Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Last week the Whitsunday Counselling and Support organisation hosted their annual Candle Lighting Ceremony in Cannonvale to mark the beginning of Domestic and Family Violence Prevention month. Each May, the annual initiative aims to raise awareness of domestic and family violence and coercive control. The theme for 2026’s DFV month is: Together Queenslanders can prevent domestic and family violence. The event saw attendance from Mayor Ry Collins, Cr Jan Clifford and representatives from the Whitsunday Police Station and Whitsunday Counselling and Support. An acknowledgement of country was provided by Vicky Brimble (Koa Banburi) with music performed by Nicke Di Gregorio. Manager of Counselling Services at Whitsunday Counselling and Support Sharon Parker presented a powerful speech as she memorialised those lost, and put forward a call to action. “In our commemoration today, I would ask you to not just think about these deaths as statistics, but to reflect on the people behind the statistics,” Sharon said. “These were real people, with lives that mattered. They mattered.” Clothes were displayed to mark the individuals who tragically lost their lives to domestic violence. A list was provided of individuals across Australia who had lost their lives to domestic and family violence over the past two years, with many of the cases still ongoing. “This is not a comfortable thing to do,” Sharon said. “I know that whilst compiling this list I got emotional thinking about the victims. However, commemoration is important, as without discomfort, we are rarely moved enough emotionally to make change.” Sharon defined domestic and family violence, to improve awareness across the region. “Domestic and family violence is behaviour that occurs between people who are, or have been, in a domestic or family relationship. It is not just physical violence. It can include abuse that is emotional, financial or sexual. Tragically, it can have fatal consequences.” The speech touched on societal factors that contribute to domestic and family violence. “We did not arrive here suddenly. This harm has been shaped over time by gender inequality, rigid power structures and attitudes that have normalised control, silence and excuse making,” Sharon shared. “Misogynistic beliefs and patriarchal standards – when left unchallenged – can normalise control, silence and violence, particularly within homes and relationships. “Such attitudes can affect women’s safety both at home and in public. Many women live with the risk of domestic and family violence and often are making constant decisions with behaviour, routine or clothes – just to feel safe.” Sharon has also addressed the impacts of patriarchy and misogyny on men. “For men it is also harmful. It creates pressure to fit into narrow ideas of masculinity which may discourage men from expressing feelings, showing vulnerability or asking for help. These expectations can negatively affect men’s mental health, relationships and wellbeing. Patriarchy can also limit men’s freedom take on caring roles, seek support or live in ways that don’t fit traditional gender stereotypes.” Sharon then put forward a call to action, advising community members on how they could show their support. “Each of us has a role to play. Speaking up matters. We must all challenge sexist or violent language. Refusing to make excuses matters. Listening, believing and supporting survivors matters. Changes comes when individuals choose to reject attitudes that devalue, dismiss or endanger others. “So today, I challenge you with this call to action. I challenge you to reflect on how you view domestic and family. I challenge you to examine everyday behaviours, attitudes and conversations – and to choose to do better. Real change happens when individuals are willing to challenge what feels familiar and take responsibility for creating safer, more respectful relationships and communities.” Following on from the vigil on Thursday 14th, a roundtable was led by the DFV Prevention Council at Shute Harbour Marine Terminal. The stakeholder roundtable focused on domestic and family violence (DFV) primary prevention, with a strong emphasis on community-led approaches and collaboration across the region. The session brought together a range of local leaders and stakeholders, including representatives from council, police, community services and state agencies, to discuss opportunities for strengthening prevention efforts across communities including Airlie Beach/Cannonvale, Proserpine and Bowen. The focus was to identify local drivers of DFV, map community strengths and resources and explore practical, place-based solutions to help prevent violence before it starts. If you or someone you know is in a dangerous or life-threatening situation, call Triple Zero (000). If you don’t want to speak to the police you can also call DV Connect on 1800 811 811 or 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732 (24 hours, 7 days a week). You can also go to the Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month website for more details and support. https://www.qld.gov.au/community/getting-support-health-social-issue/support-victims-abuse/need-to-know/i-want-to-help-someone/practical-steps-to-help-someone-experiencing-dfv/taking-community-action/domestic-and-family-violence-prevention-month#:~:text=Each%20May%2C%20Queensland%20marks%20Domestic,Violence%20(DFV)%20Prevention%20Month. – can designers make into QR Code please. Domestic and Family Violence is an ongoing issue across the country. Change is required at an individual level to make a difference on a national scale. The Whitsunday Counselling and Support team with Mayor Ry Collins and Councillor Jan Clifford. Constable Christina Smith speaking about domestic and family violence. Photos supplied
