Narlyn is a beautiful rescue dog who has found safety in foster care and is now learning what it means to be loved. Affectionate and gentle, she’s waiting for the right family to discover just how special she is. About Narlyn: Sweet-natured and friendly with people Dog-friendly and enjoys the company of other dogs Affectionate and loves being close to her humans Medium energy – enjoys walks and playtime Thriving in foster care with routine and care Narlyn has proven just how resilient and loving she can be. With her gentle personality, she will make a loyal and caring companion for the right family. To meet Narlyn and see if she’s the perfect addition to your home, email bcpri.adoptions@gmail.com.
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Every skin has a story, and The Beauty Room Airlie Beach takes the time to understand it. Blending clinical expertise with a serene, welcoming environment, the focus is on delivering real results for every skin type. “The Beauty Room has been part of the Airlie Beach community for almost 14 years, and being the longest-running beauty salon here is something we’re incredibly proud of.” Current owner Charlotte purchased the business several years ago and has continued to evolve the brand, "the focus for us has really been on growing with our clients and listening to what they have been asking for." That client demand led to the launch of The Beauty Room Skin Clinic, a dedicated space focused on advanced skin treatments. “Opening The Beauty Room Skin Clinic was a natural next step, we wanted a dedicated space that could focus purely on advanced skin treatments.” she added. The clinic has recently introduced a suite of new services using advanced IPL and RF technology. “IPL hair removal is something our clients had been asking for years, so finally being able to offer it has been really exciting.” The custom-built device allows multiple treatments in one platform. “Using one advanced machine, we’re able to effectively treat hair removal, skin tightening, pigmentation, vascular concerns, acne, and photo rejuvenation," Charlotted explained. RF skin tightening has become a standout treatment, "delivering visible results after just one session," Charlotte said. Extensive training underpins the clinic’s high standards. “We spent months working behind the scenes, training staff, refining protocols and making sure everyone was trained to the highest standard.” “Ongoing education is really important to us; we have industry representatives coming up every few months to keep our team up-skilled.” The clinic also ensures that “Every treatment is personalised." Thorough consultations and advanced skin analysis ensure tailored care. The Beauty Room's "advanced skin analysis lets us look beneath the surface, not just what you can see in the mirror.” With a strong commitment to community and sustainability through the use of reusable products where possible, The Beauty Room continues to set a high standard for professional skin care in the Whitsundays.
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By Sharon Ashman Family gatherings can bring warmth, laughter and stress. The holiday period often stirs up old dynamics, differing expectations, and emotional triggers, particularly for families managing mental health challenges. Be aware that alcohol can intensify emotional moments so be mindful of your intake. Adding ice to wine makes it go further for longer. Swapping out light beer for full-strength beer reduces your alcohol intake. Maintaining open communication and healthy boundaries is key. It’s okay to say no, take breaks, or step outside for fresh air if emotions run high. Encouraging empathy and understanding within the family can reduce tension and foster genuine connection. Creating a balanced schedule with time for rest as well as togetherness can supports everyone’s wellbeing. Small gestures, like checking in on how each person is feeling or planning low-stress activities, can go a long way. If conflict or distress arises, remember it’s normal and temporary. Focusing on shared values rather than past disagreements can help shift the mood. Ultimately, holidays are an opportunity to practise compassion, patience, and acceptance for others and for ourselves. Turn your life into living by being your own best friend and enjoy your break. “If you’d like more support, visit my website https://www.personaltransitions.com.au/ or give me a call 0418708214.”
