As Australia Day draws nearer, Whitsunday Regional Council have released their nomination list for the 2024 Australia Day Awards Nominees.

These nominees represent the community and the spirit of our region, and their individual achievements and commitment to the Whitsundays is a testament to their individual compassion and respect, to their strength and ability to bring our community together and make it a better place for all.

Citizen of the Year sponsored by at Hotel Group

   • Rabia Morris

   • David Cooper

   • Tarnia Patton

   • Megan Taylor

   • Christine Hinschen

   • Kayne Fayolle

   • Rob Harris

   • Tina Everett

   • Ashleigh Thompson

   • Claire Mitchell-Must

   • Dr. Myint Soe

Young Citizen of the Year sponsored by Whitsunday Triathlon Club

   • Danzel Lewis

   • Skye Kennedy

   • Sam Rogers

Art and Cultural Award sponsored by Whitsunday Regional Council 

   • Sally Hannemann

   • Jahla Thompson

   • Betsy Atkinson

   • Kieran McCarthy

   • Gleezus: Teen Rock Band

Community Event Award sponsored by Whitsunday Triathlon Club & Environmental Award sponsored by Whitsunday Regional Council 

   • Proserpine Community Markets

   • Proserpine High School production - Sweet Charity

   • Bowen Community Sunday Markets

   • Proserpine Whitsunday Uniting Church Flower Show

   • The Baby Welcoming Ceremony - Bowen Lions Ladies

   • Airlie Beach Park Run

   • Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre - 2023 Program of Events

   • Whitsunday Conservation Council

Senior Sports Award sponsored by Whitsunday Triathlon Club

   • Kara Olver

   • Scott Boldy

   • Wayne Hinschen

   • Aimee Sulzberger

   • Leah Savelio

   • Tim Mcquoid Mason

Junior Sports Award sponsored by Whitsunday Triathlon Club

   • Wesley Homewood

   • Giselle Tronc

   • Jure Portelli

   • Jack Oberg

   • Jacob Bell

   • Hannah Moore

   • Zane Devine

   • Lillian Kelly

Wally Hinschen Volunteer of the Year Award sponsored by at Hotel Group

   • Jill Warren

   • Sabrina Mitchell

   • Steve Fraser

   • Camryn Fordham 

   • Kym Bates 

   • Sheryl Gordan

   • Raymond Wallace

   • Kylie Borellini

   • Susan Gravelle

   • Sandy Clark

   • Mark and Anne Steen

   • Dave Tindall

Whitsunday Regional Libraries’ new initiative is making waves, promoting reading to the region’s youngest with free reading resources.

Available at locations across the region, the Book Swap is primarily for young readers between the ages of zero to five.

Up to two books can be taken at a time, to be exchanged the next time families visit a Book Swap Box.

“The book swap boxes are part of Whitsunday Regional Libraries First 5 Forever literacy program,” explained Robyn Batman, Team Leader of Whitsunday Regional Libraries.

“And provide the opportunity for families visiting our community partners to access free books and information about library services. They are regularly restocked and maintained and can be found at the following locations.”

The carefully curated selection of books has been chosen to support early language skills and literacy development in the children at home.

Book Swap Locations:

Cannonvale

Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre

Whitsunday Community Health Clinic

Whitsunday Counselling and Support Service and Women’s Refuge

Proserpine

Child Health Clinic, Proserpine Hospital

Woodwark

Peak Body Mechanics Clinic

Bowen

Child Health Clinic, Bowen Hospital

54 Reasons Playgroup

Collinsville

Community Health Clinic, Collinsville Hospital

54 Reasons Playgroup

The Choose Collinsville Town Centre Upgrade has been officially opened at a special ceremony on Monday, January 15.

The Whitsunday Regional Council project began in July 2023 and was a part of the Collinsville Masterplan 2021 to beautify the community.

Completed in November 2023, the project was predominately undertaken by Council staff and was supported by the Australian Government’s Building Better Regions Fund.