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Millions of Australians, including households across the Mackay Shire, are being encouraged to reconnect with loved ones as Australia Post and Beyond Blue mark a major milestone in their national Connection Postcards campaign. This month, four million prepaid postcards are being delivered to letterboxes across the country, with Queensland receiving more than 824,000 cards as part of the initiative aimed at tackling loneliness and social isolation. The campaign also celebrates two significant milestones, the delivery of the 25 millionth Connection Postcard since the initiative began in 2021, and 25 years of Beyond Blue supporting Australians’ mental health. Australia Post General Manager Community and Stakeholder Engagement, Nicky Tracey, said the campaign comes at a time when many Australians are feeling increasingly disconnected from their communities. “More Australians are saying they’re feeling disconnected, and that sense of isolation can have a real impact on wellbeing,” Ms Tracey said. “This year is particularly exciting as we celebrate 25 years of Beyond Blue supporting Australians’ mental health and deliver the 25 millionth Connection Postcard since the campaign began. “Connection Postcards are a simple way to reach out, to let someone know you’re thinking of them, and to remind people they’re not alone.” Recent research from Beyond Blue found only one-third of Australians feel a sense of belonging within their local community, with loneliness and isolation particularly affecting regional and remote areas. The issue is especially significant for farming communities across regional Queensland, where financial pressures, cost-of-living challenges and extreme weather events continue to impact mental health and wellbeing. Beyond Blue CEO Georgie Harman AO said simple acts of connection can play a powerful role in supporting mental health. “Staying connected with others is so important for our mental health, but too many Australians, particularly those in regional and rural communities, are feeling lonely or disconnected,” Ms Harman said. “Simple, everyday interactions that foster connection, like writing a postcard or saying hello to people in our neighbourhood, are some of the most effective ways to support mental wellbeing and strengthen the relationships we rely on for our mental health.” Connection Postcards are available through participating Australia Post outlets and can also be ordered online through Beyond Blue’s Connection campaign page. The campaign encourages Australians to send a handwritten message to a friend, family member or neighbour as a reminder that support and connection matter. CAPTION: Australia Post and Beyond Blue are encouraging Mackay region residents to reconnect with loved ones through the nationwide Connection Postcards campaign, which this year celebrates the delivery of its 25 millionth postcard. Photo supplied
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When it comes to CPAP therapy, there are plenty of myths that can stop people from getting the sleep they need. The reality is that modern CPAP technology is quieter, smaller and more comfortable than ever. Let’s separate fact from fiction. Myth 1: CPAP is for old, overweight men Fact: Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), doesn’t discriminate based on age, gender or body type. While excess weight can often make symptoms worse, a 2025 meta-analysis suggests that roughly 60–70% of people with OSA are not obese at all. Meanwhile, Men are often diagnosed easier and earlier due to classic symptoms like loud snoring or choking during sleep. Women, also suffer from sleep apnea and tend to be overlooked or misdiagnosed as their symptoms differ. Women tend to present with more subtle signs such as insomnia, morning headaches or fatigue especially when approaching menopause. Myth 2: CPAP machines are loud and bulky Fact: Modern CPAP machines are quiet, compact and designed for convenience, with features like auto-adjusting pressure and ramp settings to improve comfort. There are even ultra-portable travel CPAP devices that are small enough to fit in your pocket! Myth 3: CPAP masks are uncomfortable to wear Fact: Whilst the mask is the most important part of your CPAP setup, technology has made them smaller, lighter and more minimalistic to maximise comfort. Some masks even use ultra-soft memory foam cushions that gently conform to your face. Most people adjust to modern CPAP masks within a few weeks of starting therapy. The bottom line? CPAP therapy is supper common and the upsides of a great night sleep make it worth a try. At CPAP Direct, we regularly help fit, active individuals, as well as women of all ages, who never expected sleep apnea to be the cause of their symptoms. Ready to start a trial? Visit www.cpap.com.au or call 1300 133 298 to chat with CPAP Direct’s crew.
