
There are new things to consider when buying real estate in Australia. Up until last month, people buying real estate in Sydney really only considered the capital growth they were expecting to create within just a few years of making their purchase. Paying $1.2 million for an inner-city two-bedroom apartment didn’t matter so much if it was going to be worth $1.5 million two years later. It didn’t really matter that the crap rental returns you got for that price didn’t go anywhere near covering the mortgage because the old negative gearing benefit meant you could claim the losses on your tax. Things have changed. Negative gearing has gone and prices are dropping in Sydney … so that $1.2 million apartment doesn’t look so enticing any more, even though it’s now $1.1 million. Other cities have also been hit hard. Melbourne is now one of the cheapest cities in Australia to buy real estate. Although there are special Victorian reasons that come into play in that state. Victorians were bullied during COVID in a way that impacted small businesses in a disastrous way. The state’s debt is exorbitant, and no one seems to know how it gets paid back. Tobacco shops keep getting blown up by some underworld gang thing that the Government can’t control. They have metal boxes where people can hand in their machetes and that doesn’t appear to instil peace of mind in anyone. Terrible Governments end up having an impact and it definitely has had one on property prices in Victoria. A quick scan of on-line property sites shows you that you can pick up a decent two-bedroom unit in an inner-city suburbs like St Kilda and Collingwood in the $400,000s. I saw a three-bedder in St Kilda advertised in the $500,000s. While those prices might seem like great value, there are reasons the market is so low. People don’t trust the state Government and its management of the economy and the obvious concern would be that even though the prices might be low, there is no guarantee of capital growth. Capital growth has offered a warm embrace for investors in Australian real estate over many years. There has been an expectation that prices will go up. Obviously they will go up again but the questions is: Where will they go up, when and by how much? Unfortunately I don’t have the answer to that but I do find that when things get a bit blurry and uncertain, it’s good to stick to what you know … which, for me, is Mackay. We have several advantages over many other markets. Our median price for houses, in the $600,000s, is a lot lower than bigger cities so more affordable for local people who, by the way, still need somewhere to live. And, with the end of negative gearing and the banning of borrowing for property out of self-managed super funds, lower prices and strong rental returns should become a key factor in real estate investment. Yes, investors want capital growth but I feel the focus will probably shift more to rental yield and the monthly return on investment. Mackay’s rental returns are good and the purchase prices relatively low compared to other markets so there seems to me a good chance that our market will continue to be buoyed by those wanting to take advantage of that. Meanwhile the Mackay economy seems to be going well, driven by that crucial resource that is dug out of the ground and exported to countries that make steel. I got strong offers on three properties this week so there is a feeling that while there has certainly been a change driven by national political factors, our market is moving through it, adjusting to the new information and still bubbling along. The only thing I would say is that if any of you bump into David Crisafulli tell him to dump those high-level coal royalties.
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Queensland’s top real estate professionals and agencies are being called to step into the spotlight, with nominations now open for the Real Estate Institute of Queensland’s (REIQ) 2026 Awards for Excellence. REIQ CEO Antonia Mercorella said the awards remained the state’s highest professional recognition in real estate and continued to adapt alongside the profession itself. “The REIQ Awards for Excellence are the pinnacle of professional recognition in Queensland real estate, and each year we ensure the program remains contemporary, inclusive and reflective of the full scope of our profession,” Ms Mercorella said. “This year, we’re delighted to add a new Multi-Office Network of the Year category, recognising real estate agencies that operate as a unified multi-office network. “It’s a category our members asked for, and it’s a great example of how the awards continue to evolve alongside the structure and sophistication of Queensland real estate businesses.” Ms Mercorella said there was even more incentive for members to nominate this year, with a pathway from the outset to national recognition in eligible categories through the Real Estate Institute of Australia’s (REIA) National Awards for Excellence (NAFE). The REIQ Awards for Excellence span individual and agency categories, with some split into regional and SEQ areas, across residential and commercial sales, property management, buyer’s agency, auctioneering, business broking, multimedia, innovation and community contribution. Ms Mercorella said real estate professionals throughout Queensland could now start preparing and polishing their award nominations with the clock now ticking down. It’s time to shine! Nominations close on Sunday 12th July 2026, with the winners announced at a spectacular awards gala on Saturday 31st October 2026 at The Star Brisbane. Nominate now via awards.reiq.com
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Makayla Groves and Bianca O'Brien are part of the commercial property team at Blacks Real Estate, supporting landlords, tenants and business owners across the Mackay region. Working as Commercial Property Managers, Makayla and Bianca assist with the day-to-day management of commercial properties, helping clients navigate leasing and property management requirements across retail, office and industrial spaces. Based at the agency’s Wood Street office, the pair work closely with business clients throughout the region as part of Blacks Real Estate’s commercial division. Makayla Groves can be contacted on 07 4963 2522, while Bianca O’Brien can be contacted on 07 4963 2525. CAPTION: Bianca O'Brien works with Blacks Real Estate as a Commercial Property Manager. Photo supplied Makayla Groves works as a Commercial Property Manager with Blacks Real Estate. Photo supplied
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The Coalition has pledged to make the Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility (NAIF) a permanent institution, arguing the move would provide long-term certainty for regional investment, infrastructure and jobs across Northern Australia, including Mackay. The announcement follows the Federal Government's decision to extend the NAIF for a further 10 years, rather than permanently removing its sunset clause. Leader of The Nationals Matt Canavan said while the Coalition would support Labor's legislation, it believed the independent review's recommendation to make the facility permanent should be adopted. “The Developing Northern Australia is a proud LNP achievement,” Senator Canavan said. “Despite naysayers at the time, Northern Australia has remained on the agenda ever since. I am personally proud to have introduced the original Northern Australia legislation in 2016, with the policy built on the work that was done by LNP Members of Parliaments such as former Senator Ian Macdonald and former MP Warren Entsch. “Unfortunately, Labor is now kicking the can down the road. Northern Australia shouldn’t have to fight every decade to prove it is worthy of investment. “The independent review recommended making the NAIF permanent because it works. The Coalition established the NAIF in 2016, and we will make it permanent because Northern Australia should have long-term certainty for investment, jobs and economic growth.” Since its creation, the NAIF has supported 33 projects with $4.3 billion in finance commitments, helping deliver more than 18,000 jobs and an estimated $33 billion in public benefit across Northern Australia. Those investments include upgrades to airports in Darwin, Alice Springs, Townsville, Cairns and Mackay, along with projects supporting agriculture, mining and manufacturing. Shadow Minister for Northern Australia Senator Susan McDonald said permanent funding would continue to drive regional development. “Labor talks about Northern Australia, but the Coalition backs it with lasting investment,” Senator McDonald said. “The NAIF has transformed communities, unlocked private investment and created jobs across the North. Making it permanent sends a clear message that the Coalition believes in Northern Australia’s future and won’t treat its development as a temporary priority.” “Governments come and go, but Northern Australia’s importance will never diminish,” she said.
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Lisa Dunn has mastered the art of balancing business and family.
Alongside her husband Sean, Lisa plays an integral role across three local businesses: Irrigear Whitsundays, Dunnrite Plumbing Services, and The Organised Life Whitsundays. Add two young children into the mix, and life is rarely quiet!
The Dunns’ business journey began with Dunnrite Plumbing Services, launched in 2020. Sean drove the business strategy, while Lisa’s focus naturally centred on people, relationships, and culture.
“When people feel valued, supported and cared for, everything else follows,” Lisa says.
In 2022, Lisa co-founded The Organised Life Whitsundays with her close friend Alia, inspired by her own experience of how overwhelming modern life can feel. The goal was simple — to help others regain a sense of calm and control in their homes and schedules.
Taking over Irrigear Whitsundays in 2025 marked the next bold step for the Dunns. Lisa refers to this as a career highlight, expressing her gratitude to the experienced and capable team who took the transition in their stride.
“Honestly, they make my job easier,” Lisa laughs, “some days they make me look far more organised than I actually am.”
Lisa’s resilience and adaptability was shaped long before she entered the business world. Born in Zimbabwe, she later lived in the UK before eventually settling in Australia to be close to family here. The presence of old friends drew Lisa to the Whitsundays, but the laidback lifestyle, strong community and family feel, caused her to stay.
Now, sharing her home with Sean’s sister and her children, two dogs, a cat, a guinea pig named Cinnamon, and a few fish, the house is basically organised chaos.
“It’s busy both at home and in business,” Lisa explains, “fuelled by lots and lots of coffee — but it’s also full of love and laughter.”
“At the end of the day, I’m just doing my best to juggle motherhood, business, and life, and I’m incredibly grateful to be surrounded by people who make that possible.”
1- Lisa Dunn, matriarch at the helm of three family businesses. Photo credit: R Jean Photography