Upgrades included new irrigated garden beds within the street, including plants and larger shade trees to help cool the street, new disabled car parks, in key locations, new furniture, including bin shelters, bench seats and bollards, new asphalt and reseal, line marking, and street print at entrances to Stanley Street, and new town map, including a history of Collinsville.

“Council looks forward to more rains this wet season that will help our shade trees and ground covers create a green and welcoming Stanley Street for residents and visitors,” a Council spokesperson explained.

“The upgrade has helped revitalise the feel in Stanley Street and aligns with Councils Main Street upgrades completed in Bowen, Proserpine, and Airlie Beach.”

Other projects completed from the Collinsville Masterplan 2021 include the waterpark, playground upgrades, town centre upgrade, pathway upgrades, town centre enhancement, tennis court refurbishment, rugby league club lighting and clubhouse upgrades.

Upcoming projects for Collinsville include the Darcy Munro Park Pump track, and further pathway upgrades to create pedestrian connectivity.

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CEO of Council, Warren Brunker, Councillor Michelle Wright, Mayor Julie Hall, and Acting Director Infrastructure Services, Michael Downing. Photo supplied

Community organisations in Bowen are cheering off the back of another successful Christmas and festival season appeal, providing close to 300 individuals and families of Bowen with access to presents, vouchers, and an abundance of toys.

A joint initiative with the Bowen Neighbourhood Centre, Cooinda Family Centre, Salvos, and Chayim Community Care, over 270 individuals and families were gifted access to Christmas Hampers, and a pop-up shop.

The Bowen Neighbourhood Centre also embarked on their Adopt a Family initiative, with local businesses donating vouchers and funds to support local families and individuals.

“Bowen Neighbourhood Centre was overwhelmed by the outpouring of support from local businesses eager to bring joy to families in need,” Stephanie Cora, Executive Officer of the Bowen Neighbourhood Centre explained.

“The local Business generosity, played a pivotal role in adopting 51 individuals and families, ensuring they experienced something truly special this Christmas.”

Ms Cora said a heartfelt thank you goes out to these businesses for their commitment to spreading Christmas cheer and making a positive impact in our community.

“The Bowen Community Centre extends its appreciation to Pacific National, Aurizon, Abbot Point Operations, Bowen Industrial Hire, Pat McDonald Earthmoving, and Zonta Bowen for their unwavering support and dedication,” she said.

Due to the overwhelming support, the Bowen Neighbourhood Centre was able to approach other community organisations, such as Relationship Australia, Whitsunday Counselling Services, Girudala Community Society Ltd, and Cooinda Family Centre, to nominate families they knew of.

Ms Cora also said that The Bowen Community Centre acknowledges the outstanding efforts of Mayor Julie Hall and Abbot Point Operation for swiftly stepping in to rescue 20 families that missed the hamper cut-off date.

“Their quick and compassionate response ensured that no family in our community was left without the joy of a Christmas celebration,” Ms Cora explained.

“As we reflect on the success of this year's Christmas Hampers, we are reminded of the incredible spirit of generosity and unity that defines our community. The Bowen Community Centre looks forward to building on this momentum, continuing to serve and uplift our community in the years to come.”

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Photos supplied

Whitsunday Water Police have made an impressive arrest at Peter Faust Dam during the first week of January.

Patrolling the waters to ensure the safety of every individual, including vessel operators, swimmers, fishers and jet-ski operators, water police intercepted a male operating an unregistered vessel.

However, Water Police uncovered a bigger mystery.

The male had fled the state approximately 26 years ago, in an alleged attempt to avoid an arrest warrant.

He had returned to Queensland to complete a holiday at Peter Faust Dam and was arrested finally.

Police allege the male was wanted on a warrant for failure to appear in court 26 years ago, on unrelated minor drug charged.

The now 51-year-old man was arrested and is expected to appear at Mount Isa Magistrates Court at a later date.

