Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Like most young people, I lived in a rental property for some years before buying my first home. I had left home in Canberra and was living in Melbourne, initially in shared rental properties. It was a bit weird but there would be ads in the paper saying a room was available for a “guy/girl” and applications were invited. If you had a pulse and some form of income you got a room pretty quickly. Initially I was in various flats … we didn’t call them “apartments” or “units” in those days and the flats I lived in were cheap, unadorned, small and cold. At one stage I was one of three young blokes in a two-bedroom flat in Clifton Hill. It was a ridiculous set-up made worse by the fact that one of them was an angry lunatic who wanted to fight people. I got out of there as quickly as possible. Soon after I vacated the flat and left the lunatic to his own devices, Clifton Hill was the scene of the tragic Hoddle St Massacre in which a gunman killed seven people. I assumed it was my former flat mate but it turned out there were two lunatics in Clifton Hill. There were other flats … Brunswick and St Kilda and a terrace house in Coburg. If you enjoy a cold climate you should try living in an old two-storey terrace house in Coburg with a malfunctioning fire place on a winter’s night. Later in my 20s I bought my own unit and my property journey became far more civilized and warmer. But the point is that I needed those rental properties. They were part of the journey when I needed cheap accommodation while at uni and starting off in a career at the lower end of the pay scale. The current Federal Government needs to remember that for there to be rental properties there needs to be investors who bought them and who make them available for tenants. There is no doubt that the increasing housing prices had become ridiculous in cities like Sydney and prices have been increasing in recent years in regional Queensland as well. It’s a demand and supply thing … lots of people and not enough houses. Extremely high levels of immigration will do that. But the government, rather than looking at immigration numbers, has decided to bash the life out of investment opportunities for “mum and dad investors”. Negative gearing is gone, capital gains tax is up and, the latest one, people are now banned from borrowing money to buy an investment property through their self-managed superannuation. People who had a little bit of money tucked away used to be able to take out a loan and buy an investment property to help set them up in their retirement years. My wife and I bought a few several years ago and I thought at the time that it was a great opportunity for the average Joe, rather than the high end of town, which doesn’t need to buy through their super. Anyway, that’s gone and the government, in lock-step with the Greens, has pretty much stomped on any aspirational ideas ordinary people might have because there is now no incentive to try and create financial opportunities for mum and dad and the family unit. That’s great for the Greens and the socialist left who find beauty in the bland but not so good for people willing to work hard, make investments and try to get ahead while at the same time ensuring they are not a burden on the taxpayer in their later years. It’s also not so good for young people like me all those years ago needing a rental property. I don’t know who is going to buy an investment property so I don’t know how young students and people starting out are going to find a rental. And the lack of rentals will push rent prices up. Job done!
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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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Nestled in the heart of Andergrove, MacKillop Catholic Primary School may be small in size, but it continues to make a big impact on the lives of its students and families. Catering for approximately 160 students from Prep to Year 6, MacKillop offers a close-knit, welcoming environment where every child is known, valued and supported. Guided by its mission to “work together, participate and have a go,” the school community fosters a strong culture of collaboration, inclusion and enthusiasm for learning. At the core of the school’s identity is its Catholic faith, reflected in the values of Faith and Service inspired by St Mary of the Cross MacKillop. Notably, the school shares a special connection to its patron saint, having been established in 1995, the same year she was beatified. This legacy continues to shape the school’s commitment to compassion, resilience and community spirit. MacKillop provides a well-rounded education through a comprehensive curriculum that includes weekly specialist lessons in Physical Education, The Arts and STEM. Students are also encouraged to extend their talents beyond the classroom, with opportunities to participate in a wide range of extra-curricular activities such as Eisteddfod, sporting events, Opti-Minds, Readers Cup and the Mackay Primary School Mathematics Challenge. Supporting every child’s learning journey is a key priority. The school offers both learning support and extension programs, ensuring that students of all abilities are challenged and nurtured. Wellbeing is equally important, with a dedicated counsellor available two days a week to support student mental health and emotional development. A strong sense of community is evident in the school’s daily life. Parental involvement is highly valued, creating a genuine partnership between home and school that enhances student outcomes. Initiatives such as buddy classes, where older students mentor younger peers, help foster friendships, leadership skills and a sense of belonging across year levels. Faith is lived and celebrated at MacKillop through regular worship, including fortnightly Class Masses and Liturgies. Meanwhile, whole-school initiatives like the “Manner of the Week” encourage positive behaviour, respect and shared values, recognised during weekly assemblies. Innovation also plays an important role in modern learning at MacKillop. Classrooms are equipped with technology including Chromebooks, iPads, interactive projectors and robotics tools like Bee-Bots, ensuring students are prepared for the digital world. Staff at MacKillop are committed to nurturing the whole child. Many are trained in Berry Street’s trauma-informed practices, implementing strategies such as Welcome and Closing Circles, brain breaks, and personalised learning plans to help students feel safe, regulated and ready to learn each day. Beyond school hours, MacKillop continues to support families through its Outside School Hours Care program, offering engaging before and after school care, as well as vacation care tailored to children’s interests. From classroom showcases to parish connections, MacKillop Catholic Primary School continues to demonstrate that a strong community, grounded in faith and care, can create a truly enriching educational experience. In Andergrove, MacKillop isn’t just a school, it’s a community where every child is encouraged to grow, belong and thrive.
