A living legacy of culture, healing, and community spirit has taken root in the heart of Sarina.

Unveiled during NAIDOC Week, the Yinha Gurubila Ganya – meaning ‘here medicine place’ – is a traditional bush medicine garden now flourishing at Sarina Hospital. More than just a garden, it is a cultural milestone, reconnecting the community with ancient knowledge passed down through generations of the Yuwi people.

The project began as a shared vision and blossomed through collaboration between local volunteers, hospital staff, Yuwi Elders, Landcare, and students from Sarina schools. More than 66 native species – including cocky apple, sandpaper fig, noni fruit and gumby gumby – were planted in November with help from over 40 community volunteers.

Yuwi Elder and Mackay HHS cultural practice coordinator Philip Kemp played a key advisory role throughout the project.

“This is an opportunity to engage young people — telling them, ‘This is your garden, you’ve been part of it, and you can be proud to say you helped build it.’

"It also connects them to the hospital service, making the hospital more culturally welcoming and safe,” he said.

Mr Kemp shared that traditional knowledge continues to live through plants like gumby gumby, which his family has used for generations.

“One significant plant my family always used was gumby gumby. It comes from my dad’s culture, the Gungul people, and has been passed down to us,” he said.

“We use gumby gumby for energy, to help stop colds from getting worse, for skin rashes, and even dandruff by washing hair with it.”

“There’s no reason bush medicine and modern medicine can’t work side by side to provide better care.”

Visitors can take a self-guided walk through the garden thanks to plant tags featuring both the scientific and common names, as well as traditional uses.

“We’ve got little tags in the garden showing the scientific and common names, along with their uses. So we encourage people to come and educate themselves,” Mr Kemp said.

Hospital Director of Nursing Pauline Maude said the project reflects deep respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledge and shows what’s possible when a community comes together.

“It’s through this community collaboration the garden will grow into a place of healing and reconciliation,” she said.

The idea was first planted by retired nurse and longtime Sarina Hospital volunteer Karen Dawe, whose passion and persistence helped bring the vision to life. Alongside Uncle Phil and his brother Stephen Kemp, Karen worked with Sarina Landcare, local schools and health staff to shape the garden.

The official opening ceremony featured a Welcome to Country, smoking ceremony, blessing by a Torres Strait Islander elder, and a cultural performance, marking the 50th anniversary of NAIDOC Week and honouring the 2025 theme: Next Generation: Strength, Vision and Legacy.

“This garden will serve as a meaningful space for preserving and sharing Indigenous knowledge,” Mr Kemp said.

“It offers opportunities for the land's traditional custodians to teach the community about native plants, their healing properties and cultural significance, fostering deeper understanding and reconciliation.”

The project received vital support from the Mackay Hospital Foundation and Mackay Regional Council, with additional help from Harris Hauling, Sarina Mini Excavators and Cush-it Rocks.

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A traditional bush medicine garden has taken root at Sarina Hospital, uniting community, culture, and healing to reconnect the next generation with ancient Yuwi knowledge. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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A powerhouse team of mud racers from Sarina left their mark on the Queensland State Mud Racing Titles over the weekend, tearing up the tracks at CQ Mud Sportz in Kabra with a thrilling mix of speed, skill and Sarina spirit.

Held across two adrenaline-pumping days on July 5 and 6, the state titles brought together racers from across Queensland for a high-octane display of horsepower, mud, and fierce competition – and the Sarina contingent more than held their own.

Leading the charge in the junior ranks was 16-year-old Hunter Weir, whose car HUNTER GAMES dominated the field with a 1st place finish in both the twin track and drag races.

Not far behind was 14-year-old Eli Thomsett, piloting BACK CHAT II to a 2nd place in the twin track, while 15-year-old Taeya Simonsen in TEZZAS JEEP grabbed a 3rd in the twin track and 2nd in the drags — proving the next generation of Sarina racers are a force to be reckoned with.

In the younger junior categories (10–16 years), Brock sped into 1st in the Standards twin track and 2nd in the drags, and Jack powered his way to 3rd in the buggies twin track and 1st in his division.

