Two local Airlie Beach triathletes celebrated outstanding achievements at the finish line of the Ironman Asia Pacific Championships in Busselton, Western Australia, held on Sunday, December 7, 2025.

Rowena Sinclair-Smith and local legend Michael Kimpton both finished on the podium in their respective age groups and were selected to represent Australia at the Ironman World Championships in Kona, Hawaii, in October 2026.

Rowena and Michael, members of the Whitsunday Triathlon Club, have both competed in Kona previously and were privileged to be selected again for triathlon’s most famous race in the world. Held on the Big Island since 1978, the event is renowned for its brutal course, with athletes cycling and running through lava fields in challenging heat, humidity and wind. The conditions test endurance and demand peak physical and mental strength.

The Ironman in Busselton included a calm 3.8km ocean swim in Geographe Bay, followed by a two-lap 180km cycle course, with each 90km loop run on superb roads with a little wind. Athletes then faced a demanding four-lap, 10km run course to complete the marathon in the late Busselton sun.

Michael Kimpton said it was a phenomenal event.

"Whether you are on the start line for the first time or chasing a fast time, Ironman Busselton was a wonderful race to experience," he said.

"This year in Busselton there were many incredible athlete performances from newbies to the Pros. Spectators lined the scenic course still cheering as the sun went down!

"Nearly fifty percent of the field were first timers, showcasing the growing popularity of the sport."

Val Kimpton once again volunteered from dawn till dusk and placed Michael’s medal and towel on him at the finish line.

Val and Michael were also proud to see professional Caleb Noble, an ambassador for the award-winning Coral Sea Marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival, place second overall in the professional male category.

"It's an unbelievable achievement on the day as the pro field talent was enormous," they said.

"Caleb was also selected to represent Australia at the World Ironman Championships in Kona, Hawaii in 2026."

Former Airlie Beach Triathlon participant Lotte Wilms also claimed the professional female title, and Michael and Val are hoping to bring her back to Airlie Beach in 2026.

‍

Michael Kimpton crossing the line in Busselton, Western Australia

Rowena Sinclair-Smith is heading to the World Championship next year.

Photos supplied

‍

As the planning and preparation for the future Cannonvale Community Hub continues, the Counil is set to temporarily combine the Cannonvale Customer service team and the Cannonvale Library together in one location.

People should be advised that minor desk renovations will take place during the library Christmas closure on the 21st of December. The Cannonvale Customer Service team will relocate into the library from New Years onwards. The changes will allow the continuation of important accessible services in one convenient location, whilst preparations are made for the community hub. The new opening hours are listed below, as of Monday 5 January 2026:

Monday to Friday: 9:30am – 4:30pm
Saturday: 10:00am – 1:00pm (Library only)
Sunday: Closed

The development of the community hub brings with it great anticipation and excitement. The $29.8 million project was initially unveiled in October promising a modern library, customer service centre and community meeting spaces. This project represents a fantastic initiative, designed to bring the region together and encourage cultural growth. The initiative is being developed simultaneously with the Galbraith Park Masterplan to ensure that facilities are incorporated seamlessly into their surroundings.

In conjunction with the Whitsunday Regional Sports Masterplan, it is clear great effort is being made to stimulate extensive growth in the region, promoting the development of tourism, industry, infrastructure and culture.

‍

Photo sourced

‍

A Time for Thanks and Community Support
As we close off the calendar year, it’s a perfect opportunity to say thanks – thanks to your team, your loyal customers, and our incredible local community for their continued support.

One meaningful way to show your appreciation is by shopping local this festive season. Every dollar spent within our region contributes to local jobs, businesses, and the sustainability of the Whitsundays community. Together, we can strengthen our economy and build a thriving future.

Looking Ahead to 2026
The Chamber is looking ahead to 2026 with strong focus and optimism. The year ahead will see the introduction of a refreshed operations team and the delivery of our Advocacy Manifesto, identifying key business priorities for the Whitsundays for 2025–2030, alongside the full launch of the Vision for the Whitsundays research project.

Membership engagement will remain a priority, with the establishment of new subcommittees, improved member onboarding, and enhanced opportunities for businesses and not-for-profits to work together.

The Cruise Ship Markets sponsorship program will be introduced, creating new opportunities for local clubs to secure funds or in-kind services.

These initiatives will sit alongside our core activities, including Breakfast Briefings, the Whitsunday Business Conference, Whitsunday Business Awards, Jobs Fair, and our Pop-Up Chamber Tradies BBQ.

Festive Season Break
The Chamber Board and team will be taking a short festive season break from Monday, 22 December to Sunday, 4 January, inclusive. We look forward to reconnecting in the new year with renewed energy and enthusiasm.

On behalf of the Chamber Board, we wish all our members, supporters, and the broader Whitsunday business community a happy and safe festive season. Here’s to a prosperous 2026!

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Alan Milostic

‍

Looking for the perfect Christmas gift for your business or a fellow local business? Why not give the gift that really keeps on giving: a membership with the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Chamber membership isn’t just a subscription – it’s a ticket to connection, growth, and visibility. Members get access to local business networks, events, workshops, and advice, as well as opportunities to collaborate, share ideas, and build partnerships.