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Scientists have long understood that thriving fish communities are essential for healthy coral reefs. Now, new research has revealed just how important fish are in protecting the Great Barrier Reef from one of its most destructive natural threats: the crown-of-thorns starfish. A major study by Australia’s national science agency, CSIRO, and the Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS) has found that one of the nation’s largest-ever marine conservation efforts has significantly reduced the likelihood of crown-of-thorns starfish (COTS) outbreaks across the Reef. A Natural Predator with Plague Potential Crown-of-thorns starfish are native to the Great Barrier Reef and form part of its natural ecosystem. But under certain conditions, their numbers can explode into plague proportions. When that happens, they become one of the leading causes of coral loss, devouring living coral tissues at a rate that reefs cannot keep up with. For decades, scientists have debated what drives these outbreaks. While many questions remain, evidence is mounting that human activities over the past 40 years have made outbreaks more frequent or more severe. Two leading causes stand out: · Nutrient runoff from land, which boosts phytoplankton levels in the Reef’s lagoon. This provides extra food for larval COTS, improving their survival and resulting in more starfish reaching adulthood. · Overfishing of key predators, such as fish and invertebrates that eat juvenile starfish. Fewer predators mean young COTS have a much greater chance of surviving and growing into adults. Fewer Predators, More Starfish Predatory fish like emperors and groupers are known to feed on crown-of-thorns starfish, playing an important role in controlling their numbers. Recognising this, reef managers acted early. In 2004, major protective measures were introduced to rebuild predatory fish populations. These included increasing no-take zones to 33 per cent of the Reef and tightening fishing regulations. The new study shows just how critical those decisions were. Without them, grouper and emperor numbers would have continued to decline under fishing pressure, creating ideal conditions for increasingly frequent — and potentially continuous — starfish outbreaks. Instead, the protections helped stabilise and rebuild predator populations, restoring an important natural check on COTS. Avoiding a Tipping Point Researchers believe these conservation efforts may have prevented a catastrophic ecological tipping point. Without enough large predatory fish, the Reef could have entered a cycle of ongoing COTS outbreaks, leaving far less living coral and undermining the resilience of the entire ecosystem. Long-term monitoring now confirms the benefits: crown-of-thorns outbreaks occur far less often in protected zones where fish populations are healthier. Science + Management = Results The findings offer powerful evidence that reef protections are working. They also highlight the importance of long-term monitoring programs, which provide the data needed to understand how the Reef is changing and what actions are making a difference. For this, we can thank the ongoing work of CSIRO and AIMS scientists — decades of research that continue to guide reef management today. The Next Big Challenge Protecting fish populations is only part of the solution. To fully safeguard the Great Barrier Reef, we must also improve water quality by reducing nutrient runoff from the land. Cleaner water means fewer phytoplankton blooms — and fewer opportunities for crown-of-thorns starfish to thrive. Healthy fish, healthy water, healthy coral: all three are needed to give the Reef the best chance of survival in a changing world. Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Conservation Council.
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When words fall short, 13-year-old Logan Ivory paints. His art speaks of resilience, identity, and mental health, creating stories that stir emotion, start conversations, and remind us that even the youngest voices can change the way we see the world.
“I use all the colours and shapes, but have a hidden message behind it about the mental health of people,” Logan explained.
“Art can be a way that you can express those feelings and also help other people through art.”
Representing Catherine McAuley College, Logan first won the Mackay University Now to Next award before going on to secure 1st place in the Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Foundation’s (QATSIF) Creative Arts Competition for the same piece. Out of 196 state-wide entries, he was the only Mackay winner.
Describing his winning artwork, Logan said “It had a nice feeling, but also a negative feeling at the same time… anger, sadness, happiness… all of them.”
This year, Logan has also been shortlisted for the Children’s Rights Queensland Award for Outstanding Contribution and Commitment to the Promotion and Advocacy of Children’s Rights in Queensland by a young person or a group of young people.
Despite being diagnosed with autism at age two, alongside anxiety and sensory challenges, he attended therapy three days a week until the age of five, when his speech developed enough for him to enter mainstream schooling.
“He’s always created artwork from around the age of two or three… it was how he could verbalise a feeling,” his mum Corissa said.
“The detail in his drawings started from the age of three or four… we’ve kept heaps of his books over the years… we're very proud.”
Rather than being limited by challenges, Logan has turned them into fuel. He served as a school leader in primary school before stepping up as Mackay’s youngest Youth Council member, and even contributed immensely to initiatives such as Autism Queensland and Walk for Autism.
