Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
OPINION PIECE from the office of Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox There is no question that immigration into Australia is out of control. The government’s numbers are too high, and standards are too low. A sustainable migration program must consider our capacity to provide housing, healthcare, infrastructure and the essential services everyone relies on, and Australians must come first. But Labor’s decision to target Working Holiday Makers Visa holders is not the answer. These people filling vital gaps in our workforce are not the cause of Australia’s housing crisis. In many cases, they are living in accommodation provided by the very businesses that employ them. The National Farmers’ Federation has made the point that Working Holiday Makers generally stay in hostels, caravan parks or purpose-built on-farm accommodation. Resorts usually have on-site staff quarters. They are not the source of Australia’s housing shortage. So why is Labor making it harder for them to come here, when these workers fill genuine jobs that regional Australia holds? Working Holiday Makers fill approximately one in seven farm jobs nationally and are particularly important during peak agricultural periods, which for Dawson, it is right now! Farmers rely on these workers to plant, pick, pack and harvest the produce that ends up on Australian supermarket shelves. Having run one of Australia’s largest tomato farms, at times Working Holiday Makers made up more than 50 per cent of my workforce. Without them, much of our crop simply would not have been picked in time and rotted in the paddock. Some may say, why not employ the Australians who don’t have a job and are on “the dole”? Can I say, this does not work. Most farmers will employ Aussies over travelling backpackers, but many either don’t want to do the work or don’t turn up after the first day. Who picks the fruit or veggies then? Farmers are already warning that visa delays are leaving them without workers. The NFF says approvals that once took days are now facing processing times of up to three months, and this time frame can be the difference between harvesting a crop or losing it. That should concern every Australian already feeling the pressure at the supermarket checkout. The same problem is playing out in tourism. Across Dawson, Working Holiday Makers are an important part of the workforce supporting tourism and hospitality, particularly in the Whitsundays. They help fill shifts, work in hotels and restaurants, support tour operators and keep businesses running through their busiest periods. They also contribute to the local economy. They spend money on food, fuel, attractions and tours, supporting the small businesses that depend on a strong visitor economy. That is why tourism and business leaders across North Queensland are raising the alarm. They understand what happens when a regional business cannot get enough staff: opening hours are reduced, and services are cut, creating a downward spiral. We do need to reduce migration to sustainable levels. We need stronger integrity measures, and we need to crack down on rorts. But responsible migration policy means understanding which parts of the system are creating pressure and which parts are helping Australia function. Working Holiday Makers are not the problem. They are part of the workforce solution for regional. Australia. People have had a gutful of watching their standard of living go backwards. Groceries, fuel, housing and everyday expenses are already putting enormous pressure on families. The last thing Australians need is another reckless policy that makes it harder to produce food, harder to run regional businesses and harder for tourism operators to find the workers they need.
