"You've Gotta Take It On The Chin"

Four years ago, seasoned sailor Wayne Hawkins purchased his boat in Airlie Beach, he poured hundreds of thousands and countless hours into restoring it with plans to finally set off cruising the Whitsundays and beyond.

But Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji halted this plan.

In just two-to-three weeks sailor Wayne Hawkins and wife Elsa, were about to embark on a trip, six months at sea after a lifetime of adventure.

When the weather system moved in, the decision was made to shelter upriver, believing it would be safer than riding it out at sea. Triple mooring lines were set. The forecast warned of rain more than wind, but the conditions escalated rapidly.

“It was horrendous,” he said.

“Absolutely horrendous.”

Winds reached an estimated 60 to 70 knots, shifting direction suddenly and violently. A three to four metre swell rolled through for hours. Despite experience that included sailing halfway around the world there was no preparing for what followed.

“In two minutes it was all over,” he said.

“The lines snapped, everything went. I couldn’t even get to the dingy. That was it.”

Fear quickly gave way to frustration.

“I wasn’t scared so much, I was angry,” Wayne said.

“Angry at the gods.”

In the days since, the response from the Airlie Beach community has been overwhelming. Friends, locals and even strangers have turned up to help with recovery efforts, offering time, labour, and moving of debris.

“People just showed up - that’s the part that gets you.”

One volunteer helping out said they had no work, a friend showed them people were helping, so he simply went along to help.

With the vessel now beyond repair, Wayne and Elsa are facing the reality of starting again from scratch. Despite the loss, he remains grounded, acknowledging others have suffered far worse in recent disasters.

“Someone always cops it - this time, it was us.”

‍

Wayne Hawkins and his wife Elsa at Cannonvale Beach. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

‍

Opinion Piece By Andrew Willcox MP

It’s been another wet and wild start to the year. Across North Queensland, there are many
anxious people asking familiar questions: will the roads flood, how many cyclones will
we face, and will there be food on the shelves?

No one can accurately predict the weather. Some try. And while a few may pride
themselves on sticking their head out the window to make a call, no organisation is more
relied on by Australians for weather advice than the Bureau of Meteorology. Its
forecasters are highly credentialed professionals who play a critical role in keeping our
communities informed and safe.

That is why confidence in the Bureau’s systems matters. In particular the BoM website.

A modern, reliable website is essential when families, farmers, truck drivers, and
emergency services are making decisions during severe weather.

Unfortunately, the recent attempt to upgrade the Bureau’s website has fallen well short
of expectations.

Initially priced in to cost $4.1 million, the blow out hit $96.5 million. That’s 23.5 times
what was budgeted. This is an eye watering figure even for the level of sophistication
required. And for that price tag, what exactly did we get. Not much.

Today, Australians are eAectively using a combination of the new website and legacy
systems, with limited confidence that the upgrade has delivered meaningful
improvement. In simple terms, nearly $100 million has been spent and we are still relying
on much of the same old website and functionality.  Don’t’ forget it is likely that more
money will still need to be spent to get the website to where it should be right now.

People are rightly asking how a government project ended up costing so much while
delivering so little. When a project promised to deliver a better service and instead
creates confusion, there must be accountability.

The Minister responsible, Senator Murray Watt, expressed frustration after the blowout
became public. But the real question is where was the ministerial scrutiny as costs
escalated and when were the warning signs noticed? Why wasn’t the project paused or
reined in earlier? Additionally, a large portion of the money paid to external consultants
was attributed to testing. What sort of testing did they do? Because within hours of the
new website going live, members of the public were pointing out the problems and they
weren’t even paid to give their advice.

In the grand scheme of things $96.5 million may seem like a relatively small governmental
expenditure but put a few of these costs blow out together, as has been the case under
the Albanese government and there are major budgetary problems. No wonder this
government’s account keeping is all over the place.

As we have seen again these past few weeks, North Queensland’s weather can change
rapidly. That is why preparation matters.

• Keep emergency supplies such as water, non-perishable food, batteries and medications at the ready.
• Secure loose items around your home.
• Check in on family, friends and neighbours.
• Monitor local council disaster dashboards.
• Avoid driving through floodwaters.

Our weather may be unpredictable, but preparation saves lives. Be storm ready, look out
for one another, and above all, stay safe.

