Bowen’s beloved community radio station, 95.1 GemFM, is proudly celebrating its 25th birthday—marking a milestone in local broadcasting and community spirit.

The station’s story began in 1996 when Brian Winterburn, the current President, was approached by Pastor John Robertshaw (deceased) to support a group keen on establishing a community radio station.

Brian joined forces with the late Robert Smart, a computer genius, who was already working to form an incorporated association.

After building a committed volunteer base and holding public concerts and raffles to raise funds, the team pushed through licensing requirements and performed a highly successful test transmission.

With support from the Community Broadcasting Foundation, GemFM secured funding to go on air permanently.

Key early contributors included Wayne Power, Leon Mitchell,  Jarad Mea, Suzin Tait, Wendy Ward, Gavin Volker, Roger James, Glenda Beverly, and many more. GemFM received its official Broadcast Licence in May 2000.

Though the station faced tough times, the commitment and passion of its volunteers kept the dream alive. Today, GemFM stands as a testament to grassroots perseverance and community pride.

Now 25 years on, 95.1 GemFM has been the heart of Bowen’s airwaves—championing local talent, sharing vital news, and connecting the community through music and stories that matter.

More than just a radio station, GemFM has become part of Bowen’s identity, giving a voice to clubs, associations, and local businesses.

Tony Fossey of GemFM said a heartfelt thankyou to listners and volunteers alike.

“Thanks to the dedication of our volunteers and the unwavering support of our listeners and sponsors, GemFM has evolved while staying true to its roots,” he said.

“As we celebrate this milestone, we look forward to an exciting future—continuing to inform, entertain, and unite the Bowen community for many years to come.

“Join us as we celebrate 25 years of music, connection, and community spirit at 95.1 GemFM—still proudly broadcasting from Bowen to the Whitsundays and beyond.”

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The crew of GemFM. Photo supplied

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The Whitsundays was well represented at the Townsville Caravan, 4x4 and outdoor Adventure Expo on the weekend. Leanne Abernethy from Bowen Tourism and Business and Dea Huvonen from Tourism Whitsundays manned a Whitsundays stand.

Other local operators at the expo included Big 4 Adventure Whitsundays and Cruise Whitsundays.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business Leanne Abernethy said the drive market was very important to the local tourism economy and the visitors at the expo were very interested in visiting the region.

“We spoke to hundreds of people who had been to Bowen and Airlie Beach already and were planning to return, as well as hundreds more who showed a very keen interest in what we have to offer here in paradise," she said.

“The response from everyone we spoke to was very positive.

“Opportunities like this are invaluable to our tourism industry as we have face-to-face contact with so many people and we can share our local knowledge and experiences.

Leanne also said they were given prizes.

“We were provided with prizes from Wings Sailing Adventures as well as three Bowen caravan parks - Rose Bay Beach, Harbour Lights and Tropical Beach.

“The visitors were very excited about the chance to win.

“We know from past expos that many people who speak to us about what the area has to offer become visitors in the future.”

Contributed with thanks to Bowen Tourism & Business

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Leanne Abernethy from Bowen Tourism and Business and Dea Huvonen from Tourism Whitsundays. Photo supplied

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A record-breaking $2,500 was raised at this year’s Biggest Morning Tea, marking the most successful event to date for the local organisers. Now in its 20th year, the annual fundraiser has become a staple on the community calendar, bringing people together in support of the Cancer Council.

This year’s success was made possible through a new collaboration with Club Whitsunday, who provided the venue and generously catered the event.

“It’s the most we’ve ever raised,” said Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre Executive Officer Rebecca Woods.

“Being in collaboration with Club Whitsunday, we were able to open it up to a much larger audience than we have been capable of holding at the actual Neighbourhood Centre.”

Guests enjoyed a warm and welcoming atmosphere, excellent food, and a wide selection of raffle prizes to suit all budgets, with $5, $20, and $50 ticket categories.

Each year, funds raised are donated to the Cancer Council, supporting vital research and services. But just as important is the opportunity for those affected by cancer to come together.