Read the full storySomeone sold a house in Sydney last week for $9 million less than they bought it for four or five years ago. The sellers had bought the property in Sydney’s eastern suburbs for $29 million and sold it for $20 million in a sale forced by their bank. I imagine the sellers are a little disappointed by the government’s decisions on negative gearing and capital gains tax and feeling pretty hurt by the increased interest rates. Australia’s interest rates are on the rise and are now sitting at levels not seen since 2011. Increased cost of living is hurting people around the country and interest rates are playing into that. But the impact of interest rates is not felt evenly around the country. The far-higher property prices mean people in the major cities suffer much more than regional areas with the rates increase. That is certainly not to say people in Mackay are unaffected by the cost of living; it’s just that the impact of interest rates increase on a $400,000 mortgage is much less than the impact on a $1m mortgage. There are other Mackay-specific factors that are in play when discussing the current housing market. The big factor is the role of coal in our economy. Most of the coal extracted and exported from our region is coking coal, which is used to make steel. The price of coking coal is around $280 a tonne, which is about 50 per cent up. Good activity in the coal market translates to good news for the Mackay economy, as it is an economic engine that other cities and regions just don’t have. Good activity in Bowen Basin flows throughout the Mackay economy; Paget workshops, transport, suppliers and related businesses all benefit. But so do other, non-mining-related businesses as they benefit from the general confidence and spending that goes on. The strong mining activity also means mines need to keep their staff levels up and that means more people moving to Mackay. Of course, Mackay is much more than a coal mining town but if the coal sector is going well those other areas definitely benefit. It is a confidence boost for Mackay people looking to get into the housing market and those wanting to upgrade or downsize. It also means continuing strong demand from people wanting to rent a property and it will be interesting to see what sort of activity that creates from investors. Investors have walked away from the big-city markets because they can no longer use negative gearing on established properties that do not have a sufficient yield to be positively geared. Negative gearing has never been a big thing in Mackay because our prices are lower and rental returns continue to be strong so many investors have a positively geared property. Around the country everyone is nervous about the state of play and the probability of more interest rate rises. But strong coal prices and an economy that is performing well mean Mackay might just be presenting an opportunity for buyers and sellers that doesn’t exist in other parts. I remember when national confidence was flying high and Mackay prices were going up significantly that many buyers were saying “I wish we had bought a while ago when the market wasn’t so hot”. I’m not armed with a crystal ball so I’m not here to tell you what is going to happen but I suspect there is a very good buying window right now for those looking for an opportunity.
Read the full story
A local Mackay and Sarina based model has created a dress out of newspapers, including Mackay Life, for her upcoming pageant, representing her region and hometown on the runway as she vies for Miss Diamond International in Brisbane. Zoe Place will be competing this weekend in the three-day event, beginning this Friday 2nd October and ending on Sunday 4th October. The young model spent around a month creating her eco-fashion outfit, using old newspapers as the main material and transforming them into a bodice, skirt and flowers. Red elements were also incorporated into the design to give the dress a bold and glamorous pageant feel. Zoe said, “The entire concept was really about taking something that would normally be thrown away and turning it into something beautiful and meaningful.” Her eco-fashion creation will form part of a busy weekend in Brisbane, with the Miss Diamond International event including photo shoots, interviews, an eco-fashion show and the final pageant. Zoe has been preparing for the event by practising her strut and walking, preparing for interviews and getting comfortable in the different outfits she will wear throughout the weekend. Alongside her love of modelling, pageantry has also provided Zoe with a platform to raise awareness about causes close to her heart, including mental health, while fundraising for Beyond Blue. “Pageantry has given me more of a platform to combine my love for modelling with something that is really important to me.” “When I first started, I was more nervous about putting myself out there and worried about what others would think about me – but I’ve changed a lot through my journey in pageantry.” “Pageantry has also taught me that it’s not about how you look on stage. It’s about the person you are when you step off it.” “Every woman has their own unique journey and that journey is something we should all be really proud of.” “To me, it represents confidence, empowerment, kindness, and using your voice to make a difference.” Zoe said she was looking forward to meeting the other contestants, making new connections and creating memories. “I’m definitely looking forward to meeting all the new contestants and making new connections and creating memories that I will carry with me for a lifetime.” While Zoe hopes to eventually move to the city, her sights are set even further afield, with a dream of one day walking in New York Fashion Week. Mackay and Sarina local Zoe Place has created an eco-fashion dress from recycled newspapers, including Mackay Life, ahead of her Miss Diamond International pageant in Brisbane. Photos supplied