‍

Premier David Crisafulli MP was quick to respond to Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji, quickly visiting regions that faced the brunt of the system that hit the morning of Sunday, the 11th of January.

On Monday, the 12th of January, Premier Crisafulli MP touched down in Bowen to inspect work on the ground, check on emergency services and announce his commitment on following recovery work through to the end.

Premier Crisafulli MP also stopped in Proserpine to assess the Whitsunday Local Disaster Coordination Centre. He looked at impacts on the ground that included minor infrastructure damage, and he announced the things were run well.

“I think it was a great opportunity for Proserpine today to be at the Whitsunday Centre of Disaster Recovery, with the state meeting chaired from there. Honestly, more of that is needed," he said.

“We’re the most decentralised state in the country, and some people see that as a challenge, but I see it as an opportunity.

“I want to make sure that wherever possible we get on the ground. I’ve had ministers out in Western Queensland and we’ll continue to do that.

“It’s great to be on the ground this morning, meeting with the Mayor Ry Collins and going out to thank the local people and the local disaster management group…that’s really important.

“It’s important for people to know that they matter.”

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said it Premier Crisafulli MP and himself discussed local impacts, recovery priorities and the support our communities may need moving forward.

"Importantly, the Premier took the time to personally thank our responders, disaster management teams and crews for their hard work before, during and after TC Koji, and to see how the Whitsundays prepares for, responds to and recovers from severe weather events," said Mayor Collins.

"I want to echo that thanks. A huge acknowledgement to our frontline crews, Whitsunday Regional Council staff, emergency responders, SES, Ergon Energy and all partner agencies, as well as the teams working behind the scenes.

"Your long hours, professionalism and community-first approach in tough and unpredictable conditions are something the entire Whitsundays can be incredibly proud of.

"Support by our leaders for our region is always welcome, and it was appreciated to have the Premier on the ground with us during recovery."

‍

Queensland Premier David Crisafulli MP visited the Whitsunday Local Disaster Coordination Centre on Monday.

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins and Queensland Premier David Crisafulli MP on the ground after Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji

Photos sourced

‍

Seventh Kangaroo Killed in Whitsunday Paradise Estate

By Chelsea Ravizza

Residents of the Whitsunday Paradise Estate have raised concerns after another kangaroo was killed along Fairway Drive.

Just last week, the community discovered the seventh kangaroo killed by a negligent motorist on the side of the busy entryway, sharing the heartbreaking news on the estate’s private residential community page.

Whitsunday Paradise was first founded in 2005 under the title of Whitsunday Shores and was initially established to hold approximately 300 residential lots on just over seven hectares of rural zoned coastal reserve. In the past two decades, the estate has changed hands, and developmental plans have shifted, leaving the true number of constructed homes and locals living in the area to be significantly less than originally anticipated.

As a result, the community has become quite closeknit, leaving residents with the worrying thought of their fellow neighbours committing such a terrible act.

In one incident reported last week, a resident discovered a deceased kangaroo surrounded by tyre tracks after a vehicle mounted the kerb from Fairway Drive to deliberately hit and kill the protected animal. The community has since banded together in an attempt to deter the violent motorist, calling for those with road-facing security cameras to come forward.

In Queensland, kangaroos are protected native animals and it’s generally illegal and considered a serious offence to kill, harm or injure the marsupials without a legal exemption or licence. A deliberate act against a kangaroo carries significant penalties ranging from substantial fines exceeding $23,000 to serious animal cruelty charges under Section 242 of the Criminal Code Act where the maximum penalty entails seven years of imprisonment.

If you see an injured or deceased kangaroo, you must first check its pouch for a joey and then call the Fauna Rescue Whitsundays hotline on 4947 3389.

‍

The private residential estate sits approximately 8 kilometers south of Bowen. Photo source: Planit Consulting

Well over 20 million kangaroos live across Queensland. Photo credit: Milosz Maslanka

‍

Reflecting On 2025 And Looking To The Future

Collinsville Neighbourhood Centre had an incredibly busy 2025, filled with numerous achievements and spectacular highlights.

The centre reported over 7000 youth attendances at the Collinsville Youth Coalition for regular weekly trading and community events. The coalition also received over $25,000 in successful grants and sponsorships for equipment and enrichment programs thanks to contributions from GLENCORE, QCOAL Foundation, QLD COUNTRY BANK & AURIZON.

