Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Local tourism operators are expressing concern toward troubling times ahead, with the federal government’s new visa restrictions set to shrink the backpacker workforce that drives seasonal operations. The Federal Government’s proposed cuts to Working Holiday Visas have raised concerns across two of the Whitsundays’ biggest industries. Bowen farmers warned that fewer backpackers could leave crops unpicked, and now tourism leaders in Airlie Beach have added that the same cuts could leave local businesses scrambling to find workers that aren’t there. At Airlie Beach’s Heart of the Great Barrier Reef sign, Tourism Whitsundays CEO Tim Booth and Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins spoke about what the proposed changes could mean for a region that relies heavily on tourism. “We can't have Airlie Beach named Australia's top tourism town in the small category and then have the knees cut out from us by federal policy,” Tim said. The proposed changes form part of the Federal Government’s effort to reduce migration, a topic that has been of hot debate by all three parties that Mayor Ry Collins believes the working holiday visas should be separated from. “Obviously the federal government is really coming in with broad brushstrokes to try and address the publicly perceived issue around net overseas migration (NOM),” said Mayor Collins. “Some of the dialogue I heard last week in Canberra was actually taking that working holiday maker class completely out of the NOM calculation. “I think that's a fair and reasonable way that they can make the numbers look as good as they want but it won't affect the actual number of workers that are here to support our industries.” The new restrictions look to cut the second-year extension on Working Holiday Visas from 57,000 to 45,000 slots, and 3rd year extension from 31,000 to just 5,000. According to Tourism Whitsundays, the Whitsundays hosts about 3,500 backpacker workers at any given time of the year. “I think for regions like the Whitsunday’s unemployment rate is lower than the national average by 0.9%, so at a 3.5% unemployment rate, we just don't have the workforce there that can pick up these roles that the working holidaymaker delivers for our communities,” Tim said. According to figures released by Tourism Whitsundays, in the year ending March 2026, domestic visitors spent $959.1 million in the region and international visitors spent a further $271.8 million. This spending was made possible by the abundance of workers delivering those experiences. “[Working holidaymakers] do a terrific job already in delivering world-class experiences, particularly here in the Whitsundays,” said Mayor Collins. “We do see working holidaymakers really take up that mantle, particularly in areas like customer service roles, hospitality roles, housekeeping roles... “What we're asking for is that we can stay strong as an entire tourism industry.” Having just returned from Canberra, the pair said raising regional and statewide voices is crucial to persuading the Federal Government to reconsider how the proposed restrictions would apply. “And then at a federal level, obviously through our federal member Andrew Wilcox, but we've also engaged with the members of the Labor Party around that as well. “But unfortunately it's starting to feel like a number of issues that we're campaigning on…along with things like disaster recovery funding arrangements which was one we linked into last week.” Photo caption: Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins and CEO of Tourism Whitsundays, Tim Booth. Photo credit: Zach Houtenville
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In this world of AI and other technological advancements, you don’t want to be the person who wanders around the office like a big old clumsy Tyrannosaurus Rex bumping into all the youngsters and stepping on their laptops and other devices. It’s one of the challenges of our times; getting the balance right in business in a world that is increasingly controlled by AI, robotics and a rapidly changing IT environment. I remember, some years ago now, when older family members had refused to embrace computer technology and mobile phones etc. They were really left behind and felt excluded in a world that had moved ahead without them. I’ve got a 19-year-old son who doesn’t have to think about it. Current and evolving technology is part of his life and, like others in his age group, he is completely at ease with something that is just part of his make-up and comprehension of the world around him. The trap you can fall into is letting the kids do all the IT stuff for you. My son set up our old TV with all the streaming services etc, which was the easy option for me, but I find it’s important to get involved and do it yourself otherwise everything will move ahead and you won’t be able to do things for yourself. But I am still stuck in some of the old ways. If I am ordering a takeaway meal I still ring the restaurant and go and pick it up. The old T-Rex wanders into the Thai or Indian joint and picks up his plastic bag of goodies, pays, and drives home. There aren’t many of us left. Uber Eats baby. Everyone has embraced it. My wife and daughter were having dinner together in Brisbane recently and my daughter noticed that her stockings or tights had “run” or a ladder in them. My wife suggested she jump in the car and drive to a nearby supermarket and get another pair. But my daughter ordered a new pair to be delivered to the restaurant by Uber. They were there in a jiffy and the night continued without the pesky interruption of having to leave the restaurant to buy them. It’s a great example of the modern world making things easier and how many of us need to ensure we are adjusting and understanding how things can now be done. There is another side to the coin, however. People have told me that I should get AI to write my columns. They say I could give it some examples of columns I have written and give it an idea for a new column and tell it to knock out 600 words on my chosen topic in my style of writing. It’s something I would never do. Apart from the fact that it would somehow seem like I was cheating, it would also not be authentic. I feel that however boring or pedestrian my stories and comments are, at least they are mine. They have come from my noggin, my experiences. It is my take on the world, not something that has been cobbled together by artificial intelligence. It’s similar in the world of real estate and, I’m sure, business generally. You need to embrace the technology, use it when it creates a better service, a superior experience for buyers and a better result for sellers. But there is still a place for picking up the phone and calling buyers, following up from open homes, doing the hard work that needs to be done as an agent. In a world of AI, robotics and Uber Everything the human element, the person-to-person connection still needs to happen to deliver good service and create the best result for clients.
