Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Bowen’s Don River Dash has received a $20,000 boost through the Government’s Homegrown Destination Event Fund, helping strengthen the off-road motorsport event’s reputation as a major tourism drawcard. Member for Burdekin Dale Last has welcomed the funding for the event which had cemented itself on the national motorsport calendar. “There is no other event in Queensland like the Don River Dash, bringing together more than 5000 visitors to the Bowen region for an exhilarating off-road endurance race along the riverbed of the Don River,” Mr Last said. “The Don River Dash is more than a race - it’s a celebration of community, adrenaline, and Queensland’s rugged beauty. And it’s an event that the Crisafulli Government is proud to support and one that I am proud to support as the local member.” “It’s events like this that drive our regional tourism and bring real, tangible results for Bowen including a $3.8 million injection into the local economy.” Mr Last said supporting homegrown events like the Don River Dash was part of the Government's 2045 plan towards making Bowen a long-term tourism destination. “Queensland is fast becoming the events capital of Australia, and we’re investing in more homegrown events to keep that momentum going,” Mr Last said. “With something for everyone, events like the Don River Dash will once again be a standout experience for locals and visitors alike. “We said we would deliver through Destination 2045 — and that’s exactly what we’re doing.” Photo caption: Dale Last at last year’s Don River Dash. Photo supplied: Mikayla Colquhoun.
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Progress has been made on plans to replace one of the region’s most recognisable landmarks, Bowen Jetty, with Member for Burdekin Dale Last welcoming the acknowledgement of its economic and historical significance. Mr Last said the Bowen community’s advocacy to preserve the Bowen Jetty was commendable, with the project now due to take its next steps. “Across the years the Bowen Jetty has provided recreational access for residents and visitors while supporting operations associated with the nearby Port of Abbot Point, however ongoing deterioration has meant the iconic infrastructure has reached its end of service life,” Mr Last said. “The broad ranging economic benefits for the Bowen region cannot be understated, from supporting the tourism economy to the maintenance and maritime small businesses who rely on its ability to support towage operations.” “I have been proud to stand with the Bowen community and advocate for a wharf they can be proud of and know it continues to support their economy each and every day.” Mr Last said the positive steps in the redevelopment of the Bowen Jetty went hand in hand with progress on the Bowen Boat Harbour Master Plan and capped off a more-than-decade-long fight to better shape the future of Bowen’s foreshore. “The Master Plan is the missing piece when it comes to the Bowen foreshore precinct. It is absolutely essential that the redevelopment of the jetty and upgrades of the foreshore tie into any redevelopment at the harbour, and vice versa, so we end up with the best result possible,” Mr Last said. “This is an opportunity to transform the entire foreshore area into an oasis for locals and tourists alike less than 1km from the Bowen CBD. It’s about realising Bowen’s potential when it comes to economic development and job creation.” Photo caption: Dale Last has praised the local community’s advocacy to preserve the Bowen Jetty. Photo supplied: Mikayla Colquhoun.
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One Bowen local’s journey from university graduate to practicing dentist has led them home, back to the community that first inspired a career in oral health. Back in January, Gregory Reinke started his first official practice work at Kylie's Family Dental, working within a team he knew he wanted to be a part of. "I find that the work that is done here is both reliable and honest,” Dr Reinke said. “I had done work experience at this clinic multiple times, had shadowed Kylie and seen the type of work she does. “It's exactly the work I would like to do." Dr Reinke grew up in Bowen, and from Year 8 he knew he wanted to become a dentist. This ambition never wavered, leading him to study a Bachelor of Dental Surgery at James Cook University. Dr Reinke completed his work clinical placements in Townsville and Proserpine before returning to Bowen, where he looks to continue honing his craft, while delivering excellent oral care. “Since it's so early in my career, I still think there's still plenty for me to learn,” Dr Reinke said. “In the last six months, I feel like I'm a different clinician, which has a lot to do with the support from Dr. Kylie.” When it comes to oral health, Gregory recommends rinsing your mouth after consuming sugary or acidic food and drinks. “I know every dentist is going to tell you to brush and floss, you can also rinse your mouth after you've had anything sugary or acidic,” Dr Reinke said. “It can make a huge difference.” Gregory Reinke launched his dentistry career at Kylie's Family Dental in Bowen. Photo credit: Zach Houtenville.
