If you felt the earth tremble recently, it wasn’t an earthquake—it was the sonic boom of Australia’s track and field stars obliterating limits and blowing minds.

At the 2025 Australian Athletics Championships in Perth, 17-year-old sensation Gout Gout ran so fast in the men’s 200m final (a wind-assisted 19.84 seconds), we’re pretty sure his spikes are still smoking. With a +2.2 m/s tailwind nudging him along, it’s not eligible for record books—but try telling that to the jaws still on the ground. The time still places him among the fastest under-20 athletes globally, beating the GOAT Bolt and trailing only Erriyon Knighton. The teen also dropped a cheeky sub-10 in the under-20 100m (9.99s, wind-assisted).

Not to be outdone, Peter Bol stormed through the 800m in a blistering 1:43.79, smashing his own national record. This is the same guy who bounced back from a bogus doping scandal, proof that Bol doesn’t just run fast, he runs strong. If resilience was a lane, he’d have lapped us all twice by now.

And while the sprinters were frying the track in Perth, Matthew Denny was sending the discus into orbit overseas. His 74.78m national record would’ve been a world record, had it not been for Lithuania’s Mykolas Alekna, who casually broke the actual world record in the same comp with a gravity-defying 75.56m. The first human ever to go over 75 metres. It was less a discus comp, more a Marvel origin story.

Closer to home, flick to page 35 to catch local gun Toby Rule, who lined up on the very same Perth track as Gout and Bol and took a whopping four seconds off his PB to crack the elusive 4-minute mark in the U20 1500m. That’s not just running, it’s rewriting personal history with turbocharged shoes. And while we’re on high-speed local heroes, check out David O’Connell, also on page 35, who spun his way onto the masters national podium with a brilliant bronze at the Anna Meares Velodrome in Brisbane.

This golden age of Aussie athletics is reminding us of something timeless: no matter how far you’ve come, you can always push that little bit further. And if you’re Gout Gout, you might just need a passport for it.

Amanda

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There was a time, many years ago, when buyers were a rare species in the Mackay region.

Hardly ever seen or heard, they would occasionally turn up at an open house, avoid eye contact with another threatened species, the agent, and quickly flee before anyone could trick them into buying anything.

You would sit alone at what was given the hopeful label of  an “open” house and thank the dear Lord that some brainiac had invented this new smart phone thingo that meant you had something to do during the demoralising 30 minutes you had dedicated to this cruel, lonely exercise in futility.

Then, one day, people started turning up. A trickle at first, just having a look. Then people noticed that rents had started going up and a bright idea started to form: it might be a good idea to buy a house.

Soon this once-threatened species started to flourish. You would see them arrive at open homes; occasionally an individual member of the species, often a pair looking together, sometimes it was one or two younger ones in their 20s with their parents.

Over recent years buyers have flourished; they now travel in hordes, marauding through the suburbs fighting over the scarce offerings of a tight market.

But buyers have evolved and there is now a new, aggressive sub-species called The Southern Investor. This sub-species is very determined, focused and ruthless. The Southern Investor researches the Mackay market and is cashed up and ready to pounce.

What does it all mean for a real estate agent? How do you handle all these buyers, the locals and the southerner investors.

The one thing that is very clear is that an agent’s core responsibility is to get the best possible price for their client, the seller, within what are clear ethical and legal boundaries.

All offers must be presented to a seller and they must be given all relevant information so they can make informed decisions. And last year it was usually the southern investor making the higher offers and getting the prize.

That has changed this year and, while southern investors are still very much in the market, locals are fighting back.

I had two open homes last weekend: one was a property over the $1m mark that had 35 groups and six offers. All attendees were locals and all the offers came from locals. The other open house was at a low-set brick property that needed a bit of work but had lots of potential … that one got about 16 groups but received about 20 offers.

The reason the second one had more offers than people in attendance was because of the interest from southern investors.

Most of the strong offers came from southern investors but the offer that was accepted by the sellers was from a local couple.