The Whitsundays has long been a sought-after place to tie the knot – but this year, we’re inviting couples to fall head over heels all over again.
Weddings Whitsundays – powered by the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry – is delighted to unveil the first-ever Whitsundays Wedding Trail, taking place on Sunday 14 June 2026.
It promises to be a match made in paradise.
We’re saying goodbye to the traditional, one-room bridal expo and hello to something far more swoon-worthy.
The Wedding Trail will be an immersive, region-wide event designed to showcase the Whitsundays in all its glory. Instead of walking through a crowded function room, engaged couples will embark on a curated journey through eight of the region's breathtaking venues.
Each venue will be styled to perfection and transformed into a “mini-expo,” featuring a hand-picked selection of the region’s most talented suppliers — from florists and stylists to celebrants, caterers, photographers, entertainers and more.
Couples won’t just collect business cards; they’ll experience each space as it could look on their own big day, meet vendors face-to-face, and start building connections that feel like the real deal.
Calling All Suppliers: EOIs Now Open!
If you’re in the wedding business, this is your moment to shine before the bouquet is thrown.
The Wedding Trail offers an unparalleled opportunity to showcase your services to highly motivated couples, supported by a targeted marketing campaign reaching Queensland, New South Wales, and Victoria.
Expressions of Interest are now officially open.
Whether you are a videographer, hair and makeup artist, or entertainer, we want to see your talent on the trail. Member and non-member pricing tiers are available.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this landmark event.
Email Weddings Whitsundays on hello@weddingswhitsundays.com for more information and help us showcase why there is no better place to say "I do" than the Whitsundays.
Contributed with thanks to the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce & Industry
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Mr and Mrs Patton
Photo supplied

