The Misses Valmadres

The contribution of women to the growth of our shire was often underestimated and undervalued. However, from its earliest time, women were playing a major role in the development of the shire, not only in their customary roles as wives and mothers but as active, essential and successful members of the business community. Three such women were sisters, Erminia (Min), Mavis and Edna Valmadre.

In 1911, Battista (Jack) Valmadre and Margherita (née Cecini) moved to Kelsey Creek from Ravenswood where Min and Mavis had been born. Edna was born three years later.

While she was still quite young, Erminia (Min) moved to Brisbane and worked with her aunt, Nora Keane (née Cecini) who had established a dressmaking business in the city after leaving Ravenswood where the Cecini family lived. Min worked under the professional guidance of her aunt for six months to fine-tune her skills and develop her natural talent for dressmaking before returning to Proserpine to start her own business - perhaps the early twenties - in a little shop which was owned by Mrs Beames and situated near the Grand Central Hotel.

When Mavis and Edna joined Min, the business became known as M. Valmadre and Co. They worked from Dobbos building near the State School (then located opposite the Post Office). The building consisted of a central showroom and two side verandahs, one from which Harry Muller sold bikes and the other from which the Valmadre girls operated their business for some years.

On June 1 1935, “Proserpine Guardian” reported -

“The Misses Valmadre have opened a drapery business in the old ABC Bank building and have a new stock of drapery, millinery, hosiery, dress lengths and ladies’ apparel on display. The new business will be known as “Valmai Salon” where the latest in dress lengths and ready to wear frocks may be purchased at reasonable rates. A feature of the business is that dressmaking will be carried on as usual by Miss Min Valmadre and customers’ own material will be made up if desired.” (The site is now the premises of the Prince of Wales Hotel Bistro).

The Valmadre girls built up an enviable reputation and dressed their clientele with flair and distinction. Fitting rooms were set up in part of the living quarters at the back of the shop. Min did all the cutting out and fitting, Edna and Beattie Brown sewed, Mavis was in charge of the buying and selling with Rita Biggs/Fraser as the shop assistant. Mavis specialised in the beading.

Over the years, numerous local girls learnt their trade at the Valmai Salon and went on to do dressmaking in their own right. The museum archives contain some wonderful stories shared by local ladies no longer with us.

· On her father’s advice, Irma Pini (later Borellini) approached Min Valmadre for a job. Irma was thirteen at the time. Can you hold a thimble?” Min asked. “Yes, Miss Valmadre,” she replied, “We do a lot of fancy work at home with Mum.” “Come on in then – you can start now,” replied Min. Thimbles were an absolute must!

· Moofie Johnstone (née Paradies) recalled how they had to make crepe de chine bloomers, mostly by hand, especially for Mrs Valmadre - and always with lace around the edges!

In 1942, with the fall of Singapore, the bombing of Darwin, and the war entering a more dangerous phase for Australia, the Valmai Salon was closed when all three Valmadre girls joined the services. The Valmai Salon did not re-open after the war as the sisters moved in different directions.

Story and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum

L-R Edna, Min and Mavis Valmadre. Photo supplied.

Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine celebrated another year of community impact at its Annual General Meeting and Community Event on Wednesday 12 November, where the clear message was that the Whitsundays community remains the biggest winner of the Community Bank model.

Chairman Mark Henry said the success of the branch comes down to its unique “profit-with-a-purpose” approach.

“Our profit-with-a-purpose model means most of the profits generated by our branch go straight back into the community,” he said.

This year’s event featured a $1,200 prize pool recognising the contribution of local clubs. The Whitsunday Swimming Club, Cannonvale Cannons Swim Club, Choral C Voices, Whitsunday Outriggers, Whitsunday Cruisin Car Club, and Airlie Beach Football Club all took home prizes on the night.

Over the past seven years alone, the Community Bank has invested more than $250,000 into local schools, sporting clubs, conservation initiatives, arts programs, social services, and community prizes.

It’s an impact made possible thanks to the partnership between the branch team, shareholders and volunteer Directors who help guide the Community Bank, first established in the Whitsundays in 2012 after locals raised $800,000 to open the branch.

“Our ability to invest locally is thanks to our hardworking branch team, supportive shareholders and passionate volunteer Directors,” Mark said.