“Every year the money that's raised goes to the Cancer Council but it's a really important morning, more so for people who have lived experience with cancer to be able to come together and enjoy good company and good food,” said Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre Executive Officer Rebecca Woods.

The Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre is already looking forward to next year’s morning tea, with hopes to build on the momentum.

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Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre - Rebecca Woods, Jess Barr, Dean Harrison, Tamara Noble and Casey Peterson

Rena Taylor and Rayley Head
Diane Harris, Allison Ladders, Lyn Roberts, and Sue MacMillan
The Morning Tea was well attended
Helen Meehan and Sharon Cousins

Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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This week, from 19 to 25 May 2025, we’re joining the rest of Australia to celebrate National Volunteer Week - the biggest week of the year for recognising volunteers. It’s all about showing how important volunteers are in our communities and hopefully inspiring more people to get involved.

Here in The Whitsundays, we’re lucky to have lots of locals who generously give their time to help out and make visitors feel at home. Our Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors and Information Centre Volunteers do a fantastic job welcoming visitors and sharing their knowledge about the region.

A big thanks to all these volunteers for their ongoing dedication and friendly support. Their passion and effort really capture the heart of the Whitsundays and help make every visitor’s experience something special. To all the volunteers out there, thank you, your hard work means so much to our community.

Interested in helping out? Please contact info@tourismwhitsundays.com.au to find out how you can get involved.

Contributed by Dea Huvonen, Visitor Services Manager, Tourism Whitsundays

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The Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors are celebrated this week during the National Volunteer Week.

The Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors welcomed 1 million visitors last year.

Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Sharks eat fish. People eat fish. What happens when shark and people want the same fish? Shark wins and it is called shark depredation (shark partially or completely consume fish caught by fishing gear before fish can be retrieved).

Shark depredation is now considered a significant issue in Australian fisheries, including the Great Barrier Reef.

For the first time, the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries is researching shark depredation. A series of workshops with the major stakeholders has just been completed. The information gathered will direct future research that may help mitigate the problem.

However, the problem is very complex and a feasible solution will be hard to come by.

The workshops did highlight the scope of the problem which impacts commercial fishers, charter boat operators and recreational fishers, causing economic losses and catch reductions.

The workshops also highlighted the need for serious research focusing on shark behaviour and the health of shark populations.

The big question that needs to be answered: are shark numbers increasing, or are sharks getting smarter?

There seems to be little doubt that sharks are getting smarter and are now associating boats with a free feed. One must also consider the potential decline in their prey species. In other words, our fishing behaviour has changed the shark's fishing behaviour.

But in terms of shark abundance, we do not really have very good long-term data sets to look at the abundance of sharks. A big part of the problem is that there at least 12 shark species involved in depredation, some quite abundant and some far from healthy.

What we do know about sharks is that they are one of the most imperilled groups of fishes globally and are cornerstone apex predators that are absolutely critical to maintaining the health and resilience of marine ecosystems, particularly in a complex ecosystem like the Great Barrier Reef. We need sharks. Culling is not an option.

Some mitigation measures suggested at the workshops included using technological deterrents (e.g., electronic, magnetic, acoustic devices), moving fishing spots to areas where sharks are less likely to be present, and using specialized fishing gear.

Perhaps changing our behaviour will be a more effective solution than changing the shark’s behaviour.

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Conservation Council

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By uploading tail fluke photos to the HappyWhale base we have learned some interesting insights to one particular whale.

A humpback whale Glen Bradford photographed near Dent Island in the Whitsundays in August 2023, was first identified by Dr Trish Franklin from the Pacific Whale Foundation 35 years ago in Hervey Bay in September 1988.

Since the first ID sighting by Dr Trish there has been another 7 sightings.

In September 2004 she was photographed in Hervey Bay with a calf for the first time.

The last time when she was photographed in August 2023 by Glen in the Whitsundays she also had a calf.

