Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Solitary men eking out a living from the land. In the 1940s and 1950s, our beautiful wild countryside acted like a magnet for several independent souls who sought to construct their own utopian, hermit-like existence within its confines. Some succeeded in eking out an almost completely self-sufficient lifestyle. Usually, they were to be found close to the water as this was their preferred means of transport. They cleared a small area of land on which to construct a cabin. One such character was George Bailey, a retired Royal Navy engineer, who decided to settle on a small clearing close to Mars Beach, adjacent to neighbours, Athol and Alex Pringle, perhaps very close to where Northerlies is located. Here he constructed a small blue cabin with a shell grit pathway curving down to the beach. Land connection to Cannonvale was not much more than a rough dirt track, but George’s lifestyle rendered this irrelevant. He purchased a sailing boat which had been raced in the celebrated Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race and modified it for rowing. He used it regularly to row across the bay to Cannonvalley Beach store to collect his mail and provisions, often sleeping in his boat on the beach while he waited for the tide to change. Contemporary locals remembered him as a bright and intelligent man who enjoyed discussing nineteenth century English Literature and had a working knowledge of Esperanto, the planned universal language of the time. George’s relaxed lifestyle included fishing, sailing, looking after his fruit trees and feeding scrub turkeys. There are probably better ways to live but not many! Bailey was only one of the men living a hermit existence within the fold of the hills. Another George – George Sax – was written about in an earlier article back in September, 2022. Many died as they had lived, in solitude, as was the case with old Billy Fitzsimmons who lived further on from John Campbell’s place, about as far as one could go. (Stay tuned for John Campbell’s story in a future edition.) Many others made their own unique contribution such as the “Mayor of Muddy Bay” who lived in the mangroves that used to flourish near where the roundabout to Shute Harbour Road is situated, along with his spray painted dog that didn’t seem to mind being purple! John Harper described them very well – “These men had a natural dignity, a sturdy independence, and a quiet reserve that was engaging. Mostly they lived in some crude shelter which they had built mainly from rough, hewn wood and sapling poles. If they had no iron for a roof, they made a thatch. Their utensils were a saucepan or two, a frying pan and the old black billy. They had an enamel pannikin or two for their tea. Cupboards were old cases and kerosene tins. They did not encourage visitors, but if you called, they would always put the billy on. If they had not seen a soul for longer than usual, they may be on for a talk. Squatting down poking a stick into the fire, they would recall life as a fettler, or as a shearer. Some had survived Gallipoli or France in the Great War, and most of them had seen very hard times during the Depression. There is no use speculating on why they chose to live as they did. They would never tell you the real reason. Perhaps because some of them did not know the reason anyway and the others had a reason not to tell.” Story and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum archives and information also sourced from “Life on the Harper Farm” by John Harper. Photo caption: People taking a break from exploring a possible Shute Harbour route from Jubilee Pocket, in 1959. Showcases how underdeveloped the land was at the time. Photo supplied: Larraine Biggs.
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Four years ago, Michelle and Ben took a chance on a Cannonvale laundromat. Today, that leap of faith has grown into a three-site business serving communities across the Whitsundays. The idea was born during Ben's time working as a miner, where waiting for loads of washing to finish revealed an opportunity where others saw a chore. “He was like, with the amount of times he sat there, he thought this could be a really good investment,” said Michelle. In November 2022, the couple purchased the Cannonvale laundromat, transforming the long-running business into more than just a place to wash clothes. Originally from Mackay and Brisbane, Ben and Michelle quickly became part of the community, with customer feedback driving upgrades and eventually inspiring expansion across the region. "It's just listening and the support, and that's what's helped us grow," Michelle said. By December 2023, those conversations led the couple to Jubilee Pocket, where they purchased and refurbished an existing laundromat after hearing strong demand from locals. A year later, they expanded again, transforming a former bike, mower and curtain shop at 10 Chapman Street into Proserpine's much-needed 2nd laundromat. Now, their sights are on a fourth location in Bowen down the track. “Bowen is growing in so many ways,” said Michelle. “A couple of laundry mats could be welcomed up there quite easily.” Looking back, Michelle said running three laundromats was never part of the couple's original plan. "Sometimes you can overthink too much when you're investing in a business, but this came along and it's an essential service,” she said. She also paid tribute to the staff who keep the laundromats running each day, thanking long-time team member Carol, Jen and the team from Sparkling Sisters for their commitment to maintaining the sites and providing excellent customer service. Photo Caption - Whitsundays Coin Laundry.