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In an era where parents are increasingly seeking more than academic outcomes alone, St Francis Xavier Catholic Primary School in West Mackay stands out as a place where education is both deeply personal and community focused. For families weighing their options, the school offers a compelling blend of strong values, supportive relationships, and well-rounded learning opportunities that extend far beyond the classroom. At its heart, St Francis Xavier is grounded in Catholic identity. This is not simply about religious instruction, but about fostering a culture of respect, compassion, and shared responsibility. Students are encouraged to develop a sense of purpose and moral awareness, learning to care for others and contribute positively to their community. For many families, this values-based approach provides reassurance that their children are being shaped not only academically but also ethically. Equally important is the school’s emphasis on belonging. Parents often describe primary school settings like St Francis Xavier as having a “family feel,” and this is where the school excels. Students are known by name, their strengths recognised, and their needs understood. Teachers and staff work closely with families, fostering open communication and genuine partnership. In a regional city like Mackay, this sense of connection is particularly valued; it reflects the broader community spirit while giving children confidence and security in their daily learning environment. Academically, the school offers a structured, yet engaging curriculum designed to meet the needs of diverse learners. While maintaining high expectations, St Francis Xavier recognises that children learn in different ways and at different paces. Programs are tailored to support both extension and intervention, ensuring that each student can grow. Literacy and numeracy remain foundational priorities, but the focus extends to critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills that are increasingly essential in a changing world. Beyond academics, the school offers a wide range of co-curricular activities that enrich student life. Opportunities in sport, arts, music, and cultural activities allow children to discover their interests and build confidence. Participation in these pursuits helps develop teamwork, resilience, and leadership; qualities that are difficult to measure in tests but invaluable in life. Another notable strength is the integration of wellbeing into everyday school life. Recognising that learning cannot thrive without emotional support, St Francis Xavier places emphasis on student wellbeing programs. This includes fostering positive relationships, teaching social skills, and providing guidance support when needed. For families, knowing that their child’s mental and emotional health is prioritised is as important as academic success. Technology and contemporary learning practices also form part of the offering. Like many modern schools, St Francis Xavier incorporates digital tools to enhance learning while maintaining a balanced approach. The aim is not simply to use technology, but to teach students how to use it responsibly and effectively; a critical skill in today’s digital landscape. Accessibility and community engagement further strengthen the school’s appeal. As part of Catholic education in Queensland, it remains committed to welcoming families from a range of backgrounds. School events, liturgies, and community activities provide regular opportunities for parents to be involved, reinforcing the partnership between home and school. Ultimately, what St Francis Xavier Catholic Primary School offers families is more than a place of education it offers a community. It is a place where children are supported academically, nurtured spiritually, and encouraged socially. For parents in West Mackay seeking a balanced, values-driven education with a strong sense of belonging, St Francis Xavier presents itself as a thoughtful and dependable choice. In a competitive educational landscape, that combination of care, consistency, and community may well be its greatest strength.
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The Mackay Disability Expo was held at the Mackay Showgrounds last weekend and featured a range of both local and out-of-town specialist exhibitors, providing a one-stop-shop for everyone with an interest in disability services.
Crossroad Arts entertained attendees by hosting their ROAR program at the expo, which was about “exploring untapped imaginings through movement, sound and theatre making”.
Groove Movers also put on a beautiful display of movement and dance for people of all abilities and Margie Ross hosted a singing workshop attracting groups of onlookers.
Photo credit: Mackay Regional Council
Sleep is a vital function that allows the brain and the body to recover and recharge, so when you’re not getting a good night’s rest, many facets of your day-to-day life can be affected.