One of the problems with southern investors is that they have not seen the property and, for that reason, they are often surprised when they receive the building and pest report and then ask for a significant reduction in the price.

One of the advantages of being a local buyer is that you can look at the property, discuss any shortcomings with the agent and factor those issues into the price you offer.

The sellers accepted the offer from the locals on the weekend because they had more confidence with people who had seen the house, spoken with me about issues that needed to be addressed and had factored that into their offer. The sellers had more trust in the local buyers than the southern investors.

My job is to act in the best interests of my sellers. But it is great when that aligns with local buyers getting a chance.

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In a touching display of unity and compassion, Whitsunday Anglican School’s 2025 Service Captains – Lachlan, Charli and Tahsin – have led a heartfelt initiative to support families in need across the Mackay region.

Partnering with The Neighbourhood Hub, the School community rallied behind their call, gathering school essentials for those who may not otherwise have access to these basic but vital items. From pens and pencils to backpacks, books, lunchboxes, and hats, every donation was a quiet reminder that small gestures can make a big difference.

“Our students and wider Whitsunday family have donated items such as pens, pencils, books, backpacks, lunchboxes, hats and more,” a representative from Whitsunday Anglican School said.

“Together, we're making a difference, one act of kindness at a time.”

Melissa Green, Director of the Mackay Community Foundation, personally visited the School to receive the donations on behalf of the community.

There was something poetic in the quiet determination of these students, a belief that change can begin with the contents of a schoolbag. It’s more than just giving supplies – it’s about giving hope.

In a world where kindness sometimes whispers, Whitsunday Anglican School chose to speak loudly with love.

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Photo source: Whitsunday Anglican School (Facebook)

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For over 135 years, The Salvation Army has stood as a pillar of Christian faith and compassion, walking alongside those in crisis and extending hope through the love of Jesus.

In Mackay, that mission continues to shine through the work of Ministers David and Belinda Dobbie, who are not just spiritual leaders, but active members of a community they love.

At the core of the Mackay Salvos’ outreach is a deep commitment to supporting individuals through life’s many challenges, which often include financial hardship, domestic violence, addiction, and the mounting pressures of everyday life.

“We help people because of our faith,” David said.

“We know the freedom we get through Jesus, which is why we’re so passionate about helping our community.”

Every week, their doors open to those in need, offering a helping hand where individuals feel seen, heard, and supported. Mackay Corps opening times are Tuesday and Thursday from 9:00am to 2:30pm, with Salvo Connect available from 10:00am to 12:00pm.

“People come to us as a safe space,” David shared.

“We’ve seen amazing transformations in people – and that’s the power of Jesus.”

Last Christmas, the Salvos distributed 300 food hampers and helped 600 children receive toys. While these gifts were wrapped with love and delivered by The Salvation Army, they were made possible by the generosity of the wider community.

As Easter approaches, the Dobbie's encourage reflection on the season’s message of sacrifice, hope, and new beginnings.

“Easter is really important for the faith community,” David said.

“The impact that Jesus has on people’s lives is transformative – and through the Salvation Army, we’re able to walk with them in their struggles. But it’s through Jesus that their lives are truly turned around.”

With a growing footprint in Bowen and Airlie Beach and plans for further outreach, the Mackay Salvation Army continues to embody its mission – to live, love and fight alongside others with the heart of Christ.

This Easter, all are invited to join their services and experience the hope and grace found in Jesus Christ.

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Pastor David Dobbie, Leading Minister of the Mackay Salvation Army Church. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Crossroad Arts’ Annual Giving Day launched with flair and plenty of coffee on Tuesday, April 15, thanks to the support of the Mackay Chamber of Commerce. Kicking off bright and early with a buzzing B2B networking event, the Chamber hosted its fortnightly breakfast catch-up at Crossroad’s Shakespeare Street HQ — all in the name of art, inclusion and doubling your dollar.

