Bowen tourism and accommodation operators are excited to share that business is booming this festive summer season.

Owner and Manager of Queens Beach Tourist Village, Jennie Greer states that Christmas and New Year bookings have been at an all-time high, compared to previous years.

“Bowen is definitely becoming more popular, and we are proud to have an award-winning park within the area for guests to come and enjoy. We hope this trend continues as it can only benefit accommodation providers and businesses within our community-spirited town.”

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said the Bowen Visitor Information Centre had been very busy in the past two weeks, reflecting how busy the accommodation providers were in the town.

“We have averaged more than 300 visitors per day since the start of the new year, which is much higher than the first week of January last year.

“Our surveys show about 25% of our visitors are staying in Bowen and another 25% are making a day trip into the town to check out such things as the secluded beaches, the scenic lookouts, our fresh seafood, the Summergarden Theatre and the Edgecumbe Bay Walking Trail.

“When people stop at the Big Mango, we encourage every visitor to make the detour into Bowen as it is only a few kilometres off the highway and really is the hidden gem at the top of the Whitsundays.

“We have increased our destination marketing budget in the past 12 months and it is great to see more and more people discovering this piece of paradise.”

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Bowen seeing unprecedented popularity this holiday season. Photos: Bowen Visitor Information Centre

Last year we witnessed a revitalised Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry in their pursuit to drive sustainable business growth and connectivity for their members.

In 2024, the Chamber will continue to champion for the business community through their advocacy work, provide exclusive services to members, and host business events and education.

This year the Chamber is delighted to partner with Mackay and Whitsunday Life newspaper on a new article series.

Readers will continue to hear from Chamber President, Allan Milostic, in the Chamber Chat column, providing a perspective of how the big issues impact us here in the Whitsundays.

New articles that will appear include Chamber News providing an update on Chamber and business developments and opportunities. 

We will also learn more about our vibrant business community with profiles of local businesses – Chamber members who will share trends and shifts occurring in their field and tips for business success.

Excitingly, Chamber members will respond to general business questions sourced from the community. The Ask An Expert series will be a deep dive into a business issue and Chamber members will share a view on business questions from getting started, growth and innovation, through to managing change and transition. You are welcome to ask your anonymous question via the Chamber’s website.

We look forward to bringing you this new article series to you in partnership with the Chamber and their members.

What is your role at Tourism Whitsundays?

My role at Tourism Whitsundays is Brand and Marketing Executive. The Whitsundays brand is my baby; I love watching campaigns and projects begin in the ideation phase and seeing them come to fruition, knowing that, as a team, we achieved that and delivered results for the destination.

What is your ideal weekend in The Whitsundays?

My ideal weekend in The Whitsundays is, of course, taking advantage of our stunning backyard. For me, the ultimate weekend is leaving the mainland behind and camping on one of the Islands. My favourites would have to be Henning Island, Thomas Island or one of the protected bays in Cid Harbour. There’s nothing like watching the sunset from the water with a drink in hand, hoping to catch an arvo fish.

How long have you been in The Whitsundays?

I’ve lived in The Whitsundays all my life; my parents met on Hamilton Island, and the rest is history!

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

I think everyone should know that The Whitsundays and its surroundings offer so much beauty. You just have to walk outside! Whether it’s hiking the Honeyeater Lookout, going to Hamilton Island for the day, having lunch at Cape Gloucester, or camping at Lake Proserpine, the options are endless. You just have to make the most of it, and you’ll see that this community has so much to offer, and we should be so proud of where we live!

Delivering exceptional service with the utmost care and consideration is integral to Eyecare Plus Ayr.

Having been a central service in the Burdekin for over 70 years, Eyecare Plus Ayr is synonymous with meticulous health care and a gentle approach.

And now, with new ownership at the helm of the business as of 2018, Eyecare Plus Ayr continues to provide optometry services to the region.

Shannon Davies is the current owner and Optometrist, who has lived locally for the past decade. Shannon has been an optometrist for 20 years and was Australia’s first indigenous female optometrist, graduating from the University of Melbourne in 2004.  

“As we come into our third year under the current ownership, it has been a pleasure to welcome previous patients and new patients alike into our practice to serve their eye care and eyewear needs,” Shannon explained.

She is joined in her practice by three other team members.

“Our team has two qualified optical dispensers and boasts a combined experience of over 45 years in the optical industry,” Shannon explained.

“Eyecare Plus is the longest servicing optometry practices in Ayr,” and Shannon is proud of the lasting legacy.  

“Given the long serving history of the practice, the first challenge was upgrading the optometry equipment as well as refreshing the sunglasses and spectacles frames to ensure we are providing an optimal optometry service and meeting optical current trends,” she added.