In the adult divisions, Kyle McGrath took out 1st place in the buggies twin track behind the wheel of KRANKY, while Steve Whitehead roared home 1st in the buggie stages with ROAD RAGER.

With podium finishes across nearly every division, the Sarina team flew the flag with pride and left no doubt that the mud racing scene in the region is alive, well, and winning.

Keep your engines warm — this team’s just getting started.

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Sarina’s rising stars Hunter Weir, Eli Thomsett and Taeya Simonsen celebrate their podium finishes at the Queensland State Mud Racing Titles in Kabra.

Brock and Jack brought the heat to Kabra, claiming top results for Sarina.

Veteran racers Steve Whitehead and Kyle McGrath flew the Sarina flag in style, each taking home first-place honours in their divisions.

A family affair: Eli Thomsett with younger sister Millie, who also hit the track, and dad Russell, the driving force behind their mud racing success. Photo credit: Photos by Nell

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Mackay Voices Drive State Action

By Amanda Wright

Mackay’s small business sector took centre stage last week as Queensland’s Small and Family Business Minister Steve Minnikin visited the region, delivering a clear message: the State Government is listening—and acting.

Speaking at a Mackay Chamber of Commerce breakfast, Minister Minnikin acknowledged the unique pressures facing regional enterprises, from soaring electricity bills to securing skilled workers and navigating government bureaucracy. Drawing on his own background as a small business owner, he stressed that his department was committed to making life easier for entrepreneurs.

“My core message is that the government is deeply committed to helping small businesses not just survive, but thrive in Queensland,” he said, reinforcing the rollout of a new “small business friendly” policy.

Electricity and insurance costs were among the first issues raised by the local business community.

“My question is around the cost to small business around electricity and insurance. We know that that is a burden on us succeeding in small business,” one attendee said. In response, Minister Minnikin cited a $1.6 billion electricity maintenance guarantee included in the latest State Budget.

“We’ve made it very, very clear that we are absolutely always on the look out for renewables, but nothing will replace cheap, reliable, affordable, baseline energy for business,” he said.

The workforce shortage in Mackay was another hot topic. One business owner described the hurdles of accessing skilled labour through temporary visa programs: “We rely heavily on the temporary visa pieces... it brings good skilled workers, regional jobs.” However, they said steep fees and red tape were becoming prohibitive.

Bureaucracy and "red tape" also came under fire from business owners frustrated by government processes.

Minister Minnikin shared his own recent struggles navigating real estate licence renewals, calling red tape his "number one issue." He urged attendees to provide examples of specific issues to his office or the Small Business Commissioner, saying, “Help us help you.”

The visit also included a more intimate roundtable, co-hosted by Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton, with successful recipients of Round 6 of the Business Basics Grant program—a $7,500 boost for small businesses seeking to expand their capabilities and embrace innovation.

“What stood out immediately was the remarkable representation of women leading these small businesses,” Mr Dalton said.

“These women not only shared their journeys of juggling life, families, and responsibilities, but also how the Business Basics Grant will help them take their business to the next level.”

Among the grant recipients were Empower Health and Physiotherapy, Lilaco Designs, Yarbun Creations, Greater Whitsunday Innovation, Mind Psyence, Ignite You, Rna Electrical Services, Odin Physiotherapy, Absolutely 4 Kids, and Imagin8 Studio.

The visit highlighted not just the challenges but also the resilience, innovation, and determination of Mackay’s small business community.

As Minister Minnikin summed up: “When we're making decisions, there has to be a lens through the lens of small and family business.”

With over half a million small businesses contributing $131 billion to the Queensland economy and employing 1.2 million people, that lens is set to stay sharply focused.

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Minister Steve Minnikin with Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton and Chamber sponsors at the Mackay Chamber of Commerce breakfast, held at The Dispensary

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We’ve all heard it (or said it) – “there’s nothing to do in Mackay”.

I don’t believe it, as there is always something to do in Mackay. We live in the best region in Australia. To ensure that there’s always something to do in Mackay, council created the Invest Mackay Events and Conference Attraction Program (IMECA).

I’ve been a part of this committee since being elected to council in 2020. IMECA supports the attraction of major sporting and cultural events, concerts and conferences to stimulate the local economy. Since the program’s inception in 2015, it has funded 313 events and conferences, which has injected an estimated $221 million into the local economy.