Read the full story
Trends, reels and the endless cycle of always wanting more has quietly bombarded the minds of countless social media users of all ages, but one former Mackay local has made it her mission to help others understand the effects of social media and find practical ways to break free from online addiction. Alexis Zahner is in Mackay over the next week to teach upcoming generations about social media and the effects it can have on the mind, particularly on identity, self-discovery, as well as the marketing strategies that get viewers hooked and influence their decisions. It is something Alexis knows first-hand can be a useful tool, but also a great disruption to authenticity and the world as we see and experience it. Alexis will hold a free meet and greet and book launch today, Friday 2nd October, at 5.30pm at the Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club, where she will give a talk and answer questions relating to her debut book, Real: Reconnecting to Yourself in a World of Likes and Lies. A former Mackay girl, Alexis spent the past 15 years working across business psychology, marketing and media, with her interest in social media influence beginning during her university studies at James Cook University in Townsville. Her own experience as a social media user, travel blogger and influencer eventually led her to question how much of her identity, decisions and values were being shaped by what she saw online. “The tipping point came for me about 3 years ago when I had this feeling that I couldn't separate influence from my own personal decision making,” she said. “I couldn't separate my own likes, dislikes, values, relationships from what I was being exposed to and being influenced by online.” “I found that I needed to take some time away from social media to recalibrate what was important to me and sort of reconnect and come back to myself.” Alexis said she understood the feeling of questioning who you are outside of social media. “I know what it feels like to live a life under the influence of social media and have that existential crisis of thinking to yourself, who am I? What do I like? What's the kind of life I want to live? and struggling to separate myself from influence.” Alexis is particularly passionate about reaching teenagers, who she says are in an important stage of identity development, and will share this message with Mackay high school students during her upcoming school talks. “Teenagers are really easily influenced by social media. So it's a really important age where we start educating them – not just on the mental health repercussions of things like social media and how it shortens their attention span, but how it actually influences who they become.” “If you're asking yourself these questions, it's not your fault. Social media is actually geared to create this impact on you.” Alexis encourages people of all ages to “start expanding beyond what you see on the platform.” “Dare to indulge in the things that you've always been curious about or things you used to love,” she said. “Don't be afraid to put the phone down to let yourself be curious and have fun.” What: Alexis Zahner's 'Real' Book launch When: 5.30pm Friday 2nd October 2026 Where: Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club Former Mackay local and author Alexis Zahner is returning home to share her experiences with social media and her debut book, Real. Photo supplied
Read the full story
Volunteers from the Mackay SES are among the thousands of Queenslanders being recognised during the 2026 Queensland Volunteering Awards. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Community volunteers across Mackay and the Whitsundays are being celebrated as part of the 2026 Queensland Volunteering Awards, which recognised nearly 50,000 volunteers across the state.
This year’s awards featured 275 nominations, recognising volunteers working across emergency services, sporting clubs, charities, tourism events and community support programs.
Queensland Minister for Volunteers Ann Leahy said volunteers played a vital role in keeping Queensland communities connected and supported.
“Volunteers are at the heart of our communities, and our government is proud to be delivering practical support and recognition for the people who selflessly give their time to help others,” Minister Leahy said.
Mackay and Whitsundays communities rely heavily on volunteers across major events, surf lifesaving clubs, emergency response groups and local sporting organisations.
“These awards are about honouring the thousands of Queenslanders who step up every day to support others, strengthen communities and deliver real impact across our state,” she said.
CEO of Volunteering Queensland Jane Hedger said volunteers continued to support their communities during challenging economic times.
“At a time when cost of living pressures and increasing demand for support are placing strain on Queenslanders, volunteers continue to step up and be the steady hands helping to hold our communities together,” Ms Hedger said.
Since launching in 2016, the Queensland Volunteering Awards have highlighted the efforts of volunteers and organisations making significant contributions across the state.
The team at Belle Property Whitsundays at ‘A Morning For Fern’ on Sunday. Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi
The community came together on Sunday to raise money for single-mum, Fern Wilson, who is battling incurable cancer following a second tragic diagnosis earlier this year.
Fern had spent two years in remission after successful treatment for stage 3 breast cancer in 2023, but sadly began to feel unwell in January and scans confirmed the worst.
As the devastating news reached the community, many people rallied around to show their support and within a matter of weeks planning for ‘A Morning For Fern’ was underway.