Membership also gives your business a voice. The Chamber advocates on your behalf with government, industry bodies, and the community, making sure local business needs are heard and acted on.

Members enjoy extra perks like promotion through the Chamber’s newsletter, social media, and member directory, plus exclusive resources, advice, and member-to-member offers.

Membership starts from just $99, calculated on a pro-rata basis from the day you join through to 30 June 2026, making it easy and cost-effective to join at any time. Optional add-on packages let you increase your visibility or co-host events, giving even more opportunities for your business to shine.

This Christmas, give a gift that supports growth, connection, and success – for your business and for the Whitsundays business community.

Sign up today: www.whitsundaycoastchamber.com.au/join

‍

Northern Queensland Legacy have once again hosted a series of heartwarming Christmas Lunches across several shires to bring the community together and ensure veterans’ families are supported this festive season.

Annually, the Christmas Lunches provide a chance for widows and children of veterans to reconnect and celebrate the festive season with others who understand their unique circumstances.

The Northern Queensland Legacy's Bowen Christmas Party was held on Friday, the 28th of November at the Grandview Hotel where invited guests gathered together to share in a wonderful lunch and celebrate the silly season.

David Burke, President of Northern Queensland Legacy sees the events as a rare opportunity to ensure that for those living in small towns or remote communities, distance doesn’t mean disconnection.

“These Christmas lunches are much more than just a festive celebration. They are a vital lifeline for those who might otherwise feel isolated,” said David.

“It’s in these moments of shared joy that we remind each other that we’re not alone, and that the Legacy community stands together, not just during the holidays, but every day of the year."

Northern Queensland Legacy CEO, Nicole Hayes, believes the events are an essential part of Legacy’s tailored approach to addressing the challenges veterans’ widowers and children in small, remote communities face, especially when it comes to social isolation and access to services.

“For many, especially those facing social isolation, these events are a lifeline, offering not just a social gathering but a reminder that they are part of a supportive network,” Nicole explained.

“The sense of belonging and connection that these events foster helps reduce feelings of loneliness and builds a stronger sense of community. For those who might be living alone or distanced from family, these gatherings are a welcome opportunity to bond with others, share experiences, and feel supported in a fun, festive environment.”

Northern Queensland Legacy provides a range of support services, including social activities, financial assistance, home visits, and advocacy, all aimed at connecting individuals with vital resources.

“We strive to undertake regular contact including home visits and phone calls to check on people’s wellbeing to make sure that no one feels forgotten,” added Nicole.

“We provide a listening ear and practical supports including links with services and agencies. We try to create opportunities for connection to bridge the gap that isolation can create and we aim to ensure that veterans' families are supported no matter where they live.”

Northern Queensland Legacy has expanded its eligibility criteria to now include the dependants of veterans who did not serve operationally or deploy overseas, opening the door for more families to access support. If your spouse served in the Australian Defence Force and you would like to check your eligibility, contact the Northern Queensland Legacy office on 4772 7533 or email admin@nqlegacy.com.au after the 26th of January 2026.

‍

By Merewyn Wright

This weeks photo is of the reflection in Airlie Creek of the Airlie Beach Ferris wheel, with the ripples in the creek making an interesting reflection.

These photographs are submitted by the Whitsundays Amateur Photographers group

‍

Well-known comedian, Bob Hope, once said - "When we recall Christmases past, we usually find that the simplest things - not the great occasions - give off the greatest glow of happiness."

The festive season in Proserpine in 1908, was both a simple and happy time for residents of the district. The merriment began with a street fair on Christmas Eve and was rounded off with picnics and a dance on Boxing Day. The celebrations were joyous occasions. The following newspaper extract from “Port Denison Times” and “Bowen Advocate” Tuesday 5 January 1909 provides a wonderful insight into the Christmas traditions early last century.

“Fine but extremely oppressive weather prevailed in the Proserpine district during the festive season. On Christmas eve a fair number of country people came into town, many of whom did not return to their homes until late in the evening; The principal streets presented a very animated scene at night. The majority of the business places were decorated with greenery, and in one or two instances the brightness of the streets was added to by a number of vari-coloured Chinese lanterns. The juveniles were, as was to be expected, in the " seventh heaven of delight.” The noise they made with squeaking " blow-outs,” &c., and the firing of crackers served to remind grownups of the happy days of childhood. The adult portion of the crowd were in a jovial mood, and the season’s greetings were exchanged in the good, old, time-honoured way. Though the temperature provoked a thirst, very few men over-indulged; consequently, the police had not an arduous duty to perform. Compared with previous years, the trade done by the storekeepers was not brisk - due to the fact, no doubt, that large numbers of people proceeded South some days previously to spend their holidays.

On Christmas Day, several parties were astir early, and lost no time in journeying to Pioneer Bay, the O’Connell River, and other delightful picnic resorts. At St Paul’s (Anglican) Church, the usual Christmas services were held. There was a large congregation at the morning service which was conducted by Mr A. P. Jennings. The church was decorated with greenery, flowers, plains, ferns, &c., the effect being very pleasing indeed. The choral portion of the service was commemorative of the birth of Christ, and the choir sang the hymns of rejoicing with reverential feeling. The anthem, " I will lift up mine eyes,” was splendidly rendered, Miss B. P. Waite singing the solo with capital effect. Mr F. E. Leggett presided at the organ. Mr Jennings, who preached both morning and evening, chose subjects appropriate to the occasion.