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One of the things I love most about living in the Whitsundays is the way our community always comes together when it matters most. Whether it's lending a hand after a storm, supporting a local sporting club, volunteering at community events or digging deep for a worthy cause, generosity is simply part of who we are. It's what makes our region such a special place to call home. This Saturday night, that community spirit will once again be on full display at the Mayor's Charity Ball at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre. While the evening promises to be a fantastic celebration filled with great food, entertainment and plenty of fun, the real purpose is much bigger than a night out. It's about supporting a service that none of us ever hope to need, but one we are incredibly grateful is there when lives are on the line. BMA CQ Rescue provides a vital lifeline across the Whitsundays and surrounding regions. Whether responding to serious road crashes, workplace incidents, medical emergencies, rescues at sea or emergencies on our islands, their highly skilled crews are there when every second counts. Living in a region as diverse and expansive as ours, we understand just how important that rapid response capability is. Quite simply, lives are saved because of the work they do. The Mayor's Charity Ball is our community's opportunity to give something back. Every ticket purchased, every auction bid, every raffle ticket and every donation helps ensure CQ Rescue can continue delivering this lifesaving service to the people of our region. I want to sincerely thank our sponsors, volunteers, organising committee and everyone attending on Saturday night. Events like this simply wouldn't happen without your generosity and commitment to our community. Whether you're joining us at the Ball or simply supporting the cause from afar, thank you. The Whitsundays has always been a community that looks after its own. I'm confident this year's Mayor's Charity Ball will once again showcase that incredible spirit and make a real difference for a service that is there for all of us, whenever we need it most.
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Anxiety is one of the most common mental health concerns, and it frequently drives behavioural patterns such as avoidance, reassurance-seeking and emotional withdrawal. While these behaviours reduce anxiety in the short term, they unintentionally strengthen it over time.
Behavioural change in anxiety focuses on skill-building rather than symptom elimination. The goal is not to remove anxiety entirely, but to help individuals tolerate uncertainty and discomfort without avoidance. The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists suggest Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is one of the best therapies for skill building for those with anxiety.
Avoidance teaches the brain that fear equals danger. Gradual exposure, when done safely and supportively, helps retrain the nervous system. Each time a person faces a feared situation and copes, their confidence and emotional capacity grow.
However, over-reassurance can unintentionally reinforce anxiety, while supportive encouragement fosters independence. Phrases such as “I know this is hard, and I believe you can manage it” promote resilience.
Teaching emotional literacy, problem-solving and regulation strategies strengthens long-term outcomes. Anxiety becomes manageable when people understand their body’s responses and learn how to respond differently. Changing the way we think about a situation changes the way we feel. CBT helps provide a structured way to skill build.
Behavioural change is most effective when anxiety is viewed not as a weakness, but as a signal for skill development. With the right support, you can learn to face challenges with confidence and adaptability.
For more information about managing anxiety and CBT visit my website https://www.personaltransitions.com.au/ or give me a call 0418708214.”NDIS FRIENDLY
State MP Amanda Camm is holding a royally fun easter colouring competition, encouraging Whitsunday’s best young colour artists to get involved. Kids have the option of colouring cheerful underwater marine life or fun land-dwelling creatures. To get involved you can use this link: https://www.amandacamm.com.au/easter-colouring-competition-2026 or go directly to the ‘Amanda Camm MP’ website. Once you have printed out and completed the task, submit your masterpiece via the QR code attached. The competition closes Friday 27th March. This is a fantastic way to get kids creating and bring joy for the Easter season.
Coral Coast Doctors were pleased to officially open in the Whitsundays, Wednesday 25 February. Opened by Dr Ramy Ibrahim of Bowen Doctors, the brand-new General Practice in Cannonvale offers a host of services to cater to healthcare needs of people in the region. Situated within the Whitsundays Shopping Centre, Coral Coast Doctors offers a beautifully appointed clinic, with state-of-the-art facilities and technology. The opening night saw attendance from members of the local heath community teams including Physio Plus, Live Life Pharmacy, Coastal Radiology and many other medical and allied health providers.
Coral Coast Doctors offers a wealth of services including
It was a wonderful evening that signified the start of a great endeavour. The services will bring much support to the region.
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Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi
Peta Franklin-Corben has been named Woman of the Year by the Zonta Club of the Whitsundays, in recognition of her impactful work supporting women experiencing domestic and gender-based violence as Project Coordinator at Whitsunday Counselling and Support.