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Maisy is a beautiful little soul who seems to understand that the very best place in the world is right beside someone she loves. She is affectionate, gentle, social and wonderfully trusting. She loves curling up on a welcoming lap, snuggling into your arms and settling close enough to make you feel as though you have always belonged together. Maisy is generous with her purrs, her cuddles and her sweet little air biscuits. She even places her paw in your hand as if to say, “I choose you.” But this gorgeous girl is not only a champion snuggler. Maisy is playful, curious and full of kitten joy. She loves exploring her toys, chasing anything that moves and turning ordinary moments into entertainment. She will happily amuse herself, but everything is even more fun when her favourite person joins in. She has that perfect combination of affection and personality, soft and loving when it is time to cuddle, and playful and bright when it is time for fun. Maisy will bring warmth to your home, companionship to your days and a little paw to hold whenever you need it. If you are looking for a kitten who will play with you, curl up with you and love being part of your life, Maisy may be the girl you have been waiting for. Maisy has been desexed, microchipped, received her first vaccination, been wormed and is litter trained. She is ready to begin her beautiful new life as a much-loved indoor companion. To arrange a meet and greet with Maisy, please call Ros on 0403 814 318.
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Tarren McAuley, Web Director and Co-Owner I remember when those AI posters started popping up – the first one looked kinda different. By the end of the week, when I’d seen 30 of them, I was much less enamoured + actively scrolled past anything that had that telltale paint smear style font. It’s not that the quality had gotten any worse between me seeing that first one + when I was sick of them by the 30th. But it was no longer novel or original. I think AI is especially susceptible to this because as soon as someone discovers a winning formula, everyone else jumps on the bandwagon, but because everyone is getting similar outputs, it gets old – quick. I think brands can fall into a similar trap. Humans are always looking for inspiration + when seeking it out, where better to look than the other players in your field. If you’re a tech company, you’re going to look at Samsung, Apple + the like. But when that happens too much, you get a feedback loop of samey-ness. For me, this is best exemplified by airline logos. Look at Qantas + Virgin, probably the two biggest brands in Australia. Both use a red plane-like icon, w/ their logo in big letters next to it. Bit cherry picked but even the other big players’ logos are similar - Emirates uses mainly red + shakes it up by having a slightly more exotic font. Jetstar ditches the red for orange + has their icon at the end but it has similar visual markers. This isn’t unique to logos, like w/ the poster example earlier – it could be your social tiles, your website or even your company email sig. Whatever it is, if you wake up one day + notice that the other businesses around you are looking a bit too similar, that should be your sign to start looking at a rebrand to shake off the rust + re-establish your unique identity. You know, until the cycle repeats again!
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Photo supplied
Bird’s Fish Bar is becoming more than just a local spot for fresh seafood and fish and chips — it’s also becoming one of Bowen’s most unique waterfront function spaces.
The newly expanded dining area offers a relaxed coastal atmosphere perfect for gatherings of all sizes. From intimate baby showers and birthdays to corporate functions, Christmas parties, weddings, wakes and community events, the space can be tailored to suit both casual and formal occasions.
Located right on Bowen Marina, the bar is home to stunning views of the bay, boasting some of Bowen’s most vibrant and stunning coastal scenery. As the sun sets over the water and fishing boats drift through the marina, the venue transforms into a truly memorable setting that captures the relaxed spirit of North Queensland living.
