A snorkelling trip at one of the Whitsundays' most iconic destinations turned into a medical emergency last Thursday, when a woman in her 50s experienced breathing difficulties in a near-drowning incident at Whitehaven Beach.

Just before midday on 17 July, BMA CQ Rescue was urgently tasked to the area with the rescue helicopter becoming the only emergency service able to respond swiftly due to the area’s isolation.

Landing directly on the pristine sands of Whitehaven Beach, the onboard critical care team quickly stabilised the woman before airlifting her to Mackay for further treatment.

BMA CQ Rescue Pilot Leigh Wilkinson said the incident was a stark reminder of the vital role the service plays in the Whitsundays.

“Whitehaven is one of the most beautiful and remote parts of our region,” he said. “In situations like this, where time and access are major challenges, our rescue helicopter can make all the difference. We were able to get to the scene quickly, land safely, and ensure the patient received the urgent critical care she needed.”

The aeromedical mission highlighted the critical importance of having rapid-response rescue services in isolated areas, especially those frequented by tourists and recreational visitors.

BMA CQ Rescue is the only community-funded rescue helicopter service operating in the region, providing life-saving support across land, sea, and island communities. Available 24/7, 365 days a year, the service covers one of the most diverse and geographically vast areas in Queensland.

As tourism continues to bring thousands of visitors to locations like Whitehaven Beach each year, emergency response capacity remains essential—not only for local residents but also for the many who come to experience the beauty and adventure the Whitsundays have to offer.

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BMA CQ Rescue on Whitehaven Beach last Thursday. Photo supplied

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Released For Community Feedback

Whitsunday Regional Council is encouraging the community to share their feedback on the draft Airlie Beach Masterplan, a bold vision aimed at guiding the town’s future growth and transformation in the lead-up to the 2032 Olympics and beyond.

Mayor Ry Collins said the draft plan marks an exciting step forward in reimagining the future of Airlie Beach and shaping a long-term vision that extends to 2050.

“This is a draft for feedback, and we want locals, visitors and businesses to help us fine-tune it,” Mayor Collins said.

“Your ideas and priorities will shape the final masterplan that Council will consider later this year, ensuring it truly reflects the community’s vision.”

The masterplan responds to community feedback and focuses on pedestrian safety, green spaces, parking, and foreshore activation. It aims to position Airlie Beach as Australia’s premier regional waterfront and support long-term economic and tourism growth.

***Key proposals include:
• Public Space Upgrades & Connectivity: Enhanced pedestrian and cycle access, improved atmosphere and precinct identity.
• New Event & Market Spaces: Outdoor venues and market areas to boost activity and visitor experience.
• Catalyst Projects: The Wanderers redevelopment and Waterson Way Integrated Hub, including a multi-storey carpark and retail spaces, to attract investment.
• Infrastructure for Growth: Projects aligned with future growth needs and Olympic opportunities.

***Revitalisation highlights:
• Foreshore: New features like a fishing pier, waterplay island, playground, volleyball courts, market plaza and multideck carpark.
• Main Street & Esplanade: One-way traffic, canopy-covered Airlie Boulevard, and a bidirectional bike lane.
• Airlie Creek: Nature-based experiences and a proposed elevated gondola – the “Skyway.”
• Shingley Beach: Boardwalk connecting to Coral Sea Marina.
• Sports Park: Expanded PCYC and new nature walk loop.
• Airlie Hill: Lookout with panoramic views and accessible paths.

Mayor Collins also emphasised the importance of managing expectations around delivery.
“While the masterplan lays out a bold, long-term vision, these projects won’t happen overnight,” he said.

“Works will be prioritised and rolled out progressively as funding and resources become available.

The draft masterplan is now open for public comment until 17 August 2025. Community members are encouraged to review the plan online or in person, attend upcoming information stalls and share their thoughts.

For more information and to have your say, visit yoursay.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au.

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Following the tragic death of 17 year old Jack Beasley in Sufers Paradise in 2019 the Queensland Police Service has been very proative in addressing community concerns about knife crime in Queensland. In 2021 the legslative framwework for ‘Jacks Law’ was put in place. This legislation allowed Police the power to use hand held scanning devices in relelvant places. Airlie Beach Safe Night Precinct is one of those areas that was named.