Guests were greeted with coffee orders taken by Crossroad staff and brewed by local favourite Willow and Bloom, followed by a heartfelt welcome message and a surprise performance from the Crossroad Arts crew.

The novelty cheque photo booth saw steady action all day, as donations poured in and each dollar was doubled in impact. A live painting session brought colour and creativity throughout the afternoon, while a lunchtime performance by Lucas Gakowski kept the energy flowing.

In a show of wide-reaching support, representatives from all levels of government attended to help raise awareness and amplify the cause — including Mayor Greg Williamson, Deputy Mayor Karen May, councillors Heath Paton, Alison Jones and Nathenea MacRae, Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox, Senator Bridget McKenzie and State Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton.

With community spirit, a few caffeine hits and the power of matched giving, the day was a vibrant reminder of the role art plays in connecting and empowering us all.

Supporters, artists, and dignitaries gathered for Crossroad Arts' Annual Giving Day, helping to double donations and celebrate inclusive creativity. Photos supplied by the Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce

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Mackay City Centre businesses are being encouraged to “hop” into the spotlight, as Daly Bay Illuminate heads to our city heart.

One of the highlights of the annual Mackay Festival Arts, Daly Bay Illuminate will this year feature eight enormous amphibian installations, called Night Walkers by Amigo & Amigo.

These enormous, illuminated frogs will be scattered around the city alongside spectacular artworks by local and national artists, which will be projected onto our iconic buildings.

Mayor Greg Williamson said Daly Bay Illuminate would be held throughout the City Centre for the first time, bringing with it so many opportunities for businesses to be a part of the action.

“Illuminate is such a major drawcard of the Festival of Arts program and activating our city in this way will bring so much benefit in increased foot traffic,” Mayor Williamson said.

“We want businesses to decorate their shop fronts, stay open later, host special events and join with us to promote the event so everyone can benefit,” he said.

“We don’t want any businesses to be left on the lily pad!”

Festival and Events Coordinator Phoebe Short said her team had been successful in securing Festivals Australia funding to expand this amazing event.

“Each of the locations chosen is easily accessible for everyone and offers a variety of activities,” Ms Short said.

“We encourage festivalgoers to dine out in the City Centre before visiting the different locations to view the art projections and Night Walkers,” she said.

Ms Short said running alongside Daly Bay Illuminate, from July 24 to July 27, would be the Whitsunday Wealth Festival Hub at Caneland Park.

“A feature of the Whitsunday Wealth Festival Hub is the live music, mouthwatering street food and stunning visual displays, including beautiful art created by the community,” she said.

The full map of the Daly Bay Illuminate locations and all of the activities being offered will be featured in the 2025 Mackay Festival of Arts program and website, launching on May 1.

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Ribbiting times are ahead as giant inflatable amphibians leap into the City Centre for Daly Bay Illuminate this July. Photo supplied: Mackay Regional Council

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Looking forward is about not only career growth and accomplishment but also personal development and fulfilment. It also provides a sense of purpose and direction, as well as personal revitalisation.

Here are some key reasons why looking forward is essential to career growth:

1. Motivation and purpose
   Working towards a goal provides meaning and keeps you motivated especially during the challenging times and when your career feels at a standstill. Keep the end game top of mind.
2. Focus and Direction
   Looking forward assists to develop your personal career roadmap – this can guide your daily choices, as well as other career actions you need to take e.g. aiming for promotion, switching industries or moving into leadership positions.
3. Adaptability
   The job market is constantly evolving with new technologies and new roles. Looking forward helps to stay relevant and understanding how you need to adapt to stay relevant and progress.
4. Make the most of opportunities
   When you know your purpose, you are able to be strategic rather than reactive about your career choices. You have to be able to recognise a ‘right’ opportunity when it arises so you can act on it. Avoid the regret of ‘coulda, woulda’ shoulda’.
5. Feeds into how you want to live your life
   Career is only part (albeit a big chunk) of our lives. Being future focussed allows you to better align your career and personal life goals – it’s all about making decisions to choose the life you want to live for what matters to you e.g. financial independence, location choice and flexibility.