Her ID# is HW-MN1100085
These are the sightings

1. 23/09/1988 Hervey Bay, Dr Trish Franklin
2. 22/08/1991 Hervey Bay, Dr Trish Franklin
3. 23/08/1994 Hervey Bay, Dr Trish Franklin
4. 20/09/2004 Hervey Bay, Mark Andrew Cornish
5. 20/09/2004 Hervey Bay, Mark Andrew Cornish
6. 21/09/2004 Hervey Bay, Dr Trish Franklin
7. 27/10/2011 Eden NSW, Pacific Whale Foundation
8. 23/08/2023 Whitsunday, Glen Bradford

From the sightings data we can tell that she is most likely at least 40 years old, is female being spotted with a calf on at least two occasions and regularly migrates along the East Coast of Australia.

Hopefully with more sightings from submissions to HappyWhale, we can add to her story in the future.

Humpback whales give birth every two to three years, with a gestation period of 11-12 months; so maybe she will be sighted and identified with a calf again this year, by a photograph submitted to HappyWhale.

For more information on this actual whale
https://happywhale.com/individual/27328;enc=175683

If you have any tail fluke photos, no mattered how old, as long as you know the date, please submit them to www.happywhale.com so we can learn more about individual whales.

To find out more about special whale events, whale sightings and information on whales in the Whitsundays, join the WHALES OF THE WHITSUNDAYS or go to
https://www.whitsundaymarine.org/projects

Contributed by Kellie Leonard Master Reef Guide/Whales of the Whitsundays

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Hi everyone,

Welcome to this week’s edition of Ruth2Reef!

I hope you enjoy reading about the latest environmental happenings.

If you have any stories you’d like to see featured in Ruth2Reef, feel free to email them to me at ruth@lifepublishinggroup.com

Happy reading!
Ruth

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These two adorable three-month-old female kittens are currently being fostered in Airlie. These playful sisters are a bonded pair and must be adopted together.

Full of energy and affection, Winter and Wiley love chasing balls, playing with their toys, and snuggling up together for naps. Their close bond makes them the perfect duo for anyone looking to add double the cuteness and love to their home.

If you're ready to welcome these sweethearts into your life, be sure to message Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue directly.

Give Winter and Wiley the forever home they deserve—twice the fun, twice the love!

Are you interested in these cute affectionate kittens?

Contact Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue
·  Phone: 0459 757 455
·  Facebook: Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue
·  Email: bcpri.adoptions@gmail.com

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Dr Jane De Keyser & Her Daughter Unearth Historic Fossil Discovery In Richmond

Over April’s past long weekend, Dr Jane De Keyser and her seven-year-old daughter went for an adventure to Richmond for a fossicking trip in the outback.

To Dr Jane De Keyser’s delight and disbelief, the pair unearthed two outstanding discoveries dating back to over 100 million years ago and earning them a rightful place in geological history.

“On Easter Sunday, we made a spectacular “Easter Egg” find of one double and one single fossilised pear!” explained Dr Jane De Keyser.

One of the rarest and most fascinating geological occurrences, fossilised pearls form when natural pearls are submerged in sediment and undergo mineralisation over millions of years and have only been discovered in select locations across Australia.

In the past, Richmond, Winton and Lightning Ridge in New South Wales have yielded opalised pearls and fossilised pearl-like structures, however, there has apparently only been one singular fossilised pearl discovery nationwide.

Within the matter of 20 minutes, the pair had made history, attracting museum curators, a paleontologist and a reporter to the self-proclaimed fossil capital of Queensland.

“Richmond is very rich in fossils of dinosaur related species, and I explained to my daughter that what we found was rarer than the actual dinosaur bones,” said Dr Jane De Keyser.

Richmond sits on what was once the Eromanga Sea (around 100 million years ago) and has since become one of Australia’s most renown sites, yielding exceptionally well-preserved fossils including dolphin-like marine reptiles, fish and other oceanic creatures.

In the township’s marine fossil museum, Kronosaurus Korner, visitors can see some of the most amazing discoveries unearthed in Richmond for themselves, and soon, the finds of Dr Jane De Keyser and her daughter will join the remarkable showcase.