Organised by Reanne Burnett and hosted by Steph McQuirter and her team at Belle Property Whitsundays, the event saw more than 300 people attend on Sunday morning.
Following dedicated effort from a broad support team, an impressive $30,000 was raised to help Fern as she navigates her battle for survival from Bali where she is currently receiving treatment.
A total of 35 raffle prizes, contributed by 70 local businesses and valued at $3,000, were up for grabs on the day. These items raised $9,602.
In addition, 15 silent auction prizes generated a further $6,044 and a GoFundMe site garnered $14,120.
With additional donations still filtering in, organisers are expecting to exceed this amount in the coming days.
Every cent is going directly towards Fern, taking away the financial pressure as she navigates life and embraces hope for the future.
Earlier this week, Fern thanked everyone who had contributed towards making the morning a success.
“I especially want to thank Belle for putting together this beautiful morning tea and for all the love, effort, and support that has gone into making today possible. Your kindness means more to me than words can express,” she shared.
“To all the sponsors and everyone who donated the incredible prizes - thank you from the bottom of my heart. Your generosity is helping make my overseas treatment possible and is giving me the opportunity to continue healing, living, and fighting for my future.”
“I also want to say a very special thank you to Jacquie from the Trudy Crawley Foundation, and to the beautiful nurses Kris and Rosie, for supporting me throughout my cancer journey. They have been an absolute godsend and such a blessing in my life.”
‘A Morning For Fern’ was kindly supported by a host of local vendors who all donated their time on the day, many also giving their proceeds to Fern.
Lumos café, Whitsunday Sweet Delights, Mrs Beans Coffee Van, Rilo real fruit ice cream & smoothies, Smoking Gunns BBQ, Samuel McCann Musician, Cliolistic Face painting, Elementa – 74 Island Bar and Top Tukka all donated their services.
The following businesses also contributed to making the event special: Palm Co Media- Videographer, TP Events and Styling, Karen Hill Florists and The Balloon Emporium.
Organisers would also like to thank all the local businesses who donated prizes on the day and everyone who came along to the event and contributed to the money raised.
Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort (left) and Officer in Charge of Ayr Police Station Senior Sergeant Lisa Shields (right) with survivors following the tragic bus rollover near Gumlu. Photo: Jacob Casha
A bus crash in Gumlu, north of Bowen last week, has made national news after the incident tragically took the life of one of the passengers.
Emergency Services were called to the Bruce Highway north of Bowen just before 4pm on May 14th after the southbound flexibus travelling from Cairns to Airlie Beach left the roadway and rolled onto its side. Passengers were transported to hospitals across Townsville, Ayr and Bowen.
According to passengers, the bus driver had warned everyone that the bus was ‘not the best one’, before the departure. A bus crash occurred on the same stretch of highway two years ago, claiming three lives.
A young overseas tourist has died and dozens of passengers were left shaken after a bus crash near Gumlu last Thursday afternoon.
Emergency services were called to the Bruce Highway north of Bowen just before 4pm on 14th May, after a southbound FlixBus travelling from Cairns to Airlie Beach left the roadway and rolled onto its side.
The bus was carrying 29 people at the time of the crash. The driver, a 70-year-old Mackay man, was taken to Bowen Hospital with minor injuries.
Police confirmed 26-year-old Serena Andreatta, a dual Argentinian and Italian national, died at the scene.
Several other passengers sustained injuries and were transported to hospitals in Townsville, Ayr and Bowen for treatment.
One passenger who survived the crash told Life Publishing they became concerned about the bus’s movements in the hours before the rollover.
“I did not feel so safe,” the passenger said, claiming the bus appeared to be “swerving” at times.
The passenger said the concern prompted them to fasten their seatbelt.
They then recalled the bus striking a barrier before rolling, describing chaotic scenes inside the vehicle as passengers and belongings were thrown around the cabin.