The team at the Bowen Visitor Information Centre have been busy this week, gaining their accreditation status for another year.
Accredited Visitor Information Centres need to meet a high standard in service, local knowledge and visitor support.
All accredited centres have a yellow and blue “I” meaning the accredited centres are recognisable for travellers.
As part of the accreditation process, the team must provide evidence of local knowledge and documentation relating to such things as policies and processes, insurance and opening hours.
All accredited Visitor Information Centres must open for a minimum of 42 hours per week, including opening on weekends.
Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said the team of staff and volunteers were very proud to provide excellent customer service to more than 50,000 visitors per year.
“We are proud to operate an accredited centre, showing our commitment to excellent visitor services and industry-leading standards.”
The on-site audit this week was carried out by The Tourism Group’s Business Development Manager, Jeremy Miller.
“It was a pleasure to visit the Bowen VIC,” he said.
“It is a stand-out centre, beautifully presented, meeting the highest of standards and with a great team of staff and volunteers.”
There are about 100 accredited centres in Queensland.
Bowen is currently the only accredited Visitor Information Centre in the Whitsundays.
Contributed with thanks to Bowen Tourism and Business
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Bowen Tourism and Business team members, Glenn Womal, Leanne Abernethy and Cindy Tonks with Business Development Manager for the Tourism Group, Jeremy Miller.

The Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network hosted their first BBQ brekky of 2026 on Friday 27th February in Cannonvale. Many gathered to show their support for a cause that is incredibly important to the region. There were great chats and laughter as many enjoyed the sausages, hashbrowns, bacon and other breakfast foods supplied thanks to Food From the Heart Airlie Beach and Master Butchers Whitsunday & MBW On the Barbie. The network were grateful to have the event sponsored by Pacific Coast Scaffold.
Ash Telford from Red Cat Adventures and SeaLink Whitsundays was the guest speaker and spoke of his own struggles with mental health, encouraging people to be vulnerable and support each other when times get tough. He stated that it was of the upmost importance to reach out and provide safe spaces for people so that they can get the help they need.
Mental health continues to be an ongoing problem across the region. The Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network remain dedicated to helping as many people as possible, providing community spaces so that everyone is aware of the support that is available.
These events are crucial to show support to many who struggle in the region and proves that they do not have to go through it alone. A great thanks to the Whitsunday Suicide Prevention for hosting the event – they have a great deal of events planned for 2026 and will continue to support those in need. It is a reminder that you do not have to go through hard times alone. There is a wealth of community support and people to reach out to.



Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi

A significant boost for local agriculture has arrived, with 26,800 megalitres of water now unlocked for the Whitsunday region.
The additional allocation - equivalent to more than 10,000 Olympic swimming pools - will be made available through new water licences under the Whitsunday Water Plan, giving local farmers and industry greater opportunity to expand and strengthen production.
For a region built on agriculture, water security remains critical.
Minister for Local Government and Water Ann Leahy said the additional water would help drive economic development and job creation across the region.
“We’re making more water available to help local agriculture businesses grow, and that means more local employment opportunities on farms and a stronger regional economy,” Minister Leahy said.
“The focus is on unlocking water where it is needed and ensuring it delivers sustainable, long-term benefits for local communities.”
Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm said the allocation would provide a significant boost for the region’s agricultural sector.
“The equivalent of more than 10,000 Olympic swimming pools of water is now being made available to our region,” Ms Camm said.
“That means greater accessibility and productivity for local growers and industries.”
Canegrowers Proserpine Manager Brendon Nothard welcomed the announcement, describing it as an important step forward for irrigated agriculture.
“After many years, local growers are grateful to finally have access to unallocated water under the Whitsunday Water Plan,” Mr Nothard said.
“At a time of low sugar prices, access to additional irrigation water will help maintain production levels, particularly during periods of low rainfall.”
Applications close at 5pm on 29 May 2026 via the Business Queensland website.
Contributed with thanks to the Whitsunday Electorate Office
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Canegrowers Proserpine
Photo supplied

On March 4th Alinta Energy hosted a pop-up office at Proserpine community centre to conduct dialogue with local community surrounding the proposed Mt Challenger Wind Farm.
The proposal involves two separate project locations at Mt Challenger and Crystal Brook/Kelsey Creek with plans for up to 30 industrial wind turbines, each reaching approximately 240 metres in height.
Several of the proposed turbine locations are close to existing rural homes and properties, with some situated within 1.5 kilometres of residences and less than 9 kilometres from Proserpine.
Alinta Energy held the session to share information and hear concerns and opinions from the community.
“We’re committed to making a positive impact in communities to create social, economic, employment, educational, and environmental opportunities and outcomes.” The company states.
“Our benefit sharing approach is all about listening to the community to meet local needs. This could include grants, sponsorships, or opportunities for education and skills development. The project is expected to bring a range of benefits, including jobs across construction, operations, and decommissioning phases; upgrades to essential services like roads and emergency response; and contributions to initiatives led by the community itself.”
Resources provided highlighted proposals to erect a temporary ‘met mast’, a steel structure up to 160m high that would monitor wind and gather data to help determine whether the project is viable.
Locals aired their concerns surrounding the wind farm’s proximity to the town and its theoretical impact on wildlife, also raising worries about bore water and recycling the turbines once their lifecycles are complete. Alinta representatives listened and took detailed notes.
The visit follows recent discussions between protest group, the Whitsunday Wind Farm Action Group, and Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox, last week.
“I was pleased to meet with the Whitsunday Wind Farm Action Group earlier this week at Kelsey Creek near Proserpine regarding the proposed Mt. Challenger Wind Farm.” Andrew Willcox said.
“This project includes two turbine locations of prime agricultural land and rural communities at Mt Challenger and Kelsey Creek. The community hall was filled with emotion and genuine concern. This meeting provided a vital opportunity to hear directly from retirees, farmers, small business owners, and families who feel their voices are being ignored.
“Our regional communities are being asked to carry the risk for these projects while the proponents often dismiss the local impact. The message from the room was clear: the current consultation process feels like a box-ticking exercise, and the community has had enough.
“I’ve got a comprehensive list of the key questions and concerns raised during our Q&A session, which I will be taking directly to Alinta when I meet with them in Canberra next week.
Our region deserves transparency, fairness, and respect. I will continue to fight to ensure that regional Queensland is no longer the sacrificial lamb for city-centric energy policies.”
1- Andrew Willcox meets with wind farm protesters to hear their thoughts. Photo credit: Facebook
2 – Proserpine local Cathryn Radclyffe came along to air her concerns and provide feedback to the energy company. Photo credit: Suzanna Mcloughlin