Since 2021 in Queensland more then 100,611 wanding operations have been carried out and more then 953 weapons seized. These wandings have taken place in Safe Night Precincts, transport hubs, shopping centres, sport and entertainment venues around the state.

On the 18th July 2025 the legislation was expanded and formalised allowing Police to conduct wanding in areas listed above, without the approval of a Senior Officer and anytime they feel necessary. On the weekend in Airlie Beach Police conducted over 400 wandings. The continuation of these laws will ensure the dafety of all persons in our community.

On Tuesday the 15th July the Whitsunday Police Community said good bye to a colleague and friend as Sergeant Brett ‘Chuck’ Norris retired from the QLD Police after almost 40 years continuous service. In a unique farewell Chuck was farewelled as he brought in PC Damian Leeding one last time. Here he marched through his family and colleagues with a Police piper.

As Officer in Charge of the Whitsunday Water Police, Chuck has dedicated over 24 years to the community here in Airlie Beach. He was awarded a Humanitarian Society Bravery Award in 2009 for the rescue of 37 people who’s yacht had become stricken in wild seas. It was the largest helicopter rescue from a vessel in Australian history.

A wonderful bloke and an exceptional mariner. Congratulations Chuck, enjoy the break mate. You’ll be missed.

Contributed with thanks to Senior Sergeant Officer in Charge of Whitsunday Police Station Anthony Moynihan

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Meet Michelle McPherson

The Whitsundays community will soon welcome experienced paediatric psychologist Michelle Macpherson, who is set to begin consulting at Barefoot Medicine Whitsunday next week.

With more than 25 years in Educational and Developmental Psychology, Michelle brings extensive experience supporting young people aged 2 to 18, particularly those navigating anxiety, depression, school refusal, and complex diagnoses. Her client-centred approach is built on collaboration with families, educators, and other stakeholders to ensure long-lasting outcomes.

“It's always about identifying, the reason that they have decided to reach out for some support,” said Michelle.

“They've reached a point where they've felt either that it was time to seek external support, or perhaps had the courage to make some changes in their lives and feel that they would benefit from some guidance to navigate those changes.”

Michelle has worked across government, independent, and private school sectors, previously running her own practice for 15 years. She is also passionate about educating carers and teachers, believing strongly in community collaboration to improve youth wellbeing.

Michelle recently relocated to the region and said she is excited to join Barefoot Medicine, whose team she described as “a group of professionals committed to expanding services and improving mental health outcomes in the Whitsundays.”

Her broader mission is to equip young people and their support networks with tools to foster resilience, insight, and responsibility.

Michelle will begin consulting next week at Barefoot Medicine Whitsunday, offering services aimed at strengthening youth mental health and community wellbeing across the region.

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Michelle Macpherson starts at Barefoot Medicine Whitsunday next week. Photo supplied

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To Celebrate 100 Years This Sunday!

A century of education, faith and community spirit will be honoured this weekend as St Catherine’s Catholic College hosts its much-anticipated Centenary Picnic on Sunday, the 27th of July, from 10am to 3pm.

Held at the college grounds, the family-friendly celebration promises a day of connection, celebration and fun for all ages. Locals past and present are warmly invited to attend and take part in this special milestone event.

Guests can look forward to a vibrant day filled with food trucks, live music, guided campus tours, a school history display, and plenty of nostalgic fun including old-school games and an inflatable obstacle course and jumping castle. Face painting, a BYO picnic area, and delicious options from a coffee van, sausage sizzle, burger stand and ice cream truck will also be available.

For those wanting to treat themselves, Airlie Picnic Co will be offering gourmet picnic and charcuterie boxes for pre-order, ready for collection at the event. Prices range from $60 to $210 depending on size and selection.

Whether you’re a former student, proud parent, or supportive local, this centenary picnic is an opportunity to gather with the wider Whitsundays community and reflect on 100 years of educational excellence and community building at St Catherine’s.

Everyone is welcome to attend, and with perfect picnic weather forecast for Sunday, it's sure to be a highlight of the local calendar. Don't miss your chance to be part of this once-in-a-lifetime celebration!

What: St Catherine’s Catholic College Centenary Picnic
When: Sunday, the 27th of July, from 10.30am to 3pm
Where: St Catherine’s Catholic College

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Cory O’Shea knows how far an apprenticeship with Wilmar Sugar and Renewables can take you.