Peta has dedicated 15 years to helping women flee violence and rebuild their lives through accommodation support and therapeutic services.
“I never didn't want to be a social worker,” she remembered.
“It was always something that I was interested in doing. I was supported by some incredible teachers at Proserpine High School who encouraged me to try lots of different things.
“I went to an open day and, just by pure chance, spoke with a social work student. She was free and funky and cool and just seemed really interesting. So I went to her talk, and I adored it.
“I knew that I wanted to work with women and in gender-based violence because I experienced what it's like to grow up as a woman, but later, working overseas really cemented things for me, seeing how challenging it can be for women in lots of different spaces.”
After studying at James Cook University, Peta moved to England, where social work originated. There she worked in inner-city Manchester, with trafficking victims in women-only mental health inpatient units, engaging with the intersectionality of gender with other aspects like race and cultural background.
After 9 years, she moved home to the Whitsundays.
“Airlie Beach has this way of pulling people in,” she said.
“Lots of people move away, then come back and see the beauty of the place and the community.”
Peta credits the whole team at Whitsunday Counselling and Support for Zonta’s recognition, with a strong management team and dedicated case workers doing difficult but deeply important work. She also thanks the community for their continued support, without which the services couldn’t function the way they do.
“We are so fortunate here, with so many businesses and operations, big and small, seeking us out to offer their support.”
When asked what advice she would deliver to young women looking to make change, Peta referred to some advice she recently received herself from local 14-year-old pupil Sarah Hart, who spoke at the Zonta International Women’s Day Luncheon:
“She said: just apply, just do things. Just get in there. I just thought that's exactly right.
“If you are interested and you want to help, just reach out. People, particularly women, have imposter syndrome where they have a good idea, but think: Who am I to bring that?
“Just bring it! As women we’re great at sharing community and ideas and making space for people, so something that I've always lived by is to surround yourself with people that will say your name in a room full of opportunity. And I think that's the kind of network that this community has.”
You can support Peta’s work by donating via the QR code below, and follow the Whitsunday Counselling and Support Facebook page for upcoming community events.
1 – Peta’s vast impact helping women heal from gendered-violence has gained local recognition. Photo credit: Suzanna Mcloughlin
2 – Scan here to donate.
School holiday camps are now open for bookings at PCYC Whitsunday, offering a fun and active way for local children to spend their break. The camps provide a welcoming environment where kids aged 5 to 12 can stay active, learn new skills and make friends while enjoying a variety of popular sports and activities.
The program includes freestyle gymnastics, basketball, volleyball, badminton and a range of engaging gymnastics activities designed to keep children moving and having fun. With a mix of structured games and social play, the camps encourage teamwork, confidence and healthy activity during the school holidays.
Families can choose between convenient three-hour or six-hour camp sessions, making it easy to fit into holiday schedules. Children are also encouraged to bring a friend along, helping to create a friendly and supportive atmosphere for everyone involved.
Importantly, families do not need to be PCYC members to take part. The camps are open to all members of the community, making them a great opportunity for children to experience the programs and facilities available locally.
Bookings are now open and places are limited, so families are encouraged to secure their child’s spot early to avoid missing out on a fun and active holiday experience.
1 - Photo source: Facebook
Voting is now open for the Queensland Bus Driver of the Year Awards, and the Whitsundays community has the chance to support one of its own. Local Whitsunday Transit driver David “Buzzy” Bussey has once again been nominated for the award, marking his third nomination and highlighting the positive impact he has on passengers every day.
Buzzy is well known among locals and visitors for the friendly welcome he offers to everyone who steps onto his bus. When asked what sets his approach apart, Buzzy keeps it simple. He believes in making people feel welcome. Whether transporting residents on their daily commute or greeting visitors arriving in the region, he aims to ensure every passenger feels comfortable and at home in the Whitsundays.
It is this attitude that many say reflects the spirit of the region itself. Friendly faces and genuine hospitality help create the reputation the Whitsundays is known for, and drivers like Buzzy play an important role in that experience.
Community members who would like to support Buzzy can cast their vote through the Translink website. Voting remains open until 11.59 pm (AEST) on Sunday, 22 March. Local supporters are encouraged to get behind him and help bring the award home to the Whitsundays.
1 – David “Buzzy” Bussey with Mayor Ry Collins. Photo sourced: Facebook
Term 1 has been a busy and productive start to the year for the community at St Catherine’s Catholic College, with students recently completing NAPLAN assessments while also participating in activities marking the season of Lent.