Bowen is hitting the big screen with District Crime Prevention Co-Ordinator, Sergeant Nigel Dalton sharing the town in a series of new videos, to attract seasoned Queensland police officers for a tree change.

Having completed similar internal promotions of the Northern Beaches of Mackay and attracting a number of existing Police Officers to relocate, Sgt Dalton was asked by Senior Sergeant Craig Shepard to create a similar video of Bowen.

“We’re looking to attract officers to this district, to Bowen. Often, officers in the South-East corner of Queensland are oblivious to the perks and attractions of Bowen and North Queensland, and this is one way we can promote the area as a great place to relocate and live,” explained Sgt Dalton.

The two videos, set to hit internal police communications in the coming weeks, showcases the reality of working in the modern and upgraded Bowen Police Station, and the beautiful way of life that officers can live while in Bowen.

“Ultimately, we can allow people to fall in love with Bowen, and relocate their family here for a number of years,” Sgt Dalton explained.

“Or, they can fall in love in Bowen, and meet a local, and settle down.”

While filming the videos, Sgt Dalton stopped in at the Big Mango, at the Bowen Visitor Information Centre.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said it was a pleasure to talk to Sgt Dalton and provide him with promotional material and links to promotional videos that depict the beauty of Bowen and the great lifestyle it offers.

“Bowen offers a great lifestyle for families with secluded beaches, great bushwalks, a free water park, a free public swimming pool, the perfect climate and great country town hospitality,” she said.

“With playgrounds, parks, and plenty of open space as well as great beaches, there is so much to do for the kids.

“Bowen is one of the few places in Queensland where you can snorkel directly off the beach.”

Sgt Nigel explained, “Creating these videos and enticing officers to Bowen is just a different way for us to help our district.”

Once the videos are shared across police channels, it may be as soon as six weeks to see new faces at Bowen Police Station.

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Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy with District Crime Prevention Co-Ordinator, Sergeant Nigel Dalton at the Big Mango. Photo: Bowen Tourism and Business

Australia’s largest powered catamaran is cruising into the Whitsundays, opening up more channels for visitors to experience the Whitsundays like never before.

The Aquila 54 Power Catamaran boasts unparalleled luxury, with over 54 feet of comfort and with upgraded 480 hp Volvo Penta D8 diesel inboards, this beast boasts a cruising speed of 8 to 10 knots, and top speeds of 22 knots.

Offered for private bareboat charter through Cumberland Charter Yachts and Luxury Yachts Whitsundays, the Aquila 54 is challenging what it means to travel in comfort and style.

The largest powered catamaran available for self-skipper, the Aquila 54 joins the Cumberland Charter fleet alongside the Leopard 58 sailing catamaran, the largest powered sailing catamaran available in Australia.

General Manager of Cumberland Charter Yachts and Luxury Yachts Whitsundays, Simon Summerton expresses excitement about the addition, stating “We are thrilled to introduce the Aquila 54 to our fleet, further enhancing our ability to cater to the diverse preferences of our clients.”

“The combination of the Leopard 58 and the Aquila 54 establishes us as the one-stop destination for those seeking top-tier, premium self-skippered charters in the Whitsundays,” he said.

Tourism Whitsundays CEO, Rick Hamilton is excited for the new addition to Cumberland Charter Yachts' fleet and the additional holiday experience for visitors to the region. 

"Imagine cruising the Whitsundays in the largest self-skippered power catamaran, experiencing unparalleled luxury and freedom at your own pace. This isn't just a boat, it's a gateway to unforgettable memories in one of the most stunning destinations on Earth,” Mr Hamilton said.

“And Cumberland Charter Yachts, with their renowned expertise, are the perfect operators to bring this incredible experience to life.”

Bowen is hitting centre stage, hosting the 2024 Whitsunday Regional Council Australia Day Celebrations, Awards and Citizenship Ceremony.

As the festivities on Bowen’s Front Beach are being held from 5pm until 8pm on a public holiday, Bowen is the perfect place to spend the day before heading to the ceremony.