To review your future focus seek some assistance from a trusted personal career guide. CareerForce Australia can provide that individualised support - contact me at powerup@careerforceaustralia.com.au or 0409 894 131 to learn more.

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The Bowen Health Connection event united local community members and health service providers for a day devoted to health and wellbeing across the entire spectrum of life, from babies to the elderly.

Brought to life through the hard work and dedication of Stephanie Cora, executive officer of the Bowen Community Centre, and Josephine Ferguson, community liaison officer with the Together Strong, Connected Care program. The inspiration for the event struck Josephine whilst she was attending a Women's Forum held at Cannonvale Tafe. The forum kindled the flames of an idea: why not host a similar event in Bowen, an event catered to everyone ?

“The intention of the event was to not just focus on women's health but health in general for people of all age groups, whether you're a parent with a new-born or a senior seeking support ” , said Ms Cora.

The overarching purpose of Bowen Health Connection was to make local health services more visible and approachable, giving residents the opportunity to access programs which support their health and ultimately improve their quality of life. Booths and displays were erected for a range of health services, with providers on deck to answer questions and supply attendees with resources.

“Our goal was to give locals a clearer picture of the health services available to them here in the community,” said Ms Ferguson.

The event was made possible through the generous funding from Give Queensland and Q call, whose support allowed the organisers to breathe life into the idea. Both Ms Cora and Ms Ferguson expressed their heartfelt gratitude for the funding and the strong community turnout.

By shifting the focus on inclusion, awareness and access, The Bowen Health Connection succeeded in ensuring essential health information was delivered to the individuals most in need.

“We hope this becomes a regular event,” said Ms Ferguson. “Because healthy communities start with connection.

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The  dedicated team at the Bowen Community Centre Josephine Ferguson, Stephanie Cora, Unknown. Photo Credit: Munir Kilic

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The Landholders of Collinsville travelled hundreds of kilometres, seeking  illumination on Queensland's vegetation management laws at a workshop created by NQ Dry Tropics.

The whole day event provided graziers with vital insights and tools for presiding over their properties sustainably. Peter Webley and Scott Devaney of the Department of Natural Resources and Mines, Manufacturing, Regional and Rural Development outlined chief aspects of the vegetation management laws and highlighted essential resources.

The purpose of these laws is to safeguard native flora, reduce land degradation, preserve biodiversity, stabilise soil, decrease erosion, and enrich water quality through minimisation of sediment runoff into waterways.

John Skinner, the owner White Kangaroo Station, found the workshop invaluable.

“I was interested to hear if there had been any changes to the laws following the change in government and to suss out what was involved in getting a PMAV”, he said.

Department staff recommended landholders to pursue a Property Map of Assessable Vegetation (PMAV), which clarifies regional ecosystems and vegetation categories, providing valuable assistance in the making of informed land management decisions.

"It's important to keep meeting with government staff, to have these conversations so we stay front-of-mind," Mr Skinner added.

Stephanie Tudehope of Landers Creek Station also found face-to-face workshops extremely beneficial.

"The workshop was a time-saver. It was nice to put a face to the person on the phone and I could ask the dumb questions," she said.

Workshop attendees learned about vegetation categories, including Category X, imposing minimal restrictions. Graziers were also urged  to utilise VegHub, a free support service reachable at 135 834. Staffed by highly experienced regional personnel, VegHub assists landholders in navigating vegetation laws seamlessly and effectively.

The workshop, jointly hosted by the Landholders Driving Change project, funded through partnerships with the Australian Government’s Reef Trust, the Great Barrier Reef Foundation, and the Queensland Government's Reef Water Quality Program, is part of the Queensland Government's community-focused approach in the Bowen, Broken, Bogie area with the next workshop being held in Kilcummin on Tuesday the 15th of April.