“We are really happy with the results and by all reports our patients are as well!

“We are locally owned and provide a high level of not only optometry care, but our team are trained in optical dispensing,” she said.

“While the practice looks the same from the exterior the upgrading of equipment has allowed us to provide excellent optometric care.”

Offering comprehensive vision and eye health assessments, Eyecare Plus also offers early detection of macular degeneration, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, provision of contact lenses, co-care with ophthalmology practices, driving licence vision assessments, diabetic co-management with GPs, removal of foreign bodies and prescription of the therapeutic ocular drops.

"We offer range of latest fashion brands and high quality lens designs and technology as well as an exceptional optometry service.”

Are you a young woman who has always wished to learn how to sail?

This is your chance, with the Whitsunday Sailing Club hosting Start Sailing 1, a sailing course specially designed and exclusive for women, and taught by female Australian Sailing accredited instructors.

This short course allows all participants to gain all the necessary and practical skills and confidence in a supportive, encouraging, and welcoming environment.

Participants will gain experience through sailing in a dingy, learn first the correct terminology in a practical setting with appropriate equipment, practice launching, and then learn how to return to shore and capsize recovery.

At the conclusion of the weekend course, participants will be awarded their Start Sailing 1 completion certificate.

Female sailors bring diverse skills and fresh perspectives that spice things up.

Their knack for communication, creative problem-solving, and teamwork adds a lot to naval operations. It's not just about breaking stereotypes; it's about making the whole maritime scene more dynamic and inclusive.

When women set sail, they don't just contribute individually; they shake up the whole culture and make maritime organisations more lively and innovative.

So, having female sailors isn't just a nice-to-have – it's a must for keeping the seas and ships sailing smoothly.

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WHAT: Start Sailing 1
WHEN: Saturday, January 13 and Sunday January 14, from 9am to 3pm
WHERE: Whitsunday Sailing Club
REGISTER: https://www.revolutionise.com.au/whitsundaysc/events/221339/

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Photo: Shutterstock

Are you a local sporting group?

Or are you looking to get involved in local sport?
Then the ninth annual Whitsunday Sports Expo is the place to be.

With the entire community invited to stop by, the Whitsunday Sports Expo is the best place to see the variety of local and community sporting groups, clubs, teams, and individual pursuits that are on offer in our region.

Aimed to get all individuals, from school aged youth to working adults on the field, this Sports Expo supports and encouraging everyone to give it a go.

Each and every stall will have helpful information, engaging activities, and registration forms ready for anyone interested.

This event will be held at the Whitsunday Sportspark, beside PCYC Whitsundays in Jubilee Pocket.

If you are a local sporting club and want to get involved, contact the Whitsunday Sportspark on president@whitsundaysportspark.com.au and register your interest.

WHAT: Whitsunday Sports Expo
WHERE: Whitsunday Sports Park
WHEN: Saturday, February 3

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Expect over 35 sporting groups at this event. Photo supplied

Whether it be locals sipping their lattes at coffee shops, drinking pints at the local, sharing a story at the weekend barbie or rising from their yoga mats after their downward dogs, there’s a common theme in Airlie; An urban myth that pops up in conversation; A mystifying, riveting mystery of the ‘Curse of the Whitsundays’.

Many speak of a curse that’s been placed on the Whitsundays long ago. That Airlie Beach is a place of healing, yet it has a cloud that hangs over its dark past. Local Musician, Community Worker and Human Rights Advocate, Adrian Thomas has been writing music with Traditional Ngaro/Gia Owner, Harold Bowen. The two have been collaborating with some of Far North Queensland and Australia's best musicians, creating music that speaks to the heart of Harold and Ngaro/Gia people’s journey. Part of that journey has been unpacking Harold’s family’s displacement, slavery, pain, heartbreak, and survival. A familiar but saddening journey of many traditional people that unpacks the truth of the Curse of the Whitsundays.

As the story would go Ngaro/Gia People lived in this land for over 40,000 Years. They lived in harmony, self-sufficiently in the abundant and beautiful location we know as the Whitsundays. The Ngaro/Gia Dreamtime story speaks of the Rainbow Serpent moving through the area, creating the Proserpine River. It was thought to bring life via the waterways, feeding the animals, birdlife, trees, soil, and the Indigenous people since the beginning of time.

When the settlers came, communities of Ngaro and Gia people were living along the Proserpine River and throughout the Whitsundays, utilising the abundant natural resources. The new arrivals, however, were not interested in sharing the land or living with the local tribes; The opposite was the case.