He scored a fitting and turning apprenticeship at Wilmar’s Herbert sugar mills straight out of school, back in 2007, and is now Manager Operations at Proserpine Mill.

“I knew I wanted to do a trade, and Mum and Dad strongly encouraged me to try for an apprenticeship at the mill,” Mr O’Shea said.

“I didn’t have a family connection to the mill, but I knew some people who worked there so I organised work experience at Victoria Mill in my own time while I was still at school and really liked it.”

Mr O’Shea said that, as an apprentice, he was mentored by some of the most experienced tradesmen in the sugar industry.

“They were old-school tradies with so much knowledge,” he said.

“We had a really good cohort that year and many of us are still in the business – some on tools and others in supervisory or management roles.”

After completing his apprenticeship, Mr O’Shea took a position as shift fitter at Macknade Mill in Ingham, where he went on to work his way up the ranks at both Macknade and Victoria mills.

He moved to Proserpine in 2023 to be Manager Mechanical Engineering of Proserpine Mill and then, this year, became the site’s Manager Operations.

It’s no surprise that Mr O’Shea highly recommends an apprenticeship with Wilmar.

“It can be the start of a life-long career in the sugar industry. It opens doors and offers so many career opportunities,” he said.

Applications for Wilmar Sugar and Renewables’ 2026 Apprenticeship Program close this Sunday, 27 July. Apply here, or search ‘Wilmar apprenticeships’.

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Change The Way You Connect

Whether you love working the room or loathe the awkward small talk, the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry invites you to reimagine what networking can do for your business.

Ahead of the 2025 Whitsunday Business Conference, the Chamber will host a high-impact preview event at 7:30am Thursday 14 August at Club Whitsunday, Airlie Beach.

This practical and energising session will demonstrate why networking is not just a social nicety but a core business strategy.

Attendees will walk away with fresh skills, greater confidence, and the tools to turn introductions into opportunities.

If You’re Going To Network, Make It Count

This is not your average breakfast event. Attendees will learn how to:

• Speak clearly and confidently about their business.
• Position themselves as industry experts.
• Create conversations that lead to real outcomes, not just another business card.

The session will also preview the 2025 Whitsunday Business Conference, giving attendees an insider look at what’s in store and how to get the most from the region’s marquee business event.

Speakers Who Know The Power Of Connection

Kath Barker – Principal, Compass Realty Whitsundays
With nearly two decades in the property and construction industries, Kath is proof that strategic relationships drive success. Now leading a boutique real estate agency known for its personal touch, Kath’s passion for connection extends beyond real estate. She previously ran successful networking events on the Gold Coast and now leads regular Speed Networking events in the Whitsundays. She’ll share her experience transforming short conversations into lasting business outcomes and how to network with intention.

Dr Julia Evans – Chamber Liaison, Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry
Julia has led the Chamber’s operations since 2023. A business strategist and educator with over 25 years’ experience, she helps organisations and individuals strengthen relevance, engagement, and impact. Julia has advised state and national industry bodies and led women in business initiatives. She challenges traditional networking, focusing on authenticity, active listening, and strategic follow-up to build lasting partnerships and professional growth.

What: Build Better Business Connections & Conference Preview Event
When: 7:30am – 9:00am Thursday 14 August 2025
Where: Club Whitsunday, 2489 Shute Harbour Road, Airlie Beach
Cost: Chamber and Tourism Whitsundays members – Two (2) FREE tickets
Association Partner members – Discounted tickets $18.75
Non-Members – $25

Whether you love or loathe networking, this event will give you the strategies, confidence, and clarity to make every connection count.

Book now – spaces are limited: https://www.whitsundaycoastchamber.com.au/events/build-better-business-connections-conference-preview-event/

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Speakers Dr Julia Evans and Kath Barker. Photo supplied

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Let’s Shape the Future of Airlie Beach Together

The draft Airlie Beach Masterplan is now out for community feedback and Council would love your input.

This isn’t just a plan on paper. It’s a shared vision for the future of Airlie Beach and a roadmap for how we can create better public spaces, encourage smart investment, and get ready to shine when we host the 2032 Olympic sailing events right here in the Whitsundays.