“I know people that struggle with mental health,” he says.
“It’s fairly hard. It can be a bit difficult… but you just have to stay strong.”
To Logan, art is a universal language.
“It kind of gives them creativity… it warms them up… and that’s how they can also express their feelings to people,” he said.
His dream is to create spaces where art is free and accessible to all.
“I’d like to see people do art for free if they’re poor, so they can express what they’re feeling, then maybe people can understand that feeling and help.”
Proud of his Indigenous heritage, Logan recognises the importance of representing his history, family, and ancestors. But more than that, he advocates for children of all backgrounds to know their worth and embrace opportunities.
“This is super exciting for Logan,” Corissa said.
“It’s nice to see these artworks being appreciated and seen by many.”
At just 13, Logan is already connecting hearts across classrooms, communities, and the state. More than a canvas, his gift carries a mission, to advocate for mental health and the arts, ensuring that everyone feels seen, connected, and empowered through the universal language of art.
"Words can wound deeper than silence, echoing the pain of generations. This piece stands as a reminder that reconciliation begins with truth - in the words we choose the histories we honour, and the voices we uplift. Let us speak not to erase, but to heal." This artwork began with an array of a beautiful splash background, however as I painted the therapy of art evolved into a journey of self-hate, hurt and frustration. An immense amount of emotion was created in this piece. Can you feel it?
Logans award-winning piece. Photos supplied
Thirteen-year-old Logan Ivory uses art to express resilience, advocate for mental health, and inspire his community, turning emotions into powerful, award-winning creations. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Cash rate to hold in September
Higher inflation and resilient GDP has confirmed little chance of a September cash rate cut.
“After the August RBA cash rate cut, we’re not expecting a back-to-back cut in September -
especially after a higher read for inflation in the latest monthly indicator for July,” Mr Robertson said.
All eyes will now be on the quarterly inflation data - released late next month - to see just how long
homeowners will need to wait until they can breathe another sigh of relief.
“The Reserve Bank wouldn’t have been surprised by the rise in CPI in the monthly numbers due to
electricity rebates and other one-off factors, but core inflation was a little higher so the RBA will want
to see the full third quarter data out on October 29 before cutting again,” Mr Robertson said.
“Our next RBA rate cut is still forecast in November, but we are getting closer to the low in the
easing cycle, so jobs data and export demand will be important in this timing, and whether the RBA
need to keep cutting rates next year.”
US central bank rate cut imminent, while pace eases elsewhere
“The pace of central bank cuts elsewhere has eased as rates get closer to ‘neutral’,” Mr Robertson
said.
“However the US Federal Reserve is now expected to cut rates later this month after weaker jobs
data and after Federal Chair Jerome Powell gave his clearest message yet that a cut is imminent,
despite inflation trending higher.”
2nd September 2025
Evening Fixture Results
Coming close to the end of the season with only one week to go after this one, matches have been very close right across the 3 Divisions.
Division 1: Fish (Geoff Denman, Steven Whiting, Jacob Whelan) defeated Birds (Emma Widdup, Trent Day, Anne Sheridan) 7-4, Geoff having a very tight win over Anne 13-11 in 5th Set.
Bears (Lily Boland, Josh Brown, Lee Brake) defeated Ants (Vince Boeske, Barry Patterson, Robbie Richards) 6-5 with Robbie snuck home in the 5th Set against Josh 12-10.
Division 2: Cats (Will VanDaKaa, Graham Brake, Duncan Treloar) defeated Cows (Ian McKay, Tony Bowman) 9-2. Duncan had a close win over Ian in 5 Sets 11-5.
Dogs (Ivan Perkins, Mark Sleeman, Peter Goodson) defeated Owls (Andrea Nicholson) 8-3 with Andrea on her own, she won all 3 matches without dropping a set.
Tigers (Allan Edwards, Janice Kent) defeated Horses (Syed Aminul Hossain, Ollie Hamelink) 6-3. Allan had a great battle with Syed coming out on top 11-8 in 5th Set.