Abandoned and homeless pets across the Whitsundays have received a much-needed helping hand following a significant donation to the pet rescue charity servicing the region.
Life Publishing Group met with Bowen & Collinsville Pet Rescue at Foxtail Boarding Kennels in Ayr last week, where Editor-in-Chief Rachael Smith presented a cheque for $8,000 to the charity.
The moment marked a significant milestone for Life Publishing Group, the independently owned umbrella company of Life Newspapers, including our local Whitsunday Life Newspaper.
Ms Smith explained that the money was raised through kind donations from local businesses and individuals who attended the company’s inaugural charity event, held in October last year.
The Enchanted Garden event raised an impressive $56,000 for seven regional charities — Trudy Crowley Foundation, My Hospital Foundation (formerly known as Mackay Hospital Foundation), Orange Sky, Mackay Pet Rescue Inc, Fauna Rescue Whitsundays and the Townsville Spinal Unit.
“At Life Publishing Group, we are here to serve the community in every way we can. For almost 15 years, this has been through our free publications, both magazines and newspapers, and we hope they have brought joy to many,” Ms Smith said.
“Raising this money for these worthwhile charities represents a significant moment for us, a moment where we use the platform we have built over the years to give back to those who need it most.
“It has been an incredible few weeks with our team delivering cheques to the different charities, and the gratitude from all the recipients has been wonderful to witness.
“A huge thank you to all the local businesses and individuals who donated on the night, and to everyone in our team who contributed to the success of our first charity event.”
Stephanie Thomas from Bowen & Collinsville Pet Rescue expressed her gratitude to the local businesses and individuals who donated at the charity event.
“Thank you to everyone who donated,” she said.
“Every cent helps us work towards our main goal of getting animals out of the pound and into loving homes, giving them a second chance at life.”
Ms Thomas added that the funds will directly support the charity’s private foster carers, who look after the animals while they wait for permanent homes.
“The money goes towards buying food for the animals, vet care, vaccinations, microchipping and desexing,” she said.
Ms Thomas also provided insight into the adoption process, explaining that it is much simpler than many people realise.
The process includes an initial phone call, a short adoption questionnaire, an adoption contract and payment of an adoption fee, and then you can welcome your new pet home.
Alternatively, community members can become a foster carer, with full details available on the Bowen & Collinsville Pet Rescue Facebook page.
Imagine the joy of seeing a scared, lonely animal transform into a happy, healthy companion all because you offered a temporary place in your home and heart.
Why Foster?
• Save Lives: The charity does not have a physical shelter and relies entirely on foster carers. Your home can be the safe haven a pet needs to thrive.
• Comprehensive Support: Foster carers receive all necessary supplies, veterinary care and guidance from the team.
• Make a Difference: Experience the joy of helping a pet find its forever home.
Caption: Stephanie Thomas from Bowen and Collinsville Pet Rescue with Editor in Chief for Life Publishing Group, Rachael Smith at the Foxtail Boarding Kennels last week. Photo credit: Trish Jandt

Keep an eye out next time you’re strolling through the Whitsundays: there’s a new squad in town, and they’re on two wheels! Last week, the Whitsunday Police launched their Bike Squad, bringing a fresh and friendly presence to pedestrian areas and local hotspots.
These officers aren’t just riding around, they’re rolling right into places police cars can’t reach, ready to respond quickly to any incidents and keep the Safe Night Precinct safe for everyone. And don’t be shy—give them a wave or a high-five if you spot them out on patrol!
The Bike Squad isn’t just about policing—it’s about being part of the community. Their visible, approachable presence shows that keeping our streets safe can be both effective and fun. It’s a small change that makes a big difference, proving that sometimes, the best way to do a good deed is on two wheels.