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Biofuels Push Could Unlock New Future For Mackay Cane Industry Queensland’s push to kick-start a domestic biofuels industry could unlock significant new opportunities for Mackay’s sugarcane sector, according to CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan. Mr Galligan welcomed the Crisafulli Government’s recent $25 million investment into biodiesel production at Ampol’s Lytton Refinery in Brisbane, describing it as an important first step towards building a stronger and more resilient economy while paving the way for future growth across regional industries. “While this project may not directly involve sugarcane, it’s an important step in establishing the kind of industry that, with the right investment and policy settings, can unlock significant opportunities for cane growers,” Mr Galligan said. Queensland’s sugar industry has long advocated for the expansion of a domestic biofuels sector, with the potential to significantly increase ethanol production, generate more green electricity through sugar mills and eventually produce advanced biofuels such as sustainable aviation fuel. With the Mackay Shire recognised as one of Australia’s largest sugar-producing regions, Mr Galligan said local growers could play a major role in helping power Queensland’s renewable fuel future. “This is about more than cleaner energy – it’s about building a stronger, more resilient economy, creating new markets for growers, adding value to every tonne of cane, and backing regional jobs and investment,” he said. “It’s also about fuel security. Recent global disruptions have shown how exposed Australia is to supply shocks, and building a domestic biofuels industry helps reduce that reliance.” Mr Galligan said ensuring sugarcane remained central to future biofuel production would be critical to delivering the industry at scale and strengthening long-term opportunities for regional Queensland communities. The announcement comes amid growing national discussions around fuel security, regional manufacturing and reducing Australia’s reliance on imported fuel supplies. In recent weeks, the Queensland Government announced plans to strengthen the State’s fuel security through expanded local drilling, refining and storage capacity, including unlocking additional infrastructure opportunities at ports across Queensland. Official expressions of interest have also opened under the new Accelerating Fuel Infrastructure Program, inviting industry proposals for fuel refining and storage projects on government-owned land and ports in Townsville, Mackay, Gladstone, Abbot Point, Bundaberg and Brisbane. Minister for Natural Resources and Mines and Minister for Manufacturing Dale Last said the focus was now on future-proofing the industry and creating long-term opportunities. "We know what the challenges are and I’m looking at the opportunities going forward, because that's where we can make the greatest change and get the most benefit," Mr Last said. Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox said recent fuel shortages had exposed critical gaps in Australia’s fuel storage capacity, particularly for regional and agricultural communities. “This crisis has exposed Australia’s vulnerability to global supply shocks of critical liquid fuels, including in Dawson,” Mr Willcox said. “We must protect our economic foundations by scrapping the Safeguard Mechanism costs on refineries and lifting the minimum stockholding obligation. This is the only way to ensure that during global disruptions, our tractors keep moving and our supermarket shelves stay stocked.” CANEGROWERS said it would continue working with government and industry partners to ensure momentum in the biofuels sector translates into practical outcomes for growers and regional communities across Queensland. CAPTION: CANEGROWERS says Queensland’s growing biofuels industry could create major new opportunities for Mackay cane growers. Photo source: CANEGROWERS
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Reserve your beautiful blooms early this Valentine’s Day, with this local family business, Karen Hill Floral Design, which will be fully stocked and ready to supply everyone with bespoke and custom floral arrangements and bouquets.
With Karen’s roses most popular, this highly-respected local florist recommends getting orders in early to ensure your loved ones receives the flowers they deserve this Valentine’s Day.
“My roses are coming from South America, they are very big and beautiful,” Karen explained.
“I find the import roses are much stronger in the stems, double the amount of petals and, a bonus for us florists, no thorns!”
However, Karen also stocks a wide variety of Australian natives.
“I highly recommend our Australian natives as well; they will be amazing. We always sell out and numbers will be limited. So, get in early for these!”
With 2024 being Karen’s 36th Valentine’s Day as a florist, she is more than ready to cater for and create the most perfect floral arrangement.
“The reason I do what I do is because I love the emotional side of the business,” she explained.
“I get to put my troubles aside and focus on making other people happy. As a third-generation florist, master florist, I'm able to come to work and make a difference on many levels for your loved ones.”
“I absolutely love what I do, the smiles and gratitude is overwhelming sometimes, that's the reason I'm here and the reason I'm your community florist first.”
Karen also has great range gifts, including candles, lotions, and diffusers, which add a little something extra to the bouquet.
“All this and much more are online at www.airliebeachflorist.com.au until sold out. And I must stress, we will sell out so get in early!”
Karen Hill and her daughter Maddy, at her florist, getting ready for Valentine’s Day. Photo: Bronte Hodge
Share the gift of love and romance with local, handmade gifts, at your fingertips at Whitsunday Creatives.