With fresh local seafood at the heart of the menu, guests can enjoy everything from grazing platters and seafood smorgasbords to casual fish and chip style catering, offering something for everyone. Freshly caught local produce and a genuine paddock-and-ocean-to-plate approach add to the experience, giving guests a real taste of the region. The licensed bar, waterfront views and indoor/outdoor dining options create the perfect setting for locals and visitors alike to celebrate special moments.
As a third-generation family-owned business, Bowen’s Fish Bar pride themselves on creating a welcoming and authentic Bowen experience while showcasing the best seafood our region has to offer. Their passion for local hospitality and connection to the community shines through in every event, creating an atmosphere that feels both personal and memorable.
This is more than just a food and drink venue; it is a wonderful experience that brings together the best aspects of Bowen – its beauty, charm and laid-back vibe. Guests can relax with the sea breeze, enjoy fresh seafood straight from local waters, and soak in the vibrant marina atmosphere that makes Bowen such a special destination.
Whether it’s a long lunch, a business gathering, or a milestone celebration, Bird’s Fish Bar offers a unique “boat-to-plate” experience that combines fresh local seafood, relaxed hospitality and one of Bowen’s best marina views.
Burdekin Member Dale Last with Queensland Premier David Crisafulli Photo source: Facebook
Member for Burdekin Dale Last has issued his response to the 2026/2027 Federal Budget, stating the Burdekin’s farmers, motorists, resource workers, families and small businesses had every right to feel disappointed.
“The Burdekin’s major industries have been economic powerhouses, not only for our state but our nation and the hardworking men and women in those sectors have every right to feel like they have been treated like cash cows,” Mr Last said.
“Looking across the state, there is no new infrastructure funding and an attempt by the federal government to turn their backs on a funding agreement to provide the crucial safety upgrades we need for the Bruce Highway.”
“The Crisafulli Government fought hard to reinstate the 80-20 funding deal with the federal government for the nationally recognised highway after it fell by the wayside under the former Labor state government.”
“The Bruce Highway is an artery to the beating heart of industries that drive our nation’s economy and in the North we have called for a co-ordinated approach to back the investment that artery needs, yet the federal budget fell short of this.”
Mr Last said the hit for regional communities didn’t stop at the highway with $21.4 million cut from regional communications and a key federal program supporting feral pest eradication projects stripped of funding from 2027/2028.
“Our major industries deserve to have federal government support reflecting the contribution they give to our nation’s economy, be it funding to manage biosecurity risks, having reliable communications or safer roads to connect our paddocks to export markets.
“At a time of uncertainty rather than showing leadership, the federal government has placed more pressure on our essential services, our housing and current infrastructure, leaving Queensland to do more with less.”
Bowen Tourism and Business team members, Cindy and Glenn and volunteers Kim and Ray at the Townsville Expo on the weekend. Photo supplied
Bowen and the greater Whitsunday region was well represented at the Townsville Caravan, 4x4 and Outdoor Adventure Expo on the weekend.
Two team members from Bowen Tourism and Business, Glenn Womal and Cindy Tonks, attended the show, along with two volunteers, Kim and Ray Tannock.
Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said caravan and camping shows provided a great opportunity to speak to people about what our region has to offer.
“Whenever we attend these expos, we talk to thousands of people, and they get to ask specific questions and hear real stories from local people.
“The face-to-face contact with these potential visitors is invaluable in promoting our region to potential travellers,” she said.
Bowen’s Visitor Services Co-ordinator, Glenn Womal said many people at the expo had already been to Bowen and were planning to visit again.
“Many people said how much they loved our town.
“Others said they were considering coming to Bowen and after speaking to the team, their mind had been made up.
“It was also a great opportunity to connect with other information centres, all proudly showcasing the many fantastic destinations across Queensland.”
Bowen Tourism and Business is a not-for-profit organisation promoting Bowen and the greater Whitsunday region and operating the Bowen Visitor Information Centre next to the Big Mango.
Contributed with thanks to Bowen Tourism and Business
This week is National Road Safety Week and it is an important reminder for all of us that every decision we make behind the wheel matters.
Last week, our region was shaken by another tragic bus crash on the Bruce Highway near Gumlu which was a devastating incident that claimed a life and left many others injured.
My thoughts remain with the victims, their families, loved ones, and all those impacted by this heartbreaking event.