Both of the pearls were donated to the museum for verification and public display, and Dr Jane De Keyser and her daughter are rightfully beyond chuffed with their impressive discoveries.

“Needless to say, I want to go back out there!”

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Dr Jane De Keyser and her daughter made the discoveries of a lifetime on April's Easter Sunday (Photo Supplied)
The pair unearthed a double and single fossilised pearl in the Richmond outback (Photo Supplied)

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Cruise Whitsundays Great Barrier Reef Festival Needs Your Support

The heart of the Whitsundays has begun preparing to celebrate the wonder of the Great Barrier Reef once again, with the Cruise Whitsundays Great Barrier Reef Festival officially launching its 2025 theme, Coral Kingdom.

With the 2026 dates set for the weekend extending from the 1st to the 3rd of August, the shores of Airlie Beach will transform into a vibrant underwater fantasy, full of colour, culture and community spirit, however, this year, there's more at stake than ever before.

After nearly facing closure in 2024 due to critical funding shortfalls, festival organisers are calling on locals and businesses to help keep this cherished event alive. A new initiative titled the “Your Reef Festival” is now underway, to encourage community involvement and support to secure the future of the Whitsundays’ signature event.

“2024 presented our dedicated committee with unprecedented hurdles, including a lack of crucial government marketing funding and key committee member losses and we're now reaching out to our community to safeguard this iconic event,” explains Committee Chair, Margie Murphy.

“The 2025 festival is truly ‘Your Reef Festival’ as it's about fostering shared ownership, celebrating our unique connection to the reef, and ensuring this 'gift' to the world continues - it’s a gift – not a given – that our little community holds the global title as the world’s only Great Barrier Reef Festival and we need everyone to rally together to protect it.”

Presented by naming sponsor Cruise Whitsundays, the festival is a weekend favourite among locals and visitors alike, featuring family fun, live music, fireworks, a colourful street parade and more.

“The Great Barrier Reef Festival is more than a celebration - it’s a heartfelt tribute to the extraordinary place we call home,” Cruise Whitsundays General Manager Renee Buhagier said.

“The Festival encapsulates the spirit of the Whitsundays and its connection to the Great Barrier Reef, bringing together locals and visitors in a vibrant fusion of culture, community, and natural wonder and at Cruise Whitsundays, we’re proud to support an event that not only showcases the beauty and magic of the reef but also reminds us all of the importance of protecting it for future generations.”

With community support, organisers hope the 2025 festival will be the most magical yet and locals can contribute in many ways from donating, volunteering, or sponsoring key events, to offering in-kind support or specialist skills.

Whether you’re a business interested in becoming a Festival Partner, someone who can donate goods or services, or just keen to lend a helping hand, there’s a role for everyone and volunteers with experience in marketing, social media, logistics, or event coordination are especially encouraged to get involved.

To learn more, visit: greatbarrierreeffestival.com.au, email info@greatbarrierreeffestival.com.au, or follow the festival on social media.

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Heather Batrick, Renee Buhagiar, Jessica McDiarmid, and Margie Murphy are gearing up to stage a wonderful 2026 Cruise Whitsundays Great Barrier Reef Festival (Photo Supplied)

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Local Operators Recognised

Over 120 local tourism businesses across the region have been recognised in the 2025 Best of Queensland Experience Program (BOQEP) - a record-breaking achievement that highlights The Whitsundays’ reputation as one of Queensland’s most exceptional tourism destinations.

The recognised businesses represent the full diversity of the region’s offerings, including accommodation, attractions, food and drink, tours, and transport. This milestone reflects the strong commitment of Whitsundays operators to delivering world-class, visitor-first experiences.

The Best of Queensland Experience Program, an initiative led by Tourism and Events Queensland (TEQ) in partnership with Queensland’s Regional Tourism Organisations (RTOs), the Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC), and the Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (DETSI), independently assesses businesses based on customer reviews, digital presence, RTO membership, and formal accreditation.