College Principal Katherine Nelson said the term had also included important work focused on strengthening the College’s mission and future priorities as part of the school’s renewal and improvement planning.
“As a Catholic school, our mission sits at the heart of everything we do,” Ms Nelson said.
“At St Catherine’s we are guided by the Gospel values of Community, Compassion, Excellence and Justice, because we are inspired by Jesus. These values shape our approach to learning and teaching and help create a welcoming environment where students and families of all faith backgrounds feel part of our community.”
Families have recently been invited to provide feedback through a parent survey exploring the College’s mission, purpose and priorities for the coming years. The consultation process forms part of ongoing work across Townsville Catholic Education to strengthen learning and teaching outcomes while maintaining the distinctive Catholic identity of its schools.
Assistant Principals Religious Education Julie Hornstra said Lent was also an important learning time for students across the College.
“During Lent, students reflect on prayer, service and helping others,” Ms Hornstra said.
“As part of this, students will learn about the work of Caritas Australia and participate in fundraising activities to support communities experiencing hardship around the world.”
On Sunday 22nd March the Epic Walk for Domestic Violence is set to take place. Commencing at 7:30am, everyone will meet at the Coral Sea Marina Gardens and walk 5km from the meeting point along the Cannonvale boardwalk and back. Participants are advised to bring a picnic blanket, family, friends and dog if they have one.
The event is hosted by Whitsundays Dancing CEO Clarice Davis with support from support from Whitsunday Legal Service Ambassador Katelyn Aslett.
“It’s been going on in Brisbane for four years and this is the second year that we’ve held it in the Whitsundays”, Katelyn said.
“It’s just a fantastic community day that brings all sorts of people from the community together to raise funds and awareness for domestic violence.”
The team hopes to raise significant funds to support victims of domestic violence.
“Between us, Brisbane, the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast we hope to raise over $300,000. We’re hoping locally we can raise at least $50,000.”
This is a fantastic event that supports a critical issue.
“None of us like to think it happens in our community, but it happens in every community. These kinds of events just let everyone know that, even if times are tough, you are not on your own. We generally have a few services on hand, so we can point people in the direction if are struggling or who may know someone that is struggling.”
The event will also feature a special appearance from the CEO of Women’s Legal Service Queensland – Nadia Bromley, who will be travelling up from Brisbane.
“She’s going to speak to the community. Because the raised so much in our community last year, the team is dedicated to supporting rural and local communities. It is a testament to everything our community has achieved.”
Host Clarice Davis shared a similar sentiment.
“It’s an easy walk. The power is in people and their presence. Showing up on the day is a big message. It’s a way of showing solidarity”, she said.
This is an incredibly important event that supports a vital cause.
For more information, check out the ‘Epic Walk for DV’ website.
What: The Epic Walk For DV
When: Sunday 22nd March 6:30am
Where: Coral Sea Marina Gardens
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Hosts for the event, Katelyn Aslett and Clarice Davis. Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi
The Whitsunday Regional Council is preparing to introduce significant changes to how short-term accommodation (STA) is approved and managed across the region. The updates include both a planning scheme amendment and proposed changes to local laws aimed at improving compliance and protecting residential amenity.
A major amendment to the Whitsunday Planning Scheme 2017 relating to short-term accommodation is scheduled to commence on Monday, 30 March 2026.
Prepared under the Planning Act 2016, the amendment introduces stronger assessment benchmarks within the Low Density Residential Zone across the entire Whitsunday local government area.
Under the updated planning framework, short-term accommodation will generally not be supported in Low Density Residential zones.
Exceptions will apply to ten identified precincts that have a long-standing history of holiday home use.
The amendment provides clearer guidance for development assessments, helping both property owners and planners understand where holiday rentals are appropriate.
The planning scheme update follows a public consultation process conducted in 2025, where residents and stakeholders provided feedback on the future of short-term accommodation in the region.
Alongside the planning amendment, Council has launched consultation on changes to Subordinate Local Law No. 1 (Administration) 2014 that will affect how short-term accommodation is licensed, monitored, and managed.
Public consultation runs from 16 March to 19 April 2026 through Council’s online engagement portal and community feedback channels.
While the planning scheme determines where short-term accommodation is appropriate, the proposed local law changes focus on how these properties operate.