As Mayor, I also want to acknowledge the extraordinary efforts of our first responders including Whitsunday Regional Council road crews, who were called in to assist Queensland Police with traffic management at the scene from Thursday evening through to Friday morning.
Our crews worked tirelessly through the night, providing traffic control, advance signage, fatigue-managed shift changes, safety assessments and ongoing site monitoring to help emergency services respond safely and efficiently.
Their professionalism during such confronting circumstances reflects the vital role local government crews play in supporting our communities during times of crisis.
Sadly, incidents like this are a sobering reminder that road trauma can happen anywhere, at any time.
Road safety should not be a political discussion. It’s about people, safety, and making sure regional communities are not forgotten.
The Bruce Highway is a nationally significant road carrying families, tourists, freight, workers and essential services across vast distances and challenging North Queensland conditions.
In recent years, our region has experienced a number of major incidents, including serious bus crashes, and these tragedies reinforce what many locals already know — the Bruce Highway through our region needs to be prioritised through sustained, targeted safety investment.
That investment must be more than pothole repairs and basic maintenance.
We need to see critical safety upgrades prioritised across North Queensland, including additional overtaking lanes, road widening, improved guardrails, better wildlife management, safer intersections and more rest areas to help manage driver fatigue.
These are the kinds of practical safety improvements that save lives, and regional Queensland deserves the same level of focus and investment that is often seen in the south east.
Regional communities should not have to accept a lower standard of road safety simply because we live outside the south east corner.
I have been advocating strongly for continued investment in the Bruce Highway, and we are beginning to see important progress through upgrades already underway at Goorganga Plains and Hamilton Plains.
We acknowledge and appreciate the commitments already being made by both State and Federal Governments, but we must continue working constructively to ensure future upgrades are prioritised where they are needed most.
Regional Queensland contributes enormously to the national economy through tourism, agriculture, resources and freight. Investing in safer, more resilient highways is not just a local issue — it is an investment in the future of Queensland and Australia.
This week, I encourage everyone to take the road safety pledge: drive so others survive.
Together, we can honour lives lost, support those affected, and continue advocating for safer roads across the Whitsundays and North Queensland.
Photo supplied
Since launching in January 2023, Team Kerr (Ellen and Bek Kerr) has quickly built a reputation for delivering personalised, professional, and caring real estate services across the Whitsundays. Specialising in residential property sales, the business was founded after 18 years of local industry experience with a vision to raise the standard of customer service in real estate.
For Team Kerr, the motivation to establish their own business came from a desire to offer clients something more genuine and relationship-driven. By combining industry expertise with “old-fashioned” personal service, the team set out to create a real estate experience that prioritises trust, communication, and results for both sellers and buyers.
The local property market continues to see strong growth, largely driven by a shortage of available homes. While this creates positive opportunities for sellers, it has also intensified competition for buyers entering the market. In response, Team Kerr has positioned itself as a high-service agency offering premium support while maintaining competitive commission rates of less than two per cent.
As business owners, Team Kerr believes success comes down to a few simple principles: follow your passion, invest in your people, and support your local community. These values continue to guide the business as it grows and evolves.
Being part of the Chamber of Commerce also plays an important role in the business. Team Kerr values the networking opportunities, local connections, and ability to stay informed about regional developments — all of which are essential in an industry built on relationships and community engagement.
Learn more about Team Kerr Real Estate: www.oneagencyglobal.com
Contributed with thanks to the Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry
National Reconciliation Week will take place from 27th May to 3rd June. Photo source: Facebook
The Whitsunday Regional Council is celebrating Reconciliation Week with a free community event at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre on Thursday 28th May at 9.30am. The event will include a flag raising ceremony, welcome to country, traditional smoking ceremony, student speakers and morning tea for all.
National Reconciliation Week takes place across the country from the 27th May to 3rd June, commemorating two significant milestones in the reconciliation journey; firstly the 1967 referendum that formerly recognised Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as part of the population by amending the constitution. Prior to this, First Nations Australians were excluded from the constitution, allowing the government to create independent policies, resulting in mass dispossession and a legal right to remove children from their families.
The second milestone is the 1992 Mabo decision. When the British arrived in Australia in the late 18th century, they ruled the land was ‘terra nullius’ meaning it belonged to no one despite the existence of the indigenous population that had lived on the land for at least 65,000 years. In the landmark case Mabo v Queensland (No.2), the High Court ruled that the assertion of terra nullius was false and that First Nations Australians had prior rights to the land.