With over 25 small local businesses showcasing their merchandise under one roof, Whitsunday Creatives is located in the heart of Proserpine and is an easy one-stop-shop for all your Valentine’s Day shopping.
Why not construct your own romantic hamper, stuffed full of fragrant candles, silky body butters and lotions, delicate earrings and bag charms?
You could then complete the loved-up hamper with a bespoke and beautifully arranged floral bouquet, all elegantly arranged by Whitsunday Creatives owner and operator Trinity Rollison.
“We have an amazing range available in store, which is constantly being restocked with best sellers and new items, so no two days are the same!” Trinity explained.
“You can come and put together the best, most personal and perfect Valentine’s Day hamper for your beau all in one shop and ensure that your significant other has the best Valentine’s Day possible!”
And with pre-order available, Trinity can guarantee that your love-bug will receive exactly what their hearts desired.
Mark was a late starter to triathlons tackling his first race at a Bowen Enticer distance event in 2015 when in his early 50’s and was instantly hooked by the multi-sport concept.
After his first event eight years ago, Mark embraced the challenge of triathlon quickly and went from being unable to swim a lap of the pool in 2015 to nowadays regularly completing multiple 4km swim sessions every week.
He has since completed 6 Half Ironmans, 10 marathons and multiple Olympic Distance and Sprint distance triathlon events and on Saturday, March 2 he will face his biggest challenge to date when Mark tackles the 2024 Ironman New Zealand in Taupo over the 3.8km swim, 180km cycle and 42.2km run course.
He joined the Whitsunday Triathlon Club in 2015 and is currently the vice president of the club along with being Junior Development Coach which is where Mark has excels as he has a passion for coaching and encouraging junior athletes.
Mark’s long-term goal is to race and compete as long as possible and to pass on his experience and knowledge to both senior and junior athletes in a coaching role.
In every chapter of his life, Mark exemplifies what it means to have heart, stamina, and willpower. His triathlon journey is inspiring to his club members as it's a story of resilience, determination, and a mental fortitude that propels Mark forward when others might falter.
As one of his final long rides before the New Zealand IRONMAN in March, Mark completed a 170km ride in 8 hours last Saturday in the sweltering NQ heatwave conditions while most were sheltering indoors in the air-conditioning.
It is this determination which will see Mark finish his first full distance Ironman event in 2024 and hear the famous words, “Mark McConkey, You Are An Ironman”.
Give your home a spring clean this season by booking in your annual carpet, soft furnishing, and mattress clean.
Offered through the excellent expertise of Whitsundays’ own Protect and Sanitise, the hard-working team provide carpet, soft furnishing and mattress cleaning and find it is the best way to clean, sanitise and refresh your home.
Using state of the art equipment, with specially formulated cleaning solutions, you can be rest assured your home will be pristinely clean, as if brand new again.
“We use the hot water extraction method of cleaning,” Jess Hope, owner and operator of Protect and Sanitise explained.
“Which gets deep into the carpet and soft furnishing, and flushes out all the dirt, grime and nasties which you just don’t want in your home.”
Then, using a highly powered vacuum, Protect and Sanitise extract the water, leaving the carpet, mattress, and furniture beautifully clean and perfectly sanitised, great for your family’s health.
“This is the most thorough clean you can do for your carpet and upholstery,” Jess said.
“The end of the wet season is a perfect time to book us in for your annual carpet and furniture clean, because over summer, the home’s carpet, mattresses, and soft furniture is exposed to high heat and humidity levels and tends to hold on to dirt, odours and staining a lot more than usual.
“Get us in just as winter sets in to get your home refreshed and sanitised and live in the comfort of knowing your home is perfectly cleaned.”
Five Reasons to Get Your Carpets Cleaned:
• Removes Allergens
• Extends Life Of The Carpet
• Eliminates Stains
• Improves Looks and Feel
• Prevents Uneven Colour
Get that new home feel with Protect and Sanitise. Photo: Shutterstock
11 crews consisting of over 200 avid sailors, sailed into Coral Sea Marina in Airlie Beach last week, the impressive fleet with its colourful sails and striking features drawing much attention from excited community members.
Their arrival represents Race 6 of the around the world race, and took the fleet from Newcastle to our local waters as part of the prestigious Clipper Round The World Race.
Race 6 winners, Zhuhai, are holding their win with pride, ahead of the fifth leg, where the vessel will port in its namesake, Zhuhai in China.