The draft reflects years of community feedback on what matters most — things like pedestrian safety, shade and tree canopy, parking, green space, and how we activate the Foreshore and Airlie Creek to make the town more liveable, walkable, and vibrant. It’s a bold step forward and sets a long-term direction for Airlie right through to 2050.

But it’s important to understand that this won’t happen overnight. The masterplan is designed to guide future decisions and investment over time. Projects will be prioritised and delivered as funding and resources allow — some sooner, some further down the track.

We want to be clear that the masterplan isn’t a promise that everything will be built tomorrow. However, it is a live, shovel-ready blueprint that puts us in a strong position to attract funding, guide future improvements, and make sure we’re ready to seize big opportunities — like the 2032 Olympics — when they come our way.

Now it’s over to you.

You can explore the plan online at on our Your Say on Council’s website or visit your local Council customer service centre for a printed copy and hardcopy survey. Feedback is open until 17 August.

If you’d rather talk it through face to face our engagement officer has been out and about with the next chance at the Reef Festival markets on Saturday, August 2.

We’re also running a student arts trail competition alongside consultation. Local students are invited to submit ideas for murals, sculptures, signs, or creative landscaping that tell the story of Airlie Beach. There’s a $50 PEC voucher up for grabs, and their ideas could help shape real projects in the years ahead.

Whether you’re a resident, a business owner, a parent, or just someone who loves this town, now’s the time to have your say. This is about building a better future for Airlie Beach, not just for today, but for generations to come.

Let’s shape it together.

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Soft plastics can’t be recycled in your yellow-lidded recycling bin. In fact, placing them in the yellow bin can contaminate the load,  meaning the entire batch might end up in landfill. What a waste!
To check if plastic waste can be recycled, try the scrunch test! Soft plastics can be scrunched into a ball and don’t bounce back (like cling wrap, plastic bags and food wrappers) - these items must go in the waste bin. Hard plastics (like milk bottles, yogurt tubs and shampoo bottles) can be placed in the yellow lidded bin to be recycled into new products.

For more information, search for Let’s Get it Sorted on Council’s website.

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Goodness Gracious the health and lifestyle store has been quietly nourishing the local community with natural remedies, wellness essentials and alternative products that can be hard to find elsewhere.

Stepping into the store, visitors are met with an impressive selection of Ayurvedic medicine, medicinal mushrooms, herbal teas, and supplements, from magnesium, zinc in liquid colloidal form to black seed and oregano oils, known for their immune and digestive support. Popular products like castor oil and bone broth reflect a growing interest in holistic healing, with the store offering education and advice to match.

Current owner Jackie Movigliatti said the health industry has boomed in the last few years, and the store has an opportunity for growth. Jackie has run the shop for the past three years and said the experience has been both educational and rewarding.

Beyond health, shoppers will find organic pantry staples, raw local honey, eco-friendly cleaning products, Celtic sea salt, crystals, and essential oils. A corner of the shop is also devoted to festival fashion, with flowing linen, cotton wear, and vibrant pieces brought in especially for events like Mushroom Valley and Flametree Gathering.

Originally opened as a health store, the business expanded into clothing and giftware and has become a unique blend of wellness, lifestyle and creativity.

Jackie is now preparing to return to her passion for yoga and relocate to an ashram. She’s seeking a new owner to continue the store’s legacy. “There’s so much more potential here, especially for someone passionate about natural health.”

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Jackie Movigliatti owner of Goodness Gracious. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Most people are about to receive their annual super statement to 30th June 2025.  The annual returns have been around the long-term average, between 6% and 10% depending on which portfolio you are in and how much risk or volatility you’re comfortable with.

This year’s returns are around average, but they do fluctuate from year to year.  For the previous three years they were typically 2% to 4% higher and the 2021 Financial Year was boomer at around 20% to 30%. These returns sound great but don’t forget that there was very little return in 2019 and 2020 on the back of the COVid pandemic.  When you sit down with a Financial Planner and get some advice about your super and finances, you learn that there are more than just default Industry Super Funds.  Other types of more sophisticated super accounts include Retail Funds and Self-Managed Super Funds.