Mackay Regional Council seeks to support major events and conferences that achieve the following outcomes:
• Raise awareness of Mackay as a desirable place to live, work, and visit.
• Attract overnight visitation and expenditure from outside the region and increase length-of-stay.
• Contribute to, enhance and grow the regional economy by generating new investment and developing business and industry.
• Fostering community pride.

Events and conferences represent a cost-effective way of promoting our region and its attractions, while also providing entertainment for locals. Major events and conferences help boost the economy and provide wellbeing, lifestyle and cultural benefits to residents and beyond. Moreover, as an event or conference grows, it boosts tourism numbers and creates fantastic industry growth opportunities for local operators such as event or conference facilities, hotels, restaurants and retailers. It’s a win-win all round!

And to promote these events (and all other events happening in the region), council also recently launched “Mackay Events”. From festivals to music gigs, art exhibitions to markets, we've got it covered. Whether you're a local looking for the latest thing or a visitor eager to make the most of this great region, Mackay Events is the perfect place to dive into the vibrant culture and entertainment scene of Mackay. There’s something for everyone. Go to mackayevents.com.au.

So, next time someone says to you, “there’s nothing to do in Mackay”, you know what to tell them.
Get out there and enjoy all that our amazing region has to offer.

By Cr Belinda Hassan

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A mobile printmaking studio in a 40-foot-long shipping container will be a temporary addition to the local arts and design scene.

The shipping container will be set up outside Artspace Mackay as part of a special residency by the Moveable Type Studio (MTS) in Mackay from July 2 to July 11.

The Moveable Type Studio will be hosted by Artspace Mackay in conjunction with the prestigious 2025 Libris Awards: The Australian Artists Book Prize, and the abbe Conference and Artists Book Fair by Cobalt Editions, Queensland College of Art and Design, Griffith University.

It will offer a unique opportunity for attendees and the broader Mackay community to engage with letterpress printmaking.

Artspace Mackay will host the MTS residency to provide opportunities for visitors and artists to discover the heritage craft of printing using rare letterpress printing equipment, and wooden and metal type from the Clint Harvey collection.

Artspace Mackay Director Tracey Heathwood said this would be a wonderful opportunity to engage with a craft that had been integral to communication ever since the Guttenberg press was invented centuries ago.

“The Moveable Type Studio will be bringing these historic processes to life through the work of resident artists and educators Clint Harvey and Dzintra Menesis who travel with the studio,” Ms Heathwood said.

“Local schools, artists, designers, historians, poets and writers are invited to participate in a range of creative workshops and masterclasses to learn about letterpress printing processes, techniques and inspirations,” she said.

MTS founder Clint Harvey said the machines, like the ones in the studio, were all used in the past to print books, newspapers, magazines, posters and brochures.

“We want to share our enthusiasm for these traditional printing techniques with the whole community and invite the general public to come to watch free demonstrations and presentations to discover more about printing history and heritage,” Mr Harvey said.

Limited spaces are still available in workshops and masterclasses at the MTS. For more information and to make a booking visit https://bit.ly/3ND3oyK

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The Moveable Type Studio is bringing historic letterpress printmaking processes to life through the work of resident artists and educators Clint Harvey and Dzintra Menesis

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A Brave New Body Image Conversation

Eight years ago, The Just Saying Project (JSP) asked women across our region how they really felt about their bodies. The responses weren’t filtered, photoshopped, or polished. They were raw. They were brave. And they were unforgettable.

Now, in 2025, JSP is asking again.

With a new body image survey titled The Faces Behind the Figures, JSP is inviting women to reflect on the stories they carry in their skin, their scars, and their silence. The questionnaire explores themes such as self-esteem, beauty standards, mental health, and media influence — forming the foundation for a new social media campaign of the same name.

JSP Founder Fallon Drewett said the survey aimed to go deeper than surface-level body positivity.

“It’s about taking the conversation deeper—past the mirror and into the layers of identity, worth and culture,” she said.

“It’s been eight years since our Fabulous Faces and Figures exhibitions first challenged the way we see ourselves and each other. So much has changed — or has it? This survey helps us find out.”