Hosting events over the weekend, the Clipper Race was showcased to residents and visitors alike, with everyone welcome aboard to tour the purpose-built vessels and chat with the individuals who have signed on for the challenge.
The team on Vessel Zhuhai takes top spot for Race 6 of the Clipper Round The World Race. Photo supplied
The crews of the iconic yacht regatta, The Clipper Round The World Race, have received a warm welcome and true Whitsunday hospitality during their layover in Airlie Beach ahead of their next leg of the race.
Cruising into the Coral Sea Marina last week, the competitors of the Clipper Race were given the opportunity to rest and recuperate on land, before they began the fifth leg of the race, for the Asia-Pacific Challenge, through to Zhuhai, China.
Over the weekend the Whitsunday community received their own welcome invitation, when they were invited to explore the fleet of 11 Clipper Race yachts which opened up their quarters for the public during the layover.
During the experience guests also enjoyed the opportunity to connect with competitors who shared their individual journeys of how they came to be on the crew.
One of these is Jessica Fletcher is a 33-year-old purchasing agent from America who had been looking for a life change.
Having an interest in sailing, she stumbled across a previous competitors blog of the Clipper Race and decided to take the plunge and sign up.
“It’s just amazing. I have never done anything like this, and I have grown so much,” she said.
“This is an experience like no other.”
Ms Fletcher is completing the entire route, which will see her spent 13 months at sea and away from home.
Aboard the vessel Zhuhai, skippered by James Finney, the crew was first to complete the journey of Race 6, from Newcastle, New South Wales, to the Whitsundays, which puts them in third place overall.
However, they are keen to begin the next leg, and sail the Zhuhai into the Chinese port of Zhuhai, breaking the Clipper Curse, the dreaded trend of vessels named after ports unlikely to cross first into that particular port.
While in port at the Coral Sea Marina, crews were treated to a day’s snorkelling and sailing adventure on Wings II, courtesy of Wings Sailing Adventures.
Experiencing the best of the Whitsundays from the vantage point of the beautiful Coral Sea, the Clipper competitors were left astounded with the region.
“The stopover has been a great success, from the packed community Open Boat days to the thousands of dollars injected into the local community through accommodation and tour bookings, as well as restaurant and retail expenditure not to mention the international media coverage the race has brought to our region,” explains Joscelyn O’Keefe, Coral Sea Marina
“A lot of us joined because the Clipper Race gave us the opportunity to travel the world like never before,” explained Ms Fletcher.
“Even if you only do one, two, three or all eight legs, this is an amazing experience, one that has not only challenged me, but benefitted me in so many ways.”
The 11 Clipper Race vessels in the Coral Sea Marina. Photo supplied
Clipper Race crews snorkelling in the Whitsundays. Photo: CSM
Hi Everyone,
It’s great to be back!
Firstly, a huge thank you to Bronte and the rest of the team for everything they did while I was on holiday – it was wonderful to know the paper was being so well looked after.
I’ve just returned from four magical weeks in Europe – time with family in my hometown in the UK, a skiing holiday in France and also a quick trip to the Christmas markets in Prague – while I was there, I constantly felt like pinching myself and I made the most of every second!
But while every moment was amazing, I have to say . . . it was absolutely freezing!
When we left London, it was negative three degrees and I was very grateful to get on the plane knowing that Brisbane was a positively balmy 30 degrees.
When we flew back to the region, however, we were greeted with our usual humidity and as I stepped off the plane it was like walking into an oven!
Since we’ve been back, we’ve been greeted with other weather-related treats – namely the impending cyclone that is currently heading straight for our coastline as I write this note.
Here at the office, we have been tracking its progress, watching as predictors downgrade it to a category 2 and then re-instate it to category 3 – this uncertainty is very unnerving!
And while we are likely to be living on anxiety-inducing tender-hooks over the next few days I think it is important to remember that we live in a cyclone prepared region.
Our emergency services are adept at dealing with extreme weather events and our local electrical technicians will be on-call and ready to get the power back on if required.
All we can do is prepare our own households, check our neighbours are ok and hope the weather system takes it easy on us.
Wishing everyone a safe and stable few days as we greet whatever Cyclone Kirrily has in-store for us.
Rach
Quote of the Week: “The cyclone derives its power from a calm centre. So does a person.” (Norman Vincent Peale)
The screeching of brakes could be heard across the neighbourhood on Tuesday afternoon when a red car, allegedly excessively speeding, crashed into the back of a stationary Ute on Paluma Road in Woodwark.