This year’s theme is All In, which calls for Australians to commit to reconciliation every day. The theme is a reminder that reconciliation and advancing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island peoples’ rights isn’t a passive activity and is not solely the responsibility of First Nations people but all the community.
The 2026 campaign was created in collaboration with Carbon Creative, a First Nations-owned and operated marketing and creative agency. The artwork for the national campaign was created by renowned Gumbaynggirr/Bundjalung artist Otis Hope Carey.
The Prevention Council hopes that opening discussion will encourage community support, an essential factor in tackling the issue of domestic and family violence. Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi
Queensland’s Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Council met with Whitsunday stakeholders on Thursday 14th May to explore opportunities to better understand local drivers of harm and tailor prevention strategies that reflect these factors.
The Prevention Council is co-chaired by former Police Commissioner Mr Bob Atkinson AO APM and Ms Vanessa Fowler OAM, the sister of the late Allison Baden-Clay who was murdered by her husband in 2012.
Working at a grassroots level with the community, the Prevention Council has a leadership role in bringing about positive cultural change and mobilising action around primary prevention of domestic and family violence.
Primary prevention is about stopping violence before it starts. It focuses on creating a society where respect, equality, and healthy relationships are the norm.
Mr Atkinson said, “We know that behaviours that contribute to domestic violence can start small — a sexist joke here, a degrading comment there. When left unchallenged, they contribute to a toxic culture that feeds a cycle of violence and abuse. This culture does not happen overnight — it is shaped by the beliefs and behaviours we see and accept around us. To truly prevent violence, we need to challenge these harmful social norms and replace them with ones that promote respect and equality.”
Ms Fowler added, “Social norms are the unwritten rules that shape how we behave and interact with each other. They influence what we see as acceptable or unacceptable and are often so deeply ingrained that we might not even realise they exist. However, if we think about some of the significant behaviour changes we have seen in our lives — from drink driving to wearing seatbelts — we can see how community attitudes have shifted over time. These were anti-social behaviours that put lives at risk. That is where we need to be with domestic and family violence — completely unacceptable in any context.”
The roundtable discussion included representatives from Whitsunday Counselling and Support Services, Whitsunday Regional Council, Queensland Police, and the Rotary Club. It followed a candlelight vigil hosted earlier this month by Whitsunday Counselling and Support Services to mark the beginning of Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month.
State MP Amanda Camm voiced her gratitude at the work being done to support the issue across the region.
“As Minister for Domestic and Family Violence, I welcome the DFV Prevention Council and stakeholders visiting the Whitsundays to continue these important conversations around domestic and family violence prevention.
“Bringing together local organisations, frontline services and community leaders is an important step in understanding the unique challenges facing our region and identifying ways we can work together to strengthen prevention efforts and support safer communities.”
The conversation on Thursday was just the beginning of what the Prevention Council hopes will become a whole-of-community approach across the Whitsunday local government area, involving individuals, families, workplaces, schools, sporting clubs, religious institutions, business leaders, community organisations, and government representatives working together to deliver coordinated and concentrated prevention activities across all settings.
Photo sourced from Facebook
A lucky kookaburra is preparing to return to the wild after a dramatic rescue effort brought together local wildlife carers and a compassionate community.
Last Friday, the injured bird was discovered by local resident “Farmer Joe,” who quickly stepped in to help and delivered the kookaburra to Orchid Valley Vet for urgent care. Thanks to his quick thinking, the bird’s life was saved.
Fauna Rescue Whitsundays Species Liaison Officer for birds, Kelly Dalling Fallon, has since been caring for the recovering kookaburra and praised Joe’s actions.
“Thank you so much for saving this one’s life,” Kelly said.
Under Kelly’s care, the iconic Australian bird has recovered well and is expected to soon return to its natural home among the gum trees.
Stories like this are a timely reminder of the role residents play in protecting the wildlife that surrounds the Whitsundays - from rescuing injured animals to supporting local wildlife organisations, small acts of kindness can make a life-saving difference.
With continued community support and awareness, hopefully many more animals will be given the same second chance to spread their wings and return home where they belong.
Yesterday, Belle Property held a public fundraiser to support local mum Fern Wilson, who is living with stage 4 metastatic breast cancer.
The event featured food, drinks, face painting, and a raffle, all aimed at raising funds and showing the community’s support for Fern during this difficult time. It was a wonderful occasion filled with laughter, generosity, and strong community spirit.