Hi Everyone,
As we celebrate International Women’s Day this Sunday, let’s acknowledge how far we have come with the support of a society that increasingly welcomes us as leaders, professionals, innovators, carers, thinkers and change-makers.
I grew up in the UK with two teachers for parents and two younger brothers. When we were little, Mum took seven years off to raise us in a tiny cottage in Hampshire. To this day, she says those years were among the happiest of her life.
Returning to work, however, was a different story. By the late ’80s and early ’90s, women were encouraged to build careers, but they were also still largely expected to run the household. Like so many mums of that era, she somehow did both: teaching all day, helping us with homework each evening, and an endless cycle of washing, cooking and organising in between.
Fast forward 30 years and, thankfully, much has changed. In many homes, equality is no longer an aspiration but the norm. Both partners work. Both partners parent. The dad might be packing lunchboxes; the mum might be mowing the lawn.
Roles are negotiated, not prescribed. The focus has shifted from “who should do what” to “how do we share the load?”
And that’s the real win. Equality isn’t about women becoming more like men, or men stepping aside. It’s about creating space for everyone to be fully themselves.
Today, you’re just as likely to see a woman leading a boardroom as you are to see a man openly talking about his feelings. Strength looks different now, and that’s progress.
So, this International Women’s Day, let’s celebrate the women who pushed boundaries, the men who stood beside them, and the next generation growing up believing they can define success on their own terms - as people, not stereotypes.
Rach
Quote of the week: “All men, and women, and everything in between are created equal” (Melissa Etheridge)

Despite heavy rain, the Whitsundays community came together on Sunday, 1st March, for Clean Up Australia Day, proving that nothing can dampen their commitment to the environment.
At Coral Sea Marina, 23 determined volunteers collected 130 kilograms of litter, from tiny plastics to discarded car parts and carpet pieces hidden in the mangroves. Meanwhile, at Airlie Beach, Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc. teamed up with the Whitsunday Sailing Club as 30 volunteers removed 180 kilograms of waste along Boathaven Beach, the foreshore, and as far as Mandalay, working tirelessly on land and water.
Joscelyn O’Keefe of Coral Sea Marina praised the volunteers’ dedication: “We’re grateful, especially to the kids, your engagement shows protecting our environment matters for generations to come.”
The day ended with a celebratory sausage sizzle, hosted by the Whitsunday Sailing Club, and a heartwarming release of Tina, a rehabilitated green sea turtle, back into the ocean at Boathaven Beach. Volunteers cheered as she swam free—a perfect symbol of the impact of community action.
Together, more than 310 kilograms of litter were removed, safeguarding the Whitsundays’ spectacular coastline. Rain, hail, or shine, this clean-up proved that when a community rallies, our oceans and shores benefit—locally and globally.
Whitsundays, you rock!
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Photo supplied

At 18, Rachael Smith sat around a table with friends, mapping out the pages of an imaginary magazine. Today, she leads a team of 20 creatives stretching from Mackay to Ingham, producing four weekly regional newspapers and two bi-monthly magazines for Life Publishing Group.
Rachael’s path into print media was anything but direct. After completing university in her native England, she travelled across Europe, worked a ski season in the French Alps, and eventually settled in Australia, the country she now proudly calls home. Along the way, she operated a charter boat business and later owned a café in Byron Bay, consistently stepping into leadership roles. Yet it wasn’t until she entered the world of magazines and newspapers that she discovered her true calling.
Rachael began as a sales representative for a local paper, quickly proving her versatility by stepping into a dual role with Core Life and Tripping Magazine, selling advertising while writing feature stories. Within a few years, she was promoted to Editor.
At 37, Rachael’s life took an unexpected turn when she was diagnosed with stage 3 bowel cancer. With a two-year-old son at home, she underwent six months of intravenous chemotherapy while continuing to work full time and raise her family. The experience was profoundly challenging, but it strengthened her resilience and purpose. She is now preparing to publish her first book, Surviving Cancer: A Working Mum’s Guide, sharing practical insights and hope with other women navigating similar journeys.
Professionally, her career continued to flourish. In 2020, Core Publishing launched the Mackay and Whitsunday Life Newspaper, and Rachael became Editor of Whitsunday Life. Over the next three years, she also led the launches of Burdekin Life and Hinchinbrook Life Newspapers as Editor.
In 2024, when the owners of Life Publishing Group relocated to the UK, Rachael stepped into the role of Editor in Chief, overseeing all publications across the group.
“It’s been an exciting and challenging career path, and I often pinch myself to check this is all real,” she says.
Today, her mission is clear: to champion the power of positive news and strengthen the communities her publications serve.