The campaign will roll out across Facebook and Instagram, combining real statistics from JSP’s earlier survey with heartfelt reflections and a call for honest, brave truth-telling.

Some of the 2017/18 findings included:

84 per cent of women said they felt pressure to look a certain way

60 per cent reported the media negatively affected how they viewed their bodies

More than half had never told themselves they were beautiful

The 2025 survey revisits these themes, while expanding to include:

Thoughts on cosmetic procedures and aging

Body neutrality and self-worth

The impact of social media and comparison

Confidence in daily routines and relationships

Reflections on beauty in all its diversity

“This isn’t just a data collection exercise,” Ms Drewett said.

“This is about shaping future conversations, exhibitions, events — and most importantly — understanding how women are really feeling, right now.”

All participants who complete the survey will go into the draw to win a JSP Prize Pack, which includes a double pass to a 2026 JSP event, a Just Because photoshoot, and the chance to have their insights shape future storytelling initiatives.

“It’s time we remembered that our stories are powerful tools for change,” Ms Drewett said.

“If we want future generations to grow up in a world where bodies aren’t judged but celebrated — we need to be brave enough to speak first.”

To complete the survey, visit: https://uivz0moeyzi.typeform.com/to/kXfuCjX2
Survey closes 31 July.

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By Amanda Wright

The Reserve Bank of Australia has left the official cash rate unchanged at 3.85 per cent, sparking frustration from both the housing and small business sectors, who argue the decision ignores clear signs of economic weakness and growing structural pressure.

The move comes despite softer inflation data, sluggish consumer spending, and growing expectations of a rate cut. For many, it’s not just a delay — it’s a letdown.

“This decision will leave new home building activity more constrained than necessary, for longer,” said Housing Industry Association Senior Economist Tom Devitt.

“But the previous two cuts to the cash rate have seen an improvement in market confidence that is likely to continue.”

Mr Devitt said the RBA had missed an opportunity to send a stronger signal of confidence to the market.

“Recent inflation data shows that the RBA’s preferred trimmed mean measure has been within their 2–3 per cent target band for over a year now, and continues to decline,” he said.

“Household spending has also been constrained, with Australia having been in an almost uninterrupted per capita recession since mid-2022.”

According to Mr Devitt, home building — a key pillar of the economy — remains shackled by high interest rates.

“By most of the RBA’s own estimates, the cash rate remains in restrictive territory, meaning it is still constraining household and business spending across the economy, including in the home building industry.”

And the longer-term housing outlook is grim.

“More rate cuts cannot deliver the volume of home building required to match the growth in demand or achieve the 1.2 million new homes goal,” he warned.

“As it stands, Australia is set to build less than 1 million new homes over the government’s target five-year period, 20 per cent short of national housing targets and a long way from addressing the national housing crisis.”

The business community has also expressed concern over the implications of the rate hold. CPA Australia Business Investment Lead Gavan Ord said businesses were hoping for relief and clarity — and got neither.

“Today’s decision... will be disappointing news for borrowers and business,” Mr Ord said.

“Businesses sentiment is beginning to shift and further rate cuts this year would be very welcome, but most small businesses remain bound by uncertainty and are still taking a cautious approach.”

Mr Ord said Australia’s 2.5 million small businesses were waiting for more than interest rate cuts — they want systemic change.

“The biggest boost for small businesses right now would be substantive, long-term commitments from government to revitalise the business environment by removing unnecessary regulatory burdens and fostering entrepreneurship. This must be a key deliverable from the Economic Reform Roundtable in August.”

While Treasurer Jim Chalmers has signalled a reform focus, Mr Ord said it’s time to move from promises to action.

“Rate cuts alone will not be enough to boost lagging business confidence,” he said.

“The business community is looking to government to back-up its positive messaging with genuine reforms that help move the needle.”

“For years, many small businesses have been in survival mode, navigating tough economic waters and a challenging operating environment,” Mr Ord added.

“Though the downward pressure on interest rates and supportive messaging from Treasurer Jim Chalmers are encouraging, small businesses need to see real and measurable reforms before they’re ready to take off their lifejackets.”