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Emerging developments, future industries and the changing face of education took centre stage as business and community leaders gathered for the latest Bowen Collinsville Enterprise (BCE) Business Breakfast at the North Queensland Cruising Yacht Club on July 3rd. Hosted by BCE Chairman Paul McLaughlin, the breakfast welcomed a diverse mix of business owners, community leaders and representatives from local government, education and industry. The regular networking event provided attendees with updates on major projects, emerging industries and initiatives helping shape the future of the region. Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins opened the morning with an overview of Council's 2026-27 Budget, outlining key investments and the significant capital works planned across Bowen and the wider region. Bowen State High School Principal Robert Harris then explored one of the most talked-about topics in modern education, artificial intelligence. His presentation examined both the opportunities and challenges AI presents in the classroom, while outlining how schools can better prepare their students to coincide with modern technology. Attendees also heard from David Mardell, who provided an update on the proposed Murray Bay development, with plans for the exclusive resort project highlighting the potential for further tourism investment along the region's coastline. Agriculture and manufacturing were spotlighted by Mick Spencer, who discussed the rapid progress of the Australian Agave Project since acquiring the farm last year. Guests received an insight into the industry's growth, as well as the upcoming launch of Sollos Spirits and its future cellar door. Rounding out the presentations, Sunwater Projects General Manager Will Weaver delivered a regional water infrastructure update, including progress on the Bowen Pipeline and the projects helping secure long-term water supply for North Queensland communities. With infrastructure, education, tourism and agriculture all featured on the agenda, the breakfast highlighted both the diversity of the region's economy and the collaborative approach driving its ideal growth. Photo Caption – Photo 1 - Left to right: Mayor Ry Collins, BCE Chairman Paul Mclaughin, Bowen State High School Principal Robert Harris, David Mardell of Murray Bay Project, Mick Spencer from Agave Farm Blue Sky Drinks and Will Weaver, GM of Sunwater Projects. Photo sourced: Facebook Photo 2 – Robert Harris speaking on AI. Photo sourced: Facebook
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Every five years, Australians are asked to take part in something that might seem simple on the surface — the national Census. But for regional communities like the Whitsundays, the Census is actually one of the most important tools we have to help shape our future. On Tuesday 11 August 2026, households across the country will complete the Census, helping build a picture of who lives where, how communities are growing and what services and infrastructure are needed into the future. For the Whitsundays, getting an accurate count matters. We are one of the fastest-growing regional areas in Queensland. We continue to see strong population growth, increasing tourism pressures, housing demand and growing expectations around roads, community infrastructure, healthcare, sporting facilities and emergency services. Recently at our State of the Region event, we challenged ourselves and our community to “Think Big” about the future of the Whitsundays. That includes major long-term planning around infrastructure, liveability, economic growth and our vision to become the Home of Olympic Sailing for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. But strong advocacy starts with strong data. The Census helps governments understand the true scale of growth and demand in regional communities like ours, and it plays a major role in future funding and infrastructure decisions. Importantly, it also strengthens Council’s ability to advocate for projects and investment that will support our region for decades to come. Whether it’s planning for future roads, community hubs, parks, libraries, sporting facilities, housing or disaster resilience, reliable data matters. If regional communities are undercounted, there is a real risk they can also be underplanned for. The Census is also important for local businesses, community groups and service providers who rely on accurate population information to plan for future investment and services. This isn’t just about statistics. It’s about making sure the Whitsundays is properly recognised for the community we are today — and the community we are becoming. I’d encourage every household across the Whitsundays to take part on Census night and help ensure our region’s voice is heard clearly. Because every person counted helps strengthen the future of our region.
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A retirement village and residential subdivision has been seriously proposed to be constructed in Jubilee Pocket, with Whitsunday Regional Council moving to grant approval for an access through-road connecting Erromango Drive and Saint Bees Boulevarde, in preparation for the massive development.
The 640-metre-long trunk road is Stage 1 of the proposed works, with the 45-hectare plot of land to be subdivided into 197 residential allotments, and 230 multi-unit accommodation dwellings with a community centre for the adjoining retirement village.
Initially submitted to Whitsunday Regional Council in late 2022, the development was deemed as code assessable, therefore public notification was not required.
The development application, in particular for the retirement village proposal, explained that “A residential use of premises for accommodation for older members of the community, or retired persons, in independent living units or serviced units.”
“Where ancillary the use may include amenity and community facilities, a manager’s residence, health care and support services, preparing food and drink or staff accommodation.”