If you have daytime sleepiness, snore, raised blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, have had a stroke or heart attack, or urinate throughout the night, a sleep test can be the key to unlocking a full night of rest; ask your Doctor for a Sleep Referral form to A1 Sleep Mackay.
Chrissy Cahill of A1 Sleep Mackay is passionate about ensuring restful sleep, with over 18 years’ experience in the industry.
Working in healthcare all her life, she was managing a healthcare business in Townsville when she approached a colleague about incorporating sleep into their services. From there, moved to Mackay 10 years ago and continued working in the Sleep industry.
Chrissy started her business in November 2021, rebranding to A1 Sleep Mackay in March 2023.
Operating seven days a week, A1 Sleep Mackay caters for those who are unable to commit to an appointment during the working week and saves the patient time on the travel involved – this is why she added this unique service of “GOING TO THE PATIENT” for the initial Sleep Test, but conditions apply.
A1 Sleep Mackay also offers sleep apnea machine and accessory sales as well as cleaning and servicing of machines and masks.
Her sleep tests are bulk-billed with no out-of-pocket expense to the patient providing they meet the Medicare criteria and she provides all of the above in a friendly, caring, and utterly genuine manner.
Chrissy says the satisfaction she feels when patients feel more rested and energised is why she does what she does.
“Once they go onto the machines, people come back and ask me what I’ve done to them because they feel so alive,” she said.
Chrissy has even brought Victorian sleep lab National Sleep Diagnostics on board who will analyse sleep tests for her, ensuring the people of Mackay get the best treatment possible.
Chrissy operates out of her home at 51 Stroppianas Road, Devereux Creek, not far from Marian in the Pioneer Valley.
Open seven days, you can contact her any time on 0406 996 722 or find A1 Sleep Mackay on Facebook.
Stepping into the Art of Acupuncture clinic, clients start a journey of healing and growth at the stable and steady hands of renowned acupuncturist Dr Bob Wong.
The initial consult allows Dr Wong to complete a thorough health history and diagnostic exam, so that he may know what areas of the body are a concern and come up with a treatment plan.
The pulse is believed to be closely connected to the meridians and organ system of the body, allowing Dr Wong to have a glimpse into the internal situation of a patient.
He will also conduct Postural Analysis, thermal scan and muscle testing.
He will dissect his client’s posture and alignment, at rest and at movement, to see how their muscles and joints are working together.
Believing strongly in preventive measures, Dr Wong will often recommend lifestyle changes, on top of his recommendations of clinic procedures, including acupuncture, which aids the body in naturally combatting issues.
Treating everything from migraines, chronic pain, Bell’s Palsy, and Pregnancy Care, Dr Wong is uniquely qualified in Chinese Medicines, and has worked across China, America, and Australia.
While not always diagnosing acupuncture as a necessary remedy for all patients, most patients do return to the clinic for Dr Wong and his acupuncture sessions.
Getting to the root of the issue, Dr Wong will ensure to take his clients through the journey of regaining their health.
Recently we were talking on the breakfast show about friends, best friends …your best mate.
Well, I don’t have one. And it doesn’t bother me. It must be part of my introvertedness (if that’s even a word).
I don’t know if it’s because I’ve moved around a bit and never really stayed in close contact with some people from previous towns, or something in my psychological make up. I guess it has to be the latter mainly, because living alone never bothered me, going to concerts or sport alone doesn’t bother me either.
Some people thought it was really strange and were virtually asking me if I’m ok or needed to talk to someone. I don’t. I actually think it’s quite healthy. If you can be happy and unbothered then that’s a good thing. If however you’re like me and don’t have a mate and it does bother you, and you don’t feel great, definitely go and talk to someone.
I’ve got a lot of friends from different things I do, like work, playing cricket, beer brewing, astronomy, even back to high school and primary school days.
We catch up all the time at things like work and cricket, but rarely outside of, in true social life.
I guess it means my home beer brewing is really more for me than anyone else.
At my wedding my best man was my brother, because I just didn’t have anyone else that I thought was my best mate. The result of that was a lopsided wedding party from my side and my wife’s, but I was comfortable with that.
I reckon if I lay on a psychologist's couch, before too long we’d swap places as they had a lie down to try and work me out. I’m a shocker for not asking people how their weekend was and engage in that general small talk stuff in general. It sounds like hard work, maybe I’m just lazy. No wonder my wife says I don’t listen much, or ask her how her day was.