The Bowen Visitor Information Centre will be open on Australia Day from 10.30am until 3pm.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said a day trip to Bowen could include a selfie at the Big Mango, a delicious sorbet at the Visitor Information Centre, a swim and a snorkel at Horseshoe Bay (stinger suit recommended) and a walk to Rotary Lookout.

“As the council has just upgraded the Edgecumbe Bay Walking Trail, you are encouraged to check out the great views from Mother Beddock and the World War II radar site along the walk.

“If you are interested in birdlife, more than 175 species of birds have been spotted at Muller’s Lagoon.

“You can learn all about Catalina Flying Boats at the display near the Front Beach.

“You can also check out the 27 murals around the town.

“A late afternoon stroll along Bowen’s Historic Jetty could top off a perfect day prior to the Australia Day ceremony on the foreshore.”

A new article series in partnership with the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry, showcasing the diverse businesses in our community.

Ellen Farquhar started Cannonvale-based Your Mind Reset in 2023, delivering Mental Health First Aid training and Tuning in to Teens program for parents.

"I am passionate about fostering well-being and resilience in individuals and communities," said Ellen, who is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Psychology and Diploma of Counselling.

It has been reported 43 per cent Australians aged 16 - 85 encountered a mental disorder at least once in their lives, with 21 per cent experiencing a disorder within the past year.

Work-related stress affects 32 per cent Australians impacting sickness, absenteeism, and capacity. Accredited Mental Health First Aid training has been instrumental in cultivating mentally healthy workplaces.

Mental health issues among school-aged children is also on the rise.

"I engage with parents who grapple with the best approach to support a child displaying signs of mental illness, offering education and support to help navigate these complex situations," said Ellen, mother of four school-aged boys.

Ellen also volunteers, facilitating programs for CORES (Community Response to Eliminating Suicide) Australia.

As a Whitsundays business owner, Ellen offers these tips to other businesses:

"Prioritise your community and support other local businesses, including your competitors.

"Be authentic. Be you. Regularly revisit your 'why' and reconnect with that fire in your belly so you remember who you are and why you are in business. 

"Know your target customer. If you try to help everyone, you will end up helping no one."

As a Chamber member, Ellen has found the support, connections, and opportunities outstanding. She participated in the 2023 Certificate IV in Entrepreneurship program delivered in partnership by TAFE Queensland, the Chamber, and Whitsunday Regional Council.

What is your role at Tourism Whitsundays? 

As the Digital and Marketing Coordinator, I am responsible for our website and social media platforms. This role involves a significant amount of behind-the-scenes work, through which I have greatly expanded my knowledge in website development over the past year.  

What is your ideal weekend in The Whitsundays? 

My ideal weekend in The Whitsundays is full of relaxation. Starting with a walk along the boardwalk, enjoying the morning sun. Pulling into one of the many cafés for breakfast. Getting out on the water, maybe doing a spot of fishing or island hopping. Then ending with a nice dinner and some drinks with friends. Simple, but relaxing! 

How long have you been in The Whitsundays? 

2 years. It's my early seachange, coming from Brisbane and Toowoomba, The Whitsundays is very different and such a special place.  

What's the one thing about The Whitsundays you think everyone should know? 

That we have one of the world’s only underwater accommodations! You can sleep with the fishes and live to tell the tale. 

Embracing New Year's resolutions is a tradition that goes hand in hand with the turn of the calendar. While some may argue that resolutions are often abandoned quickly, setting goals for the new year can have numerous benefits that extend beyond the initial burst of motivation.

Firstly, New Year's resolutions provide a valuable opportunity for self-reflection. As the year draws to a close, individuals naturally engage in introspection, evaluating their achievements, challenges, and personal growth. This reflective process lays the groundwork for setting meaningful goals that align with one's values and aspirations. It prompts individuals to ponder what they truly want to achieve and how they can better themselves.