Sponsorship Applications Now Open
Local not-for-profit groups are encouraged to apply now for 2026 sponsorship funding, including bookings for the popular Community Bank BBQ Trailer. With limited funding and high demand, applicants are urged to prepare strong submissions.
For more information, contact secretary@whitsundaycel.com.au.

Thank You, Ross Hughes
The AGM also marked the retirement of long-serving Board Director Ross Hughes, who has dedicated 11 years to the Community Bank.
A former Deputy Principal of Proserpine State School and the 2013 Whitsunday Citizen of the Year, Ross has spent more than 25 years supporting the region through education, fostering, community music and volunteer service. His commitment to cultural, social, and educational causes has enriched lives across the Whitsundays.
The Board extended its gratitude for the compassion, leadership and generosity Ross brought to the organisation.

Welcome to New Director, Dr Julia Evans
The meeting also welcomed newly elected Director Dr Julia Evans, who brings a wealth of real-world experience to the Board. Julia has worked with state and national industry associations, major companies, and community organisations on governance and stakeholder engagement. Her academic research into small business education challenges been recognised and referenced by regulators, government agencies, and industry experts.

Many in the Whitsundays will already know her through her leadership role at the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry, as well as her work with the Whitsundays Writers Festival, where she has supported local business and cultural initiatives.

Julia joins current Board members Mark Henry (Chairman), Cait Fleming (Secretary), Krys Halsey (Treasurer), and Brendon Nothard.

Visit the Branch at Whitsunday Plaza Cannonvale or contact the team on phone 07 4948 3599 or email cannonvale&proserpinemailbox@bendigoadelaide.com.au

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Bendigo Bank Board: Brendon Nothard, Mark Henry, Julia Evans and Ross Hughes. Photo supplied

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Abbot Point Operations has been inducted into the Business Legends of the Whitsundays Hall of Fame, a milestone General Manager Damien Dederer says belongs to the entire team that keeps the North Queensland Export Terminal running.

While it is the first time Abbot Point Operations has received a Hall of Fame accolade, Damien noted the organisation’s long history of achievement across four decades includes major infrastructure milestones, strong community partnerships and environmental programs.

“We’re honoured to receive this award,” he said.

“We don’t do what we do for awards and accolades, but it’s lovely for the 190 men and women who work at Abbot Point Operations to keep the North Queensland Export Terminal running to be recognised for their hard work and what that work means for this amazing place we get to call home.”

On the night members of Abbot Point Operations leadership and community teams attended and Damien said having them share in the moment was a fitting tribute to what they do to deliver our Community Support Program and more.

When asked what set the business apart, he pointed to long-term collaboration rather than any single achievement.

“The successes Abbot Point Operations and the North Queensland Export Terminal have enjoyed are rooted in hard and collaborative work between private enterprise, the not-for-profit sector, and government over many decades,” he said.

“The Hall of Fame award is a reflection of that.”

He also highlighted the terminal’s economic significance, something he believes many locals may not fully realise. The export of Queensland’s high-quality thermal and metallurgical coal, facilitated by the terminal, contributes substantial royalties to the state budget. Locally, Abbot Point Operations workforce and contractors support hundreds of families, with flow-on benefits to small businesses throughout the region.

Damien extended his thanks to the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Bowen Chamber of Commerce Inc., and Whitsunday Regional Council for an event that both celebrates local business and strengthens community ties.

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Abbot Point Operations has been inducted into the Business Legends of the Whitsundays Hall of Fame

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Create Career Qualifications For Local Workers

A unique on-site apprenticeship program at the North Queensland Export Terminal is helping workers convert years of experience into formal qualifications while keeping jobs and skills in the Bowen region.

Five Bowen Industrial Hire (BIH) employees have now gained their Certificate III in Engineering – Fabrication (Surface Finishing) through the program, which Abbot Point Operations developed with BIH after the company won the protective coating contract for the Terminal’s offshore infrastructure in 2023.

Abbot Point Operations General Manager Damien Dederer said the initiative allows workers to earn, learn, and gain a nationally recognised trade at the same time.

“When we first contracted BIH, many of their workers had years of experience but no formal trade qualifications,” Mr Dederer said.

“BIH wanted to keep those local jobs secure and that sparked the idea for the apprenticeship program. We’re already seeing dividends, with experienced workers now recognised for their skills and young people stepping into careers they never thought possible.”

Blast Painter apprentice Jesse Brown said a school visit from BIH inspired him to join the trade.