I’m going to blame it all on me being an introvert.
Scotty
Anyone who wants reassurance about Mackay real estate need only look at the state of play in our local business community.
There are several crucial things you need to be across if you want to run a successful business in Mackay, or anywhere else for that matter.
Identifying a service or product that is in demand is an important start. Got the skills to provide that service or product? Yep. Well that’s a big tick.
A site to base your operations? Done! Another tick.
Now it’s just a matter of having the right staff. Um, well … we do have problems there.
Getting staff is a major issue for Mackay businesses and many are forced to look outside the usual solutions, such as putting an ad on Seek, to solve the problem.
I bumped into a successful Mackay businessman the other day who is bringing a group of skilled workers from Latin America to Mackay to provide the manpower (now there’s a word you probably can’t use any more but “people power” has a completely different meaning and “person power” sounds ridiculous) that he needs for his expanding business.
There are plenty of other businesses in the mining, mechanical, restaurant and service industries that are looking overseas to find skilled staff.
And this is where real estate comes into it. If our market were overflowing with empty investment properties, our migrant workers would be waltzing into whatever affordable, quality accommodation they wanted.
But it’s not as simple as that. It’s great to bring staff in to meet demand but they have to live somewhere and that’s where local businesses are getting creative.
Quite a few businesses are now buying property to accommodate their workers. Several have bought motels or other properties to accommodate staff coming from overseas and down south.
There is certainly a need for a separate conversation about the “housing crisis” that is an issue here and elsewhere in Australia and it is something governments need to address.
However, the point of this column is that the issues facing businesses do provide reassurance for people buying and owning real estate in this town.
Firstly, most businesses seem to be flat out and struggling to meet demand. So the economy is going well, which means business owners are making a buck and local people have jobs. That’s good for the real estate market.
Secondly, what does it tell us about the real estate market if rental accommodation is so tight that business people are buying property to accommodate staff? It comes back to economics … supply and demand.
There is a pretty good reason to be confident about buying into a market when supply is tight and demand is strong, particularly when there appears to be no sign on the horizon of that changing any time soon. But that’s just my opinion.
On July 26, council adopted the Mackay Region Recreational Vehicle Strategy, and I am unapologetic in how exciting this was for me personally.
In 2016, I and other councillors started advocating for this strategy based on feedback from people in our community who travel throughout Australia in their own RVs. We received clear messages that people who own RVs want different camping options in the locations they travel to, and that we, as a region, needed to ensure that travellers didn’t keep bypassing us on their way to other destinations.
In October 2022, Council engaged Otium Planning Group to assist in the preparation of the Mackay Region RV Strategy. Some of the objectives of the strategy were to have actions that would attract a greater share of the RV market, provide economic benefit to the region and to have an action plan that clarifies council’s role. There was significant desktop research conducted as well as consultation sessions so all relevant stakeholders could be heard before releasing the draft strategy document for public consultation.
The caravan and camping market was already growing before Covid-19 and since 2019 has been expanding rapidly with high demand for caravans and RVs. Caravans are getting longer and are increasingly self-contained. Some key statistics from the strategy is that total registrations of RVs in 2022 was 772,598, that Queensland continues to have the most RV registrations and the 30-to-54-year market makes up 47 per cent of all trips, followed by the 55+ market with 29 per cent.
Mackay
Part of the message from council in the strategy is that it represents council’s vision to transform the Mackay region into a chosen destination for RV adventurers, with the goal to facilitate an array of RV stay options and strategic promotion of our key destinations, all aimed at capturing an even larger portion of the RV market.
With the first stage of the mountain bike park already underway, I believe the strategy will be an important step in the success of this unique adventure tourism offering and I can’t wait to welcome many more travellers and RVs to our region.
Cr Fran Mann
Mackay Regional Council
A sail full of strong ambition and a hull lot of healthy competition is at the heart Airlie Beach Race Week (ABRW) where old rivals come together to test their mettle.
Throughout the week, marina berths have filled with white yachts and laughter as crews are reunited and anticipation builds for another exciting event.
One of these crews is from Treasure Vlll, a 36-foot yacht which has competed in ABRW for the past 16 years, eight of which with current owner and skipper, Rob Davis.
Comprising largely of old friends, the crew are a spirited and jovial bunch who have managed to achieve second and third place over the years, but are of course hoping for a first place medal this year.
“We’ve got the best crew this year and really hoping for a win,” said Davis.