Many valuable community events were hosted over the course of the year, such as the Australia Day Awards and Ceremony, ANZAC Day Dawn and Morning Services and CYC Christmas Carnival.

There was no shortage of holiday programs and workshops, with over 20 being delivered, covering a vast area, from art roller discos to mental health awareness and kindness campaigns. Some of these programs included the Skateboard Workshop, Clay Day, Candle Making, Paints and Shakes, Music Bingo, Friday Night Teen Free Feeds, Basketball Competition, and Air Hockey Competition.

The Community Centre has supported various charities, local schools, and community groups, facilitating essential service visits, sports resources and promotion of tourist businesses.

With such an extensive organisation of activities and support of facilities, the Collinsville Neighbourhood Centre looks towards a bright future with great anticipation. The team have some great activities planned for 2026.

The centre continues to strive to bring ease and togetherness to the community.

2025 saw record attendances, and therefore the Collinsville Neighbourhood Centre looks forward to the adventures ahead in 2026.

‍

Photos supplied

‍

Bowen police are investigating an incident in which a counterfeit $100 note was allegedly presented at a local business on Richmond Road. The transaction reportedly occurred at around 11am on the 5th of January.

Staff at the business became concerned the note was not genuine and promptly contacted police. Officers attended the scene and seized the counterfeit currency.

Authorities are asking anyone with information about the individual involved - pictured in the released image - to come forward, as they may be able to assist with the investigation. Police are also urging local businesses to remain vigilant when handling cash and to report any suspected counterfeit currency immediately.

Counterfeit notes can appear genuine at a quick glance, but there are tell-tale signs to watch for:

• The word “props” written in the corner
• Illegible text
• Notes that feel unusually smooth and do not return to shape when scrunched
• Low-quality printing when examined closely

A full guide to detecting counterfeit money is available on the Reserve Bank of Australia’s website.

If you suspect you have received a counterfeit note, police advise handling it as little as possible and storing it in an envelope. Any relevant details about the transaction should be recorded, such as the person’s description, vehicle registration, or mobile number. The matter should then be reported immediately to police via Policelink using the online suspicious activity form. Information can also be provided anonymously to Crime Stoppers by calling 1800 333 000 or submitting details online.

‍

By Sebastian Conidi and Daniel Heggie

Severe weather warnings of heavy rainfall and damaging weather winds evolved overnight into news of a cyclone, as the Whitsundays was impacted by its first extreme weather event of 2026.

Beginning with a severe weather warning Friday morning due to a tropical low in the Coral Sea, by Saturday afternoon the public were advised to take shelter and secure their properties as Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji approached the area. Koji reached category two strength whilst offshore and weakened as it approached the North Tropical Coast. Even with the downgrade, the effects of the extreme weather event were felt.

As the cyclone approached, warnings were issued by government bodies on multiple social media platforms as well as text being sent from +61 444 444 444, the emergency alert number advising everyone to take shelter. Sandbags were made available for residents in low-lying or flood prone areas and could be accessed at pickup locations across Proserpine, Canonvale, Bowen and Collinsville. By Saturday night the cyclone approached with wind gusts of up to 130 kilometers an hour and was downgraded to a category one weather system as it hit the coast.

By Sunday morning, as the supportive phone lines were activated, the damage was clear.

Boats were destroyed as they got swept up in the wind or crashed against rocks. Intense rainfall resulted in flash flooding, causing multiple roads and highways to be closed. In the aftermath, fallen trees obstructed various paths whilst potholes created difficult driving conditions.

As people lost their livelihoods whether it was damage to homes or complete wreckage of boats, the community came together without hesitation to offer support to whoever needed it; collecting debris and providing whatever aid necessary. The overwhelming aid response served as a testament to the Whitsundays community, highlighting the positive group action that arises when people are in need.

The event highlighted the unpredictability of the North Queensland wet season and demonstrated the importance of remaining vigilant during this time of the year.

Whitsunday Life has compiled a detailed timeline and extensive reporting on the event, tracking the effects of Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji across the region, including critical alerts, emergency actions, and major developments from Saturday to Tuesday.

‍

Timeline of Events of Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji

Friday, the 9th of January
A Severe Weather Warning was issued at 10:56am for the Whitsundays region, advising that a tropical low in the Coral Sea was expected to impact parts of Queensland later that day and across the weekend, bringing heavy to locally intense rainfall and damaging winds. Residents were advised to expect hazardous conditions through to Sunday.