The principal attraction for Boxing Day was the hospital benefit race meeting … Several picnic parties made a jaunt to Pioneer Bay, where they spent a very enjoyable day. At night an open-air concert was held, followed by a dance in Mr Compion’s newly erected house. During the day there were fully 120 persons on the beach.”

More than 100 years later, many traditions continue - even if they do now have a modern slant. There is still that last minute Christmas shopping; we have our street fairs and picnic parties; the community comes together for the singing of Christmas carols by candlelight in our parks and on the Airlie foreshore, and, at times, firecrackers can be heard at night, despite not being permitted!

Story and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum. Information also sourced from “Proserpine Guardian” January 5, 1909

‍

Wall calendars depicting beautiful photos of Bowen are now available at the Bowen Visitor Information Centre next to the Big Mango.

These have been produced by Bowen Tourism and Business and feature photos by Mark Fitz and Jack Collins.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said the Bowen calendars were always very popular and would make the perfect Christmas gift.

“A lot of visitors buy these calendars each year and love the photos of Bowen’s beaches and other landmarks.

“A lot of local residents buy them for their own homes or to post to family and friends in other parts of Australia and the world.

“This is the fourth year we have produced the calendar, and they have become increasingly popular,” she said.

They are also available at other businesses in Bowen, including several caravan parks and resorts.

The 2026 calendars include photos of beaches as well as the Big Mango, a mango farm and the Bowen lighthouse.

“Bowen has such beautiful scenery, and we love producing these calendars each year to showcase what is on offer.”

Contributed with thanks to Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy

‍

Bowen Tourism and Business team member, Melissa Beuzeville with the 2026 Bowen calendar. Photo supplied

‍

The Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network (WSPN) is inviting the community to a free BBQ at the Bowen Foreshore, next to the Jetty on Santa Barbara Parade. The event will run between 4:30pm and 6:30pm on Friday 19th December and it is open to everyone.

This gathering provides an opportunity for locals to come together, enjoy a meal, and support mental health awareness in the region.

All members of the public are welcome to attend.

WSPN have provided the Whitsunday community with a free Tradie BBQ breakfast since the beginning of this year and the popularity has grown immensely.

The Tradie BBQ has gone from a small handful to over 70 people, to enjoy conversation, connection and asking the important question "What's Up Mate?"

Held in the carpark outside Shirtfront Solutions and Enzed it's a popular and central location for many.

The Bowen Community Christmas BBQ is also in a central, easily accesible location for the Bowen Community.

WHAT: Bowen Community BBQ
WHEN: 4:30 to 6:30pm, Friday 19th December
WHERE: Foreshore - Santa Barbara Parade - Front Beach - Next to Jetty

‍

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.

‍

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.

‍

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.”

‍

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.

‍

Hello everyone,

I hope you have all got your christmas shopping ready and are excited for the christmas period!

In this week's Ruth2Reef, we explore why a healthy fish population is essential for a thriving reef and reveal the answer to the question: where do whales go after leaving the Whitsundays?

As always, happy reading, and I would also like to send my thoughts to everyone affected by the events in Bondi over the weekend.

Ruth

‍

Spouts of water shooting up in the distance, big water slaps and dramatic breaches, are a common sight when travelling through the clear whitsunday waters during Winter. Whales grace the whitsundays every year, but after the season ends, where do these elegant mammals go?

While whales are not known for their speed due to their large rotund body's and huge bobbly pectoral fins, their distance is impressive, with them travelling a 10,000 km roundtrip from cold and frigid Antarctic feeding grounds to the warm, welcoming whitsunday waters for breeding and calving.

Their journey after the Whitsundays, however, is not an easy one, with struggles involving depleting energy reserves, threats from human activities like ship strikes and fishing gear, alongside protecting their calves from predators such as Orca's and sharks.

Sadly, these aren't the only issues the whales have to avoid, as the growing impacts of climate change are affecting their food source, krill. Whales do not feed during their time in the Whitsundays, so they rely on stored fat for the three to four month period that they are completing their journey, therefore, with changes to their food web, alongside the dangers from human shipping and nets they risk starvation.

Why do whales risk travelling so far? The Great Barrier Reef foundation states that. "As winter approaches in the Southern Hemisphere, the Antarctic krill population diminishes due to sunlight reduction and sea ice formation."

"Whales are highly attuned to environmental cues. This seasonal change and decline in food availability prompts whales to instinctively embark on their journey north," the foundation added.

Having experienced many whale encounters in the Whitsundays it is very upsetting to find out that some of the whales won't make the journey after visiting here. To reduce your impact on our marine friends try to avoid single-use plastics where possible and volunteer or donate to an organisation focusing on protecting our marine life, such as Whales of Whitsundays.

‍

Humpback whales, I was lucky enough to swim with in WA. Photo credit: Laura Gourgas.

‍