Following the crash, passengers were cared for in Ayr overnight before continuing their journey south on another bus.
Burdekin Shire Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort attended to check on passengers and assisted in sourcing medication for those affected. Passengers lauded the response efforts of Burdekin Shire Council, Ayr Police, and the wider community.
The Queensland Police Forensic Crash Unit is continuing to investigate the incident.
The incident occurred on the same stretch of highway where a fatal Greyhound bus crash in 2024 claimed three lives.
Superintendent Dean Cavanagh described the crash scene as “very confronting” and praised emergency crews for their rapid response.
“This was a very complex incident, it was a very serious incident, and it was in an isolated area,” he said.
“Although we tragically lost a life, I believe that effort that we saw absolutely went into saving many [more].”
Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins issued support, thanking the emergency service providers who promptly responded.
“My thoughts are with those involved, their family and loved ones, and the first responders, including our council traffic crews who worked through a very serious incident.”
Premier David Crisafulli described the incident as a tragedy, expressing condolences for the woman who died and noting multiple patients were still fighting for life in hospital.
He declined to speculate the cause of the crash, but reiterated his commitment to improving safety on the Bruce Highway.
“It’s a road that means everything to the state, and it’s a road that’s a long way short of where it should be.”
The Whitsundays Writers Festival has announced the winners of its 2026 Stanza Bonanza poetry competition and inaugural Fast Fiction competition, showcasing storytelling talent inspired by the Whitsundays’ landscapes, people and imagination.
Sydney writer and journalist Linda Daniele was named the winner of the 2026 Stanza Bonanza poetry competition, while Airlie Beach author Natalie Stockdale took out the festival’s first Fast Fiction title.
Presented to mark World Poetry Day, the Stanza Bonanza competition invited poets of all levels to submit an original poem of up to 20 lines inspired by the prompt: “A Whitsundays postcard from 100 years ago, or 100 years from now.”
Meanwhile, the Fast Fiction competition — launched for International Day of Storytelling — challenged writers to craft a story in 250 words or less responding to the prompt: “Something unexpected washed ashore on Whitehaven Beach…”
Festival Director Richard Evans said both competitions attracted a strong response from writers across a wide range of backgrounds and experience levels.
“The response to Stanza Bonanza was a wonderful reminder of how powerfully poetry can connect place, memory and imagination,” Richard said.
“Writers embraced the prompt in inventive and surprising ways, and the standard of entries was exceptionally strong.”
Speaking about the inaugural Fast Fiction competition, Richard said the quality of submissions highlighted the creativity within the region and beyond.
“The standard of entries in our first Fast Fiction competition was excellent,” he said.
“It was exciting to see so many writers embrace the challenge of telling a compelling story with limited words and time.”
Based in Sydney, Ms Daniele is a writer, journalist and editor who has worked in legal publishing for more than 15 years, alongside freelance journalism and editorial work for On The Side. Her writing has also been recognised in the Sydney Mardi Gras Short Story Competition.
Her winning poem, Dear You—, explored themes of memory, time and environmental reflection through imagery inspired by the Whitsundays landscape.
Airlie Beach-based Ms Stockdale is published by Big Sky Publishing and works professionally as a memoir writer. Like many locals, she draws inspiration from the region’s natural beauty, including Whitehaven Beach, which she describes as “our own backyard”.
Her winning short story follows a man confronting memories of conflict after discovering a rusted rifle washed ashore decades after losing it during the Rhodesian conflict.
A highlight of the Fast Fiction competition was the participation of students from Whitsunday Christian College and Proserpine State School.
“Seeing teachers and students encourage with the competition reminds us why these opportunities matter – they create space for young people to imagine, write, and share their voices,” Richard said.
Both winners will receive a $100 cash prize and a free day pass to the 2026 Whitsundays Writers Festival, which will be held on Sunday, September 13, at the Whitsunday Marine Club.