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Attendees of the Vegetation Management Workshop in Collinsville. Photo Provided
Workshop in progress. Photo Provided

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Big thanks to the wonderful individuals keeping the youngsters of the community safe as they cross our busy and wet roads. All parents, guardians and bus drivers alike would like to extend a heartfelt thank-you to Kym Blackburn and the entire Lollipop Team for their unwavering dedication and service to the community.

Every morning and afternoon, they work tirelessly to ensure the safety of our children as they cross the bustling streets, allowing them to reach school and home without worry. The Lollipop Team not only prioritises the well-being of our young ones, and other pedestrians needing to cross, but they also play a vital role in keeping traffic flowing smoothly without anyone risking a game of human Frogger.

Their efforts make a significant difference, and it’s truly appreciated by both the families and bus drivers in the area. Whitsunday Transit expressed that their bus drivers always enjoy waving to the Lollipop Team each morning, and it's clear that their hard work makes our community a better place. Thank you, Kym, and to all the amazing members of the Lollipop Team for everything you do!

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Kym Blackburn of the Lollipop Team. Photo sourced: Whitsunday Transit Facebook Page

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In the heart of the Whitsundays, Green Energy Technologies (GET), a company owned and operated by locals for locals, boldly blazes the trail towards North Queensland's renewable future.

Established in 2010 by director Kon Flaherty and James Webb, GET has experienced explosive growth from a small team of five to over 90 dedicated staff, witnessing a tremendous 30 per cent growth rate each year across offices in the Whitsundays, Mackay and Townsville. GET is Queensland's number one solar installer, delivering expertly tailored solar and battery solutions to homes and businesses across the region for over 15 years.

For Whitsundays locals, GET’s unwavering commitment to community-driven service guarantees that sustainable energy is affordable and accessible for decades to come.  All of which is made possible through the steadfast effort of GET’s expert staff.

One such expert is Senior Renewable Energy Specialist, Ian Eman, who joined GET in 2019.

Ian brings a wealth of knowledge and experience from his background as an electrical engineer and his time at United Energy in Victoria. Transitioning to GET after a stint in real estate, Ian now fuses his technical proficiency with his strong customer relationship skills in order to deliver client-focused solar and battery solutions to Whitsunday locals.

“Our goal is simple; our entire focus is the client's electricity bill and how to reduce it to zero.

“That’s what sets us apart, we are not a product-focused solar company, our focus is on our clients,” explains Ian.

GET achieves this goal through premium solar systems and an innovative monitoring application that tracks savings, identifies battery needs and ensures long-term performance. The systems are built to endure, with warranties and guarantees for a minimum of 10 years. Installation takes just 4-6 weeks, and every GET system brings with it a lifetime service guarantee covering repairs, maintenance, and diagnostics.

For Ian and the GET team, affordability is a key priority; therefore, to dispel the myth that switching to solar costs $10,000 to $40,000 upfront, Ian draws attention to Government rebates and zero-interest green loans, which make the switch to solar seamless, requiring no upfront costs.

"Clients save money immediately with their repayments being less than or equal to what they pay for remaining on the grid.” Ian added.

It is important to note that the environmental impact is profound. A 6.6 kW system offsets carbon equivalent to replanting 300 trees annually, while a 13kW system doubles that to 600 trees. This aligns with GET’s mission to transition Australia to renewables with “a reliable, high-performance solar solution, backed by our savings guarantee.”

GET understands the Whitsundays’ unique needs and empowers residents to embrace clean energy to contribute to a greener future for Queensland.

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With its sun-drenched beaches, gently swaying palms, and crystal-clear turquoise waters, Hamilton Island is widely regarded as one of the crown jewels of the Whitsundays. Nestled in the heart of the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, this tropical sanctuary offers an idyllic escape where barefoot luxury meets outdoor adventure, all set against a backdrop of breathtaking natural beauty that can be enjoyed throughout the year.