A Tropical Cyclone Watch was in place from Tully to Airlie Beach, with a Tropical Cyclone Warning active further north.

At 4:55pm, a further Severe Weather Warning was issued for heavy to locally intense rainfall and damaging winds, with authorities warning of the potential for dangerous and life-threatening flash flooding.

Saturday, the 10th of January
At midday, an Advice-level warning was issued for the Whitsunday Local Government Area. Tropical Low 12U was developing slowly as it moved toward the North Queensland coast, with Bowen, Proserpine and Airlie Beach within the warning zone. Very strong winds and heavy rainfall were possible, with flooding risks identified in some locations. Residents were advised to secure loose items around their properties.

At 4:18pm, residents in low-lying or flood-prone areas were urged to prepare sandbags ahead of forecast heavy rainfall, with collection points established across Proserpine, Cannonvale, Bowen and Collinsville.

At 4:36pm, a Watch and Act warning was issued as Tropical Low 12U moved closer to the coast and was deemed likely to intensify into a tropical cyclone later that afternoon. Bowen, Proserpine and the Whitsunday Islands were included in the warning zone, and residents were urged to take shelter.
At 6:07pm, an Emergency Alert message was issued from the national emergency number +61 444 444 444, advising that the Whitsunday region would be affected by Tropical Cyclone Koji, with destructive winds likely. Residents were instructed to prepare to take shelter immediately, warn neighbours and secure belongings. A similar message was issued again around 8pm.

At 7:48pm, an Emergency-level warning was issued advising residents to TAKE SHELTER NOW, as Tropical Cyclone Koji approached the coast with destructive wind gusts of up to 130km/h.

Sunday, the 11th of January
At 8:24am, the Whitsunday Disaster Coordination Centre phone line was activated, providing the community with a direct point of contact to report issues and access updated information as conditions evolved.

At 8:45am, the Bruce Highway was closed near Merinda, north of Bowen, due to floodwaters. Motorists were advised to avoid the area and seek alternative routes.

By 11:42am, Tropical Cyclone Koji had crossed the coast between Ayr and Bowen and weakened below tropical cyclone intensity. Despite the downgrade, heavy rainfall continued between Ayr and Mackay, while strong winds persisted along coastal areas, including the Whitsundays.

At 12:08pm, advice to continue monitoring conditions was issued as heavy rainfall and strong winds remained across the region.

In the aftermath, multiple vessels were washed ashore across the Whitsundays, with several sustaining significant damage.

Throughout the afternoon, Hamilton Plains–Shute Harbour Road and sections of the Bruce Highway near Georgia Plains were closed due to hazardous conditions.

Monday, the 12th of January
At midday, the Whitsunday Disaster Management Group transitioned to Stand Down, activating recovery groups and response activities for impacted communities. All ongoing warnings for the region were lifted.

Tuesday, the 13th of January
Although some motorists reported limited access the previous day, the Bruce Highway was officially reopened at 7:16pm. Travellers were advised that some areas remained subject to flooding, with large potholes identified near Marlborough and sections of the roadway in poor condition.

‍

‍

As Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji Makes Landfall

On Saturday, the 10th of January the Whitsunday Disaster Management Group issued a TAKE SHELTER NOW warning.

"Tropical Cyclone Koji is approaching the coast with the Whitsunday Region in the warning zone. Destructive wind gusts up to 130km/h, heavy to locally intense rainfall, and dangerous flash flooding are possible," said a Whitsunday Disaster Management Group spokesperson.

Whilst the system was downgraded Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said it is critical to never underestimate weather systems, but it’s just as important to stay calm and informed.

"Conditions can change quickly, and even downgraded systems can still bring heavy rainfall, flooding and damaging impacts," said Mayor Collins.

"Council plans conservatively and focuses on clear, measured communication so the community can prepare without panic because being informed and ready is always better than being caught off guard."

The Whitsundays Region experienced localised flooding, minor damage to council assets including fallen trees, debris and park infrastructure.

Mayor Ry Collins said there was no major damage widespread damage and he said this is thanks to early preparation, fast response and strong community cooperation.

"Council began preparations early, activating the Whitsunday Disaster Management Group and moving to Stand Up to coordinate planning and response," he said.

"A key focus was ensuring our community was informed, prepared and not alarmed, with clear messaging throughout the event. Crews secured assets, cleared drainage where possible, staged equipment and ensured the Local Disaster Coordination Centre was fully operational. That early, measured approach made a real difference and helped keep impacts manageable."