Stock Image used
A single-vehicle bus crash has sadly claimed the life of one passenger at Gumlu, north of Bowen overnight.
According to initial police investigations, at approximately 4pm on Thursday 14th May, a bus with 29 people on board was travelling south along the Bruce Highway from Cairns to Airlie Beach, when it left the roadway and rolled onto its side.
Several other passengers were injured and transported to Townsville, Ayr, and Bowen Hospitals. The bus driver, a 70-year-old Mackay man, was transported to Bowen Hospital with minor injuries.
As of Friday morning, three patients are confirmed to be in a life-threatening condition with one assessed on the scene and two airlifted to Townsville University Hospital.
Multiple people were injured and transported to Ayr Hospital before being airlifted to Townsville University Hospital by Royal Flying Doctor’s Service.
There are eight stable patients in Townsville whilst one remains in a stable condition at Ayr.
The Bruce Highway has reopened at Gumlu.
This tragic accident comes less than two years after a fatal bus crash on the same stretch of the Bruce Highway, which claimed the lives of three women in on June 3rd, 2024.
On this occasion, a Greyhound bus with 33 people on board was travelling north along the Bruce Highway, also near Gumlu, when it crossed over to the wrong side of the road and into oncoming traffic.
The bus struck a Land Cruiser station wagon travelling in the opposite direction.
A 56 year old Townsville woman and two German women aged 21 and 33 passed away as a result of the incident.
The 52-year-old bus driver from North Ward was charged with five counts of dangerous operation of a vehicle causing death or grievous bodily harm, but was subsequently found not guilty.
Anyone with relevant dash cam vision of incident last night is urged to contact police.
Investigations are continuing
The thing about the property market is that it doesn’t stand alone in its own little world untouched by the drama going on around it.
And there is a fair bit of drama at the moment. Let’s get all the dramas to form a conga line and point them out one at a time.
First there’s inflation, an annoying factor that adds to the cost of living and affects people’s ability to buy real estate.
Right behind inflation, and I mean very close, is its brother in arms/partner in crime/long-time bedfellow, interest rates. Interest rates have been particularly pesky lately as the Reserve Bank pushes them up in an attempt to bring inflation down. The idea is to make housing less affordable so you can make housing more affordable.
Then there’s a war in the Middle East. War is very good for business if you are a weapons producer and part of the military-industrial complex but it’s not very good for everyone else. It certainly isn’t good for confidence and housing markets are pretty big on the old confidence factor. So, not good.
This particular war has the additional benefit of taking place in the Persian Gulf, where a fair portion of the world’s oil is transported from Middle East oil producers to the rest of the world. The war has created a traffic jam in the Strait of Hormuz, which is restricting the supply of oil, meaning that in a world of demand and supply the price of fuel at the petrol bowser has gone up significantly. Which means our old friends inflation and interest rates give us another wave from the conga line and remind us of another impact on the property market.
The conga line of dramas was joined this week by the Federal Budget and its changes to negative gearing, up until now a key driver in property investment and the supply of rental properties.
Nothing changes for people who had negatively geared properties up until Budget night. My Pommy colleague Andy Collins, the Sales Manager at Gardian real estate, pointed out after the Budget that there was no way the changes would include investors’ existing properties because too many politicians own investment properties and the pollies wouldn’t do anything to hurt themselves. It’s up to you whether you think Andy is a sniping little Pommy whinger or an astute judge of human nature. Or can he be both?
What Andy correctly pointed out is that from now on investors will be looking for properties that provide such good rental returns that they are positively geared, removing the need for negative gearing.
That’s where Mackay’s strong rental returns come into it. Investors from southern markets have been active in the Mackay market because of those rental returns. When they can get returns like $750 a week on properties they have bought for $650,000, those southern investors realise Mackay offers better opportunities than the high-priced, low-rent options in their own cities.
Andy was suggesting that it is possible that the budget changes will spur even more investment activity in Mackay because the removal of negative gearing makes investments in other markets unviable.
I will delve further into the status of the Mackay market in upcoming columns but there are a few initial points to make.
There is no doubt that, like every other market, the conga line of dramas has had an impact and given buyers pause for thought. But we are still seeing strong buyer activity and properties selling.
As always, the buoyancy of our coal market and the jobs and business it provides will continue to be a driver of our economy and a key factor in the property market.
