Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
OPINION PIECE from the office of Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox There is no question that immigration into Australia is out of control. The government’s numbers are too high, and standards are too low. A sustainable migration program must consider our capacity to provide housing, healthcare, infrastructure and the essential services everyone relies on, and Australians must come first. But Labor’s decision to target Working Holiday Makers Visa holders is not the answer. These people filling vital gaps in our workforce are not the cause of Australia’s housing crisis. In many cases, they are living in accommodation provided by the very businesses that employ them. The National Farmers’ Federation has made the point that Working Holiday Makers generally stay in hostels, caravan parks or purpose-built on-farm accommodation. Resorts usually have on-site staff quarters. They are not the source of Australia’s housing shortage. So why is Labor making it harder for them to come here, when these workers fill genuine jobs that regional Australia holds? Working Holiday Makers fill approximately one in seven farm jobs nationally and are particularly important during peak agricultural periods, which for Dawson, it is right now! Farmers rely on these workers to plant, pick, pack and harvest the produce that ends up on Australian supermarket shelves. Having run one of Australia’s largest tomato farms, at times Working Holiday Makers made up more than 50 per cent of my workforce. Without them, much of our crop simply would not have been picked in time and rotted in the paddock. Some may say, why not employ the Australians who don’t have a job and are on “the dole”? Can I say, this does not work. Most farmers will employ Aussies over travelling backpackers, but many either don’t want to do the work or don’t turn up after the first day. Who picks the fruit or veggies then? Farmers are already warning that visa delays are leaving them without workers. The NFF says approvals that once took days are now facing processing times of up to three months, and this time frame can be the difference between harvesting a crop or losing it. That should concern every Australian already feeling the pressure at the supermarket checkout. The same problem is playing out in tourism. Across Dawson, Working Holiday Makers are an important part of the workforce supporting tourism and hospitality, particularly in the Whitsundays. They help fill shifts, work in hotels and restaurants, support tour operators and keep businesses running through their busiest periods. They also contribute to the local economy. They spend money on food, fuel, attractions and tours, supporting the small businesses that depend on a strong visitor economy. That is why tourism and business leaders across North Queensland are raising the alarm. They understand what happens when a regional business cannot get enough staff: opening hours are reduced, and services are cut, creating a downward spiral. We do need to reduce migration to sustainable levels. We need stronger integrity measures, and we need to crack down on rorts. But responsible migration policy means understanding which parts of the system are creating pressure and which parts are helping Australia function. Working Holiday Makers are not the problem. They are part of the workforce solution for regional. Australia. People have had a gutful of watching their standard of living go backwards. Groceries, fuel, housing and everyday expenses are already putting enormous pressure on families. The last thing Australians need is another reckless policy that makes it harder to produce food, harder to run regional businesses and harder for tourism operators to find the workers they need.
Read the full storySomeone sold a house in Sydney last week for $9 million less than they bought it for four or five years ago. The sellers had bought the property in Sydney’s eastern suburbs for $29 million and sold it for $20 million in a sale forced by their bank. I imagine the sellers are a little disappointed by the government’s decisions on negative gearing and capital gains tax and feeling pretty hurt by the increased interest rates. Australia’s interest rates are on the rise and are now sitting at levels not seen since 2011. Increased cost of living is hurting people around the country and interest rates are playing into that. But the impact of interest rates is not felt evenly around the country. The far-higher property prices mean people in the major cities suffer much more than regional areas with the rates increase. That is certainly not to say people in Mackay are unaffected by the cost of living; it’s just that the impact of interest rates increase on a $400,000 mortgage is much less than the impact on a $1m mortgage. There are other Mackay-specific factors that are in play when discussing the current housing market. The big factor is the role of coal in our economy. Most of the coal extracted and exported from our region is coking coal, which is used to make steel. The price of coking coal is around $280 a tonne, which is about 50 per cent up. Good activity in the coal market translates to good news for the Mackay economy, as it is an economic engine that other cities and regions just don’t have. Good activity in Bowen Basin flows throughout the Mackay economy; Paget workshops, transport, suppliers and related businesses all benefit. But so do other, non-mining-related businesses as they benefit from the general confidence and spending that goes on. The strong mining activity also means mines need to keep their staff levels up and that means more people moving to Mackay. Of course, Mackay is much more than a coal mining town but if the coal sector is going well those other areas definitely benefit. It is a confidence boost for Mackay people looking to get into the housing market and those wanting to upgrade or downsize. It also means continuing strong demand from people wanting to rent a property and it will be interesting to see what sort of activity that creates from investors. Investors have walked away from the big-city markets because they can no longer use negative gearing on established properties that do not have a sufficient yield to be positively geared. Negative gearing has never been a big thing in Mackay because our prices are lower and rental returns continue to be strong so many investors have a positively geared property. Around the country everyone is nervous about the state of play and the probability of more interest rate rises. But strong coal prices and an economy that is performing well mean Mackay might just be presenting an opportunity for buyers and sellers that doesn’t exist in other parts. I remember when national confidence was flying high and Mackay prices were going up significantly that many buyers were saying “I wish we had bought a while ago when the market wasn’t so hot”. I’m not armed with a crystal ball so I’m not here to tell you what is going to happen but I suspect there is a very good buying window right now for those looking for an opportunity.