Communication was also a priority for the Whitsunday Disaster Management Group.

"The Whitsunday Disaster Dashboard [was] used as the primary source of truth for the community. This was supported through the Local Disaster Management Group, chaired by the Mayor, along with direct SMS alerts to residents, Council social media, website updates, media alerts and engagement through our disaster networks.

"All messaging was aligned with Bureau of Meteorology advice and updated as conditions changed, ensuring residents had reliable, consistent and trusted information throughout the event.

"I also want to sincerely thank our emergency services, first responders, SES, Council crews and partner agencies for their tireless work which played a key role in keeping impacts manageable across the Whitsundays."

Clean Up
Council crews are continuing clean-up efforts across the region following the recent severe weather, with teams focusing on public parks, beaches, roadsides and other Council-managed land.

Parks and works staff have been removing fallen trees, branches and storm debris from public areas to restore access and ensure safety for residents and visitors. Council has acknowledged some community confusion around the activity and has clarified that while crews are active in public spaces, residential green waste collections from private properties or nature strips are not being undertaken at this time.

To assist households with their own clean-up, Council is offering free green waste disposal at its waste facilities. Residents are encouraged to safely manage and transport their own green waste to these sites while recovery works continue.

Council has also advised that processing of green waste will take place at the Cannonvale Transfer Station from Wednesday, January 14. The required machinery will be operating on site during normal opening hours, and visitors are asked to be patient and follow the directions of site operators while works are underway.

Council thanked residents for their patience and cooperation as crews prioritise safety, the repair of damaged public assets and the reopening of key access points across the region.

Business As Usual
Whitsunday businesses thankfully face minimal damage during Ex-Tropical Cyclone and Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry want to hear about your impact.

With a short survey, Chamber will capture the effects of the cyclone on business operations, revenue, staffing, and recovery outlook. The insights gathered will be used to inform advocacy efforts, support requests, and discussions around recovery measures and future preparedness.

All responses are confidential and reported in aggregate only.

Take a few minutes to complete the survey by Friday 30 January and help advocate effectively on behalf of the Whitsundays business community. Contact Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry for more information.

Recovery
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins says ongoing recovery efforts remain the top priority following Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji, as Council continues to assess damage across the region and work with the State Government to secure the support needed moving forward.

Mayor Collins said Council teams are currently focused on clean-up works, repairing damaged assets and ensuring recovery assistance is available where it is needed most.

On Monday, the 12th of January Queensland Premier David Crisafulli visited the region and provided an important opportunity to highlight local impacts firsthand and discuss recovery needs directly.

“Today’s visit by QLD Premier David Crisafulli gave us the opportunity to walk through local impacts firsthand, talk directly about recovery needs, and ensure the right support is in place for the Whitsundays moving forward," he said.

Mayor Collins said communication between Council and the State Government was consistent and collaborative both in the lead-up to the weather event and throughout Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji.

“There was regular, open communication throughout the event,” he said.

"Council provided situation updates, preparedness actions and emerging impacts through district disaster briefings, while also participating in State Disaster Coordination Centre briefings."

He said the State Government provided guidance, coordination support and reassurance that assistance would be available if required, allowing Council to focus on local response efforts.

"I’ve officially decreed that we’ve had enough weather events for the season but jokes aside, the message is still to stay prepared. Know your risk, have a household plan, prepare an emergency kit, secure loose items around your property and stay informed through official channels."

‍

New Year, New Focus for Whitsunday Businesses

from Chamber President Allan Milostic

As businesses reopen following the impacts of Cyclone Koji, it’s been encouraging to see the strength of our Whitsunday business community once again on display. We know the impacts haven’t been the same for everyone, and cyclone events are a reminder of how important preparedness and community support really are.

As the new year begins, many businesses across the Whitsundays are returning with renewed energy and fresh goals. The start of the year is an ideal time to pause, reflect, and set clear, practical resolutions that support long-term success.

One of the most valuable resolutions a business can make is to review what worked well in the past year and identify where improvements can be made. This might include refining operations, strengthening financial planning, or investing time in staff development. Even small adjustments can have a meaningful impact over the year ahead.