“When BIH came to our school and talked about the Blast Painter apprentice program, I knew it was for me. I called them the next day and signed up,” he said.

“Now, heading into my third year, I’m still loving it and proud of how far I’ve come.”

BIH Business Development and Resource Manager Liz Little said the program has opened doors for both seasoned staff and new starters, from long-serving workers finally gaining formal certification to an 18-year-old apprentice beginning his career close to home.

“Both organisations share a commitment to live local and support local, and that’s what makes this partnership so successful,” she said.

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Apprentices from Bowen Industrial Hire working at the North Queensland Export Terminal. Photo supplied

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Whitsunday Mowers, located in Proserpine, is continuing to strengthen its reputation as one of the region’s most trusted outdoor power equipment suppliers, offering an extensive range and delivery of large mowers to Mackay, Collinsville everything in between and even the Islands.

Seven years after taking over the long-standing business, owners Wayne and Sharon Drabsch have transformed the former roller-skating rink into a bright, modern showroom now stocked with more than 30 zero-turn mowers and one of the widest Stihl product ranges in North Queensland.

Manager of Whitsunday Mowers Stephen Deller also said the store has recently had a reshuffle, allowing for more light to come into the store and display everything well.

The Proserpine-based business is run entirely by locals, with Sharon’s family history in the district stretching back six generations. “Everyone who works here is local,” said Wayne. “We support the community and they support us.”

Whitsunday Mowers services a wide area, delivering new and large machinery across the Whitsundays, into Bowen, Collinsville, Sarina and Mackay, and even coordinating dispatches for island resorts. Stihl brochures are distributed throughout these regions, reinforcing their commitment to customers living further afield.

“A lot of customers tell us they drive up from Mackay because they know we’ll have what they’re chasing.”

Whitsunday Mowers also has a complete workshop where Wayne, a fully qualified Mechanic will be found teaching their first-year apprentice Caleb Mount. The fully air-conditioned workshop allows staff to assemble, test-run and fine-tune equipment before it leaves the premises, they also have a grassed area out the back dedicated to trial cuts and equipment checks.

Repairs remain a major part of the operation, and priority is given to the brands the store sells to ensure fast turnaround times during peak mowing season.

“Once the rain comes, we’re flat out,” Stephen said. “People hit rocks, snap belts and everyone wants their mower back as soon as possible.”

Whitsunday Mowers now employs five staff and proudly sponsors community groups each year, including local schools and the Whitsunday Old Iron Restorers Club Inc.

They have a strong reputation in the region for expert advice, great product range and availability and friendly local service.

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Stephen Deller, Caleb Mount and Wayne Drabsch. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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After six years in the Whitsundays, long-serving head chef Marek Wardowski is preparing to say goodbye to Sorrento Restaurant and Bar, as he gets ready to relocate to Melbourne early next year.

Chef Marek moved to Australia 12 years ago but he began his career in Poland, where he finished cooking school more than three decades ago and he hasn’t looked back since.

“I feel like I’m born in the kitchen. I feel like I am built for this," he said.

Before arriving in the Whitsundays, he worked for six years in Melbourne with Meat & Wine Co.

He and his wife later moved north in search of visa stability and a new lifestyle, there is certainly no regrets, Marek said he loves living in paradise and working building the team at Sorrento.

Now, after six years, he says the time has come to return south so his children can be closer to city life and extended family.

Although he doesn’t yet have a job lined up, the move will double as a short break, but he's in no rush. Marek said his six years in the Whitsundays has raced by.

“It was a long time but feels like I moved here yesterday.

He said the team at Sorrento Restaurant and Bar are fantastic, it’s such a great place to work, with a professional team and leaving them will be the hardest part about the move.

When it comes to favourites, he says he enjoys just about everything on the menu.
“I love steaks. I love pizza. I love pasta,” he said. “The menu is perfect”

He notes that while he grew up in Polish cuisine, it shares similarities with the Italian-style dishes he cooks today.

Business Development Manager at Sorrento Mandy Coles said that they are deeply grateful for the passion, creativity and leadership Marek has brought to the restaurant.

"His dedication has shaped the kitchen, inspired our team, and delighted countless guests," she added.

"He will be truly missed, and we wish him nothing but success and happiness with his family in Melbourne."

Chef Wardowski’s final day will be in mid-January.