“Airlie Beach Race Week is the pinnacle of sailing for us each year and we are excited to get out there and compete.”
Treasure Vlll is made by the prestigious Reichel/Pugh design company, which is famous for its fast designs, and was made in Dubai by the English boat makers, Seaquest Yachts.
Davis has been sailing for over 30 years and bought the vessel in 2015 when his wife finally permitted him to spend the money on his dream boat.
Since then, he hasn’t looked back, competing regularly in the Magnetic Island Race Week, Hamilton Island Race Week, and regattas in Bowen.
Gathering comrades for this week’s competition, the crew are made up of locals and a couple of new recruits.
Sue Neales was part of an all-women team that won their division in the Magnetic Island Race week last year and she will be on the Treasure Vlll’s crew along with “secret weapon”, Japanese recruit Yusuke Takahashi, who has flown over specifically for the event.
Treasure Vlll is competing in the Performance Handicap Cruising Division this week so if you are out there too, make sure you say hello.
“We love Race Week, it’s like a big catch up for us all!” said Davis.
“It’s a big family – but of course we are friends on shore and enemies on the water!”
The crew of Treasure Vlll are welcomed by Whitsunday Sailing Club Manager, Robin Ross. Photo credit: Rachael Smith.
Robin Ross greets owner of Treasure Vlll, Rob Davis, with a welcoming handshake. Photo credit: Rachael Smith
Community spirit is high at this time of year!
With the Great Barrier Reef Festival last week and Airlie Beach Race Week setting sail today, I feel like we are sandwiched between two of the most exciting events of the year and the whole town is the tastiest filling, buzzing with life!
Symbolising our quintessential seaside lifestyle, both festivals offer a unique take on what makes us ‘us’ here in the Whitsundays.
Airlie Beach Race Week lives true to the local saying – “a drinking town with a sailing problem” - with the nightlife just as good as the on-water fun.
I can’t wait to head down to the Festival Village myself this weekend to enjoy the contagious camaraderie of the event.
While Race week celebrates sailing, the Great Barrier Reef Festival showcases local culture in a different way – it’s a festival where the arts, the environment and families all come together to celebrate our wonderful way of life.
Last Friday, for the first time in my life, instead of watching the Lantern Parade weave past as a spectator, I actually took part in the event.
I loved the buzz of excitement as we all found our lanterns and the night revealed their special glow, the start of the procession as twinkling lights framed the horizon and the smiles on faces from those who cheered as we slowly strolled by.
It was a truly special experience.
After a busy week at the newspaper, I found the Parade a great reminder to slow down, enjoy the moment and absorb the good times.
Moving at a snail’s pace, my partner and I were able to take it all in and appreciate our special little family unit.
We watched the three children hold their lanterns, say hi to friends and enjoy being part of the performance.
A huge congratulations to the organisers for putting on another spectacular event.
Rach
Quote of the Week: “I hope that while so many people are out there smelling the flowers, someone is taking the time to plant some” (Herbert Rappaport)
Fate looked destined to scupper plans for Mrs Norman’s 92nd-birthday cake in Collinsville last week when her family were unable to order a slab cake from nearby Bowen.
Unfortunately, one of the ovens was not working at the bakery and cakes were off the menu.
A friend of the family, Cheryl Hankinson, stepped in to help and asked at the local Collinsville Bakery but was told that they’d had a power outage overnight and without being able to get any baked goods ready, they’d decided to shut that day.
It was looking like Mrs Norman would not have a birthday cake this year.
Fortunately, Collinsville is a small town where most people know each other well, so it wasn’t long before Cheryl had spoken with owners of the bakery, Michelle and Tony Dawson, and they’d agreed to take on the job as a special request.
“It was marvellous!” said Cheryl.
“I told them we needed it by Tuesday, and they whipped it up overnight – it was such a relief because we were all so worried we wouldn’t be able to get one in time for her birthday.
“We were very pleased – there are so many small businesses in Collinsville that do a great job and they deserve credit!”
Mrs Norman’s 92nd birthday took place at the Bowen Hotel last Tuesday evening and over 30 friends and family enjoyed the beautifully made slab cake together.
“She was very excited and when she saw the cake, she had tears in her eyes!” said Cheryl.
If you know of a good deed, however big or small, please feel free to call 0417 267 373 or email rachael@mackayandwhitsundaylife.com
Short-term accommodation applications are once again on the chopping block, but this time Councillors are voicing concerns that rate payers are forking out the costs for frequent court appeals, making each refusal a pointless cost.