Whether you're planning a romantic getaway, a family holiday, or a solo retreat, Hamilton Island caters to every kind of traveller. The island boasts an impressive variety of accommodation, ranging from self-catering apartments and private holiday homes with panoramic views to luxury resorts. Among these are the world-renowned qualia, an adults-only haven offering understated elegance and seclusion, and the stylish beachfront Beach Club, celebrated for its intimate atmosphere and attentive service.

Joining this prestigious line-up is The Sundays, Hamilton Island’s latest luxury addition, set to open on 24 April 2025. Designed to reflect the relaxed yet refined spirit of the Australian coast, The Sundays features Catseye Pool Club at its heart—a chic new restaurant helmed by acclaimed chefs Josh and Julie Niland, the duo behind Sydney’s award-winning Saint Peter. Showcasing locally sourced seafood and seasonal ingredients, and paired with sweeping views of Catseye Beach, the restaurant is already generating significant buzz. With its sophisticated coastal design and elevated dining offering, The Sundays promises a fresh new take on laidback luxury.

Getting to Hamilton Island is refreshingly easy, thanks to its own commercial airport with direct flights from Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. Alternatively, guests can arrive via scenic boat transfers from the Queensland mainland—offering a striking first impression as you approach the island’s lush green hills and azure waters.

Since being acquired by the Oatley family in 2003, Hamilton Island has undergone a remarkable transformation, with over $400 million AUD invested in infrastructure, hospitality, and guest experiences. Yet, despite these improvements, the island has retained the natural charm and unspoilt beauty that make it so special.

Among the island’s newest highlights is The Palms, a relaxed, waterfront dining spot offering a modern take on the Australian BBQ, where guests can enjoy laid-back meals with ocean views. Another standout is the Cultural Island Discovery with Robbie Congoo, a unique and immersive experience led by a respected Traditional Owner of the Whitsundays. Aboard the private vessel Pebble Beach, guests are invited to explore the rich cultural heritage of the region through storytelling, traditional knowledge, and an intimate journey through sacred sites and landscapes.

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Beautiful views of Hamilton Island. Photo credit: Kara Rosenlund
hil2: Marina Village.

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Hamilton Island boasts an exceptional variety of activities and experiences, offering something for every kind of traveller. Whether you're seeking relaxation, adventure, nature, luxury, or culture, this tropical gem in the heart of the Whitsundays delivers unforgettable moments at every turn.

Visitors can indulge in over 60 activities and tours, unwind in two luxurious day spas, dine at more than 20 restaurants and cafés, and explore the vibrant 300+ berth marina. For those craving sun-soaked adventure, Whitehaven Beach which was recently crowned Lonely Planet’s World’s Best Beach 2025, is just 30 minutes away via high-speed catamaran.

Meanwhile, the iconic Heart Reef, with its picture-perfect, heart-shaped lagoon and vibrant coral formations, is best seen from the air. For a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience, hop aboard a Journey to the Heart helicopter trip to Hamilton Island’s exclusive Heart Island pontoon.

Embrace Nature, Wellness & Wildlife

Nature lovers will appreciate around 25 kilometres of scenic walking trails that wind through lush, protected bushland. These trails lead to hidden coves, secluded beaches, and breathtaking lookouts—sunrise walks to Passage Peak are especially rewarding, offering sweeping views across the Whitsundays.

Keep your eyes peeled for native wildlife along the way, or plan a visit during whale season—Hamilton Island is a gateway to a Whale Heritage Site, where thousands of majestic humpback whales migrate each year.

Health and wellness take centre stage on the island, with sunrise yoga classes—including a special session on Dent Island’s clifftop every first Sunday of the month—a Sports Club with instructor-led classes, and a scenic weekly parkrun. Spa wumurdaylin offers a tranquil escape with a range of relaxing, rejuvenating treatments.

Golf, Culture and World-Class Events

Golfers can tee off at the Hamilton Island Golf Club on Dent Island—Australia’s only championship-grade course located on its own island. Designed by golfing legend Peter Thomson, this course challenges and delights in equal measure, while the Clubhouse restaurant serves up delicious meals alongside panoramic sea views (and yes, it’s had famous guests, with George Clooney even being a fan!).