Key Proposed Changes
The amendments aim to improve accountability and compliance through several measures, including:
Residents are encouraged to review the proposed changes and provide feedback through an online survey or via hardcopy forms available at Council customer service centres and libraries.
Community members can also meet the project team at the Bowen Centrepoint Shopping Centre on Thursday 26th March, 12pm–4pm
Additional resources are available to help property owners understand the approval process, including a Short-term Accommodation Guide and an online self-assessment tool.
Together, the planning scheme amendment and proposed local law changes represent a coordinated effort by the Whitsunday Regional Council to balance the region’s strong tourism sector with the need to maintain the character and livability of residential neighbourhoods.
Learn more and have your say at Your Say Whitsunday - https://bit.ly/STALocalLaw
What? Community Consultation on STA Amendment Proposals
When? Thursday 26th March 12pm–4pm
Where? Bowen Centrepoint Shopping Centre
On Thursday 12th March, Zonta Club of Whitsundays had its annual book donation, which was marked by a morning tea at Cannonvale Library.
The Zonta team gathered to mark the occasion with Cr Jan Clifford coming to show her support.
The initiative was revamped in 2021 after the team noticed that the Zonta Section at the library hadn’t been updated for some time. Since then, Zonta have been donating new books and 2026 marks the fifth year of the collection in its new form. Since 2021, at least 30 books have been added each year.
The books are sourced by Secretary Janice Lake using a number of resources. Choices are made based on sources such as ABC Book Club, Booker Prize Long List and Women’s Authors Award with purchases made from the State Library bookshop and private bookshops.
The collection contains books from a range of topics including ‘self-help’, memoirs and general fiction with a focus on Australian and women authors, however it is not exclusive and encompasses a wide range of writers.
The club hopes that the Zonta Section will provide something for anyone looking for a good ‘read’.
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Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi
Airlie Beach is set to welcome an inspiring group of aviation professionals next May, as the Australian Women Pilots’ Association (AWPA) holds its 2026 National Conference and AGM from 6 to 10 May. This prestigious event, a highlight on the AWPA calendar, is more than a gathering of pilots—it is a celebration of skill, ambition, and community, bringing together women from all sectors of aviation, from student flyers to commercial, airline, and military professionals.
The Australian Women Pilots Association was founded in 1950 by pioneering Australian Aviator Nancy – Bird Walton. Since then, the aassociation has expanded and now includes members between the ages of 16 and 90, ranging from pre-solo students to commercial to airline and military pilots – with some members having 20,000 hours.
For the residents of the Whitsundays, the conference is a unique opportunity to shine a spotlight on the region. Hosted by a different state and regional town each year, the AWPA conference draws delegates from across Australia, creating a welcome boost for local businesses, accommodation providers, and tourism operators. With the theme Sun, Sea and Sky, Airlie Beach’s natural beauty offers a perfect backdrop for professional development and networking, showcasing the region as an attractive hub for events that combine learning with leisure.
The multi-day program promises a variety of engaging experiences, including an education day, the AIPA industry forum, and an air navigation trial. These hands-on opportunities provide delegates with practical skills while fostering connections with peers and industry leaders. According to AWPA Queensland Branch President Helen Trenerry, the event is about much more than flying: it’s about building relationships, sharing knowledge, and supporting women as they advance their careers.
The conference will culminate in the Qantas AWPA Runway Presentation Dinner at Shute Harbour, where over $110,000 in scholarships will be awarded, helping women pilots take the next step in their aviation journey. For the local community, this is a chance not only to witness the future of Australian aviation but also to be part of a gathering that champions inclusion, mentorship, and excellence.
Airlie Beach is ready to welcome women pilots from across the nation, putting the region at the center of a landmark event that combines professional growth with a celebration of our stunning coastal setting. More information and registrations are available at www.awpa.org.au/conference-agm.
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Photo source: Facebook
A major tourism gateway in the Whitsundays has changed hands, with Epochal Hotels acquiring the Port of Airlie, Cruise Whitsundays Terminal and Marina for $20.75 million in a move that signals continued confidence in the region’s tourism future.
The Port of Airlie is widely recognised as one of the key entry points to the Whitsunday Islands and the Great Barrier Reef, providing vital marine transport links for visitors and locals. The precinct includes a 1,400 square metre terminal building, extensive pontoon infrastructure and a marina operating under a seabed lease. The terminal is leased to Cruise Whitsundays, part of Journey Beyond Group, until 2035 with a further 10-year option.