The proposed development layout. Images: Development application
When Cindy made the big relocation from the Central Coast of New South Wales to the beautiful beachside town of Bowen, she was pleasantly welcomed into town by friendly and accommodating locals.
“That’s the first thing that my husband and I noticed,” Cindy explained.
“We were walking down the main street and everyone was waving and saying hello to us! It was just so lovely.”
Now a member of the Bowen Tourism and Business team, at the Bowen Visitor Information Centre and beside the beloved Big Mango, Cindy’s new role is Sales and Administration Assistant, which sees her directly communicating with visitors as they check into the Big Mango.
Often recommending the best experiences for visitors, Cindy also assists Bowen Tourism and Business in promoting Bowen to wider audiences, through marketing and promotion, helping visitors book both local accommodation and experiences, and supporting the Manager and Bowen Tourism and Business members.
“I am still learning, but the team have been amazing, and I am so grateful to be here,” Cindy explained.
“We have felt right at home in Bowen, and we want to thank every single person for having us in this gorgeous little town.”
Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said Cindy was a fantastic addition to the team.
“Cindy is only new to Bowen but loves the town and the region and has already learnt so much about our many attractions.
“Her past experience in administration and her previous travel experiences, coupled with her passion for tourism, have made her the perfect fit for the role.”
Despite some interesting reporting and forecasting, the Whitsundays is still open for business and has not been blown away or drowned in a rain bomb!
In late December we prepared for Tropical Cyclone Jasper. Last week, our focus turned to figuring out and preparing for what eventually became Tropical Cycle Kirrily. The Whitsundays fared well on both occasions, considering what might have been.
Both events reinforced the need and importance of staying vigilant, being well-informed, and calmly prepared for emergencies. We have posted details of free resources available to businesses on our website.
In times of natural disasters and emergencies, business insurance becomes an essential service and often a complex one.
Businesses need affordable and attainable insurance to operate freely, borrow money, employ staff, and comply with their statutory obligations.
To this end, the Chamber has lent its support to a 2024-25 Federal Budget Submission developed by the Townsville Chamber of Commerce in collaboration with a number of Northern Queensland Chambers. The submission offers four recommendations that aims to create parity in the insurance market for Northern Australia. We look forward to sharing the submission in full in due course.
As come to the end of January the Chamber looks forward getting stuck into 2024!
A wise business partner passed on some thoughts I would like to share when considering business aspirations for the new year.
Are you counting the minutes you work ….. or the impact of those minutes? Are your business metrics reflecting and measuring genuine progress…or just numbers to make you feel good? Is your business success measured in the steps you take or the destinations those steps take you.
We all often count the wrong things. Long hours don’t always mean productivity. Having lots of meetings is not as effective or productive as fewer well-structured meetings. Counting short-term gains can sacrifice the seeds of future growth - sustainable success is a marathon, not a sprint. Counting and slavishly following KPIs can lead to tunnel vision and neglect of qualitative factors like…Customer experience, employee well-being, and the bigger picture.
Quality over quantity. Work smarter not harder. Good advice for us all.
What is your role at Tourism Whitsundays?
I manage the Whitsundays Visitor Information Centre located at the Whitsunday Gold Coffee Plantation in Proserpine. My focus is to assist travellers to our beautiful region and connect them with the local operators. I am also the go-to person for the fabulous Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors.
What is your ideal weekend in The Whitsundays?
My ideal weekend is to jump on one of my friends' boats and cruise between the islands while trying to spot dolphins and whales during the winter. Then making a stop on one of the islands for a wander, swim, and snorkel. We are so fortunate here to have that much natural beauty all around us.
How long have you been in the Whitsundays?
I have lived here 11 years. I came to Australia six months before that on a Working Holiday Visa and fell in love with the region during my road trip along the East Coast of Queensland. I have never looked back.
What's the one thing about The Whitsundays you think everyone should know?
If you have not yet experienced it, I suggest taking a scenic flight over the islands and the Great Barrier Reef. I will never forget the first time I saw the magnitude and beauty of the world's largest coral reef system; it took my breath away.
After 25 years in office, Councillor and Former Mayor Michael Brunker is hanging up his hat and retiring from positions in local government.
With a career spanning advocating for massive industrial proposals to vouching for the little man at regular Council Ordinary Meetings, Brunker’s influence and hard work have left an indelible mark on the Whitsundays region.
Brunker started his adult career following in his father’s footsteps, working as a diesel fitter with the Collinsville mine.
Then, in 1994, he made the leap into local politics, running for Councillor for Collinsville, in an effort to oppose the plan to close the Collinsville Council Depot.