Division 3: Stiga (Simon Hogan, Vincent Neuhauf, Val Austin) defeated Butterfly (Mark Stam, Liz Burton, Logan Brown) 6-5 with Simon sneaking home in 5 Sets against Liz 11-9.
Tibhar (Ross DeBoer, Craig VanDaKaa, Marie Taylor) defeated Nittaku (Samuel Whelan, Noreen Frederickson, Melanie Theodore) 6-5 with Marie having a win over Samuel 11-7 in 5th Set.
Morning Fixture Results
Division 1: Bear Claws (Judy Zahn, Kevin Abbott, John McGee) defeated Shark Attack (Doug Dungavell, Peter Goodson, Marie Taylor) 8-4 with Peter having a close 5 Sets with Judy and winning 11-9.
Tigers Paw (Bryan Marshall, Tony Bowman, Ross DeBoer) defeated Wolf Pack ( Pam Joyce, Delma Knight, Virginia Clayton) 7-5. Delma made a good come back after being down to win 11-9 in 5th Set.
Lions King (Donna Abbott, Veronica Shepherd, Don Boettcher) defeated Eagle Wings (Branko Vucurovic, Noreen Fredrickson, Coral Morgan) 7-5. Coral having a great 5 Sets with Veronica by winning 11-9
Division 2: Python Spin (Louise Gould, Robyn Bushell, Kim Daffy) defeated Panther Pace (Frank Caruana, Iris Grasso, Gerry Synnott) 10-2 with Louise and Gerry battling it out as always, with Louise sneaking home 11-7 in 5th Set.
Rhino Charge (Helen Ware, Josie Davis, Pam Kuene) drew 6-6 against Falcon Flyers (Ken Best, John Hamelink, Ian Dodds), with Josie coming back from 2 Sets down to win in 5 against Ken 11-7.
Division 3: Captin Spins (Sharon Muller, Allison Day) defeated Spider Smashers (Laurie Bradshaw, Madge Saunders) 6-3. Sharon won close 5 Sets against Madge 11-8.
Bat Serves (Cheryl Pearson, Peter Taber, Glenda Brookes) defeated Iron Rallies (Ron Johr, Trish Zamparutti, Robyn Giles) 9-3 with Cheryl winning in 5 Sets against Ron 11-6.
Contributed by Andrea Nicholson
Noreen Frederickson
Sharon Muller
Josie Davis. Photos supplied
Airlie Beach has won Bronze in the Small Top Tourism Town category at the Australian Top Tourism Town Awards in Canberra on Wednesday 3 September. This is a huge award on the national scale and Bowen was also a nominee for the Top Tourism Town.
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor was in Canberra for the announcement and said he was incredibly proud to see Airlie Beach recognised as the third best Small Tourism Town in the nation at the 2025 Australian Top Tourism Town Awards.
“This award is more than just a trophy as it reflects the passion, creativity and sheer determination of our local tourism operators, businesses, community groups and residents who all play their part in making Airlie Beach the vibrant and welcoming place it is today,” he said.
“What makes today even more special is that the Whitsundays was the only region in Australia to have two towns named as national finalists.”
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said the Whitsundays success at the Australian Top Tourism Town Awards once again proves that the Whitsundays is a world-class tourism destination.
“From Bowen’s pristine beaches and rich history to Airlie’s gateway to the islands and the Heart of the Great Barrier Reef, our region offers experiences that are unrivalled anywhere in the world,” said Mayor Collins.
“To our operators, volunteers, community champions, and the many locals who welcome visitors with open arms, this is a victory for every person who calls the Whitsundays home.
“Together we are building a reputation second to none, and as we head full steam towards hosting sailing at the 2032 Olympic Games, these awards prove that the Whitsundays is not just competing with the best in Australia but proudly leading the way.”
Tourism Whitsundays CEO Tim Booth said it was a huge honour to end up with two towns listed as finalists to represent Queensland.