Richard encouraged entrants to continue exploring opportunities through the festival’s literary programs and competitions.
“We’re grateful to everyone who entered,” he said.
“The quality of work we received was inspiring, and we encourage all entrants to keep writing, keep experimenting, and keep sharing their work.”
Festival organisers have confirmed the full 2026 program and tickets are now available through the festival website.
Bella is looking for her forever family in the Whitsundays and beyond.
She is a one year old Staffordshire cross, medium sized, full of love, and so ready for someone to choose her and mean it.
She has been through more than most. Surrendered, rehomed, then unwell, and then without a home again through no fault of her own. Through all of it she has remained gentle, affectionate, and completely devoted to the people around her.
Bella loves children, thrives on connection, and just wants to be close to her people. She is best suited to a home where someone is around most of the time because when she has her person, she gives everything she has.
She has already been through so much. She just needs someone to choose her for life.
To adopt Bella, DM Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue Inc on Facebook with your name, phone number and "Bella".
The adoption fee is $400. She is microchipped, recovered and healthy.
Tamara Noble and Rebecca Woods from the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre with raffle prizes at the organisation’s Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea fundraiser. Photo supplied
The Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre has raised $1,860 for Cancer Council Queensland during its annual Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea event.
Held with a tropical theme, the fundraiser brought together locals for a colourful morning filled with community spirit, laughter and friendly competition, including prizes for the loudest tropical shirt.
The Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre thanked everyone who attended, donated and supported the event, with special recognition given to Club Whitsunday for partnering on the event and providing the brunch menu.
Organisers said events like Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea highlight the strength of the local community in supporting people impacted by cancer.
.JPEG)
Volunteers with Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc. sort and remove marine debris collected from Whitsunday islands as part of efforts to protect the Great Barrier Reef and turn ocean waste into recycled products. Photo supplied
A new North Queensland billboard campaign is calling on the community to help turn ocean waste into something useful, as Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc. continues its mission to protect the Great Barrier Reef.
Every year, Eco Barge removes tonnes of marine debris from islands across the reef. Now, in partnership with Paradise Outdoor Advertising (POA), the organisation is urging locals to join volunteers in transforming 24 tonnes of collected ocean waste into recycled products.
The campaign, displayed across key regional locations, encourages people to sign up and become part of the solution by volunteering in the Whitsundays.
Libby Edge, Founder of Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc, said the initiative represents an important next step in the organisation’s work.
“Every piece of marine debris we remove from the islands has a story,” Libby said.
“With the support of our volunteers, we’re now working to transform that debris into new products, showing that what washes up on our shores can become part of the solution rather than part of the problem.”
Since 2009, Eco Barge volunteers have removed 277,947 kilograms of marine debris, completed 569 clean-up trips, engaged 14,291 volunteers, and cared for 297 sick and injured marine turtles.
POA CEO Mitch James said billboards were a powerful way to inspire action. “Billboards are designed to capture attention and deliver a powerful message, in this case giving people an opportunity to protect the Great Barrier Reef through local action.”
He added the campaign aims to turn awareness into participation across the region.
The campaign will run year-round. More information is available at www.ecobargecleanseas.org.au
Zoran teaches self-defence across all age groups, equipping individuals with important skills. Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi
With 43 years of experience across 8 different martial arts, Whitsunday local Zoran Stublin is passionate about bringing his expertise to the region. Zoran runs the Whitsunday Self Defence Academy, a completely free community initiative open to all members of the public.
Zoran’s approach to self-defence training comes from a synthesis of 8 different martial arts – Judo, Jujitsu, Aikido, Ninjutsu, Kyosho, Jutsu, Kapap, Krav Maga and Russian systema.
Moving to Whitsundays in 2021, he set up what is now known as the Whitsunday Self Defence Academy to provide guidance to the community on public safety and self-protection.
Zoran has also taken his training across the country, acting as a visiting instructor in Melbourne and Cairns.