Setting resolutions also serves as a powerful motivator. The act of defining specific, achievable objectives creates a roadmap for personal development. Whether it involves adopting healthier habits, pursuing career advancements, or fostering stronger relationships, having clear goals provides direction and purpose. This newfound sense of purpose, in turn, fuels motivation, making individuals more likely to stay committed to their aspirations.

Moreover, New Year's resolutions foster a sense of accountability. By articulating intentions for the year ahead, individuals make a public commitment, whether to friends, family, or themselves. This shared accountability encourages a higher level of dedication to the outlined goals, as the individual becomes more conscious of their progress and the expectations of those around them.

The process of working towards New Year's resolutions also cultivates resilience and adaptability. Challenges and setbacks are inevitable in any journey of self-improvement. However, the pursuit of resolutions instills resilience by teaching individuals to navigate obstacles, learn from failures, and adjust their approach when necessary. These skills are invaluable not only in achieving specific resolutions but also in addressing life's broader challenges.

Finally, successful resolution pursuit leads to a sense of accomplishment and increased self-esteem. Achieving set goals, no matter how small, generates a positive feedback loop. Each accomplishment becomes a building block, contributing to an individual's belief in their ability to effect change and overcome obstacles.

In essence, New Year's resolutions are more than mere declarations of intent; they are a catalyst for personal growth, motivation, and resilience. Approached with sincerity and commitment, setting resolutions can pave the way for a fulfilling and transformative year ahead.

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Photo: Shutterstock

With ushering in 2024, Skin Esteem proudly declares "Relaxation" as the premier New Year's Resolution. The dedicated team at Skin Esteem is poised and prepared to administer unparalleled soul-soothing treatments for their esteemed clientele.

Jo, the proprietor and head Therapist at Skin Esteem, elucidates their philosophy, saying, "At Skin Esteem, our focus lies in delivering results and promoting relaxation. In a world already laden with stress, Skin Esteem is an oasis where you can relish a few hours solely for yourself—be it every month or every now and then. It's not just great; it's profoundly beneficial for the soul."

This New Year, indulge yourself with the exclusive Facial and Back Massage package, designed to caress both body and soul over the course of two blissful hours.

Commencing with a back massage, as Jo describes it, is an experience of "tension melting away, we can incorporate hot stones and hot towels, depending on the client's preference. Our primary goal is to ensure your mindset is prepared to unwind. We dim the lights, ignite candles, and play the most soothing music, creating an atmosphere that transports clients to a different universe."

The subsequent facial, clients undergo a double cleansing process, followed by meticulous exfoliation, a therapeutic massage, and a rejuvenating mask, concluding with premium products and a vitamin infusion.

Jo emphasizes the significance of sun protection, stating, "We always conclude every treatment with SPF—an indispensable step. SPF is genuinely your best friend."

"It's a comprehensive package, but we customise and tailor the treatments based on our client's skin and their specific goals," Jo affirms.

"We have an affinity for skin, and our mission is for you to depart our clinic feeling refreshed, relaxed, and utterly rejuvenated."

Skin Esteem stands as the ultimate destination for opulent relaxation, offering an array of services, including facials, laser hair removal, laser carbon facials, IPL skin rejuvenation, radio frequency skin tightening, electrolysis, diathermy, waxing and tinting treatments.

As we approach the beginning of the 2024 school year, it is a great opportunity to put in place healthy and productive routines to get the best out of the year. Here's a comprehensive guide to ensure a successful start to the academic year.

1. Sleep Matters: One of the most crucial aspects of a successful school routine is ensuring an adequate amount of sleep. Aim for consistent bedtimes and wake-up times to regulate your body's internal clock. Create a calming bedtime routine to signal to your body that it's time to wind down. Avoid using devices in bed or right before bed, to help the body start to switch off.

2. Organise Your Space: A cluttered environment can lead to a cluttered mind. Set up a dedicated study space that is free from distractions. Organise school supplies, textbooks, and materials in a way that promotes efficiency and minimises stress.