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Head chef at Sorrento Marek Wardowski. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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If Christmas morning calls for something a little special, gingerbread pancakes are a warm, nostalgic way to start the day. With hints of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves, they taste just like your favourite gingerbread biscuits — but in soft, fluffy pancake form.

To make them, whisk together 1¼ cups of self-raising flour, 1 tablespoon of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon each of ground ginger and cinnamon, and a pinch of nutmeg and cloves. In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup of milk, 1 egg, and 2 tablespoons of melted butter or oil. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and whisk until smooth. Don’t overmix — a few small lumps are fine.

Heat a non-stick pan and grease lightly. Pour in ¼-cup portions of batter and cook until bubbles appear on the surface, then flip and cook until golden. Keep warm while you make the star of the show: spiced maple butter.

Simply mix 2 tablespoons of softened butter with 1 tablespoon of maple syrup and a pinch of cinnamon. Dollop this on top of your warm pancakes and watch it melt into a glossy, festive drizzle. Add sliced bananas, berries, or a dusting of icing sugar for an extra Christmassy touch.

These pancakes are perfect for a relaxed Christmas breakfast, a community brunch gathering, or even a Boxing Day treat. They fill the house with the aroma of gingerbread and bring a little seasonal magic to the table — without the fuss of baking a full batch of biscuits.

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If you’re looking for a Christmas crowd-pleaser that delivers maximum impact with minimal effort, a no-bake rocky road wreath is the perfect last-minute treat. It’s colourful, creative, and a guaranteed favourite at school break-ups, office parties, or Christmas Day dessert tables.

Start by melting 400g of milk or dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water, or in the microwave using short 30-second bursts. Once smooth, fold through three cups of mix-ins. The beauty of rocky road is its flexibility — use whatever your family loves. Marshmallows, chopped snakes, raspberry lollies, crushed shortbread, peanuts, pistachios, dried cranberries, and mini pretzels all work beautifully for a festive touch.

To shape your wreath, line a round cake tin with baking paper and place a small bowl or cup in the centre to create the hole. Spoon the mixture around the bowl, pressing it in firmly. Chill in the fridge for at least two hours, or until set.

Once firm, remove it from the tin and decorate the top with melted white chocolate, extra red and green lollies, or even rosemary sprigs to mimic holly. Tie a ribbon around the base for extra Christmas flair.

This recipe is simple enough for kids to help with, and it keeps well in the fridge for up to a week — if it lasts that long! It’s the ultimate festive treat you can make ahead, transport easily, and share with the whole community this Christmas.

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As Long-Time Owner Hands Over The Reins

A new chapter is about to begin for a long-established Proserpine dental practice, with ownership officially passing to local dentist Dr. Prashant Kulkarni, a familiar face to many across the Whitsundays.

The practice, operated by its previous owner for close to 30 years, is now preparing for a seamless transition as settlement is finalised this week. Dr. Prashant, who has lived in the region since 2013, said the handover marks both an exciting milestone and an important opportunity to honour the foundation laid before him.

Helvig Dental at 14 Chapman Street in Proserpine formerly operated by Dr. Steven Helvig will now become Proserpine family dental gradually.

“We want to thank him and the team .we will make sure we uphold his service and continue that legacy,” Dr. Prashant said.

“People have been coming here for decades and are used to seeing the same faces, so we want to assure the community that they will be looked after the same way they were looked after before.”

Dr. Prashant is no stranger to running a busy clinic. He founded Smile Makers Whitsundays in Cannonvale 10 years ago and has grown it from a two-person team into a staff of 10.

With more than 20 years’ experience in dentistry and a Bachelor of Dental Surgery, he will now divide his time between both practices, supported by the existing Proserpine team and his manager April from cannonvale.

“This one is an existing clinic, while the other I started from scratch,” he said.

“Building trust within the community is the most important thing for any business to grow. A steady growth, rather than drastic growth, is what matters. We are here to look after everyone.

Dr. Prashant first moved to the Whitsundays in 2013 after accepting a job in Bowen. Shortly after, he and his wife—an accountant who plays a key role in managing the business—purchased the Cannonvale practice. They have since made the region their home.

“I’m not new to the area,” he said. “I’ve been a member of the Whitsunday Lions for more than 10 years. We’ve lived and worked here for a long time.”

