until 1947; “HMAS” Leeuwin: until 1950 and HMAS “Australia”, a heavy cruiser. Also, the “Penguin”, “Ping Wo” and ‘Moreton”.
Upon his discharge on June 8, 1951, Len returned to Proserpine and worked at the Proserpine Sugar Mill as a steam loco driver and later he cut cane in the Lethebrook and Conway areas. He also worked as a driver for AW Rasmussen and Filby’s before becoming a linesman with the PMG (later Telecom). Len and Doreen had eight children - four sons and four daughters - and lived at Cannonvale Beach until his death on February 19, 1994.
Lenard Roberts was indeed meant to live, in fact 53 years longer than his crew mates from HMAS “Sydney”. Who would have thought that a humble alarm clock would mean the difference between life and death - something on which Len no doubt often dwelled during his many years after the wartime disaster.
LEST WE FORGET
Story and photo sourced from Proserpine Historical Museum Society Military Archives.
Photo supplied.
Hi Everyone!
Last weekend, I had a fantastic time in the Conway National Park, where I went for a little photography walk in hopes of capturing some of the diverse Fauna we have here in the Whitsundays. I was lucky enough to be joined by my friend and her dad, who is a National Park ranger, and he was able to point out different species of trees, birds and other reptiles.
The most exciting part, however, was when he pointed out a vibrant little Kingfisher to me. I soon found out it was going to be a lot harder to capture than I first thought. Kingfishers are very quick and flighty, and I was only able to capture a slightly blurry picture of one. Disappointed with my photography abilities, I felt immediately disheartened. However, after a while, I realised that sometimes things are best enjoyed in the moment.
Having said that, I will definitely be heading back with renewed determination to capture one, and I can assure you I will write a story about them as soon as I do!
Happy reading!
Ruth
"Be where you are; otherwise you will miss your life." - Buddha
Imagine visiting the Great Barrier Reef 50 years ago. The colours were brighter, the fish more abundant, and the coral gardens stretched endlessly beneath the waves. Fast forward to today, and although the Reef is still a world wonder, science tells us it has undergone significant changes caused by multiple environmental factors.
Over time, and in many areas, the reef appears different today compared to what it was decades ago. Without a clear memory of earlier conditions, it’s easy for us to view the Reef we see now as the norm, even when it varies from its historical state.
This is the essence of shifting baseline syndrome, a gradual and often unnoticed shift in our expectations of what a healthy environment should look like.
Over generations, each new group of visitors, divers, and scientists may come to see a different version of nature as “standard.” This subtle shift can influence how we perceive change and what we believe is possible for the future. When it comes to the Great Barrier Reef, being aware of this helps ensure our goals remain ambitious and forward-looking.
A helpful example of shifting baselines can be found half a world away in the Florida Keys, USA. This 354-kilometre chain of 1,700 islands once supported one of the most spectacular reef ecosystems in the Western Hemisphere. For decades, its corals and marine life dazzled divers and snorkelers alike. But over the past 40 years, the Florida Keys have lost more than 90% of their live coral due to poor water quality and the impacts of climate change.
Today, snorkelers explore the area and often find it beautiful, noticing the fish and patches of coral and assuming that’s what the reef has always looked like. This reflects how naturally our perceptions can shift over time.
Is there hope? Or could this be the future of the Great Barrier Reef?
To protect the Reef, we need both hindsight and foresight. Recognising shifting baselines helps us avoid becoming too comfortable with the status quo and encourages us to aim high, to “turn back the clock” where possible and support recovery.
Fortunately, Australia is better positioned than most. Since the 1980s, the Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS) has been conducting long-term monitoring of the Great Barrier Reef. This invaluable record provides a reliable baseline to track coral cover and health over time, offering scientists a clearer picture of how the Reef is changing and why.
Beyond scientific surveys, historical information also plays a crucial role. Old photographs, early dive logs, oral histories, and even stories from local communities can help reconstruct what the Reef once looked like. Citizen science projects are contributing to this growing body of evidence, filling in gaps and providing a more comprehensive picture of the Reef’s past.
By combining modern science with these historical insights, we can establish a more accurate and meaningful baseline—one that reflects the Reef’s true potential. This knowledge can guide more ambitious conservation goals. If we accept today’s Reef as “normal,” we risk losing sight of what it could be. But by remembering its past, we can better shape its future.
The Great Barrier Reef’s story is still being written. With knowledge, determination, and an awareness of shifting baselines, we can help ensure that future generations experience a Reef as vibrant and full of life as it once was.
Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Conservation Council.
Shifting baselines. Photo supplied by Whitsunday Conservation Council.
By Ruth Puddefoot
During a walk in the Whitsundays, as you meander through the strangler, sandpaper, and cluster figs, you might catch sight of a small, lizard-like shadow darting across the footpath, rustling through the bushes, or clinging to a tree trunk. If you do, there’s a good chance you’ve spotted a Lace Monitor, also known as a Goanna.
While Goanas are often encountered on most bush walks, they are actually subject to habitat loss, from development, land clearing and road mortality. Another significant and growing danger is the increasing spread of non-native Cane Toads. Lace Monitors, with their diet of birds, carrion, eggs, small mammals, and other reptiles, often consume Cane Toads, which are toxic, leading to their death from poisoning. Cane Toads, in conjunction with habitat degradation, are putting increasing strain on Lace Monitor populations.
Things you can do right now to help protect these marvellous animals:
• Report any sightings of goannas, dead or alive to Fauna Rescue Whitsundays (07 4947 3389)
• Protect native vegetation and termite mounds in your local area, which is where Lace Monitors lay their eggs.
• Be a responsible pet owner by keeping pet cats indoors and dogs on a lead.
• Leave valuable habitat like fallen trees, logs and smaller timber in the bush and on grazing land.
• When driving, slow down for goannas to let them cross roads safely (and be especially mindful around road kill, which may attract goannas onto the road).
• Get involved in local restoration and revegetation programs to help increase habitat and
connect remnant bushland.
Did you know?
The Lace Monitor can grow up to 2M long, making it the second-largest lizard on the continent.
Whitsundays Lace Monitor showing off its climbing skills. Photo credit: Ruth Puddefoot.
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