Another important focus for 2026 is connection. Strong relationships – with customers, suppliers, industry peers, and the wider community – continue to underpin resilient businesses. Participating in networking opportunities, collaborating with other local organisations, and staying informed about regional initiatives all help businesses remain adaptable in a changing environment.

Preparedness is also key. Taking time early in the year to update business plans, review risk management and insurance arrangements, and plan for seasonal impacts can reduce pressure later on. A proactive approach allows businesses to respond with confidence when challenges arise.
Finally, supporting local remains one of the most powerful resolutions we can all commit to. Choosing local suppliers and services strengthens our regional economy and helps ensure the Whitsundays continues to thrive.

The Chamber looks forward to working alongside businesses throughout the year ahead. Thank you to our local businesses, teams, and customers for looking out for one another. By supporting local and checking in on each other, we’ll continue moving forward together.

‍

Managing growth without losing our Whitsunday lifestyle

Growth is coming to the Whitsundays. This is not a prediction, it’s already happening and the challenge for Council isn’t whether we grow, but how we manage that growth while protecting what makes this region special in the first place.

People don’t move here just for a house. They move here for the lifestyle because of our beaches, our open spaces, our relaxed pace, and the sense of community that still exists in our towns. Preserving that while planning for the future is one of Council’s biggest responsibilities.

Good planning isn’t about stopping growth, it’s about shaping it. Making sure new development respects local character, protects important natural areas, and doesn’t overwhelm existing communities. That means thinking carefully about where growth happens, what infrastructure is needed, and how communities are supported as they change.

It also means planning for the people who keep our region running like families, workers, volunteers and small business owners. Growth brings opportunity, but it also brings pressure on housing, roads, services and community facilities. Council’s role is to look ahead and make sure those pressures are addressed early, not after problems appear.

Protecting our lifestyle isn’t just about the environment although that’s critical. It’s also about liveability. Access to parks, safe streets, community facilities, and places where people can gather and feel connected. These are the things that turn a fast-growing region into a strong one.

I understand that growth can make people uneasy. Change often does. But growth, done well, can strengthen communities rather than dilute them. It can bring better facilities, more jobs, and improved services if it’s guided by clear values and long-term thinking.

Council’s job is to strike that balance: welcoming new people while looking after those who already call the Whitsundays home. Protecting what we love, while planning responsibly for the future.

That balance won’t always be perfect, but it will always be the goal.

In my next column, I’ll share why Council spends so much time advocating to State and Federal governments and why some funding battles are worth fighting for our communities.

‍

Following ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji, Council has conducted inspections of all stinger nets across our beaches. Wilson Beach’s enclosure is intact, while Boathaven Beach, Cannonvale Beach and Dingo Beach stinger nets require remedial works and further checks before public use.

For safer swimming, enjoy free entry to Council’s aquatic facilities, including Airlie Beach Lagoon, and the Proserpine, Bowen and Collinsville Swimming Pools and Water Parks.

If residents choose to swim in the ocean, a stinger suit is highly recommended during our stinger season, which runs from November to May every year.

Visit Council’s website or Facebook page for updates on all Council facilities following the recent weather events.

‍

Proserpine Lions Club will be hosting the Youth of the Year program once again. This is a special program dedicated to celebrating all the talent that the youth of Proserpine have to offer. The competition was initiated by the local lions cub to foster leadership and public speaking skills in young Australians. This year will mark the 61st Anniversary of Lions Youth of the Year which started in Brisbane in 1964.

Students are required to be between the ages of 15 and 19 at the time of the national final, and must have attended secondary school that year. The main focus of the program is to help students develop confidence in their ability to communicate with community leaders and present themselves so that they can excel in any field of interest. As students are about to enter employment or higher education, the program can help to hone their skills so that they are adequately prepared for whatever challenge they may face.

There are numerous benefits to entering the Youth of the Year program. These include friendship, networking as well as the consolidation of skills in public speaking and interviewing. The program has demonstrated results, with many students reporting how they learned to negotiate complicated environments such as school processes, university application interviews and post-graduate situations.

The Youth of the Year program is only possible through community support. The team is assisted by dedicated volunteer judges and organisations who facilitate the space for the events to occur.

Each school is blessed to have a mentoring teacher who assists students with application forms, practices impromptu speeches, prepares the 5-minute speeches and helps get participants ready for their interviews.

"The Proserpine community has a generous heart, especially for youth programs", remarked program chair Jane.