3. Plan Your Schedule: Create a weekly schedule that includes not only classes but also study sessions, extracurricular activities, and downtime. Having a visual representation of your week can help you manage your time effectively and avoid last-minute cramming.

4. Healthy Eating Habits: Ensure your body and mind are nourished by maintaining healthy eating habits. Prepare balanced meals and snacks and avoid excessive consumption of caffeinated or sugary beverages. Proper nutrition contributes to sustained energy levels and improved concentration.

By incorporating these strategies into your back-to-school routine, you can set the stage for a successful and fulfilling academic year. Remember, consistency is key, and small, intentional steps can lead to significant improvements in any school experience.

Whitsunday Touch Football is excited to announce the start of the 2024 Season. 

The Season gets underway on Monday 22 January with a “Come and Try” night. 

There will be the opportunity for experienced players to ease back into the new season and for novices to try a new sport. 

Monday’s format is “Fast Four” promoting Footy is for fun, come as a team or on your own and we will find you a team.  

Games are of 10 minutes duration with teams of four players competing on half the normal field.  Each team will play a number of games during the night. 

It is a great way for beginning players to be introduced to the game. 

Monday 22 January at the Sportspark from 6.00pm. 

Newcomers very welcome.  We’ll make sure to place you in a team. 

Monday 29 January is the first week of grading games. 

Contributed with thanks to John Weeks.

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WHAT: Come and Try Touch
WHERE: Whitsunday Sportspark
WHEN: Monday January 22, from 6pm

2023 Juniors at the Fast4 Competition. Photo supplied

Although the threat of rain prevailed during the day, by the time that the fleet of 14 yachts lined up for the start of the weekly Whitsunday Sailing Club twilight race, a 10 knot south easterly breeze complemented the cloudy, but dry skies.

The fleet bunched up as they approached the starting line for the first start, with firstly Smooth Criminal (Leo Rodriguez) and then Matchless (Terry Stevens) bailing out to avoid other boats. This left just Bobby’s Girl (Mark Beale) as the sole premature starter, needing to return around the committee boat. This allowed Treasure VIII (Rob Davis) and QMS Ponyo (John Galloway) to lead the fleet away from the start. By the end of lap 1, Smooth Criminal held a slender lead over Bobby’s Girl, Little Black Jack (Karen Evans) and QMS Ponyo. As the fleet continued on the second lap, Little Black Jack made their move into the lead as Treasure VIII opened the gap to Wide Load (Shannan Hart) as they closed the gap to the boats ahead. At the finish, Little Black Jack took the honours, while a misjudged tack caused Smooth Criminal to hit the finishing mark and retire from the race. On corrected time QMS Ponyo took home the chocolates by one second ahead of Wide Load with Treasure VIII just 5 seconds back in third.

The Division 3 start was much more placid, with Shiraz (John Cable) making easy work of taking the Doyle Sails sponsored best start prize. Behind them Rossgo (Greg Hammon) and Riff Raff (Dan White) changed places several times during the race before Riff Raff finally got the upper hand, finishing a credible 85 seconds behind the faster Shiraz. Rossgo finished a further 20 seconds back. That result worked well for Riff Raff, taking the corrected time win over Norbert G (Mireille Morcos) and Rossgo.

The SML Prize, sponsored by Whitsunday Industrial Services, went to Shiraz, while the weekly special prize, sponsored by Soft Rigging solutions, went to Treasure VIII. In the teams event, the Blue Team (Bobby’s Girl, Wide Load and Shiraz) took the daily honours over Yellow, Purple and Green teams, all in equal second place.

The Whitsunday Sailing Club twilight series continues every Wednesday with racing commencing at 4:30. Limited crewing positions may be available. Those wishing to participate as crew need to be at the club by 2:30 pm (limited spots available). Full results are available at https://app.sailsys.com.au/club/85/profile?tab=results.

Contributed with thanks to the Whitsunday Sailing Club.