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A local Mackay and Sarina based model has created a dress out of newspapers, including Mackay Life, for her upcoming pageant, representing her region and hometown on the runway as she vies for Miss Diamond International in Brisbane. Zoe Place will be competing this weekend in the three-day event, beginning this Friday 2nd October and ending on Sunday 4th October. The young model spent around a month creating her eco-fashion outfit, using old newspapers as the main material and transforming them into a bodice, skirt and flowers. Red elements were also incorporated into the design to give the dress a bold and glamorous pageant feel. Zoe said, “The entire concept was really about taking something that would normally be thrown away and turning it into something beautiful and meaningful.” Her eco-fashion creation will form part of a busy weekend in Brisbane, with the Miss Diamond International event including photo shoots, interviews, an eco-fashion show and the final pageant. Zoe has been preparing for the event by practising her strut and walking, preparing for interviews and getting comfortable in the different outfits she will wear throughout the weekend. Alongside her love of modelling, pageantry has also provided Zoe with a platform to raise awareness about causes close to her heart, including mental health, while fundraising for Beyond Blue. “Pageantry has given me more of a platform to combine my love for modelling with something that is really important to me.” “When I first started, I was more nervous about putting myself out there and worried about what others would think about me – but I’ve changed a lot through my journey in pageantry.” “Pageantry has also taught me that it’s not about how you look on stage. It’s about the person you are when you step off it.” “Every woman has their own unique journey and that journey is something we should all be really proud of.” “To me, it represents confidence, empowerment, kindness, and using your voice to make a difference.” Zoe said she was looking forward to meeting the other contestants, making new connections and creating memories. “I’m definitely looking forward to meeting all the new contestants and making new connections and creating memories that I will carry with me for a lifetime.” While Zoe hopes to eventually move to the city, her sights are set even further afield, with a dream of one day walking in New York Fashion Week. Mackay and Sarina local Zoe Place has created an eco-fashion dress from recycled newspapers, including Mackay Life, ahead of her Miss Diamond International pageant in Brisbane. Photos supplied
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Trends, reels and the endless cycle of always wanting more has quietly bombarded the minds of countless social media users of all ages, but one former Mackay local has made it her mission to help others understand the effects of social media and find practical ways to break free from online addiction. Alexis Zahner is in Mackay over the next week to teach upcoming generations about social media and the effects it can have on the mind, particularly on identity, self-discovery, as well as the marketing strategies that get viewers hooked and influence their decisions. It is something Alexis knows first-hand can be a useful tool, but also a great disruption to authenticity and the world as we see and experience it. Alexis will hold a free meet and greet and book launch today, Friday 2nd October, at 5.30pm at the Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club, where she will give a talk and answer questions relating to her debut book, Real: Reconnecting to Yourself in a World of Likes and Lies. A former Mackay girl, Alexis spent the past 15 years working across business psychology, marketing and media, with her interest in social media influence beginning during her university studies at James Cook University in Townsville. Her own experience as a social media user, travel blogger and influencer eventually led her to question how much of her identity, decisions and values were being shaped by what she saw online. “The tipping point came for me about 3 years ago when I had this feeling that I couldn't separate influence from my own personal decision making,” she said. “I couldn't separate my own likes, dislikes, values, relationships from what I was being exposed to and being influenced by online.” “I found that I needed to take some time away from social media to recalibrate what was important to me and sort of reconnect and come back to myself.” Alexis said she understood the feeling of questioning who you are outside of social media. “I know what it feels like to live a life under the influence of social media and have that existential crisis of thinking to yourself, who am I? What do I like? What's the kind of life I want to live? and struggling to separate myself from influence.” Alexis is particularly passionate about reaching teenagers, who she says are in an important stage of identity development, and will share this message with Mackay high school students during her upcoming school talks. “Teenagers are really easily influenced by social media. So it's a really important age where we start educating them – not just on the mental health repercussions of things like social media and how it shortens their attention span, but how it actually influences who they become.” “If you're asking yourself these questions, it's not your fault. Social media is actually geared to create this impact on you.” Alexis encourages people of all ages to “start expanding beyond what you see on the platform.” “Dare to indulge in the things that you've always been curious about or things you used to love,” she said. “Don't be afraid to put the phone down to let yourself be curious and have fun.” What: Alexis Zahner's 'Real' Book launch When: 5.30pm Friday 2nd October 2026 Where: Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club Former Mackay local and author Alexis Zahner is returning home to share her experiences with social media and her debut book, Real. Photo supplied
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Whitsunday tourism operators have welcomed the Government’s Tourism Support Hub initiative. Photo source: Shutterstock
Just months after its launch, the Government’s Tourism Support Hub has surpassed 100 enquiries, marking an early milestone in its broader plan to reshape the state’s tourism future.