With the RBA holding its fire and borrowers still facing high repayments, all eyes now turn to August — when both the Reserve Bank and the Federal Government are expected to show whether they have the stomach for bold economic change.

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I was in Sydney recently for an indulgent four-day long weekend celebrating my wife’s birthday with drinks in cool bars, dinners in next-level restaurants and, for her, a spot of clothes and jewellery shopping.

When it came to the day for serious shopping we went to the beautiful, cool, historic, bustling inner-east suburb of Paddington and I heard these magical words from my wife: “Why don’t you go to the pub while I have a look at the shops?”

Like every couple, we’ve had the odd disagreement over the years, but this wasn’t one of those times. Sonia plunged herself into the boutiques of Paddington while I found myself ensconced in a 130-year-old pub that had been slightly modernised but not too much to spoil the authentic, historic “feel” of the place.

Local residents, some with their dogs, shuffled in and out for a drink and chat and a bite to eat.

There wasn’t a sports bar because that would have been out of place but there was a TV screen on mute in a quiet corner showing the footy. That’s where I sat enjoying a few beers while watching the people and the footy and checking out some of the historic photos on the wall.

It felt like my hi-tech mobile phone didn’t belong there but, of course, I  had a look at that to catch up on news and the usual stuff delivered through social media.

I came across a story with a headline that said there was some “shock new data” showing the “area Aussies are escaping in record numbers – and the surprising place they are moving to instead”.

As I sat in that beautiful pub in that chic suburb in that heaving metropolis, I read that the place people are escaping is Sydney.  And where are they going? Queensland.

The News Corp report covered figures that assessed the movement between regions of the domestic population and it showed that the number of people leaving Sydney to live elsewhere now “outstrips the natural increase in the city’s population”.

And a domestic assessment of people moving into and out of Sydney shows that the net domestic outflow from 2021 to 2024 to be 129,300 from Sydney and 38,700 from Melbourne. So, without international migration their populations would be falling.

During that three-year period, the biggest net inflows have been seen by Brisbane, which added 56,100 domestic arrivals and regional Queensland, which added 54,900 people.

Housing affordability compared to Sydney and Melbourne is a major factor.

While Brisbane attracted the greatest number of domestic migrants, the median price of a house in that city has just reached the $1m mark. Not cheap. And although retirees are expected to swarm to the Gold Coast in coming years, housing affordability in that city could be an obstacle for others from down south.

Which leaves us with regional Queensland areas further north, such as Mackay. We know that prices have gone up dramatically and it is hard for many Mackay people to understand that a fairly basic three-bedroom house can now cost around $600,000.

However, for people down south facing house prices of $1m and $2m, Mackay is still affordable. One thing that those ABS figures don’t, and can’t, factor in is the number of people from regional areas down south who are choosing not to move to Sydney and Melbourne because of housing affordability.

Those people, and the ones leaving the big cities, might start to see the entire south-east corner of Queensland as unaffordable. It’s already happening but, in growing numbers, they can be expected to cast their eyes further north to places like Mackay to put down roots and raise families.

Affordability, housing supply and infrastructure will be the key issues coming up in Mackay. The question is: do we have a council that’s up to it?

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Hi Everyone,

School holidays have been an absolute joy in our household! We’ve had both Grandmothers staying, and between them, they’ve orchestrated a series of fun-filled, action-packed days for the three children. The Grandmothers are not only kind and thoughtful carers to our boisterous kids—they’re also excellent role models, each with a strong moral compass.

The children have spent the week working on a play they’ve written and directed themselves, ready to perform on Friday night. There’s been limited screen time and plenty of outdoor adventures, which has done wonders.

Earlier this week, they were racing along the pathway on their scooters towards the Cannonvale Skatepark when they spotted what appeared to be a homeless man. Within seconds, all three were busily discussing what he might need and how they could help. With the Grandmothers in tow, they headed to the nearby dollar store and bought a pillow, a blanket and, from the bakery, a sausage roll.

Nervously, they approached the man to offer their gifts. Fortunately, he beamed a smile of encouragement, and they were soon chatting comfortably—with the Grandmothers close by, of course. He shared his story about travelling on a quest in honour of his recently deceased stepfather. The children were captivated, and the ‘homeless’ man graciously accepted their offerings.