What ensued was a slaughter of traditional communities including women and children, with tremendous brutality. The old people describe "the Proserpine River ran red with blood".

In the ensuing bloodshed, the few locals who were spared were those strong enough to work. That bloodshed running through the Proserpine River desecrated the sacred site and some say the spirits of the old people lie in the crocodiles now residing in the river. This may offer some explanation of the presence of more large crocodiles per kilometre here than in any other system in Queensland. Researchers have been baffled at the relative lack of scars and scratches on the reptiles, which they say is expected in high-density areas due to fights. Even more puzzling is the lack of larger males pushing their competitors out into nearby Airlie Beach, one of “Queensland's greatest tourist meccas" (ABC News 11-18-22). 

The brutality of what Murri (Indigenous people native to Queensland) call “the killing times” has effectively desecrated the most sacred site and the life bringer of the entire Whitsundays. According to Adrian (who is of Black, Red, Yellow, and Irish descent) “our ancestors’ actions have cursed ourselves”. Queensland has a long history of brutality during these times which is starting to uncover. Harold’s great grandfather was one of the few ‘Indentured Servants’ (slaves) who helped build Proserpine. He was then shipped to Hopevale with most of the surviving Ngaro and Gia people.

It’s Adrian’s view that in lifting the ‘Curse of the Whitsundays’, we must acknowledge the truth of our darker past. He feels the first step is memorialising the massacres. There is currently only one memorial in Australia, Coniston near Yuendumu. He says by building a monument under the guidance of the Traditional Owners we can acknowledge the darkness that lies within each of us, that is passed down our ancestral tree, and play our part in building a foundation that sets the spirits of the past free. By bringing forth inclusiveness and reconciliation we can make way for healing, welcome returning Traditional Owners, and cleanse the most sacred site in the Whitsundays, renewing the whole region. 

Adrian and Harold recently shared cultural insights at Cannonvale State School where 450 students were taught the dark history of the Ngaro/Gia people in an age-appropriate manner.

A film was recorded for their new music video and an up-and-coming documentary. This may have been one of the first times it’s been shared in a primary education setting in Queensland.

Adrian says "The next generation don't want or need to carry the burdens of the past".

He also applauds the progressive nature of the Cannonvale State School and Teaching Staff for their commitment to understanding, healing and unity.

Adrian says "The young people are ready to let go of the shackles. Perhaps we as a people are ready to follow suit.”

Songs and music video for the music collaboration "Milbi" will be released in early 2024.

Contributed with thanks to Adrian Thomas.

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Harold Bowen and Adrian Thomas at Proserpine River, exploring the history and documenting Ngaro/Gia Dreamtime Stories, Colonisation, and trauma. Photos supplied

Were compiled and are practiced by Tibetan Monks to regain health, youth, and vitality. The 5 Rites are specific movements that focus on increasing the speed of the 7 energy vortexes in the body. These vortexes slow down as we age and have a degenerating effect on the physical body. Practicing the 5 Tibetan Rites can increase the speed of the vortexes hence benefiting overall health whilst rejuvenating the body.

“The only INNER difference between youth and serenity is simply the difference between the rate of speed at which the vortexes are spinning. Normalize the rate of speeds and the old man becomes a new man again.”  From the book; The Eye of Revelation by Peter Kelder.

Reported Benefits of practicing the 5 Tibetan Rites:

   • Increased energy

   • Better sleep

   • Improved strength & flexibility

   • Increased mental clarity & Focus

   • Improved mood

   • Better posture

   • Helps with transition of menopause

   • Can support weight loss or weight gain (balanced weight)

   • Feelings of calmness

   • Reduced stress

   • Improved digestion & elimination

   • Helps with symptoms of menstruation

   • Improved libido

   • Improved self-discipline and sense of purpose

   • Toning of the arms stomach and back muscles

   • Increased levels of Qi (prana, lifeforce, energy)

“The only INNER difference between youth and serenity is simply the difference between the rate of speed at which the vortexes are spinning. Normalize the rate of speeds and the old man becomes a new man again.”  The Eye of Revelation by Peter Kelder.

Yoga+5 classes are now available in Airlie Beach by founder and Yoga instructor, Norma Strang.

Yoga+5 is a sequence of breathing exercises, therapeutic hatha yoga asanas, followed by the 5 Tibetan Rites. You can take advantage of the current intro offer where your first class is free.

Reserve your class at www.normastrang.com/booknow

Good sleep routine and even better sleep habits is paramount to a healthy, successful and a productive day, which is why Nathan Harriott established Restore Sleep Clinic, a progressive and unique sleep clinic that specialises in diagnosing and treating sleep disorders, and best aligns good sleep practices for the residents of the Whitsundays.