Having won the election and successfully combatted the depot closure, Brunker decided to progress his local government career further and campaigned for the role of Mayor of the Bowen Shire Council in 1997.
Having secured his first term as Mayor, he lead the Bowen Shire Council as it amalgamated with other local governments, to form the now Whitsunday Regional Council, and continued to be Mayor for over 15 years.
Brunker unfortunately lost his first and only Local Government election in 2012, running for a second term as Mayor of the Whitsunday Regional Council, however he returned to his seat as Bowen Divisional Councillor in the 2016 Local Government elections.
He has continued to hold this seat for two terms, until his political retirement in 2024.
A highlight of his career has been advocating for the 16,000 hectares at Abbot Point which was deemed a State Development Area in 2008, allowing the Port of Abbot Point to be established as a large-scale industrial development, which now has an export capacity of 50-million tonnes of coal per year.
Mike’s Local Government career is a testament to a local standing up for locals, of strong advocacy and dedication to his community.
The Little Diggers Day Care Centre in Collinsville is now comfortably able to continue its services while awaiting government accreditation thanks to $10,000 worth of funding given by the Whitsunday Regional Council to help with operational costs.
The only day care centre in Collinsville is currently waiting for the government tick to be able to process the childcare subsidies that will offer parents on average between 50 and 85 percent off their childcare fees.
At the moment, parents are having to pay around $70 per day for the service which, committee member and Collinsville State School Principal, Matt Gee, says is often preventing them from re-entering the workforce.
In addition, the fees are also not currently able to cover the full operational costs of the not-for-profit business.
Established in 2019, Little Diggers is the passion-project of four dedicated committee members and parents who came together to ask a simple question – why is there no daycare in Collinsville?
The only small family daycare centre, that took four children in total, closed that year when the educator moved away and meant there was no-where in town for babies and toddlers to receive childcare so their parents could work.
“I was struggling to get staff members - when they found out there was no daycare,” said Mr Gee.
“Mining companies said they were also having the same problem; it was a real issue for us.”
This prompted Mr Gee and the rest of the committee to identify a disused pre-school at the Collinsville State School site as a potential location for the daycare and they subsequently received government permission to use the facility.
A combination of State Government, Whitsunday Regional Council, Glencore and QCoal funding and assistance soon saw the abandoned building transformed into the new daycare and Little Diggers was born.
During the entire process the small local committee were the driving force behind every aspect, and it is their dedication that guided the whole project forward.
“It was very exciting to see it come to fruition as it took four years to get it up off the ground!” said Mr Gee.
“If someone had told us in the beginning how challenging it was, I am not sure we would have done it, but I am very glad we did!”
The doors to Little Diggers opened just over a year ago and the daycare is now extremely close to receiving government subsidies.
When this happens it will be a game changer for the centre that currently employs six staff and has 19 children registered.
“We’ve got people on the wait list who can’t afford it at the moment,” shared Mr Gee.
“When the rebate comes in, we will be able to employ more staff, open 10 hours a day and take up to 27 children.”
Councillor Michelle Wright has been a strong supporter of Little Diggers, and says she is glad Council could help ensure its continued operation.
“It is a fantastic facility and, as a not for profit, they’re moving leaps and bounds ahead for Collinsville,” she said.
“It’s wonderful to have this service, well done to everyone involved.”
The graduating class of 2023 at Little Diggers in Collinsville. Photo supplied
As students get into the motion of the new school year, the importance of mental health cannot be overstated. The back-to-school season brings not only the excitement of learning but also potential stressors that can impact a student's wellbeing. It's crucial to prioritise mental health, foster resilience in the face of challenges.
Here are some essential tips for students navigating the academic landscape:
1. Acknowledge and Normalise Feelings: It's okay to feel a mix of emotions when heading back to school – excitement, nervousness, or even a touch of anxiety. Acknowledge these feelings as normal reactions to change. Sharing your emotions with friends, family, or a trusted adult can help alleviate the burden.
2. Establish Healthy Routines: A well-balanced routine plays a key role in maintaining mental health. Ensure you get adequate sleep, eat nutritious meals, and engage in regular physical activity. Establishing these habits can contribute significantly to overall well-being and resilience.
3. Break Tasks into Manageable Steps: Schoolwork can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially when faced with a pile of assignments. Break down tasks into smaller, more manageable steps. This approach not only makes the workload seem less daunting but also provides a sense of accomplishment with each completed task.
6. Prioritize Self-Care: Amidst academic pressures, it's essential to prioritize self-care. Take time for activities you enjoy, hobbies that bring you joy, and moments of relaxation. Balancing work and leisure contributes to a positive mindset and resilience.