The island also plays host to an exciting calendar of events throughout the year. From Hamilton Island Race Week, to endurance sporting challenges, and the romantic pas de deux in Paradise ballet performance, there’s always something happening to elevate your stay.

Food, Drink and Laid-Back Vibes

When it’s time to unwind, few places rival sunset cocktails at One Tree Hill or on the stylish Bommie Deck, where the sky transforms into a canvas of golds, pinks, and oranges.

For something new, head to The Palms, an alfresco garden bar tucked by the Marina. With live music and a BBQ-inspired smoky menu, it’s the perfect casual hangout after a day of exploration.

Looking for a memorable day trip? A seaplane flight to Whitehaven Beach is always unforgettable—and the beloved service has just recently returned, making it a top pick for romantics and photographers alike.

Adventure Awaits Around Every Corner

There’s no shortage of adrenaline-pumping action on Hamilton Island. Jetski tours, scenic flights, snorkelling, diving, and more are all on offer for thrill-seekers. One of the most exciting new experiences is the Cultural Island Discovery tour with Robbie Congoo, a guided cultural and culinary journey through the Whitsundays, blending traditional knowledge with contemporary storytelling.

And when it comes to exploring the island itself? Hiring a buggy is not only the most fun way to get around and it’s practically a Hamilton Island tradition.

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One Tree Hill. Photo credit: Deb Foschiatti.
Robert Congoo Hook Island Experience. Photo credit: Lean Timms.
Passage Peak Hike

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Sundays have never looked better! The Sundays, a boutique hotel on Hamilton Island, is now open for bookings and will officially welcome guests from 24 April 2025. Nestled at the serene northern end of Catseye Beach, it offers 59 sun-drenched rooms with breathtaking ocean views. A perfect blend of contemporary elegance and island charm, The Sundays invites guests to unwind, reconnect, and embrace the natural beauty of the Great Barrier Reef.

Joining Hamilton Island’s luxury offerings, The Sundays adds to accommodations like qualia, the Beach Club, the Reef View Hotel, and over 150 self-contained holiday homes. Whether seeking peace or adventure, the resort offers something for everyone. Inspired by the best parts of a Sunday, it’s a place to recharge and create lasting memories. Guests can enjoy poolside lounging or venture out to explore the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef.

Accessible via complimentary shuttle transfers from the island's airport or marina, the resort has a rich history, having once housed the Outrigger Restaurant and Allamanda Lodge. In 2023, Hamilton Island began reimagining the space, preserving its beauty while crafting a fresh boutique experience. The result is a retreat that feels both familiar and entirely redefined, with 70% of Hamilton Island still untouched by development.

The architecture blends seamlessly with its natural surroundings, incorporating sculptural stonework, lush tropical gardens, and a winding boardwalk that leads to a secluded beach. Midway, the boardwalk opens onto an elevated event space with sweeping views of Catseye Bay. Local designer Carrie Williams has infused the resort with a modern yet relaxed aesthetic, where guest rooms echo the calming hues of sand and sea. Each room features a private balcony or terrace with breathtaking views, enriched by natural textures and premium amenities.

At the heart of The Sundays is Catseye Pool Club, a waters-edge restaurant and bar led by celebrated culinary duo Josh and Julie Niland. The menu celebrates Australian produce, perfect for long lunches and relaxed dinners. Indigenous artist Tiarna Herczeg’s works, inspired by the island’s landscape, feature throughout the hotel, from large-scale installations in the lobby and art in the restaurant. In the early weeks after opening, she will also create two striking murals along the boardwalk, adding playful, artistic touches to the waterfront space.

The resort’s 59 rooms are designed to maximise the natural beauty of the island. They feature neutral tones, textural finishes, and unobstructed views, with spacious layouts ideal for couples and small families. Family Connect rooms offer interconnecting layouts for larger groups. Bathrooms open to sea breezes with reeded glass windows offering panoramic views.