Tourism Whitsundays CEO, Tim Booth, said “Tourism Whitsundays has seen a record level of businesses achieve Best of Queensland status in 2025 which is a huge credit to the tourism businesses in the Whitsundays and a key reason for the ongoing success of the region.”

“Well done to all of the operators that have achieved Best of Queensland this year.”

The BOQEP stamp is a mark of excellence, helping visitors easily identify high-quality, trusted tourism experiences when planning their travels in Queensland.

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A simple act of kindness has captured hearts after local mobile detailer Lucas spotted a classic Citroën 2CV leaving Coles and offered to restore it—free of charge.

Moved by memories of the iconic car, Lucas took to social media to track down the owner, writing, "I’m keen to give it a proper clean-up, no charge, just for the love of old gems like this one."

The community quickly rallied behind the post, helping connect Lucas with the vehicle’s owner. An appointment was arranged, and before long, the beloved 2CV was sparkling once again.

“In case anyone was wondering how the story ended – here she is, shining like she deserves!” Lucas posted, sharing photos of the freshly detailed car.

"Big thanks to the lovely owners of this classic Citroën 2CV for their awesome attitude and for allowing me to help bring out such a great version of this beauty."

The feel-good story served as a reminder of the power of community and how a shared love for something as simple as a vintage car can bring people together.

Lucas said he’s always happy to help where he can especially when it means reviving a classic.

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Lucas spotted the old Citroën 2CV leaving Coles

The Citroën 2CV after Lucas had restored it

Photos sourced: Facebook

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A record $2,500 was raised at this year’s annual Biggest Morning Tea, making it the most successful yet for the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre.

The event has long been a highlight in the local calendar, uniting the community in support of the Cancer Council.

A new partnership with Club Whitsunday helped elevate this year’s event, with the venue and catering provided free of charge, allowing for a larger turnout than ever before.

Rebecca Woods, Executive Officer of the Neighbourhood Centre, emphasised the emotional significance of the gathering and plans are already underway for next year’s event, as organisers aim to build on this year’s success and continue the tradition.

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National Reconciliation week takes place next week, from the 27 May to the 3 June. It is a time for all Australians to learn about shared histories, cultures and achievements. It is also a time to reflect and explore how we can work together to achieve reconciliation in Australia.

The theme this year is Bridging Now to Next - reflecting on the ongoing connection between past, present and future.

To mark the week, Council is sponsoring two free community events:

Bridging Now to Next: including a Welcome to Country, Flag Raising and Smoking Ceremony, a short feature film, student speakers and morning tea. From 9.30am – Tuesday, 27 May at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre.

Welcome Whales Event: including a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony, traditional dancers, kids’ activities and a screening of Free Willy. From 4.30pm- Saturday, 31 May at the Airlie Beach Foreshore.

To find out more about National Reconciliation Week, visit reconciliation.org.au

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As the world paused on 8 May to mark World Ovarian Cancer Day, the Trudy Crowley Foundation in Mackay continued doing what it does best—raising awareness, offering support, and giving women hope in the face of one of the most insidious diseases they may ever encounter.

Ovarian cancer is the deadliest reproductive cancer, claiming the lives of more than half of those diagnosed within five years. It creeps in quietly, often masked by symptoms that mimic more common ailments. There is no reliable early detection test. But here in Mackay, a fierce group of volunteers, nurses, ambassadors, and survivors have refused to let that silence continue.

The Foundation was established in honour of Trudy Crowley, a woman whose ovarian cancer diagnosis in 2016 revealed a shocking lack of information and support. At a time when she needed answers, all she was handed was a brochure about breast cancer. Outraged but undeterred, Trudy channelled her energy into advocacy, awareness, and support—both locally and nationally. Her mantra was simple but powerful: “Ovarian cancer may be a silent killer, but I’m NOT going to stay silent about it.”

Trudy’s legacy lives on through the Foundation and the countless lives it touches every day, not only through support services, but through education—a critical weapon in the fight against ovarian cancer.