Clare McAlpine's business journey is just beginning – but she’s already built wisdom, confidence and a reputation for reshaping how companies operate.
Five months ago, drawing on experience in operations, administration and accounting, Clare launched New Leaf Business Solutions, a consultancy firm helping businesses create structure and clarity.
Combining practical strategy with empathy, she specialises in simplifying complexity, improving systems and streamlining operations so clients find organisation and control.
“My work focuses on the operational backbone of small business; the systems, structure, and processes that often go unnoticed but make the biggest difference,” Clare explains.
“It sits at the intersection of people and systems. It’s not just about efficiency; it’s creating sustainable ways of working that support the business and the person behind it. My goal is to make things simpler, more aligned, and easier to manage long-term.”
The idea was born from the same pursuit of work/life balance that brought her family to Mackay from Sydney.
“After years of building experience across different roles, I reached a point where I wanted to use my skills in a way that felt purposeful and flexible, particularly as a mum,” she says.
"One of the biggest milestones has been simply taking the leap, backing myself and turning an idea into something real.
“The highlights have been seeing the concept resonate, and watching my confidence grow alongside the business itself.
“What excites me most is that this is just the beginning. I’m building something intentionally, and I’m looking forward to growing it in a way that stays aligned with my values and the community I’m part of.”
What wisdom would you share with aspiring businesswomen?
There's no straight line to success. It’s messy, it takes time and requires resilience.
Real success isn’t about job titles – it's about feeling aligned with your work and who you’re becoming.
Don’t wait until you feel “ready.” Back yourself, keep learning, and say yes to the things that stretch you.

When Michelle Landry first ran for federal office in 2010, it wasn’t part of a lifelong political ambition; it was a leap of faith encouraged by others who saw leadership potential in her before she saw it herself. Today, she stands as a five-term Federal Member for Capricornia, driven by a deep commitment to serving rural and regional Australia.
Raised in Rockhampton, by parents who owned a casket agency in William Street, Michelle started out in banking, working for the NAB for 22 years before launching her own bookkeeping business. Her political career began thirteen years ago and has been the highlight of her working life.
With a steady hand Michelle has held a volatile seat for five terms, as the first conservative to have won the seat of Capricornia more than once and held it against the swing in government.
“It continues to be an honour and privilege to be the Member for Capricornia,” Michelle says.
“Being a federal politician, I am an advocate for my community and I fight daily for improved infrastructure and putting rural and regional Australia front and centre of policy makers.”
“I get on well with people and I treat being a politician more as a lifestyle than a job. I love having the success of getting major infrastructure and wins for constituents who are in need.”
Living on the beautiful Capricorn Coast, Michelle balances her impactful work with gardening, reading, and enjoying her grandson and family.
Describe your personality in three words:
Compassionate, driven, hard working
What message would you share with your younger self & women dreaming big today?
Looking back, I would tell my younger self that as women, we carry an incredible, latent strength a 'peak' potential that is sometimes just waiting for a spark to ignite it.
While I’ve learned the immense value of mentors and allies who champion our progress, I want young women to know this: You don’t have to wait for a seat to be offered or for someone else to discover your talent. Trust that your voice is necessary, your ambition is a virtue, and your capability is already within you.
michellelandry.com.au