“With both Bowen for the top tourism town as a finalist, and then Airlie Beach winning bronze for the small tourism town is incredible outcome for the region. I'm very very proud,” he said.
“Bowen is going through a fair bit of growth at the moment with the potential of space tourism coming to Queensland, which is really, really exciting.
“We're seeing the biggest use of the Great Barrier Reef Marine, with about 130,000 more visitors than any other region along the Great Barrier Reef going out from Airlie Beach, which is incredible.”
“This award is very important to towns like Airlie beach and Bowen from an economic prospect.
“In Airle Beach, one in two jobs is in the tourism industry, so it's incredibly important. It's a fabric of our town and part of the region. The more that we can continue to grow it, the more economic success all of our businesses will have.”
Tourism Whitsunday CEO Tim Booth also said with the Skyway Project they expect to see more and more growth in the region, in particular Airlie Beach and he and the Tourism Whitsunday team look forward to next year’s awards with Gold in their sights.
Tourism Whitsunday CEO Tim Booth, Chair of Tourism Whitsundays Julie Telford, Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins, Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business Leanne Abernethy, and Bowen Tourism and Business Visitor Services Coordinator Glenn Womal. Photo supplied
Queensland was represented at the Australian Top Tourism Town Awards. Photo sourced: Facebook
In the spirit of community connection, Bowen Meals on Wheels received some extra helping hands this week as part of National Meals on Wheels Day.
Whitsundays Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins, Councillors Michelle Wright (Deputy Mayor, Whitsunday Regional Council), John Finlay (Division 6) joined Christine and the rest of the Bowen Meals on Wheels team to assist with meal deliveries across town.
The group spent the day delivering warm meals, friendly smiles, and cheerful conversations to local seniors — including Mrs Rodgers, who was delighted to catch up after missing the Bowen State School anniversary last weekend.
The initiative highlighted the incredible contribution of Meals on Wheels volunteers, who dedicate their time to ensuring older residents remain connected, supported, and cared for.
With heartfelt thanks extended to the Bowen Meals on Wheels team, the day was a reminder of the power of community spirit and the importance of looking after one another.
Mayor and Councillors join Meals on Wheels volunteers for the day. Photo supplied
Hi Everyone!
I’m back from my travels around Western Australia and the Northern Territory and I’m excited to get stuck in again.
The trip was nothing short of incredible. There were plenty of long drives, but even more unforgettable views, gorges, towns and people. I feel so grateful to have had the chance to see more of this beautiful country and to experience a true Aussie road trip.
Along the way I picked up plenty of travel stories, tips and advice that I can’t wait to share in Ruth2Reef as well as in Tripping, our travel magazine that comes out every two months.
One highlight that stood out for me was Ningaloo Reef. The colours there are the complete opposite of the Great Barrier Reef yet just as breathtaking. While snorkelling I had the chance to swim alongside two sharks and a pair of humpback whales, and I was surrounded by schools of vibrant fish. It was an experience I’ll never forget.
Another lesson I took from my trip was the importance of slowing down and living in the moment. It’s so easy to get caught up in work, stress and day-to-day worries, but spending time in nature without phone signal, reminded me how valuable it is to simply switch off and be present.
Ruth
"Happiness is not something you postpone for the future; it is something you design for the present." - Jim Rohn
At around midday on Sunday 31 August the Queensland Fire Department were made aware of a fire near Shute Harbour Road, Airlie Beach.
A smoke issue was given but Queensland Fire Department announced on Facebook that no properties were at risk, but the smoke should be avoided.
“Stay inside and close windows and doors as smoke could be harmful.” Was the advice given on the Facebook page.
A Queensland Fire Department spokesperson confirmed the fire was put out at around 4:05pm on Sunday 31 August.
The fire attracted attention on several Facebook groups. Photo source: Facebook
Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue is urging for more foster carers to step forward.
Unfortunately, they have been left in the position where they have been turning away animals.
With every foster home already full, the rescue centre is struggling to keep up with desperate requests even for animals facing euthanasia.