Developed under Queensland’s Destination 2045 initiative, the Tourism Support Hub has already drawn strong interest from Regional Tourism Organisations across the state, fielding enquiries spanning business development, agritourism, cultural tourism, national park permits and disaster recovery.
Chief Executive Officer of Tourism Whitsundays, Mr Tim Booth, has welcomed the initiative, saying the Tourism Support Hub will make a meaningful difference to how small and regional businesses operate.
“It can be quite difficult for small businesses to navigate government processes whilst they are busy running their business that they are passionate about and the whole reason they are working in the tourism space,” he said.
“Any tools and ways that the government can assist small businesses navigate permits or applying for grants to grow their businesses is only going to help and we encourage our businesses to take use of this service to minimise time wastage and maximise their time in their business.”
Once submitted, each Tourism Support Hub enquiry is paired with a dedicated tourism support officer who offers step-by-step guidance and tailored solutions for more complex issues.
Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said support from the State Government to assist tourism operators is always appreciated.
“The Tourism Hub is a dedicated portal, making it a simple process to contact Government about many issues as well as grant opportunities,” she said.
Mr Booth said he has seen firsthand that many small businesses across the Whitsunday Shire are seeking greater support navigating permits and grants, typically managed at a State Government level, with approvals for National Parks and Marine Parks consistently posing a major challenge for operators.
“We know the State Government is continuing to work on this [Permits across National Parks and Marine Parks] and this service is one of the ways they are helping businesses navigate this process,” he said.
“Having assistance available to maximise businesses across Queensland to be able to apply is beneficial to all regions.”
Chief Executive Officer of Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Dr Julia Evans, said there’s a strong, ongoing need for support agencies like the Tourism Support Hub in regional areas.
“Regional businesses often operate with fewer resources while navigating complex regulations, workforce challenges, and higher operating costs,” she said.
“Support that helps cut through red tape, streamline compliance, and provide access to trusted, high-quality business advice is not just valued — it’s essential. It enables businesses to focus on growth, adapt to changing conditions, and continue contributing to strong, resilient regional economies.”
Dr Evans said it is clear local businesses are contending with a mix of immediate pressures and long-standing structural challenges, now increasingly amplified. At a practical level, rising fuel costs and reduced aviation access are impacting visitor numbers, freight and the overall cost of doing business.
Beyond these immediate pressures, she noted the challenges closely reflect the broader priorities outlined in the Chamber’s Ten Point Plan.
“Businesses continue to navigate red tape and regulatory complexity, which can slow recovery and limit the ability to adapt quickly in changing conditions and delivering service excellence and maintaining a strong visitor experience is becoming more challenging as cost pressures rise, while collaboration across the business community is more important than ever to share knowledge, build capability, and support the next generation of operators,” she said.
“In short, the Whitsundays business community is not facing a single issue — they are managing a complex environment where cost pressures, access, workforce, infrastructure, and confidence all intersect. Addressing these challenges requires coordinated action across all levels of government, with a clear focus on regional conditions and opportunities.”
Tourism operators can find more information on the Tourism Support Hub at www.qld.gov.au/tourismsupporthub, or contact the team directly on 07 3101 2002 or via email at tourismsupporthub@detsi.qld.gov.au.
Next week, we bring our region together for one of the most important conversations we have each year — our State of the Region.
And this year, the message is simple. We need to think big.
The Whitsundays is not standing still. We’re growing and we are growing fast.
More people, more visitors, more investment, and more opportunity than we’ve seen in a long time. The question isn’t whether growth is coming. It’s whether we’re ready to make the most of it.
That’s exactly what State of the Region is about.
On Friday 8 May at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, we’ll hear from leaders across government, industry and sport. People who understand what it takes to step up, perform under pressure, and seize opportunity.
We’ve locked in an outstanding line-up including Dominique Lamb talking about the Brisbane 2032 Olympic opportunity, alongside an Olympic and Paralympic panel featuring Cate Campbell, Cedric Dubler, Al Vinney and Sam Tait.
These are people who know what “thinking big” actually looks like and more importantly, what it takes to deliver it.
But this isn’t just about hearing from others. It’s about what it means for us.
From our infrastructure pipeline and tourism growth, to housing, workforce and investment, we’ll be putting a clear focus on where the Whitsundays is heading and what needs to happen next.