Zoran’s professional background plays a huge part in what he does. His military training and additional consultancy work in security and government have helped him form a program that extends beyond just physical defence – examining ways to navigate different social situations when a person is under threat.
“It’s not just about martial arts.” Zoran said.
“There is a psychological element. I teach people how to recognise sociopaths and psychopaths. I also teach them how to de-escalate aggressive situations.”
“When I started the academy, a major issue amongst kids was bullying and harassment. I started a bullying programme that looks at navigating those situations. I also developed a specialised programme for women and self-defence. I teach them about home intrusion and provide tips on how to use everyday household objects such as spoons, towels and pans to defend themselves.”
Zoran’s self-defence program also covers theft attempts in carparks, sexual predators, abductions, kidnappings and ATM holdups.
“I’ve tried to create a realistic programme to equip people with skills for domestic situations.” He said.
Participants attend the class in their everyday clothes to prepare them for potential real-life situations.
“When you make someone wear a uniform in a dojo it creates a certain kind of psychology. They may be unprepared in a real-life situation without their uniform.” Zoran explained.
“Making people wear civil clothes removes the comfort that someone might get from putting on a uniform and prepares them better for real life situations.”
In the midst of Queensland Domestic and Violence month, Zoran’s priority is ensuring protection in domestic environments.
“It’s an issue in the region. I collaborate with counselling services, providing tips such as arrangement of furniture that would allow easier escape routes and better protection.”
At the core of Zoran’s initiative is a passionate desire to help the community as much as he can.
“My only aim for the region is to promote confidence in people, so they don’t walk around with fear. I’m not teaching them to be paranoid, but rather to be aware. I want to provide everyone with basic tools for their toolbox that they can take out when they need it.”
Sessions are conducted at Club Whitsunday every Tuesday and Thursday with kids’ sessions running from 4:30pm to 5:30pm and adult sessions commencing at 6pm.
Zoran strongly urges anyone interested to come along.
Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry Executive Officer, Julia Evans said many Whitsunday businesses were built over decades through personal sacrifice and should not be treated as speculative investments. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie
By Julia Evans
Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry Executive Officer
The Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry has listened to the deep concern among local business owners following last week’s Federal Budget.
Proposed changes to Capital Gains Tax (CGT) and Negative Gearing settings, particularly the potential move from the 50 per cent CGT discount to inflation indexation, have raised serious questions for family businesses, farmers, and sole operators across our region.
For many Whitsunday business owners, their enterprise is not a speculative asset. It is a lifetime of hard work, a retirement plan, a family legacy, and the backbone of local employment.
Under current proposals, when that business is sold to fund retirement, the tax outcome could be significantly higher, especially for those who built value over decades from modest starting capital. That risk is not abstract. It directly affects succession planning, reinvestment, and the economic stability of our communities.
In the Whitsundays, around 4,200 businesses employ more than 21,000 people. They already carry the weight of income tax, company tax, payroll tax, GST, and rising compliance costs from federal, state and local governments. Adding poorly designed CGT changes without proper regional consultation would risk making local businesses collateral damage in a national tax debate.
But this statement is not about attacking the government.
It is a clear signal that the Whitsunday business community cannot afford to be silent or fragmented. The scarcity of visible consultation with our North Queensland region reinforces one hard truth: without a strong, united voice, our realities will not be understood in Canberra.
The Chamber is calling on every regional business – micro, family, or medium-sized – to join us. Not just to complain, but to shape solutions. To feed real experiences into advocacy that matters. To ensure that future policy encourages investment, not uncertainty, and backs the people who build regional Australia.
As one, we are a strong and loud voice. Alone, we are easily overlooked.
The Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry encourages all local businesses to become members and help drive a practical, united response to the policy challenges ahead.