At Wednesday’s Ordinary Council Meeting, Whitsunday Regional Council decided to refuse yet another Short-Term Accommodation application for a dual occupancy home in Wambiri Street, Cannonvale.
The property is deemed low density residential zoning under the Planning Scheme and the decision to refuse this application, despite other similar properties being approved in the past, is due to Council waiting for a new local law to be created.
This local law aims to regulate the amount of short-term accommodation permitted in the area, following exponential growth in the sector which, many believe, has reduced the availability of local rental properties.
While they are waiting for the details of the new local law to be confirmed, many Councillors have decided to vote to refuse any more short term accommodation applications in residential suburbs outside of the Airlie Beach centre.
“Nine per cent of residences are short term accommodation in the 4802 postcode,” said Councillor Clay Bauman.
“I appreciate people coming here for holidays, but I cannot support this particular application.”
At Wednesday’s Council meeting, much of the discussion revolved around a review that was completed by the Honourable Dr Steven Miles, Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning.
In the review, the State Government found that most Short Term Accommodation is located along the coastal areas of Queensland.
“It is no surprise that the review revealed short-term rentals are most prevalent in high tourism coastal areas like Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Brisbane, Noosa, Douglas, Whitsunday, Cairns, Moreton Bay, and Townsville,” Deputy Premier Steven Miles said.
According to Councillor Bauman, 4.6 percent of all of Queensland Short Term Accommodation properties are within the Whitsunday region, while only having 0.7 per cent of Queensland population.
“Individuals staying in Short Term Accommodation do not care where they park, or how much noise they make, or whether or not they are upsetting residents,” said Mr Bauman.
“They are a demographic looking for a good time, in a circumstance where they are not staying for a long time.”
Councillor Jan Clifford said she will continue to vote against Short Term Accommodation in residential suburbs.
“The Airlie bowl is a different situation; it’s where you expect people to have a good time,” she said.
“Two years ago, I asked for a local law, and I know it’s sitting on some bureaucrats desk.”
At the moment, there are four appeals in court, to revisit the Councils refusal of Short-Term Accommodation applications.
“In my professional view, there is a reduced limited likelihood of success,” said Director Neil McGaffin, when asked about the chances of winning these court cases.
“How can we keep sustaining the costs of these court cases, when we’ve got to stay within what the directors recommend,” said Councillor John Collins.
“We need to look at the big picture, not personal opinion.”
Vinnies Airlie Beach has re-opened and is boasting it’s upgraded and beautifully renovated shopfront.
Having been closed to the public for over six weeks, after having a flooding event earlier this year which fast tracked the much needed renovations, the Vinnies shopfront underwent extensive renovations and upgrades, with fantastic new paint, displays, wall art, and cash register area.
The official re-opening saw all hands-on deck, with two volunteers each manning the four tills, volunteers greeting and handing out baskets at the door, others restocking shelves and racks with more clothing and household goods, and volunteers preparing the free sausage sizzle in the carpark.
Still with the bargain pricing, Vinnies Airlie Beach has distinct areas for men’s, women’s, and children’s clothing, extensive home goods, including Manchester, home décor and furnishings, and a wide range of books, movies, and board games.
During the length of the renovation, Vinnies had relocated to a small shopfront in the Whitsunday Shopping Centre, with only a small selection of clothing and home goods, leaving the community excited for the re-opening.
It is clear that the community missed this gem of a charity shop, with visitors being steady throughout its first week back to regular operation.
With many volunteers on the floor and behind the tills, the reception of the grand re-opening of Vinnies Airlie Beach was well received
A free sausage sizzle welcomed patrons to the re-opening celebrations. Photo credit: Bronte Hodge
Two-Vehicle Crash
One patient with a neck injury and one patient with an arm injury were transported in a stable condition, to Proserpine Hospital following a two-vehicle crash on Kingfisher Terrace, in Jubilee Pocket at 2.28am Saturday, August 5.
Random Breath Testing
On August 2, at 1.25am, police intercepted a 22-year-old Jubilee Pocket woman on Shute Harbour Road, with a 0.145 per cent alcohol reading. Her licence was suspended, and she will appear in court.
On August 3 at 11pm, police pulled over a 37-year-old Strathdickie man on Stewart Drive in Cannonvale, who recorded a positive RBT result. His licence was suspended, and he will appear in court.
Possession
A 28-year-old Mackay man was arrested for contravening his police banning notice on August 4 at 7.40am, after police received notice of him acting suspiciously near the Whitsunday Police Station.