Sustainability is front and centre, with smart cooling, energy-efficient LED lighting, and locally made furnishings from eco-conscious brands like Jardan. Australian-designed and made tapware by Faucet Strommen — featuring the country’s first lead-free range — adds to the resort’s green credentials, along with elements like a House of Bamboo soffit. The resort is also inclusive, with three accessible rooms, cabanas, and a pool lift.

The Sundays offers curated experiences for all ages, including sunrise yoga, daily sundaes by the pool, and pre-ordered baby essentials. Guests can enjoy complimentary use of non-motorised water sports equipment, including paddleboards and kayaks. The Clownfish Club, the island’s kids’ club, offers supervised activities for younger guests.

The Sundays promises a memorable escape in one of the world’s most beautiful locations, offering the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure. For more details, visit www.thesundays.com.au or follow on Instagram @thesundayshotel.

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Relax in luxury at The Sundays.
The Sundays room balcony.

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When Melanie and Matthew Harris took over Whitsunday Vogue Interiors 18 months ago, they weren’t just buying a business — they were building on a legacy. With a shared background in the industry and a clear vision in mind, the couple set out to transform the long-standing local brand into a modern, full-service destination for flooring and window coverings. At the heart of their decision was something deeply personal — creating a strong, sustainable future for their three children, right here in the Whitsundays.

Now revamped with a sleek black-and-white look, Whitsunday Vogue Interiors remains firmly rooted in its 11-year legacy, but with a fresh, contemporary flair which mirrors the youthful energy of its new owners and the coastal charm of the Whitsundays.

“We wanted to take it to bigger and better heights,” said Melanie, who, along with Matthew, has worked in the business for four years before taking the plunge and purchasing it.

“There’s so much room for creativity and growth here, we are excited to show the Whitsundays how much we can offer.”

At the heart of the business is a focus on custom-made window coverings, from shutters and blinds to bespoke drapery and external awnings. The entire process is designed to be seamless and stress-free, with complimentary on-site quotes and personalised design consultations tailored to each client’s style, space, and needs. Customers are welcome to visit the showroom or enjoy the convenience of having samples brought directly to their home.

Whitsunday Vogue Interiors is expanding its horizons beyond window furnishings, now offering a full range of flooring solutions including vinyl plank, hybrid flooring, carpet, and more — all delivered with the same care, expertise, and attention to detail they’re known for. With Matthew bringing over 14 years of experience and a trade qualification in the flooring industry, and Melanie contributing six years in the window covering industry, their combined expertise ensures clients receive informed guidance, quality products, and beautifully finished results — from the floors up.

“Our aim is to be a one-stop shop,” Melanie explained.

This expansion into flooring means homeowners can now enjoy a cohesive, end-to-end service when updating or building their homes. By offering both flooring and window solutions under one roof, Whitsunday Vogue Interiors simplifies the design process, saving clients time and ensuring a consistent, beautifully coordinated look throughout their space. From initial consultation to final installation, every step is handled with professionalism, attention to detail, and a deep understanding of what makes a home both functional and stylish.

Melanie shared her excitement about several upcoming waterfront builds in Airlie Beach, where clients have opted for recessed and motorised window coverings — a sleek, modern solution that conceals all hardware and allows the fabric to take centre stage. This minimalist approach to curtains and blinds is growing rapidly in popularity, offering a high-end finish that reflects both expert craftsmanship and a sharp eye for detail — qualities that Whitsunday Vogue Interiors brings to both residential and commercial projects.

What truly sets them apart is their perspective. As a dynamic, next-generation team, Melanie and Matthew bring a contemporary, trend-savvy approach to home design. They’re in tune with what motivates today’s homeowners and aren’t afraid to embrace fresh ideas.

Whitsunday Vogue Interiors is proving that beautiful design can be both accessible and tailored to the local lifestyle. With big plans on the horizon and a passion for helping people create their dream dwellings, Melanie and Matthew Harris are turning heads, and turning houses into homes across the Whitsundays.

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