Behind the doors of Pinpoint Property is a team of thirteen women, bringing a powerful feminine touch to real estate.
United by a commitment to empowering one another, the team brings warmth and understanding to an industry often defined by competition — guiding clients through life’s biggest milestones without ever compromising on integrity.
Becoming a female-only team was completely unintentional, formed through a natural evolution of hiring the right people, but owner and licensee Allison Cunningham thinks it has only boosted their success.
“Some of our team are mothers, and we are all at different life stages, which helps us relate to all dynamics when it comes to selling, leasing or buying,” She explains.
“We are dealing with people during their most celebrated or heartbreaking events of buying, selling, separating or moving in together. We watch families grow and fall apart, inspect their homes quarterly, and are privy to their financial circumstances.
“This is a huge responsibility and reminder that we have a very personal role to play. I do feel that women do this really well, understanding the needs of clients and how best to assist them in even the most sensitive times.”
In a market where so many are struggling to either retain their homes or get into the property market, emotions are often running high – and the team take that responsibility with care, seeing themself as a force for good on the frontline of these issues.
They’re all about supporting people on their individual property journeys no matter how winding their road has been, offering a respectful client relationship to renters during their tenancy, making the complexities of buying simple for frazzled first-time buyers, and committing to ethical practices, like organising Christmas food drives for the less fortunate.
Allison and the team hope more women step into the world of real estate, advocating for the financial freedom and opportunities it can offer.
“With women striving for equality, real estate is one industry where we can seek equal pay for our skills whilst retaining our differences and celebrating what it is to be female," Allison states.
Her personal real estate experience reaches back into her teens, when she was routinely underestimated and overlooked.
“Starting out in real estate in my teens was a difficult task, with many considering me too young to be of any assistance,” She remembers.
"However, I have learnt that you can’t judge a book by its cover. Enthusiasm and hard work with a foundation of honesty are the core ingredients to success.
“I held the record for the highest residential sale in my first year of real estate and have continued to prove that those core values are the most respected things I can offer my clients.”
Under Allison’s judgement-free, supportive leadership, a team of confident sales professionals and caring property managers thrives.
The team are selective with the number of listings they personally take on to ensure their attention and focus on your home is the maximum it can be. This is key to what Allison calls the ‘Pinpoint Property Difference’.
“Selling or renting your home shouldn’t be stressful,” She says.
“It is an anxious time certainly, but by engaging with us you can be assured of a professional and systematic approach whereby you are never left in the dark.”

After years of learning the industry from the ground up, Penny-Anne Maguire took a leap of faith that changed everything, launching her own agency and redefining success on her own terms. Now, she’s her own boss, and thriving.
Penny-Anne launched Maguire Realty in 2024, drawing on experience she gleaned throughout her career. In 2017, she took her first foray into real estate, training as a Property Manager Assistant in Mackay. Sooner than expected, Penny-Anne’s dedication and skills were recognised, and she progressed into the full role of Property Manager.
Years of hard work later, Penny-Anne realized she was ready to go solo. Refusing to be held back by what-ifs and buts, she took the plunge and launched Maguire Realty.
Now, her days are never the same, punctuated with challenges to solve – which she does with zeal. Since the launch, Penny-Anne’s passion for property has only grown, as has her business, through word of mouth, and her own dedication to expansion.
Along the way, she has built great, enduring relationships, a testament to the care behind her work. “I take pride in helping property owners protect their investments and ensuring tenants find well-maintained homes,” Penny-Anne says. It’s all about “helping people find their home.”
Penny-Anne is no stranger to the juggling act of business and family life, having a blended family of seven children, with a sixth grandchild due to arrive in just a few weeks. Yet, her vision for the business shows no signs of slowing. Maguire Realty’s main focus right now is property management across the Mackay, Pioneer Valley, and Sarina regions, but expansion is underway, as the business grows its residential sales portfolio, welcoming an ever-increasing number of clients.
Q: What brings you joy outside of your career?
A: Spending time with my husband and family, enjoying quiet strolls along the beach and riverbanks. Weekends you’ll find me with family.
Q: Could you describe yourself in three words?
A: Organized, dedicated, and caring.