Residents immediately dashed out of their homes to see if they could help, one lady commenting that the bend in the road was notoriously bad and that she always worried a crash would occur at that spot.
With traffic slowing to one lane, by-standers kindly stood at the bend waving their hands to warn approaching vehicles of the incident.
One resident commented that he had seen vehicles speeding around the corner several times and he wasn’t surprised one had been involved in a collision.
Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) received an emergency call at 5.24pm to attend the two-vehicle crash.
Two male passengers in their 20’s were taken to Proserpine Hospital in a stable condition with neck pain.
A third patient in his 30’s who is believed to be the driver of the Ute, was also taken to Proserpine Hospital with arm and chest injuries.
Queensland Police also received an emergency call at 5.23pm and multiple crews attended.
They said a follow-up investigation will be launched, but it was considered a minor crash.
Residents and avid library users of Collinsville have been gifted accessibility like no other.
The Collinsville Library has constructed and placed an after hours return bin, allowing residents and library users to return books, DVDs and other library resources back to the library outside of library hours.
Located at the entrance of the library, the after hours bin is simple and easy for library users to return a book whenever they can and need.
Collinsville Library hours are Monday to Friday, 8.15am to 4.45pm.
The after hours bin makes returning library books so much easier. Photo supplied
From last week until the end of March, the regular Saturday Airlie Beach Markets, and subsequent Cruise Ship Markets, will be relocated due to Whitsunday Regional Council undertaking ground works at the existing site.
The turf on the Foreshore went through a revitalisation project in 2019, however, due to the increase usage of the grass, including evening events, Council movie nights, weekly markets, and Cruise Ship markets, Council have been unable to retain a suitable standard for the turf.
This recent turf management works looks to improve the health of the turf, by improving weed management, targeted fertilisation, and alleviating soil compaction.
Director of Community Services and Facilitation with Council, Julie Wright said that “Council urgently requires to undertake turf management works at the Airlie Beach Foreshore with aerating, fertilising plus a treatment to reduce Crow’s Feet, which is rampant throughout the foreshore.
“It was originally planned to move the markets to a temporary location on Council land, the block behind the foreshore which was used during the original foreshore development in 2019,” explained Ms Wright.
“Originally the works were to commence in mid-December but after discussions with the Lions as market organisers, it was mutually agreed to delay the turf management program until January 15.
“Council will review the condition of the foreshore in early March before advising a date when it will be reopened to host the markets.”
Helen Toy, the Lions Airlie Beach Community Market Manager, said the community attendance at the markets was still consistent.
“Most of the stallholders remembered when we previously had to relocate the markets, so this is nothing new,” she said.
“Unfortunately, this new site does not have car access, so it did mean more work for the stallholders to set up and pack down their sites, and some stallholders have decided to not return to the markets until the usual site is back up and running,” Ms Toy explained.
The Airlie Beach Markets will be held on the vacant lot, off Coconut Grove on the vacant land beside Port of Airlie, while the works are completed.
Revolutionary new distilling practices have made their home in the heart of the Whitsundays.
100 per cent crafted from Agave tequilana, the distilling process uses entirely renewable energy practices, including using biodiesel, cover cropping, sediment run off prevention, and carbon sequestration, at the Eden Lassie spirit farm and distillery, between Bowen and Airlie Beach.
While it cannot be officially called tequila, Act of Treason is entirely Agave based, with the Agave plants sourced from Ayr, before being distilled with notes of lime and hints of tropical fruits.
“Act of Treason symbolises the pioneering spirit of a project that will create a new region of agave spirit. The Dry Tropics of north Queensland are the ideal place for that to occur,” explained CEO of Top Shelf International, the parent company of Act of Treason, Trent Fraser.
“Like many other producers, we feel there is an opportunity for agave to be shared with the world and for others to put their distinctive imprint on a category that continues to surge in popularity in Australia and overseas.
“Act of Treason has joined the new global era of agave. We’re approaching this as an opportunity to create something new and expand the horizons of a category that has been geographically limited for centuries. In many ways it’s no different to the evolution wine underwent three decades ago,” he explained.
“If some feel that we’re being treasonous, then so be it. The greater crime would be not doing it all.”