Will the budget changes create an additional spur to our market and bring more investors in or is that conga line going to have a bigger impact? Stay tuned over the coming months.
With more than three decades of experience and deep roots in the land, Royce Dunn brings unmatched insight to rural property across the Mackay region.
Joining Blacks Real Estate in 1991, Royce is a licensed real estate agent and auctioneer, who has spent the past 25 years as Director leading the agency’s rural department. Over that time, he has built a strong reputation for his knowledge across all areas of property sales and marketing, from farmhouses and grazing land to residential subdivisions.
Coming from a rural background and operating his own small farm, Royce understands the realities of life on the land, and the expectations that come with it. That lived experience allows him to connect with clients on a practical level, offering advice that is grounded, honest and tailored to the needs of farming families.
Known for his straightforward approach and strong work ethic, Royce is committed to delivering results, working closely with clients to navigate the complexities of rural property transactions and achieve the best possible outcome.
From wildlife caring, to country kitchens or supporting people with disability – a world of volunteering opportunities awaits at this year’s Volunteer Expo!
This year’s event is set to be one of the biggest on record, with 55 community, support and other organisations have registered.
The Volunteer Expo is being held at the Mackay Showgrounds on Sunday, May 17 from 9am until midday.
Deputy Mayor Karen May said volunteering is at the heart of sustainable and supportive communities.
“There are so many benefits to volunteering – from the people and organisations being supported, to those who so generously donate their time and skills. It increases community and individual wellbeing and drives positive change in the community,” Deputy Mayor May said.
“What’s great about events like our Volunteers Expo is it gives people a one-stop shop to see what’s out there – and it could be something you’d never thought of,” she said.
“Feedback from previous years shows how valuable this expo is to our community groups, with one organisation signing up more than a dozen volunteers on the day.”
Data from Volunteering Queensland shows that for every $1 invested in volunteering, there’s a $4.70 return to the community.
More than 110,000 jobs were created in 2024 through spending on volunteering – with the sector worth more than $117-billion to the state economy.
Cr May said volunteering gives people to build on their passions while learning new skills and meeting new people.
“It also opens up opportunities beyond the organisation a person volunteers with – it can help build new professional relationships and create new connections,” she said.
“Data from Volunteering Queensland shows the overwhelming majority of people (64 percent) volunteer because they want to help others and the Volunteers Expo has dozens of options for people to help others.
Entry to the Mackay Volunteer Expo is free.
For more information, visit the event page on Facebook
Last week the Whitsunday Counselling and Support organisation hosted their annual Candle Lighting Ceremony in Cannonvale to mark the beginning of Domestic and Family Violence Prevention month.
Each May, the annual initiative aims to raise awareness of domestic and family violence and coercive control. The theme for 2026’s DFV month is: Together Queenslanders can prevent domestic and family violence.
The event saw attendance from Mayor Ry Collins, Cr Jan Clifford and representatives from the Whitsunday Police Station and Whitsunday Counselling and Support.
An acknowledgement of country was provided by Vicky Brimble (Koa Banburi) with music performed by Nicke Di Gregorio.
Manager of Counselling Services at Whitsunday Counselling and Support Sharon Parker presented a powerful speech as she memorialised those lost, and put forward a call to action.
“In our commemoration today, I would ask you to not just think about these deaths as statistics, but to reflect on the people behind the statistics,” Sharon said.
“These were real people, with lives that mattered. They mattered.”
Clothes were displayed to mark the individuals who tragically lost their lives to domestic violence. A list was provided of individuals across Australia who had lost their lives to domestic and family violence over the past two years, with many of the cases still ongoing.
“This is not a comfortable thing to do,” Sharon said.
“I know that whilst compiling this list I got emotional thinking about the victims. However, commemoration is important, as without discomfort, we are rarely moved enough emotionally to make change.”
Sharon defined domestic and family violence, to improve awareness across the region.
“Domestic and family violence is behaviour that occurs between people who are, or have been, in a domestic or family relationship. It is not just physical violence. It can include abuse that is emotional, financial or sexual. Tragically, it can have fatal consequences.”
The speech touched on societal factors that contribute to domestic and family violence.
“We did not arrive here suddenly. This harm has been shaped over time by gender inequality, rigid power structures and attitudes that have normalised control, silence and excuse making,” Sharon shared.
“Misogynistic beliefs and patriarchal standards – when left unchallenged – can normalise control, silence and violence, particularly within homes and relationships.