The Proserpine practice will continue offering a full range of dental services, from general check-ups to more complex procedures, including wisdom teeth removal, supported by regular visits from Mackay-based orthodontist

But above all, Dr. Prashant hopes the community feels confident that the practice they have trusted for decades remains in steady and familiar hands.

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Dr. Steven Helvig and Dr. Prashant Kulkarni. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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By Sharon Ashman

While the holidays are often portrayed as joyful, many people experience loneliness, loss, or disconnection during this time. For those separated from family, grieving a loved one, or navigating life changes, the festive period can amplify feelings of isolation.

Acknowledging these emotions is the first step toward self-compassion. You’re not alone in feeling this way. It can help to plan meaningful activities, such as volunteering, connecting with supportive friends, or spending time outdoors, to nurture a sense of purpose and belonging.

Digital connection can also be valuable when in-person contact isn’t possible. Simple acts like calling someone, joining an online community, or reaching out to check on others can lift both parties’ spirits. Connect with your inner child and do something silly, like baking your favourite cookies or jumping into the pool or the ocean.

If loneliness becomes distressing, seeking professional help or accessing local mental health supports can provide comfort and direction. Remember: connection takes many forms, and creating gentle, intentional moments of care can make the season more manageable.

“If you’d like more support, visit my website https://www.personaltransitions.com.au/ or give me a call 0418708214.”

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New Experiences and the Biggest Tourism Developments

Pop the Veuve: Hayman Island Launches Luxe Island Picnic Experience
Recently launched and only available only until March 2026, InterContinental Hayman Great Barrier Reef and Veuve Clicquot have unveiled Le Picnic, a luxe Champagne-led experience on the sands of Langford Island. Curated picnics, bespoke inclusions and accommodation packages set the tone for a sun-soaked spring and summer season. Note: bookings close end of November '25.

Sail Greener: Portland Road Goes Carbon Positive & Partners with Jesse Martin OAM
Portland Roads Sailing The Whitsundays has become Carbon Positive, offsetting five times more CO₂ than required. They’ve also joined forces with adventurer Jesse Martin OAM, anchoring the new Lionheart experience and a suite of sustainability-first initiatives.

Daydream Island Turns Up the Thrills
Daydream’s new Adventure Holiday Package blends value with adrenaline. Guests can enjoy a one-hour guided jet ski tour, a one-hour glass-bottom kayak experience at Lovers Cove, 50% off ferry transfers and additional inclusions that elevate the classic Daydream escape.

Ocean Dynamics Adds Diving (and a Four-Legged Crew Member)
Ocean Dynamics is now offering private charters with both introductory and certified diving to the Great Barrier Reef, and guests can meet Toby, their newly trained onboard therapy dog who is officially part of the crew.

Airlie Adventure Tours Unveils New Eco Fleet
Two state-of-the-art 2025 Ford Transit high-roof tour vehicles have joined the Airlie Adventure Tours fleet, supporting their Eco Certified approach with reduced emissions, improved fuel efficiency, enhanced passenger comfort and upgraded safety systems.

Pioneer Adventures Lands on Daydream Island
Pioneer Adventures is now operating jetski tours and boat hire directly from Daydream Island, making high-speed fun more accessible than ever for guests.

Mirage Whitsundays Completes Major Pool Upgrade
Mirage Whitsundays has unveiled a full renovation of its main lagoon pool and adults-only pool, complete with new surface finishes, enhanced solar pathway lighting and upgraded in-pool lighting for improved ambience and safety.

Eco Barge Clean Seas Launches the Eco HQ Experience
The new Eco HQ Experience offers an immersive educational look into the work of Eco Barge Clean Seas, highlighting marine conservation efforts and community-driven initiatives protecting the Whitsunday Islands and the Great Barrier Reef.

Contributed with thanks to Tourism Whitsundays

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The Gentle Soul with a Heart of Gold

Beautiful Marla has already proven herself to be one incredible mum — and now it’s her turn to be loved and cared for the way she’s always deserved.

After raising her gorgeous litter with patience and devotion, Marla is ready to start her next chapter — one filled with calm days, soft beds, and the comfort of a family who’ll treasure her.

She’s a Staffy mix with the sweetest nature — affectionate, loyal, and always ready for a cuddle. Marla loves human company, enjoys gentle walks, and has a heart that just wants to please. She’s happiest being close to her people, whether it’s lounging by your side or wagging her tail as you walk through the door.