That evening, each child animatedly retold the story—proud and alive with the experience, which had clearly taught them something deeply personal.

For me, it was a reminder that reduced screen time and real-life encounters are powerful tools for growing the soul.

Our region is postcard-perfect, no doubt—but it’s the unexpected moments of kindness, curiosity, and connection that truly make a holiday unforgettable. These are the stories our children will carry with them long after the sun sets on another beautiful Whitsunday winter's day.

Rach

Quote of the Week: "Children are not a distraction from more important work. They are the most important work" (C.S. Lewis)

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The Proserpine Hospital maternity team recently received a significant boost thanks to the generosity of a local business, the Palace Hotel in Proserpine.

Last month, the hotel presented the hospital with a substantial donation of $1,834, the impressive sum raised during a special Mother’s Day fundraiser held in May. This heartwarming initiative underscores the strong community spirit in the Whitsundays region.

Acting maternity unit manager Nickey Pilgrim expressed immense gratitude for the contribution. "The midwives and the hospital as a whole are so thankful for this support," she stated.

Pilgrim also highlighted the crucial role played by numerous local businesses that generously donated prizes, significantly contributing to the fundraiser's success. These collaborative efforts exemplify the community's commitment to bolstering local healthcare services. The funds raised are earmarked to enhance the hospital’s maternity services, directly benefiting mothers and newborns in the Whitsundays region by providing essential resources and ongoing care.

Ash, an employee of the Palace Hotel and a key organiser of the fundraiser, had the pleasure of presenting the cheque to the appreciative hospital team. Midwives Nickey Pilgrim, Aleesha Tindall, and Shania Lade were present to graciously accept the donation, their smiles reflecting the profound impact of such community-driven initiatives.

The Proserpine Hospital maternity team extends their heartfelt thanks to the Palace Hotel and all the businesses and individuals who contributed to this highly successful fundraiser, demonstrating once again how local support strengthens vital healthcare services.

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Accepting the presentation from Palace Hotel employee Ash (second from left) are midwives, from left, Nickey Pilgrim, Aleesha Tindall and Shania Lade. Photo supplied

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From July 6 -13 the Whitsunday community has come together to honour NAIDOC Week. During this time, the profound history, rich cultures, and incredible achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples has been recognised.

The week began at the Airlie Beach Markets where Yooribaya Cultural Experiences performed a  Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony, captivating Cultural Dance Performances, and Yooribaya Film Screenings. Interactive workshops also offered hands-on experiences in weaving, artifact creation, sand art, rock painting, and ochre painting.

On Monday morning, Girudala proudly lead a Street Parade and flag raising in Bowen. Deputy Mayor Michelle Wright officially opened NAIDOC Week by acknowledging the traditional owners of the land.

“It’s a privilege to join you today as we mark NAIDOC Week 2025—a time to celebrate the rich history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples,” she said.

“This year’s theme, ‘The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy’, shines a light on the incredible contributions of young First Nations people, and the importance of supporting their growth, leadership, and empowerment.

“It’s also a chance for all of us to reflect on the legacy passed down through generations…….and how we can work together to build a stronger, more positive future.”

On Wednesday AimBig Employment put on a NAIDOC Community barbecue in Proserpine to promote discussion and celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture through connection, creativity and community spirit. There was face painting for children, and an opportunity to contribute to a collaborative community artwork. A display of traditional arts and crafts also featured, showcasing the rich cultural heritage.

This Weekend celebrations continue in Airlie Beach and Bowen.

At the Bowen Foreshore from 10:00am to 2:00pm on Saturday 12 July, Juru culture will be celebrated with traditional ceremonies, energetic dance performances, community speeches, and the presentation of NAIDOC community awards. Live entertainment and a variety of activities for all ages will ensure a memorable day for everyone.

Walking in the Footsteps of Ancestors a NAIDOC Nature Walk will take place at Brandy Creek, as part of the Great Whitsunday Walk on Sunday 13 at 12pm.

Led by Traditional Owners, this free, registration-required event will provide fascinating insights into bush tucker, traditional land management practices, and the profound spiritual connection of First Nations peoples to their land.