Registered nurse Chris Giannangelo, who works closely with women through the Foundation, said the symptoms of ovarian cancer were frustratingly vague and often misdiagnosed.

“Ovarian cancer can mimic other problems—changes in bowel and bladder habits, feeling bloated after a small meal, pain during intercourse, fluctuations in weight, and things like recurrent urinary tract infections,” she said.

“These things often get brushed off. But as Bridgeen used to say—‘know your body, know your normal.’ If something isn’t right for you, follow it up. And if you’re not satisfied with your GP’s response, get a second opinion.

"You have to be your biggest advocate.”

Tragically, the Mackay community lost that very woman, Bridgeen Doherty, less than three months ago. A Trudy Crowley Foundation ambassador and ovarian cancer warrior, Bridgeen passed away on 20 February after a battle that began just before Christmas in 2019.

She named her cancer “Octavia” and took it on with a disarming mix of strength, sass, and humour. Her mission quickly became bigger than her diagnosis—educating others, advocating fiercely, and standing up so that more women could recognise the signs early.

Bridgeen’s voice remains central to the Foundation’s message. Her rallying cry of “know your body, know your normal” is now a guiding phrase for nurse Chris and her colleague, nurse Rosie Stannard.

“Cancer doesn’t discriminate,” said Rosie.

“It doesn’t care how fit you are, or where you live, or what your job is. That’s why listening to your body and getting regular checks is so important.”

Rosie and Chris recommend requesting both an abdominal and pelvic ultrasound each year and asking for a CA-125 blood test, which measures a protein that can indicate ovarian cancer. While not perfect on its own, the CA-125 can help flag concerns when used alongside imaging.

But there is hope on the horizon—hope that could change the odds for women everywhere.

Last week, on the very day the world recognised World Ovarian Cancer Day, a new initiative was announced to help fast-track diagnosis.

Dr Amanda Lumsden, a postdoctoral researcher at the University of South Australia, is working with a cross-disciplinary team to develop a user-friendly symptom assessment tool for ovarian cancer. Backed by a $45,087 Catalyst grant from Health Translation SA, the project aims to empower women and clinicians to better identify patterns of risk and early symptoms.

The tool is being shaped by people with lived experience of ovarian cancer, like Bridgeen, and will serve as a digital prompt to flag warning signs early.

“Women can experience symptoms for up to two years before diagnosis,” Dr Lumsden said.

“By the time they connect the dots, the cancer is often advanced. We’re hoping to change that by helping women—and their doctors—spot the signs sooner.”

The online ovarian cancer symptom scoping survey is open until 20 June, inviting contributions from women who have faced ovarian cancer and healthcare workers alike. The findings will inform a prototype tool that could eventually be rolled out to help thousands.

Professor Elina Hyppönen, who leads the research group, said early diagnosis was key.

“If we can find a way to identify high-risk women earlier, we can increase treatment options and improve outcomes,” she said.

For the team at the Trudy Crowley Foundation, this research is a welcome step forward, but the message remains clear; education saves lives.

So on World Ovarian Cancer Day, and every day after it, the Foundation continues Trudy’s work. Raising voices. Sharing stories. Honouring warriors like Bridgeen. And reminding every woman to listen to her body, ask the questions, and fight to be heard.

Because when it comes to ovarian cancer, silence is the real killer.

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Nurses Chris and Rosie
Trudy Crowley Foundation nurses Chris Giannangelo and Rosie Stannard continue to raise awareness and provide compassionate care, helping local women navigate the challenges of ovarian cancer with strength and support. Photos supplied

Bridgeen and Amanda Camm
The late Bridgeen Doherty with Trudy Crowley Foundation patron Amanda Camm MP. Bridgeen's legacy of fierce advocacy lives on in the foundation's message: “Know your body, know your normal.”

Trudy Crowley
The late Trudy Crowley turned personal adversity into national advocacy; her courageous voice continues to echo through the foundation that bears her name, helping women recognise the signs of this insidious disease

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