The rescue centre covers vet work, food, and ongoing support, while foster carers provide love, safety, and a temporary home. Every time someone fosters, it means one more dog or cat doesn’t have to be turned away.
Carers don’t need to commit forever. It can be short or long term, and the network extends from Mackay to Townsville and west to Majors Creek.
To find out more or apply to foster, message the Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue Facebook page today.
The Bowen Gumlu Growers Gala Dinner and Awards was held last weekend, bringing together the people who power the region’s vital agricultural industry. Among those in attendance were Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins and his wife Mel, who joined local growers, industry leaders and special guests for an evening of recognition and celebration.
The event highlighted the hard work, innovation, and commitment of the farming community, with several individuals and businesses acknowledged for their outstanding contributions. Winners included Stackelroth Farms, who received the Community Stewardship Award proudly sponsored by Whitsunday Regional Council; Rowan Munro, awarded Emerging Leader; Chris Monsour, recipient of the Agtech Impact Award; Vee Jay’s Kalfresh, named Farming Business of the Year; and Leanne Born, honoured with the prestigious Lifetime Recognition Award.
Guests also heard from guest speaker and MC Shane Webcke, along with Assistant Minister for Primary Industries and Water, Sean Dillon MP. BGGA CEO Jenn Honnery shared exciting updates on the association’s evolution and its refreshed brand identity as North Queensland Farmers.
The evening was a resounding success, with thanks extended to President Carl Walker, Jenn, Gill, sponsors, and all involved for shining a spotlight on agriculture’s central role in the community.
Mayor Ry Collins standing with some of the winners on the night
Celebrating the agricultural industry at the Bowen Gumlu Growers Gala Dinner and Awards
Last weekend the Queensland Police force deployed two horses to the streets of Airlie Beach.
Sergeant (Sgt) Ben Bassingthwaighte said the Brisbane based Queensland Mounted Police unit were in Airlie Beach and the surrounding areas in relation to high visibility controls, with the main focus of being visible in the community and being able to offer support.
“Horses are still relevant, even amongst modern technology, in that they're highly visible,” he said.
“They're there to provide safety for the community. They make the community feel safe.
“They are a very good connector for the community as well, the community really get a buzz out of seeing the horses. But they're also a great deterrent as far as crime.
“There are two sides to the same coin as far as their capability. So, they do attract people to come up and say hello. We're attracting a lot of community engagement, explaining why we're there, explaining community safety messaging and things like that.
“So they're great in that regard, but they're also a great deterrent.
“They can do the work of about four officers, particularly in crowded districts like here at Airlie Beach on Friday and Saturday night, which is supporting the police operations for the next two days; they provide a great presence in that regard.
Sgt Bassingthwaighte also said that patrol officers are commonly not seen, but having Police on main streets are highly beneficial.
“Most of our work is supporting frontline. 90% of our work is doing proactive control and supporting events to help police events and things of that nature, and that's why we're here today.”
Inspector Glenn Cameron said the main message Queensland Police wanted to convey is that the Police are part of the community.
“We want to get out there and engage with the community and make the community feel safe,” he said.
Availability of the Queensland Mounted Police unit varies but Inspector Glenn Cameron hopes it becomes a more regular deployment.
Sergeant Ben Bassingthwaighte and Lance
Sergeant Ben Bassingthwaighte and Lance, with Constable Debbie Bruntflett and Karma
Photo credit: Daniel Heggie
At the Whitsunday Regional Council Ordinary Meeting on Wednesday 27th August Mayor Ry Collins and Councillors voted 5–2 against the proposed Dinosaur Activity Centre development in Airlie Beach.
Mayor Ry Collins said the proposed mini golf activity was refused for a variety of reasons, including aesthetic, parking concerns, and a community petition that was heard by council.
“We all want to see new land-based activities come into Airlie Beach that give locals and visitors something fun to do, but this proposal just wasn’t the right fit,” he explained.