UPCOMING
NAIDOC Family Fun Day
Bowen Foreshore
Saturday 12 July | 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

NAIDOC Nature Walk
Brandy Creek, Great Whitsunday Walk
Sunday 13 July 2025 | 12:00 PM

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Robert Congoo and Nathaniel Congoo at the Airlie Beach Markets informing people about their culture and NAIDOC Week. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

Street Parade in Bowen about to begin. Photo supplied

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The Sky Way To The Whitsundays

In a major boost for the region, the Queensland Government has committed $5 million in its first Budget to help bring the exciting Whitsunday Skyway project to life. Featuring a cableway, summit station, and downhill mountain biking park near Conway National Park, this world-class experience promises breathtaking views and thrilling new ways to explore the Whitsundays. It’s a game-changer for tourism, jobs, and the local economy. With strong backing from Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm and industry leaders, the Skyway is set to take the region’s adventure offering to the next level.

Big news for adventure tourism in the Whitsundays!

The Government has handed down its first Budget and will be delivering $5 million towards the Whitsunday Skyway project.

This is a bold new project featuring a cableway, summit station and downhill mountain biking park, on and adjacent to Conway National Park.

Member for Whitsunday, Amanda Camm, said this world-class experience will boost tourism, create local jobs, and give visitors a brand-new way to explore our incredible natural landscape.

The Whitsunday region relies heavily on tourism and Whitsunday Skyway would offer a new, unique attraction, providing panoramic views of the islands, reef and coastline.

“Construction, maintenance and operation of the Skyway will create jobs across several sectors. Construction phase jobs would in turn give way to jobs for long-term operational staff in the tourism, hospitality and maintenance field,” Ms Camm said.

CEO of Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC) Natassia Wheeler and Elizabeth Hackett from Whitsunday Skyway were both in attendance at Parliament last week when the budget allocation was announced.

Elizabeth Hackett, Executive Chair of Australian Adventure Tourism Group Limited (AATG), said the new LNP Government, lead by David Crisafulli, has delivered on its promises.

AATG, the proponent for the Whitsunday Skyway project, has accomplished more in eight months under this new Government, than in eight years under the former Labor government.

This progress has resulted in AATG entering a partnership with a world class tourism infrastructure company who will deliver a nature-based tourism offering that will offer significant public benefit.

“I applaud Amanda Camm for her passion and commitment to our region. Amanda has tirelessly supported AATG and the entire tourism industry and works collaboratively with her colleagues to ensure that the Whitsundays are clearly front of mind,” Ms Hackett said.

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CEO of Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC) Natassia Wheeler, Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP, and Elizabeth Hackett from Whitsunday Skyway. Photo supplied

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The Whitsunday Skyway will offer unparalleled views of the islands. Estimated to cost up to $100M, the construction phase could support 500 local jobs and the destination will ultimately generate $25M in economic impact per year. Photo: Illustration only. whitsundayskyway.com

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522,000 and Climbing!

Whitsunday Coast Airport has officially set a new annual passenger record, welcoming over 522,000 passengers over the past 12 months and surpassing its previous record of 507,000 set last year.

This milestone cements Whitsunday Coast Airport’s status as one of Australia’s fastest-growing regional airports and highlights the strong appeal of the Whitsundays as a premier destination for both domestic and international travellers.

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said the airport’s continued growth is a testament to Council’s long-term vision and investment in the region.

“Whitsunday Coast Airport is a fully self-funded, Council-owned asset that operates without any ratepayer subsidies,” Mayor Collins said.

“It not only covers its own costs but also delivers strong financial returns that are reinvested into local services and infrastructure to support future growth, while providing a dividend back to Council.

“Every dollar of profit strengthens essential services and supports projects that make our region an even better place to live, work, and visit.

“This record-breaking year is a win for our local economy, our tourism industry, and our community as a whole.”

Whitsunday Coast Airport continues to attract major airline partners and new services, positioning the region as a key gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the Whitsunday islands.

Mayor Collins thanked airport staff, airline partners, and the wider community for contributing to the record-breaking achievement.