Act of Treason entirely grown and distilled in North Queensland. Photo supplied
Tropical Cyclone Kirrily has formed in the Coral Sea and, according to the Bureau of Meteorology, a “severe impact is likely” between Cardwell and Airlie Beach sometime this week.
The system is expected to become a Category 3 event and its impacts will be felt right across the region.
Whitsunday Regional Council urge all its residents to stay updated by using the Disaster Dashboard which will keep the community abreast of the most real-time, current information.
Important Websites:
• disaster.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au
• whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au
• bom.gov.au
A History Of Cyclones
Cyclone Debbie
Category 4, crossed between Bowen and Airlie Beach in March 2017, causing major damage to the Whitsunday region. As the cyclone made landfall, extensive flooding occurred South of the cyclone from Mackay in Queensland through to Northern New South Wales.
Cyclone Dylan
Category 2, crossed between Bowen and Proserpine at the end of January 2014. Dylan quickly weakened to below cyclone status after moving over land.
A beachside resort on Great Keppel Island sustained severe damage to many structures after the beach gave way and washed several buildings into the sea. Inundation which was a result of unusually high tides resulted in damage to homes in Townsville and Mackay.
Cyclone Anthony
Category 2, crossed near Bowen in January 2011.
Cyclone Yasi
Category 5, crossed near Innisfail in February 2011 causing a 5m storm surge on a falling tide, and 2.3m inundation above king tide level at Cardwell. Note: Gale force winds were recorded in the Burdekin.
Cyclone Ului
Category 3, crossed near Airlie Beach in March 2010, causing major damage to the Whitsunday region.
Emergency Ready Check List
Food and water
• Range of non—perishable food items
• Bottled water
Medical and sanitation
• First Aid Kit and manual
• Essential medications, prescriptions, and dosage
• Toilet paper
• Toothbrush/toothpaste
• Soap/shampoo
• Personal hygiene items
• Insect repellent
• Sunscreen
Light
• Flashlight/torch with extra batteries
• Battery powered lantern
Communications
• Battery powered radio with extra batteries
• Prepaid phone cards and coins for phone calls
• Battery packs for cell phones
Clothing and footwear
• Warm jumper, waterproof jacket, hat, and gloves for everyone
• Closed—toed shoes or boots for everyone
Tools and supplies
• Whistle, utility knife, duct/masking tape
• Plastic garbage bags, ties
• Safety glasses and sunglasses.
Miscellaneous
• Special items for infants (nappies, formula etc)
• Special items needed by elderly or people with special needs
• Spare house and car keys
• Pet food, water, and other animal needs
Important documents
Keep original or certified copies of these documents in your Emergency Kit.
Scan copies of them and save the files on a USB memory stick or CD to include in your kit. Keep all these items in sealed plastic bags.
Did You Know?
On average, there are 13 cyclones annually in Australia. 4 of these cyclones per year affect the Queensland Tropical Cyclone Warning Centre Area of Responsibility, but obviously not all make landfall in our area. There have been over 210 known impacts from tropical cyclones along the east coast of Queensland since 1858.
Beware Of The Surge
A storm surge is a rise above the normal water level along a shore resulting from strong onshore winds and / or reduced atmospheric pressure. Around the world, drowning by storm surge accounts for a high proportion of the deaths in tropical cyclones.
Welcome to a new article series in partnership with the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The series will feature Chamber members who share their expertise and suggest responses to your business questions.
This month’s question is:
I am selling my business and have located a buyer, what happens now?
Chamber member, Kellee Fogg of Whitsunday Law, responds:
As the seller, it is usually you who has to prepare a business contract of sale. Even if there is an agent involved, a solicitor should review the special conditions attached to the contract. A buyer can prepare a business contract of sale, but the seller will have access to all of the information that should be inserted into the contract. The parties are not usually bound to purchase and sell a business until a written document has been signed and a deposit has been paid.
Occasionally, a business is sold with goodwill (business reputation, intellectual property, business secrets, and customer loyalty). A restraint of trade clause in the business contract of sale will deter the seller from opening or managing an identical or similar business in the same area for a certain length of time. This aims to protect the goodwill paid for the business. However, a restraint may not prevent a seller from gaining employment in the same industry as they are still entitled to earn an income if that is their only skill or way of earning money.
For more information on business contracts of sale, please contact Kellee Fogg at Whitsunday Law on 07 4948 7000 or email kellee.fogg@whitsundaylaw.com.au
The best course of action for most people is to shelter in their homes during a cyclone, however, if your home is located in an evacuation zone, an older home, or someone in the family has special needs, it is best to plan and prepare to evacuate and seek shelter elsewhere.