About Marla:

• Beautiful Staffy mix
• Calm, affectionate, and incredibly gentle
• Great with people and loves attention
• Has finished raising her pups and is ready for her forever home
• Would suit a loving family or a peaceful home where she can be the centre of attention

Marla’s eyes tell the story of a dog who’s been through a lot — but never stopped believing in love. Now she’s ready to find a family who’ll give her the same unconditional devotion she’s always given.

If you’d like to give Marla the forever home she’s been waiting for, email bcpri.adoptions@gmail.com today to arrange an appointment!

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Some places in life etch themselves into memory. The Whitsundays leaves an imprint that lasts a lifetime, and a considerable part of the reason is thanks to the diverse wildlife that inhabits out whitsunday islands.

On one of my strolls, I realised the true colourful chorus of birds we have. While we may be known for our cockatoos and kookaburras, there are so many weird and wonderful birds that inhabit the Whitsundays.

Birds You’ve Probably Seen, but Never Named

Some of my favourite birds to capture in the wild are small and often overlooked. Despite this, they are usually the most colourful and challenging to photograph due to their stealthiness and size, making it a treat when photographers finally get that picture.

The Eastern Yellow Robin:
This bright ball of sunshine will be one of the first to wake you up, treating you to a variety of high, bell-like piping, repeated 'chop chop's or some scolding notes. Eastern Yellow Robins are curious little birds and are confident with humans, often sneakily taking handouts of food from picnickers. They are also very stealthy in their approach to food, using their famous pounce to grab insects on lower perches and building their nests with spider webs!

Brown Cuckoo-Dove
Brown Cuckoo Doves, while not typically uncommon, are actually relatively rare, as they are restricted to specific habitats, such as eastern Australian rainforests and wet sclerophyll forests, and are often heard rather than seen, with their distinct call that sometimes sounds like 'did you walk.'

Gull-Billed Terns
Gull-Billed Terns have a unique diet and hunting style, foraging in the air for insects, seizing crabs and lizards from the ground, plucking fish from the water surface (without diving), stealing food from other birds, and even preying on chicks of different species. Their heavy bill is key to their broad diet. Gull-billed Terns are graceful birds that swoop above salt marshes and beaches. A fun fact is that the oldest recorded Gull-billed Tern lived to be at least 20 years old and was found and banded in California. Their heads also turn black when they mate, making it look like they are wearing a black cap.

Next time you are out in the Whitsundays, look up, you may spot one of these native birds.

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Eastern Yellow Robin. Photo credit: Ruth Puddefoot.
Brown Cuckoo Dove. Photo credit: Ruth Puddefoot.
Gull-Billed Tern. Photo credit: Ruth Puddefoot.

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The Great Barrier Reef’s Unlikely Eco-Engineers

Despite their name, sea cucumbers are not fruits, vegetables or any sort of plant. They’re animals—ancient, slow-moving, wonderfully strange animals that have been cleaning and recycling the ocean floor for millions of years.

Sea cucumbers belong to the class Holothuroidea and are close relatives of sea stars and sea urchins. More than 1,700 species are found worldwide, living on the seafloor from shallow coral reefs to the inky darkness of the deep sea. Many have soft, water-filled bodies and leathery skin, giving them their cucumber-like appearance, but don’t be fooled—this group comes in an extraordinary range of shapes, sizes and colours. Some are only millimetres long while others can reach a whopping three metres.

Like all echinoderms, sea cucumbers have five-part body symmetry, a mouth at one end and an anus at the other. Instead of a hard skeleton, they rely on tiny particles of calcium carbonate called ossicles, which act like microscopic armour. This flexible structure is the reason behind their “squishy” look and feel.

Nature’s Recyclers

Sea cucumbers play a vital ecological role on the Great Barrier Reef. Most are scavengers, sucking up sediment packed with organic material. They digest the nutritious bits—algae, plankton and detritus—and then expel the cleaned sediment behind them. This constant churning of the seafloor is known as bioturbation, and it helps to:

·         recycle nutrients

·         oxygenate the sediment

·         produce calcium carbonate used by corals and other reef builders

In short, sea cucumbers help keep the Reef healthy from the bottom up.

Stranger Than Fiction: Fun Facts

Sea cucumbers boast some of the most unusual adaptations in the animal kingdom:

·         Self-evisceration: When threatened, some species literally eject their internal organs through their anus to distract predators. They later grow them back.