Retail Super Funds are where you decide to purchase a fund from a product provider, usually with guidance from a Financial Planner.  Modern retail Super Wrap offerings have thousands of investment choices.  Care and guidance need to be taken to ensure your portfolio of investments is well structured with such a huge choice.  This choice enables your portfolio to be customized to say protect against market downturns if you are drawing a pension or to screen out investments with questionable ethical or environmental credentials if that’s your preference.  These may suit people with higher balances or who are making larger contributions and want more control and flexibility around investment options and the potential tax savings on transferring to pension phase after age 60.

Self-Managed Super Funds are where you set up your own super fund, usually with up to 3 other family members so you can pool your funds to invest.  SMSF’s offer the most investment choices and flexibility, including direct property, but they are expensive.   The ATO suggests the minimum balance to justify the set up and ongoing costs with a SMSF is $500,000.  Purchasing a direct property in a SMSF comes with even more costs so it is generally only for those with very large balances or used for business premises.  There are significant compliance requirements and most SMSF’s are paying administrators, tax agents, auditors and financial planners each year.

The key with super is to ensure you have a fund that matches where you are in your financial journey and not something that you fell into or suited where you were years ago.

For a free consultation with local people who understand the complexities of these or any other financial matter, contact Eclipse Financial Planning at Cannonvale on 49467359 today, email whitsunday@eclipsefp.com.au or visit www.eclipsefp.com.au

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• Don’t forget anything!
• Receipts for work-related deductions.
• Logbooks for phone usage & motor vehicle.
• Rental property income and expenses.
• Records for all investment changes throughout the year (i.e., crypto and shares buy and sell).

Make an appointment to see one of our experienced tax Accountant’s today – 07 4948 4444.

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"Do I really need a will?" – Yes. Yes, you do.

It’s not just about who gets the air fryer. A good will ensures your wishes are followed and makes things easier for the people you leave behind. Without one things can get messy, fast. And not the fun kind of messy.

At Whitsunday Law, we walk you through the process step by step. Whether it’s your first will or time for an update, we’ll make it straightforward and stress-free.

Because your estate shouldn’t be left to chance (or to a dodgy online form).

Whitsunday Law – Planning ahead so your kids don’t fight later.

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Bowen State High School came alive with colour, culture, and community spirit on Friday, the 18th of July, as students, staff, families and community partners gathered to celebrate NAIDOC Week.

The day began with a heartfelt Welcome to Country and traditional smoking ceremony, led by Juru Elder Uncle Jimmy Gaston and accompanied by traditional Aboriginal dancers. Student representatives proudly raised the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags in a special flag-raising ceremony.

To commemorate 50 Years of NAIDOC, the school also introduced its inaugural academic and citizenship awards, named in honour of the late Aunty Cecelia Upkett and Mr Darryl Paul — two cherished figures who played significant cultural roles within the school community.

Principal Robert Harris welcomed all attendees, acknowledging the strength of community partnerships and the school’s ongoing support for First Nations students.

“Bowen State High School is about empowering students to realise their full potential, including nurturing the next generation to flourish and thrive and to be the Elders of tomorrow,” Mr Harris said.

“We do this by providing high quality teaching and learning, a culturally safe, respectful and responsible environment and leaning into our vision to strengthening relationships with First Nations students, families and communities.”

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins attended the event and praised the school’s leadership.

“Congratulations to Mr Harris and the Bowen SHS team for putting on such a meaningful event and continuing to champion reconciliation and equity in our community,” he said.

The celebration featured hands-on cultural activities, including palm frond weaving, traditional games, Indigenous arts and crafts, and a traditional Kup Muri feast, complete with meats, vegetables, damper, and a specially made NAIDOC cake.

The celebration holds a special place on the school calendar, with the entire day dedicated to reflection, celebration, and unity.

“The celebration is an important event on the school calendar. Bowen High dedicates an entire school day for celebration, reflection and an opportunity to come together as one to honour the enduring strength and spirit of First Nations culture,” Mr Harris said.

The 2025 NAIDOC Week celebrations were made possible through support from the National Indigenous Australian Agency, North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation, Pacific National, AURIZON, Bowen Meat Supplies, and members of the Juru Elders and First Nations families.

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Staff and students of Bowen State High School enjoyed a wonderful NAIDOC celebration last week (Photo Supplied)

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