After a police search, it is alleged he was carrying one gram of leafy material, believed to be cannabis, a water pipe, and a large kitchen knife. He will appear before the courts for possession of dangerous drugs, possessing a drug utensil, possessing a knife in a public place, and contravening a police banning notice.
Altercation
Police attended an altercation on August 1 at 10.25pm, when the security of a licensed premise asked a group of six to eight people to leave the venue.
The group were escorted to the front of the premise where an altercation broke out.
Security staff were punched by persons in the group, and one security staff member was bitten on the arm by a female of the group.
Following the altercation, police were able to locate a man who matched a description of one of the group members, provided by the security staff.
The man and his wife’s details were recorded, and the investigation is ongoing.
The Queensland Country Women’s Association Proserpine has hit its biggest milestone, celebrating 100 years of dedicated service and commitment to Proserpine and the wider Whitsundays community.
The Proserpine branch began with a meeting between five local ladies, held in the Grand Theatre.
Its main goal was to alleviate isolation and loneliness felt by women and children who lived in the area, which was predominately farming properties.
From there, a request was sent for a Country Women’s Association representative to travel to Proserpine and share the aims and objectives of the group further.
Mrs Fairfax and Miss Nevell travelled to Proserpine in July 1923, and spoke with a large group of ladies, about 51 in total, thus forming the Proserpine branch.
In 1935, the QCWA Proserpine built their own hall, in Faust Street, which still services the group for meetings and functions.
The branch’s official Centenary celebrations will take place on August 19, with any and all past members or members of other clubs, and members of the wider community.
The luncheon will include a light lunch, a fantastic tea pot display, a lucky door prize, raffle, and an exploration of the club’s history.
Contact the branch for further information or to RSVP on proserpineqcwq@gmail.com.
WHAT: QCWA Proserpine Branch 100 Years Celebrations
WHERE: CQWA Hall, 4 Faust Street, Proserpine
WHEN: Saturday August 19, 10am to 1pm
'Blowin' Bowen' has lived up to its reputation by curtailing the construction of a 300 metre temporary floating jetty by US forces presently in the town as part of the Talisman Sabre exercise.
The US vessels, MV Bob Hope and MV Fisher, were waiting offshore of Bowen on August 3 for a break in blustery conditions at sea to allow the laying of a 300-metre floating jetty to connect supply vehicles with Kings Beach, the site of the logistics supply exercise.
That exercise, however, was put in doubt last weekend when it became clear that the conditions looked set to continue indefinitely, and equipment failures dogged the exercise.
On Tuesday, Australian Defence Force Lt-Col Bernie Kronen said he still hoped the exercise could be attempted, but he said the window of opportunity was closing fast.
Last Thursday (August 3) US Joint Task Force 7 held a community briefing session at the Flagstaff Hill Cafe Conference Centre as part of the Talisman Sabre 2023 exercise.
The non-technical briefing was to help foster common understanding of the floating pier rollout, which was to be a crowning feature of the US task force's presence in Bowen
"These are the largest exercises we have ever done in Australia," Lt-Col Bernie Kronen said.
"We want to make this thing as big as we can.
"We want to impress the allies, we also want to show any potential adversaries what we are capable of."
Lt-Col Kronen said the size of Talisman Sabre would only continue to grow in future iterations, from the initial Australia-US exercise about 15 years ago, to today's exercise that drew in 13 participating nations.
He said the exercises were important ways of ensuring that different equipment and weaponry from the participating nations could be integrated.
JTF-7 staff laid out an operations table with information panels at the Flagstaff Hill Cafe and were on hand to take questions from the audience of around 60.
The audience heard how Bowen was chosen from around 14 sites in Queensland for what would informally become known as 'Operation Big Mango', which they said was one of the largest over-the-shore exercises ever attempted by the US.
However, they emphasised that they placed a heavy emphasis on minimal environmental disturbance and inconvenience to Bowen residents.
They jokingly mentioned three results of their presence: first, the town had run out of fishing line; second, all the Coca-Cola supplies were sold out; and third, locals were asking when they could have their beach back.
JTF-7 Commander Col. Samuel Miller said the Bowen visit had been greatly enjoyed by US troops, many of whom had been on their first posting overseas.
He also said he had warmed to Bowen's cafes and eateries where he had found good coffee and food, with one even piping out his favourite Country and Western music to make him feel right at home.