“Such attitudes can affect women’s safety both at home and in public. Many women live with the risk of domestic and family violence and often are making constant decisions with behaviour, routine or clothes – just to feel safe.”
Sharon has also addressed the impacts of patriarchy and misogyny on men.
“For men it is also harmful. It creates pressure to fit into narrow ideas of masculinity which may discourage men from expressing feelings, showing vulnerability or asking for help. These expectations can negatively affect men’s mental health, relationships and wellbeing. Patriarchy can also limit men’s freedom take on caring roles, seek support or live in ways that don’t fit traditional gender stereotypes.”
Sharon then put forward a call to action, advising community members on how they could show their support.
“Each of us has a role to play. Speaking up matters. We must all challenge sexist or violent language. Refusing to make excuses matters. Listening, believing and supporting survivors matters. Changes comes when individuals choose to reject attitudes that devalue, dismiss or endanger others.
“So today, I challenge you with this call to action. I challenge you to reflect on how you view domestic and family. I challenge you to examine everyday behaviours, attitudes and conversations – and to choose to do better. Real change happens when individuals are willing to challenge what feels familiar and take responsibility for creating safer, more respectful relationships and communities.”
Following on from the vigil on Thursday 14th, a roundtable was led by the DFV Prevention Council at Shute Harbour Marine Terminal. The stakeholder roundtable focused on domestic and family violence (DFV) primary prevention, with a strong emphasis on community-led approaches and collaboration across the region.
The session brought together a range of local leaders and stakeholders, including representatives from council, police, community services and state agencies, to discuss opportunities for strengthening prevention efforts across communities including Airlie Beach/Cannonvale, Proserpine and Bowen.
The focus was to identify local drivers of DFV, map community strengths and resources and explore practical, place-based solutions to help prevent violence before it starts.
If you or someone you know is in a dangerous or life-threatening situation, call Triple Zero (000). If you don’t want to speak to the police you can also call DV Connect on 1800 811 811 or 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732 (24 hours, 7 days a week). You can also go to the Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month website for more details and support.
Australia Post and Beyond Blue are encouraging Mackay region residents to reconnect with loved ones through the nationwide Connection Postcards campaign, which this year celebrates the delivery of its 25 millionth postcard. Photo supplied
Millions of Australians, including households across the Mackay Shire, are being encouraged to reconnect with loved ones as Australia Post and Beyond Blue mark a major milestone in their national Connection Postcards campaign.
This month, four million prepaid postcards are being delivered to letterboxes across the country, with Queensland receiving more than 824,000 cards as part of the initiative aimed at tackling loneliness and social isolation.
The campaign also celebrates two significant milestones, the delivery of the 25 millionth Connection Postcard since the initiative began in 2021, and 25 years of Beyond Blue supporting Australians’ mental health.
Australia Post General Manager Community and Stakeholder Engagement, Nicky Tracey, said the campaign comes at a time when many Australians are feeling increasingly disconnected from their communities.
“More Australians are saying they’re feeling disconnected, and that sense of isolation can have a real impact on wellbeing,” Ms Tracey said.
“This year is particularly exciting as we celebrate 25 years of Beyond Blue supporting Australians’ mental health and deliver the 25 millionth Connection Postcard since the campaign began.
“Connection Postcards are a simple way to reach out, to let someone know you’re thinking of them, and to remind people they’re not alone.”
Recent research from Beyond Blue found only one-third of Australians feel a sense of belonging within their local community, with loneliness and isolation particularly affecting regional and remote areas.
The issue is especially significant for farming communities across regional Queensland, where financial pressures, cost-of-living challenges and extreme weather events continue to impact mental health and wellbeing.
Beyond Blue CEO Georgie Harman AO said simple acts of connection can play a powerful role in supporting mental health.
“Staying connected with others is so important for our mental health, but too many Australians, particularly those in regional and rural communities, are feeling lonely or disconnected,” Ms Harman said.
“Simple, everyday interactions that foster connection, like writing a postcard or saying hello to people in our neighbourhood, are some of the most effective ways to support mental wellbeing and strengthen the relationships we rely on for our mental health.”
Connection Postcards are available through participating Australia Post outlets and can also be ordered online through Beyond Blue’s Connection campaign page. The campaign encourages Australians to send a handwritten message to a friend, family member or neighbour as a reminder that support and connection matter.
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