There are two shelter locations in the Whitsundays:
• Bowen Cyclone Shelter, Bowen State High School, Richmond Road, Bowen
• Proserpine Cyclone Shelter, Proserpine State School, Sterry Street, Proserpine
To check if your home is in an Evacuation Zone (Storm Tide), visit the Whitsunday Disaster Dashboard, and view the map, with the filter set to ‘Storm Tide Layer’: https://disaster.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au/
How to read the Evacuation Zone (Storm Tide) map colours?
Red – Extreme Risk
Residents in the Red Zone have the highest risk of inundation or isolation from a cyclone storm tide. The Red Zone includes low-lying coastal areas and areas that may experience storm tide affects up to approximately 1.25 metres above Highest Astronomical Tide (King Tide).
Residents in the Orange Zone have a high risk of inundation or isolation from a cyclone storm tide. The Orange Zone includes low-lying coastal areas and areas that may experience storm tide affects up to approximately 2.25 metres above Highest Astronomical Tide (King Tide).
Yellow – Moderate Risk
Residents in the Yellow Zone have a medium risk of inundation or isolation from a cyclone storm tide. The Yellow Zone includes low-lying coastal areas and areas that may experience storm tide affects up to approximately 4.25 metres above Highest Astronomical Tide (King Tide).
Blue – Minor Risk
Residents in the Blue Zone have a low risk of inundation or isolation from a cyclone storm tide.
White – Extremely Minor Risk/No Risk
Residents in the White Zone have a very low risk or no risk of inundation or isolation from a cyclone storm tide.
What is your role at Tourism Whitsundays? I am the Finance & Operations Manager, looking after the day-to-day finances, budgets, etc and general operations. However, I love being involved in all business aspects and understanding the industry. I really enjoy that the role has a lot of diversity and allows me to be engaged with our members and learning more about what our region has to offer.
What is your ideal weekend in The Whitsundays? I love getting out and about, experiencing the region with my family and friends. My family is very much into food and experiences. It’s amazing that we can go out anywhere in the Whitsundays and feel like we are on vacation any day of the week.
How long have you been in the Whitsundays? I have lived here on and off for the past 20 years. I lived here in my 20’s, working on the overnight sailing charters, bareboats and aviation, for various tourism operators for about 7 years. When Covid hit Australia, we were living in Melbourne, did one year of lockdown and decided to move the family back to the Whitsundays. The lifestyle is amazing, compared to big city life.
What's the one thing about The Whitsundays you think everyone should know? How diverse the region is. There is something here for everyone. We have so many experiences to offer here from full adventure to high luxury.
Are you tired of feeling tired all the time? Do you crave energy and motivation, but you’re hard pushed making it through the day without exhaustion laying over you like a thick, flat fog?
If you have new year goals and dreams that are currently sat stagnant in the corner of the room like a pile of dirty laundry, then don’t give yourself a hard time, getting started is often the hardest part so the key is to take it slow.
Here are some tips for easing gently into 2024 and rediscovering a new vitality and vigour that will make you feel vibrant and alive.
1. Wake up early and drink water – Instead of lolling around in bed, inching out every second of comfort, try to move positively into the day. Get up before your family and immediately drink some water to give your stomach an instant satisfaction.
2. Sit in awe for a second – Whether it’s watching the day slowly dawn and marvelling at the changing colours of the sky or looking at your child’s face as they sleep, find a way to experience a moment of awe. Be in the present and see if you can truly appreciate the majesty of being alive.
3. Be grateful for all you have – Spend a few minutes mentally listing all the things you are grateful for – from your family to your home, your job, your smile, your health – embracing gratitude is well-known to improve general wellbeing.
4. Slow and steady wins the race – Do not push yourself too hard to get everything done as fast as you can. Take it easy, tackle everything with a steady and systematic approach. Things get done just as quick when you, slow down, do it once and do it well!
5. Introduce new habits gradually – It takes three weeks to make a habit and three weeks to break a habit. If you are starting a new fitness regime it will take your body and your mind a bit of time to enjoy this new routine. Expect it to be challenging at first but the pay-out will be huge after your body adjusts.
6. Action creates energy – Sitting around doing nothing only promotes more sitting around doing nothing. If you are looking for motivation, get moving! Start by simply going for a walk or taking a refreshing swim – this will leave you feeling more energised.
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