“Our airport team has done an incredible job delivering safe, efficient, and welcoming services to passengers, and we’re excited to keep building on this momentum,” he said.

Council’s Director of Commercial Businesses, Craig Turner, said a combination of increased flight
frequencies and new route opportunities had driven the airport’s record-breaking performance.

“While the team will take a moment to celebrate this milestone, our priority remains delivering a
seamless, top-quality experience for every passenger — from check-in to touchdown,” he said.

“Our growth trajectory has been strong and steady, rising from 280,000 passengers in 2021 to
507,000 last financial year — and now surpassing 522,000.

“A thriving airport is crucial not only for tourism but also for our local economy, job creation, and regional connectivity.

“Whitsunday Coast Airport is more than a tourism gateway; it’s an essential hub for business travel and freight, keeping our region connected and competitive.”

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The last 12 months has seen a record amount of visitors. Photo supplied

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The Whitsunday community is set to benefit after the newly instated State Government budget outlines how funding will provide vital repairs to the Bowen Courthouse.

The new budget has delivered a $12.5 million boost to restore the Bowen Courthouse, addressing the major structural issues to the historic building while ensuring justice services continue to be delivered in the Whitsunday region.

The project will focus on long-overdue restorations of one of Queensland’s oldest courthouses, the new restoration will be ridding the building of termites and mould.

The roof, gutters, downpipes, and storm water systems will also be replaced to ensure the courthouse can better manage future weather conditions.

Attorney-General, Minister for Justice and Minister for Integrity Deb Frecklington said the Bowen Courthouse was last refurbished almost two decades ago, and upgrades would preserve the building’s original character.

“The multi-million-dollar refurbishment will ensure the Bowen Courthouse can continue to serve the community for years to come,” the Attorney-General said.

“Conditions inside the courthouse are horrendous – there is rising damp, rust, mould and structural shifting inside the courthouse, as well as rotting floors ridden with termites.

“Modern and maintained court facilities are critical for victims navigating the justice system, as well as the safety of our courthouse staff and judiciary.”

Member for Burdekin Dale Last said the Bowen Courthouse illustrates the importance of Bowen during Queensland’s early history.

“This investment will breathe new life into an historic and beautiful building that will serve the Bowen community for many years to come," Mr Last said.

“Not only will these works improve safety, comfort and accessibility for people accessing essential justice services, but they will also restore and protect a building that holds so much history and prominence for the Bowen community.”

Tenders for the construction stage will be called in the coming months, with work expected to commence early next year.

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Bowen Courthouse restoration is expected to begin early next year. Photo sourced: online

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Concerns have been raised about unsafe behaviour and damage to public infrastructure at Jubilee Park in Proserpine, after a group of teenage BMX riders were allegedly seen riding dangerously through the children’s playground on Sunday morning.

According to multiple witnesses, four boys on BMX bikes rode directly through the playground area while young children and toddlers were present.

A concerned community member took to Facebook to report that the boys were riding through the playground where young children and toddlers were playing.

They also said the boys constructed makeshift BMX jumps near the flying fox, causing visible damage to the surrounding area.

One mother asked the group to stop and said she was met with a mixed response, two of the boys reportedly complied, but others joined later and she described their behaviour
as ‘pack mentality’ becoming verbally aggressive and continuing their ride through the play area, despite being asked to stop.

Witnesses reported vulgar language and intimidating behaviour, including offensive remarks directed at a breastfeeding mother.

Ultimately, the community member on Facebook wanted to be clear - young people being active, outdoors and socialising away from screens is good but they feel it is important that they also behave respectfully and comply by playground safety rules.

“I’m sharing this in the hope that it reaches the parents of these boys because if they were my sons I would want to know how they were acting in public especially towards mothers and children,” they shared.

“If your kids ride here please talk to them. This is a space for families and it deserves respect.”

They also expressed frustration over repeated damage to playgrounds in the area, with two swings recently broken at the nearby Proserpine park. The latest incident has renewed calls for increased respect for shared community spaces.

There are currently no formal restrictions on bike use within Jubilee Park, but families say greater awareness is needed to ensure the safety of young children and the preservation of public facilities.

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The community member posted this image on Facebook, along with their concerns. Photo sourced: Facebook

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