“Port of Airlie plays a critical role in the Whitsundays’ transport and tourism network. This acquisition secures long-term logistics and connectivity for the region while providing a platform to enhance infrastructure and passenger facilities over time,” Mr Piper said.
Over time, Epochal Hotels plans to introduce improvements to the terminal aimed at enhancing the visitor experience.
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said the investment was a positive sign for the region and its tourism industry.
“The Port of Airlie is a key gateway to the Whitsunday Islands and the Great Barrier Reef, and this investment reflects strong confidence in the region’s future,” Mayor Collins said.
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Epochal Hotels CEO Glenn Piper said the Port of Airlie plays an essential role in the region’s tourism and transport network.
Photo supplied
Police Officers are now patrolling Airlie Beach by bicycle, on sleek E-bikes that give them an all-access-pass to previously hard-to reach locations.
Morning strollers may see the patrols along the Bicentennial Boardwalk between Airlie Beach and Cannonvale, as will parents at school drop-off and revellers at events like the Airlie Beach Music Festival.
The Queensland Police cycling initiative was adopted in the Whitsundays to increase community patrol, whilst making it easier to police other e-bike and e-scooter users, and allowing fast response to areas with no vehicle access, like the boardwalk.
The e-bikes arrived in December and have been adopted readily by officers.
“The whole idea is for community safety, to ensure those areas that were untouched before are now getting policed.” said Senior Constable Jessica Leech
“There are 1000s of people using the boardwalk daily, so we want to ensure that they're getting looked after along the way.”
Senior Sergeant Anthony Moynihan also highlighted the need to confront E-scooter issues in Queensland.
“It's an opportunity for us to interact with people that are utilising e-scooters and e-bikes and just have conversations around safety and things like that with them.”
Following several e-scooter related injuries in Airlie Beach, the police are reinforcing the need for helmets, and safe-transit on the boardwalk especially. Residents are asked to keep respectful distance and pace around pedestrians to ensure no further mishaps.
The patrols will be conducted in partnership with the businesses along the waterfront, who rely on footfall from the boardwalk and want to ensure safe passage for their customers.
1- Senior Sergeant Anthony Moynihan and Senior Constable Rachel Leech ready to patrol.
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On Friday 13 March, Proserpine Entertainment Centre hosted a citizenship ceremony, welcoming the newest citizens. The event was hosted by Mayor Ry Collins, with Uncle Leo Gabey presenting the welcome to country. Mayor Collins, Uncle Leo, Cr Jan Clifford and Cr Gary Simpson provided the certificates, along with a gift to show the regions warmest welcomes.
Mayor Ry Collins was happy to welcome his next-door neighbour of nine years - Bo Zhang - as an Australian citizen. The event was a fantastic morning as many individuals and families were presented with their certificates. It is wonderful to see so many people become more connected with our beautiful community.
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Following last weeks’ unexpected resignation from Deputy Mayor Michelle Wright, a new Deputy Mayor was elected on Wednesday at the Ordinary Council Meeting held in Bowen.
Mayor Collins thanked Cr Wright for her service.
“Councillor Wright will continue to serve the community as Division 4 Councillor, and I thank her for her contribution in the role of Deputy Mayor over the past two years,” Mayor Collins said.
Cr Michelle Wright said that “while there can be differing views around governance and organisational matters, I believe it is important to ensure clarity and stability moving forward.”
“I remain fully committed to serving the residents of Division 4 and the broader Whitsunday community as a Councillor. It continues to be a privilege to represent our community, and I will remain focused on delivering positive outcomes for our region.”
Councillor John Finlay was appointed as the new deputy mayor on Wednesday.
Cr Finlay brings significant experience to the role, including his background as a former CEO of both Bowen and Whitsunday Regional Councils.
“Thank you for your support in nominating and appointing me as deputy mayor. I am honoured and blessed to accept the position”, he said.
“Regardless of local demographics, the single most important for a community to have is – I believe – unity.”
Mayor Ry Collins has stated his support.
“I look forward to closely working with Cr Finlay as we continue to get on with the job for the Whitsundays”, said Mayor Collins.
“I also want to acknowledge and thank Cr Michelle Wright for her service as Deputy Mayor over the past two years.”
1 - Councillor John Finlay appointed as new deputy mayor. Photo credit: Facebook
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