Opening the doors six months ago, Restore Sleep Clinic is unique in its offering and services.

Nathan is the Psychologist, and diagnoses and treats sleep associated psychological disorders, with a specialty in insomnia.

With him is Dr Daniel Judge, a renowned Sleep and Respiratory Specialist, who is integral to diagnosis and advising suitable treatment, and Dr Alice Harriott, the team’s Dentist, who primarily undertakes treatment for Snoring and Obstructive Sleep Apnoea using oral appliances.

This diversified team is uniquely suited to diagnose and treat most sleep disorders, and there is never late intervention.

“There are key functions that your body only does when it’s asleep, and if you’re not getting enough sleep, or good enough quality of sleep, imagine the functions that your body is unable to complete.” explained Nathan. “Disordered sleep also increases your risk of heart disease, mental health issues, stroke and diabetes.”

When should you consider getting a referral to Restore Sleep Clinic?

“If you or your partner notices you snoring in the night, or you stop breathing during the night and if you easily fall asleep on the lounge or while watching TV,” explained Nathan.

“Insomnia is the most common sleep disorder, where you have difficulty getting to sleep, or waking up during the night, getting less than 6 hours sleep. If any of these symptoms are present for you, give us a call or see your GP and get a referral.”

Nathan explains that having good sleep practices is integral to ensuring good sleep.

“It’s never too late for intervention. But there are some routines that can help better your sleep. Leave your bed for only two things, sleep and sex. Save watching movies or tv, reading, and scrolling your phone for out of bed, because your brain begins to associate your bed with things other than sleep.”

“It is not a competition about who is able to do the most with the least amount of sleep, it’s your health. Not getting enough sleep is dangerous and incredibly poor for your health. It increases the risk of micro-sleeps which can lead to devastating consequences on the job or while driving.

“Do not underestimate the power of sleep.”

Proserpine Golf Club is starting the year off with a fun Social golf day on Australia Day – Everyone is welcome to don their best Aussie garb and zinc for a fun, yet competitive, 2 ball Ambrose. It will be a great day out with prizes and tucker in the spirit of Australia.

On Saturday 17th February, Proserpine Golf Club will host its inaugural CQ Rescue Charity Golf Day. We invite you and your team to join us in supporting the vital work of the Central Queensland Helicopter Rescue Service.

$500 - 3 Players (1 Team), or $900 - 6 Players (2 Teams) – 3 Ball Ambrose format allowing all levels of golfers to mix and play together with equal enjoyment.

Next year, 2025 the club proudly celebrates a century of existence, marking a significant milestone and setting its place as a cornerstone in the region.

For almost hundred years, Proserpine Golf Club has been a witness to the ebb and flow of time in our community and it is a place of pride for many generations of local families and golf enthusiasts.

Throughout this year the club is planning events to commemorate the occasion, in addition to its packed calendar of annual events.

The club welcomes all, offering an array of activities that confirm its commitment to inclusivity and enjoyment.

Proserpine Golf Club extends an invitation to all, to challenge yourself, learn a new skill and make new friends, it not just a promise of golfing experience. Golf is a game for all ages and abilities.

Contact the proshop for more information 4945 1337 or visit our Facebook page for more information. https://www.facebook.com/proserpinegolfclubinc

Do you wish to further develop your child’s independence, confidence, initiative, and ability?

Then Proserpine Scout Group is the place to go!

Built upon the values of assisting young people to achieve their full physical, intellectual, emotional, social and spiritual potentials, Proserpine Scouts works to develop the region's young people into responsible global citizens and capable resources for their community.

Savi Griffith joined Proserpine Scout Group two years ago and has continued to thrive. Initially, she joined the group because she wanted to meet new people and have fun.

“I like Scouts because I learn so much. I learnt how to tie different knots, put up a tent, cook food, and great survival skills. We also learn about First Aid, so I can help when people get hurt,” she said.

“I love meeting up with my friends on Tuesday and meeting new friends at Cuboree.”

Ryan Penhallurick is a fifth generation Proserpine Scout and he flourishes with the adventures that Scouts take him on.

“We attended a 2-night camp called Scoutfest 2023 at Rowallan Park, Mackay. We got to try out a whole bunch of activities like abseiling, archery, kayaking, mud run, mountain biking and rock climbing,” he explained.

Savi, Ryan, and the Proserpine Scouts are joined with a number of Adult Helpers, and their Qualified Leader, Sally Griffith, who joined shortly after her daughter, and has enjoyed giving back to the youth, and exploring the adventures that Scouts offer.