“The design didn’t sit well with the tropical look and feel of the Main Street, and with no car parking included it would have added to the pressure we’re already seeing in town.
“We also heard from the community loud and clear, with more than 20 submissions and a petition of over 500 signatures raising concerns about the visual impact and location.
"Councillors listened, and those issues were a big part of why the proposal wasn’t supported.
“Council is always open to new ideas that bring something fresh to Airlie, but they need to add to the character of the Main Street and make the most of the tropical setting we’ve got here.”
The entity which proposed the development kindly stated it would prefer not to comment.
The proposed Dinosaur Activity Centre on Main Street has been voted against. Photo sourced: Whitsunday Regional Council August Meeting
With premium coastal land across the Whitsundays becoming increasingly scarce, buyers are turning their attention to Airlie Summit, one of the region’s last elevated masterplanned communities offering sweeping ocean views and a rare chance to build in a blue-chip location.
The Panorama Release, nestled within Alder’s $60 million hillside community, has already attracted strong interest from buyers seeking elevated coastal land. The release comprises just 13 premium homesites, ranging from 616sqm to 898sqm and priced from $495,000, each offering sweeping vistas over Coral Sea Marina, Port of Airlie Marina, Pioneer Bay and across to the Whitsunday Islands — all from a vantage point 200 metres above sea level and just minutes from the Airlie Beach town centre.
Alder’s General Manager of Development, Frank Galvin, said the release had generated strong enquiry from both local and interstate markets, drawn by the scarcity of elevated land and the lifestyle on offer.
“Whether you’re planning your forever home, investing in a growing market, or seeking a holiday retreat with strong letting potential, the Panorama Release delivers,” Mr Galvin said.
“This is one of the last significant elevated land holdings in the region, and with availability tightening and demand growing, it’s an ideal time to secure a slice of paradise. Buyers also have the opportunity to benefit from strong long-term growth potential in one of the Whitsundays’ most prestigious coastal addresses.”
Adding to the opportunity, Alder has also introduced the Luxe Design Collection – an exclusive suite of home concepts created by specialist tropical designers. Each design has been tailored to the site’s hillside topography, maximising views and privacy while embracing natural light, sea breezes, and seamless indoor–outdoor living. The concepts also optimise airflow, level outdoor entertaining areas designed to optimise the unmatched views creating a bespoke lifestyle environment that is unique to Airlie Summit.
“The Luxe Design Collection provides buyers with a clear vision of what’s possible at Airlie Summit,” Mr Galvin said. “It allows people to imagine a home that not only fits the landscape but celebrates it, while offering the flexibility to work directly with designers to tailor the home to their personal needs and lifestyle.”
Alder has recently opened a new on-site Sales Suite, offering an immersive introduction to the community. The centre features an interactive digital masterplan and showcases the Luxe Design Collection – all set against what is already being hailed as “the best views of any sales office in Australia.”
For more information or to book an appointment, visit airliesummit.com.au.
Contributed with thanks to Alder
Alder's home range
Airlie Summit is one of the region’s last elevated communities
Photos supplied
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It has been a big few weeks for Bowen, with our community well and truly kicking goals on both the agriculture and tourism fronts. Two very different but equally important parts of our economy have been in the spotlight and both have done us proud.
Last weekend I attended the Bowen Gumlu Growers Gala Dinner and Awards, a fantastic celebration of the people who drive our agriculture industry.
It was a great opportunity to spend time with many of our Whitsunday region’s leading growers, and to hear from special guests including Assistant Minister for Primary Industries and Water, Sean Dillon MP, and the evening’s MC and guest speaker, Shane Webcke.
The awards were a highlight, recognising outstanding contributions across the industry. A special mention to Leanne Born, who received the Lifetime Recognition Award.
Congratulations to all the winners and finalists. Your dedication, innovation and resilience keep our industry strong and ensure Bowen and the Whitsundays remain leaders in agriculture.
It was also exciting to hear from BGGA CEO Jenn Honnery about the association’s evolution, including the launch of their refreshed brand, North Queensland Farmers which is an exciting step forward.