·         Sticky defence threads: Others fire out long, sticky strands to snare would-be attackers.

·         "Butt breathing": Without lungs, they pump water in and out of their anus to extract oxygen using specialised respiratory trees.

·         No eyes, no heart, no brain: Yet they navigate the world using a nerve ring and sensory cells in their skin.

Life and Threats on the Reef

Most sea cucumbers reproduce by releasing eggs and sperm into the water column, letting the currents do the mixing. In cooler regions, some species keep their fertilised eggs inside the body until the young are ready to swim free.

Despite their tough survival strategies, sea cucumbers are preyed upon by fish, crabs and turtles. They also hold significant cultural and culinary value throughout the Indo-Pacific. Known as trepang, bêche-de-mer, namako or balate, they are harvested for food and increasingly farmed in aquaculture systems.

However, many species—including several found on the Great Barrier Reef—are under pressure. Overfishing, both local and global, has driven some populations to dangerously low numbers. Troublingly, several heavily fished species show little sign of recovery, even years after harvesting has ceased.

The Unsung Heroes of the Seafloor

They may not be glamorous, fast or fierce, but sea cucumbers are indispensable to the health of coral reef ecosystems. By cleaning, recycling and reshaping the seafloor, they quietly keep the Great Barrier Reef functioning.

Perhaps it’s time we stop overlooking these humble creatures—and start appreciating them for the remarkable animals they truly are.

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Sea Cucumber. Photo supplied.

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U11s Girls
The U11 Pitties Girls returned to Proserpine High this week, facing the Norths Devils in sweltering conditions and on a thick, heavy outfield that made boundaries hard to come by. Norths batted first after winning the toss, but the Pink Pitbulls were on top from the start.

E. Brazil struck early with a peach of a delivery, finishing with 1-4 from three overs, while F. Gallagher added 1-6 off two. The rest of the bowling attack supported strongly, keeping runs tight and creating run-out opportunities. The fielders backed up well, cutting off potential singles and pressuring the Devils to 75.

In reply, the Pitties stuck to their plan, rotating the strike and contributing across the lineup. E. Brazil top-scored with 10* off 16 balls, hitting the match’s only four, while M. Quod remained unbeaten on 4. The team finished at 60, showcasing grit, confidence, and teamwork.

U11s Boys vs U11s Mixed
New faces debuted in an exciting intratown clash on the newly installed pitch at the junior sporting complex. Boys captain Will W sent the mixed team into the field, and strong batting performances from Harry M and debutant Toby N (16 runs each) set the boys up for a total of 121.
The mixed team battled back, with Nick G, Zayden M, Logan W, and Lukas N keeping the scoreboard ticking. The match came down to the final over, where Liam S smashed crucial runs, securing a thrilling win for the mixed team. PoM awards went to Toby N (boys) and Liam S (mixed team), with special mention for debutants Hudson W and Toby N.

U12s
At Bucasia State School, the U12 Pitties posted 123 against Norths Devils in blazing conditions, thanks to T. Gibbs (25), P. Regan (25*), and N. Aitken (14*). Tight bowling from H. Valmadre (2-25) and a disciplined field effort kept the Devils under pressure, but a last-wicket partnership handed the Devils a narrow win.

U13s
H. Gibbs led the U13 Pitties’ batting with 28*, supported by M. Hope (17*). The team posted 118, then ran through the Souths Sharks’ lineup, with M. Hope claiming 3-4 and contributions from across the bowling attack. Souths were bowled out for 65 in the 16th over, giving the Pitties a convincing win.

U14s
Batting first on the astro, the U14 Pitbulls made 93, with K. Whitty anchoring the innings on 20* and J. Farley hitting 16 off seven balls, including two sixes. Disciplined bowling from H. Camm (2-10) and team fielding efforts restricted the Devils to 83, handing the Pitbulls a hard-fought 10-run victory.

U17s
The U17 Pitbulls dominated at Magpies’ nest, bowling the home side out for 58, with O. Seamer (2-11), M. Pomeroy (2-5), and M. Logan (4-17) leading the attack. Chasing steadily, W. Logan starred with 56* as the Pitties closed on 7-140 for a convincing win.

From debutants to seasoned performers, Proserpine’s juniors showcased skill, determination, and teamwork across all age groups this week.

Contributed with thanks to Danni Green and Brad Wilkinson

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U12s Player of Match - Patrick Regan. Photo supplied

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