“Being a Leader has opened up so many avenues for me to be able to do activities that would not be available outside of Scouts QLD,” she explained.

If this sounds amazing, and you are interested about joining Proserpine Scout Group, as a Leader, Adult Helper or for your child please email the group on contact@proserpine.scoutsqld.com.au.

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The Proserpine Scout Group at camp in Rowallan Park. Photo supplied

Our local Proserpine Mill has signed on six new apprentices, as part of 34 across the eight Wilmar Sugar and Renewables Queensland sugar mills.

The new apprentices completed their two-week Safe Start program in January, before they began their work at their representative sugar mills.

Training Superintendent Daniel Shipard said the two-week Safe Start program prepared the new apprentices for what life would be like in Wilmar’s mills.

“It’s about getting them to understand Wilmar’s safety requirements and procedures, as well as giving them the basic skillset they require to enter their relevant workshops,” Daniel said.

Proserpine’s own Jayme Farr has signed on as an electrical apprentice at the Proserpine Mill, and she said she was thrilled to be doing her trade training in her home town.

“My family has been living in Proserpine since my father was 16 years old and, for over three generations now, we’ve been breeding horses on our family farm,” Jayme said.

“Being able to do my apprenticeship at Proserpine Mill means that I can be home every afternoon to spend time working on the farm with my family and compete in camp drafts with my friends on the weekends.”

Daniel said he was excited to bring the newest intake of apprentices into Wilmar’s operations, across the key trades of electrical, fitting and turning, boiler making and diesel fitting.

“They’re going to be a huge asset to our organisation, and we can’t wait to see them grow over the next four years of their apprenticeship.”

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Wilmar’s new apprentices, with Proserpine’s own, Jayme Farr in the front row, sixth from left, in the middle. Photo supplied

I think it’s obvious to people now that things like New Year’s Resolutions, New Year New You, and being instantly motivated to make changes simply doesn't work. So, what DOES work?

1. It’s not selfish to prioritise yourself and allow yourself a little bit of you time daily to exercise. If you don’t look after your own health, then ultimately how is that being a role model to your loved ones who are watching and mimicking your every move?

2. Motivation only lasts so long. Commitment and consistency is much more powerful. Setting a routine by starting to wake up the same time every day is the easiest place to start. There is some powerful science to suggest this is one of the best things you can do for your overall health.

3. Set some personal values. What is important to YOU. You are unique so your values will more than likely even be different to that of your partner’s. Openly discuss your own personal values so they are known and openly communicated. Then, make sure all of your actions are aligned with your own values. If being a healthy person is an important value to you, then something like binge drinking should be obviously misaligned to you.

4. Surround yourself with people that will uplift and support you and understand you and your values.  I have had to cut people out of my life simply because of value misalignment. Is it time to look at who you are surrounding yourself with daily?

2024. The year that self-care should be your new Power Move!

In the rise of young people using unnecessary treatments on their skin, these trendy brands and skincare are often doing more harm than good. Using skincare not specifically formulated for your skin type can pose a myriad of dangers, potentially leading to adverse effects and long-term damage.

One of the primary risks lies in exacerbating existing skin conditions. Different skin types require specific ingredients and formulations to address concerns effectively. Using products not designed for your skin type may contain harsh chemicals or ingredients that can worsen issues such as acne, sensitivity, or excessive dryness.

Furthermore, improper skincare choices may compromise the skin's natural barrier. Using products with overly aggressive ingredients can strip the skin of essential oils, leading to dehydration and increased vulnerability to environmental aggressors. This weakened barrier may result in redness, inflammation, and a heightened risk of infections.

In the long run, using skincare not suitable for your skin type may accelerate premature aging. The absence of proper hydration, nourishment, and protection can contribute to the formation of fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone.

To safeguard your skin, it is crucial to understand your skin type and choose skincare products tailored to your individual needs. Consultation with a dermatologist can provide valuable insights into the most suitable products for your skin, helping you achieve a healthy and radiant complexion without compromising your skin's well-being.

Listen up treasure seekers and knick knack finders, Whitsunday Creatives’ Car Boot Sale is back and boasting an opportunity to rediscover preloved treasures from local residents.

With 20 cars and their boots on offer, the shopfront of Whitsunday Creatives will also be operating as normal, meaning you can discover all the second-hand goodies, before venturing indoors and explore all the handmade, locally produced goodies which boast imaginable local talent.

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WHAT: Car Boot Sale
WHERE: Whitsunday Creatives, 4/16 Main Street, Prosperine
WHEN: Saturday January 13, from 8am to 12pm

Get ready for some searching! Photo supplied