On the tourism front, I am equally proud to share that Bowen was named Visitor Information Centre of the Year in the Local Tourism Organisation category at the annual Queensland Information Centres Association conference recently.
This recognition is all about the incredible team of staff and volunteers who make the Bowen Visitor Information Centre such a welcoming place for visitors.
They are the friendly faces who greet travellers, share their knowledge, and showcase everything our region has to offer. Their passion and pride for Bowen and the Whitsundays shines through every day whether it be pointing visitors to our stunning beaches or sharing our rich history and community spirit.
With both agriculture and tourism recognised over the past week, it’s clear Bowen is kicking goals right across the board.
These achievements highlight the strength, diversity and resilience of our industries and the dedication of the people who make it all possible.
Most importantly, they show how Bowen is playing its part in making the Whitsunday region a great place to invest, live, work and visit.
As part of Bendigo Bank — Australia’s most trusted bank — Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine delivers the products, technology and security of a big bank while staying true to what matters most: personalised service and reinvesting profits back into our community.
Unlike many financial institutions, we are independently owned and operated with one clear mission — to support the Whitsundays. Over the past seven years, we’ve proudly contributed more than $249,000 into local schools, social programs, sporting clubs, arts and culture, conservation initiatives and community prizes.
Local Banking, Full Service
Led by Branch Manager Amanda Anderson, our branch offers the full suite of personal, business and wealth services. We’re open Monday to Friday, 9:30am–4:00pm (closed 1:00–2:00pm), with face-to-face service from experienced lenders and bankers who understand local needs.
Our services include:
Meet Our New Team Members
The Cannonvale–Proserpine branch recently welcomed two new faces, both proud locals with deep roots in the Whitsundays.
Jade, Customer Service Officer, shared:
“I grew up here in the Whitsundays and went through the Proserpine schools, so this region will always be home. After nine years living and working in New South Wales, I returned at the end of 2023 because I missed the sense of community, the familiar faces and the lifestyle you can only find here. Working with Bendigo Bank gives me the chance to be more involved in our community, and I’m proud knowing my work makes a difference right here at home.”
Kylie, Customer Relationship Officer, added:
“I feel blessed to be a fifth-generation local and to have grown up in such a beautiful part of the world. After living in England, Switzerland and most recently Moranbah, nothing compares to being back in the Whitsundays raising my three children. What I love about working with the Community Bank is knowing we genuinely support locals — it makes every day at work more rewarding.”
Backing Local Business
Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine is also passionate about supporting local enterprise. We’re proud to provide dedicated business banking expertise through Luke Sheppard, Senior Business Relationship Manager for North Central Queensland and Cairns, who regularly visits Cannonvale and Airlie Beach to meet with business owners face-to-face.
In 2025, we sponsored the Whitsunday Business Conference, hosting more than 70 companies, and we are honoured to be the Principal Partner of the 2025 Whitsunday Business Awards — celebrating the innovation, excellence and resilience of the region’s business community.
Your Town. Your Bank.
When you bank with us, you’re helping build a stronger Whitsundays.
Visit Amanda and the team at Whitsunday Plaza Cannonvale
Call (07) 4948 3599
Email cannonvale&proserpinemailbox@bendigoadelaide.com.au
Bendigo Bank – the better big bank.
L-R: Jade, Branch Manager Amanda, Natasha, and Kylie. Photo credit: Danile Heggie/Mackay and Whitsunday Life
When it comes to recycling, keeping it loose makes all the difference. Bagged recycling can’t be properly sorted at recycling facilities; in fact, it can damage the sorting equipment and can sometimes mean the whole load is sent straight to landfill.
By placing your hard plastics, steel, aluminium, glass, paper and cardboard loose in the yellow bin, you’re helping make sure these items get recycled into useful new products, like park benches and planter boxes.
Keeping your recycling loose is a simple step that has a big impact. For more information, search for Let’s Get it Sorted on Council’s website.
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