7. Know When to Seek Professional Help: If stress or mental health concerns become overwhelming, seeking professional help is a sign of strength, not weakness. School counsellors, therapists, or mental health professionals can provide valuable support and guidance tailored to individual needs.
Building resilience is an ongoing process that involves self-awareness, healthy habits, and a supportive environment. By prioritising mental health and implementing these tips, students can navigate the challenges of the school year with greater strength and resilience, fostering a positive and successful academic journey.
Top Tips For Self Care
This Valentine’s Day, experience the difference of the Jubilee Tavern, keeping the kids entertained and the adults indulged, with a menu that caters to every tastebud.
Enjoy the salt and pepper calamari, dig into a succulent sirloin steak, or fall in love with the tasty chicken parmy, the team behind Jubilee Tavern have excitedly ventured out of common grounds, with dish variety that continues to excite.
In fact, Area Chef Kevin Eldridge own favourite is the unique Mexican parmy, a twist on the Aussie parmy that delivers your favourite classic in a packed flavour profile.
Now celebrating over three years on the menu, this dish has become a Tavern staple, and cannot be removed from the menu without upset.
“With spiced beef mince, mozzarella, jalapenos, sour cream, guacamole, salsa and salad, it’s beautiful,” explained Kevin.
“We did try to take it off the menu three years ago, but we faced all this backlash from customers who absolutely loved it, so we couldn’t get rid of it!”
With a jampacked specials menu that rotates on a weekly basis, the Jubilee Tavern is your one-stop-shop for a good time.
“We have our weekly special of 2 for $35 pizzas on Tuesday, our Monday to Friday lunch deals, which includes the chicken schnitzel, beef rissoles, carbonara, and fish of the day,” explained Kevin.
“We also have all day dining on Saturday and Sunday, and of course, Kid’s eat free on Sunday, from 12pm to 2.30pm.”
However, the Jubilee Tavern does not stop there, this much-loved establishment is excited to host another romantic date night for guests this Valentine’s Day.
“On our Valentine’s Day Special menu are beautiful fresh oysters, with a lovely salmon and mushroom risotto,” explained Kevin. “A romantic menu for the romantic day.”
With children sure to be busy exploring the kids’ zone, parents are treated to a Valentine’s Day sure to be perfect.
“Don’t miss having one of our decadent desserts as well this Valentine’s Day!” said Kevin.
“Our desserts are all house made and beautiful, perfect to indulge this Valentine’s Day. We have a light cheesecake with ice cream, or the favourite sticky date pudding, or try the special cake of the day and share between the two of you.”
And not to mention the special Valentine’s Day surprise they have prepared, just for the loved-up couples set to call into the Tavern, it will be a very special evening.
“We’re calling it our Surprise and Delight so let us know you’re coming for Valentine’s Day, and we’ll make your night extra special!”
Kevin Eldridge and his team at Jubilee Tavern. Photo: Bronte Hodge
This Valentine’s Day, let romance and love wash over you with this special evening catered by the dedicated team at Whisper Restaurant and Gin Bar.
This bespoke and intimate evening, set to the beautiful backdrop of the pristine Whisper Bay and Coral Sea, speaks to love and romance.
When you and your loved one arrive, take a sip from a chilled glass of bubbles, relax at your table and indulge in the sumptuous five course menu, carefully curated by Whisper Restaurant Head Chef Troy Fuller.
“We begin with a platter of freshly shucked oysters with ponzu dressing, a Japanese citrus dressing which tastes of lemon, with sweet and sour nods,” Troy explained.
“Our second course is a selection of zucchini, both charred and pickled, with lemon labneh, dill oil and tempura zucchini, which is a light course that eases our couples into the third course.
“Our third course is a seared kingfish, on a bed of pearl cous cous, gin-soaked raisins, toasted pine nuts, and citrus gel,” Troy explained.
“Fourth is the main course, with Riverina eye fillet, a fricassee of wild mushrooms, shitake and black garlic puree, on a bed of spring onion and potato gratin.”
Troy and his team are sending this romance-laden evening off with a delectable fifth and final course.
“This dessert is special; one we’ve created ourselves.
“We call it a Tirimi-Tart, a chocolate tart shell, filled with coffee crème pat, vanilla mascarpone, and chocolate tuille, and served with fresh and pureed strawberries. Rich and decadent, we are excited to finish this evening out with a bang!”
To reserve your Valentine’s Day, visit whisperginbar.com
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)
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