Each year the Federal Budget arrives with big headlines and plenty of commentary, and this year has been no exception. The recent Budget has generated most of its attention around proposed changes to property taxation, particularly capital gains tax and negative gearing, while at the same time leaving the superannuation and pension system largely untouched.
The biggest proposed changes relate to property investors. The Government has flagged plans to limit negative gearing on residential property so that, from 1 July 2027, it would apply only to newly constructed dwellings. Existing investment properties would be grandfathered, meaning current owners could continue using negative gearing under today’s rules until they sell. The stated aim is to encourage new housing supply and improve affordability for first‑home buyers.
Alongside this is a proposed overhaul of capital gains tax. The familiar 50 per cent discount for assets held longer than 12 months would be replaced with an inflation‑based indexation method, combined with a minimum tax rate on realised gains. These changes are also proposed to start from 1 July 2027 and would apply prospectively, with transitional rules to ensure gains already accrued are not retrospectively taxed under the new system.
While these announcements sound dramatic, it is important to remember that they are proposals only. None of these measures are law yet, and they will not take effect for more than a year at the earliest.
In contrast, there were very few new announcements affecting superannuation and the Age Pension. Most Australians will see little direct change to the retirement system as a result of this Budget. Previously legislated measures, such as the increase in the Superannuation Guarantee to 12 per cent and the introduction of payday super from July 2026, are proceeding as planned, but these were already known. Pension rates will continue to be adjusted through the normal indexation process, and there were no major structural changes announced.
Another key point often lost in the Budget noise is the legislative process itself. For these tax changes to become law, they must be drafted into legislation and passed by both the House of Representatives and the Senate in identical form before receiving Royal Assent. This process can take months, and it is common for amendments to be made along the way, particularly for complex or controversial tax measures.
History shows that what is announced on Budget night is not always what ultimately becomes law. Start dates, thresholds and exemptions can change as legislation moves through Parliament.
For investors, retirees and those planning ahead, the sensible response is not to panic or rush into decisions based on headlines. This is a time to review, seek advice if needed, and wait for clarity. In Canberra, as in financial markets, proposed change and final outcomes are often not the same thing.
If you’d like an obligation free review of your financial situation, call us for an appointment today.
This year brought a few surprises. So did some of your legal questions.
Whether it was "Can I leave my estate to my dog?" or "Do I really need a lawyer to buy land off my cousin?" - we’ve heard it all. And we’re still smiling.
Here’s to another year of good advice, plenty of coffee, and helping our local community through whatever comes next.
Whitsunday Law – Still here. Still local. Still on your side.
What a milestone moment for our market. On Sunday, 10th May our auction event exceeded expectations, generating incredible energy, strong buyer interest, and competitive bidding across 8 of our 13 auctions. One property even sold prior to auction, highlighting the urgency and demand created before the day began.
Most excitingly, the event reignited buyer engagement across several properties that had experienced quieter enquiry periods, with multiple homes now in active post-auction negotiations with motivated buyers.
The atmosphere in the room was electric and a powerful reminder of what a well-executed auction campaign can achieve for buyers, sellers, and the broader market.
Stay tuned...the best results may still be to come.
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
Publishers Indemnity. Any individual or entity that places advertising, supplies copy material, or submits editorial content to Core Life Publishing agrees and undertakes to ensure that all such material:- Does not infringe upon any copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property rights;- Is free from any content that could be considered defamatory, libelous, or slanderous;- Does not infringe upon any rights related to privacy or breach of confidence;- Contains no obscene, indecent, or otherwise unlawful material;- Complies fully with the Trade Practices Act and all other applicable laws, regulations, or statutes.Furthermore, by submitting or placing such material, these individuals or entities agree to indemnify and hold harmless the publisher, Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd, and/or its agents from and against any and all investigations, claims, demands, liabilities, damages, costs, or judgments arising out of or in connection with the material provided. All material is believed to be accurate at the time of printing and remains the copyright of Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd.
© 2026 Mackay and Whitsunday Life Pty Ltd.