Weather blow: Lt-Col Bernie Kronen undertakes his part of the community briefing while US ships lie idle awaiting better conditions.
Feeling at home: JTF-7 Commander Col. Samuel Miller addresses the audience inside the Flagstaff Hill Cafe Conference Centre.
The Whitsunday marine industry has been left astounded, following the release of the government backed Cyclone Reinsurance Pool that completely excludes Marine Insurance, putting local small water-based businesses at an unfair disadvantage.
Once endorsed by the former Government, the current Labour Government has decided not to include Marine Insurance in the newly released Cyclone Reinsurance Pool, which was set to be a relief for the marine industry and operators.
Marine operators have seen unprecedented increases in marine insurance costs, with some cases increasing by more than 10 per cent a year, and more than $20 million in excess cover.
The Cyclone Reinsurance Pool is a scheme backed by a $10 million guarantee from the Government, which allows insurance companies to mitigate their cyclone and cyclone-related risk and therefor lower costs for insurance policies.
Previously, it was anticipated that the Insurance Pool would cover all policies, but it has now come to light that it only covers household, strata, and small business property, up to $5 million, insurance policies, negating marine completely.
Following this announcement, Coral Sea Marina has partnered with the Australian Consumer Insurance Lobby and wider maritime industry in Northern Australia to urge for federal assistance and intervention.
Joscelyn O’Keefe, Head of Marketing and Business Development for Coral Sea Marina, said the insurance crisis is impacting all marinas in Northern Australia.
“Premiums continue to rise exponentially, and the burden of extreme cyclone excesses needs to be factored into the business’s operational costs,” she said.
“It means the same for our marina, that it does for all impacted marinas; with the continued rise in insurance costs for marinas in this part of Australia, the impact for the consumer is increased berthing fees, making berthing in marinas in Northern Australia untenable for some boat owners.”
The Whitsundays region, much like many other coastal and tourism reliant areas, has seen continued spikes in marine insurance expenses which will have a flow on effect into wider regional economic spend and development.
This will also impact marine tourism operators as well, with the burden of operating their on-water tourism businesses continuing to grow as insurance premiums rise exponentially each year with overinflated excesses imposed on cyclone-related claims.
Nicole Graham has been in the marine tourism industry for 17 years, with her business, Iconic Whitsunday Adventures having three vessels in operation.
“With insurance policies, we have to pass those costs on to our customers,” Mrs Graham explains.
“And for us to keep passing those costs on to the customers, we are going to become unsustainable, and we're going to be known as ‘that's expensive to go there. Don't go there, go to Bali, it's cheaper’, where there's less regulation, there's less safety, less safety risk management plans in place and things like that.”
2017 Cyclone Debbie caused catastrophic damage to Mrs Graham’s business, with one of their vessels, Lady Enid, being out of action for seven months for repairs, and the insurance was not willing to help.
“We lost business for seven months,” she said.
“It seems unfair that big developers get this insurance relief and small marine businesses like ours do not.”
Coral Sea Marina is one of the biggest marinas in the Whitsundays and a hub for marine tourism operators.
“Marine tourism in the Whitsundays injects billions of dollars into the economy and supports thousands of jobs,” explains Ms O’Keefe.
“The marine tourism operators who take our tourists out to the Great Barrier Reef use the marina as their base.
“If berthing fees continue to rise, to offset the rising costs of insurance, marine tourism businesses are also impacted.”
Many in the tourism industry believe that their exclusion from the Cyclone Reinsurance Pool is a “kick in the guts” for marine operators.
“How can [the government] justify not including us when we employ so many people?
“And like I said, it's not just about employment, it’s about supporting all small businesses,” said Mrs Graham.
Thankfully, the maritime industry of Northern Australia has a two-pronged plan to fight against what they believe is an unfair exclusion.
Initially, they will be asking the Federal Government to reconsider the decision to omit Marine Insurance in the Cyclone Reinsurance Pool.
If by 2025 the Federal Government has not reviewed the Pool, Coral Sea Marina will lobby the Government for subsidised premiums for marina owners to be considered as an interim measure.
Mrs Graham believes this action could still be years away, but the detrimental effects are occurring immediately to the industry.
“Just knowing that the government had our back, it would show they’re supporting us,” she said.
“A lot of us are small businesses and we can’t just keep increasing our prices.”
Nicole Graham operates a marine tourism business, and being left out of the Cyclone Reinsurance Pool is a “kick in the guts”. Photo credit: Bronte Hodge
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