Mrs Erin Jarred had admirably served this role for several years and will now hand over the role to Mr Scott Casey, another talented individual with a background in debating.

"The youths are absolutely amazing, and they boggle me every single year," said Jane.

"They have beautiful manners, they chat and make eye contact, they recognise us in the street and say hello afterwards. Their speeches both prepared and impromptu are sensational and the amount of work that they quietly do in the impromptu community gives you faith that the world is in very good hands."

The public speaking final will be held on Wednesday the 18th of February at the Whitsunday Activity Leisure Centre.

2026 will no doubt usher in a new pool of immense youth talent, so the community should be excited to see what our young residents of the region have to offer.

A great thanks to all members of the community who lend their support to this very special occasion. It is clear that 2026 will mark another great Youth of the Year program.

‍

2025's competition was a wonderful success! Photo source: Proserpine Lions Club

‍

As Queensland enters disaster season, driver trainers and motorcycle rider trainers are being encouraged to keep their professional credentials easily accessible, with accreditations now available through the Queensland Digital Licence app.

The Queensland Digital Licence app already supports digital driver licences, recreational marine licences and photo identification cards, and has been adopted by more than 1.2 million Queenslanders. Around 1,000 new users continue to sign up each day, highlighting growing confidence in digital credentials as a reliable alternative to physical cards.

Additional transport accreditations are expected to be added to the app in 2026, further expanding its usefulness for professionals who need quick, secure access to their credentials.

The app now allows accredited trainers to securely store their licences in one place, removing the need to carry physical cards that can be lost, damaged or left behind during severe weather events or emergency situations. With more Queenslanders relying on digital access during floods, cyclones and other disruptions, having credentials available on a mobile device provides an added layer of convenience and peace of mind.

Driver trainer and motorcycle rider trainer accreditations are the latest additions to the Queensland Digital Licence app, following the successful integration of Queensland Building and Construction Commission licences. The expansion continues the move toward providing practical, digital access to essential government services when they are needed most.

Trainer accreditations stored in the app are protected by industry-leading security measures designed to safeguard personal information and reduce the risk of identity theft or fraud. Users can also quickly check the status of their licence, including whether it is active, nearing renewal or expired, without the need to access separate systems or paperwork.

For learner drivers and riders, the app also offers reassurance, allowing credentials to be verified quickly and easily. This is particularly important during disaster recovery periods, when training and transport services may be operating under increased pressure.

With disaster season underway, the Queensland Digital Licence app offers a practical way for trainers and other licence holders to stay prepared, connected and credential-ready, no matter the conditions.

For more information on digital credentials, visit qld.gov.au/digitallicence.

‍

The credentials available on the Digital Licence app are: driver licence, photo identification card/Adult Proof-of-Age card, recreational marine licence, driver and rider trainer industry authority, and QBCC licences. Photo supplied

‍

There’s plenty happening across the Whitsundays, with local tourism operators rolling out fresh ideas and new experiences that make visiting our patch of Queensland even better.

Daydream Island Resort and Living Reef has launched a new Adventure Package for guests keen to get out and about. It blends island accommodation with curated activities, perfect for those who want a little more action alongside their reef and relaxation time.

Out on the water, there’s plenty to celebrate. Portland Roads Sailing the Whitsundays is heading into 2026 under the leadership of Josh, a Marine Biologist, Master Reef Guide, Master V Skipper and Master Diver. Josh brings a strong focus on stewardship, continuing the Tomorrow’s Reef Today initiative and sharing deeper connections to Ancient Ngaro Sea Country, reef science and conservation. Whitsunday Escape is also growing its fleet, giving guests even more ways to explore the islands. A new Leopard 40 launches in September 2025, followed by an Aquila 44 in December, with a Lagoon 42 and another Leopard joining the fleet in April 2026.

Getting around the region has also become easier. Heart of Reef Car Rental has realigned pricing, with vehicles now available from as little as $99 per day and expanded its fleet to include new people movers for families and larger groups. Over at Heart of Reef Shuttles, guests will spot newly upgraded, modern buses on the road, offering a more comfortable ride. The team has also introduced Custom Day Trips, allowing groups to design their own day out with private transfers and local know how.

It’s great to see our local businesses stepping up with new ideas and initiatives, giving everyone even more reason to get out and enjoy The Whitsundays.

Contributed with thanks to Rosanagh Gallivan, PR & Social Media Manager, Tourism Whitsundays

‍