Because the opportunities in front of us are real.
Brisbane 2032 is not just a Brisbane story. It’s a regional Queensland story and the Whitsundays has a genuine role to play if we position ourselves early and back it in.
That means backing local business, backing our young people and backing investment by making smart decisions now that set us up for the long term.
This event is about bringing all of that together, business, community and government, and getting on the same page.
If you care about where this region is heading, you should be in the room.
Because the future of the Whitsundays isn’t something that just happens.
It’s something we build together.
Home Brewitt is a locally owned home brewing supply store based in Proserpine, proudly servicing the Whitsundays and shipping Queensland-wide. Established in November 2023, the business was created with one clear goal — to build a welcoming space where people can learn, experiment and connect through the craft of brewing.
Home Brewitt supplies everything from beginner starter kits to advanced all-grain brewing systems and kegerators. Customers will find a wide range of fresh wort kits, grains, hops, yeast, cider and essences, along with personalised advice and ongoing support. Whether it’s a first brew or a refined competition recipe, we’re here to offer support and supply the quality ingredients and equipment needed for great results.
In recent years, more people have turned to home brewing as commercial prices rise and interest in craft-style beer grows. Customers are looking for better quality ingredients, more flavour control and the satisfaction of creating something themselves. Education and community have become just as important as the product — and that’s where Home Brewitt stands out.
Like many regional businesses, cost of freight can be challenging.
As business owners, our philosophy is simple: listen more than you talk, build relationships rather than just transactions, and never stop learning and adapting. These principles guide how we serve our customers and support our local community.
Being part of the local Chamber of Commerce provides valuable connections and opportunities to collaborate with other businesses.
Contributed with thanks to the Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry
For the past nine years, your locally owned and operated Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine has proudly supported local not-for-profits, sporting clubs and community initiatives – returning more than $264,000 back into the Whitsundays. And we’re only just getting started.
2026 is shaping up to be one of our biggest years yet.
From backing major regional events to supporting grassroots groups and school communities, we’re passionate about investing where it matters most – right here at home. If you’ve seen our fully equipped Community BBQ Trailer firing up at weekend events, you’ve already seen that support in action.
“Our profit-with-purpose model means the more our community banks with us, the more we can reinvest,” says Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine Chairman Mark Henry.
“It’s a cycle of support – when you back us, we back you.”
We’re proud to support a packed calendar of events across the region, including:
And that’s alongside our continued, year-round support of the many sporting and community groups that form the heart of our region.
Sponsorship applications are now open for local events and initiatives – including bookings for our popular BBQ Community Trailer. With limited funding and high demand, make sure your application shines.
Get started by contacting our Board Secretariat at secretary@whitsundaycel.com.au
Your Town. Your Bank. Everything You Need.
Feel good about where your money goes. Every account, loan or service with us helps build a stronger local community.
Visit Branch Manager Amanda and the team at Whitsunday Plaza Cannonvale. We’re open Monday to Friday, 9:30am–4:00pm (closed 1:00–2:00pm)
Or call us on (07) 4948 3599 or email cannonvale&proserpinemailbox@bendigoadelaide.com.au
Bendigo Bank – The better big bank
Student leaders from across the Whitsundays will come together at the B Kinder School Summit, building skills in leadership, connection and kindness to create positive change in their schools and communities. Photo supplied
In a continued effort to champion kindness and proactive wellbeing in schools, the B Kinder Foundation is set to return to the Whitsundays with its impactful B Kinder School Summits this May, building on the success of last year’s inaugural events.
Moving beyond short-term or “band-aid” approaches to mental health, the foundation focuses on early intervention, equipping young people with practical tools, strategies, and mindset shifts that foster a strong sense of belonging, self-esteem, and overall wellbeing. At the heart of this mission are the B Kinder Summits, immersive leadership experiences designed specifically for student leaders.
Created to spark thought, ignite passion, and build momentum, the summits empower students to step into their roles as ambassadors for a kinder, more connected world. Through engaging activities and meaningful discussions, participants are encouraged to reflect on their capacity to influence positive change within their schools and wider communities.
This year’s High School Summit will be held on Wednesday, 27 May at Proserpine State High School, bringing together student leaders from Proserpine State High School, Bowen State High School, and St Catherine’s Catholic College, with Whitsunday Christian College to be confirmed. The Primary School Summit will follow on Thursday, 28 May, with students from Proserpine State School and St Catherine’s Catholic College (primary) confirmed to attend, alongside several other schools pending confirmation.
The summits will once again be delivered in collaboration with Illuminate Education Australia, with experienced facilitator Adam Mostogl leading the sessions. Known for their innovative approach to educational design and student engagement, Illuminate Education plays a key role in ensuring the events are both impactful and memorable. B Kinder ambassador Tessa Jolley will also be present across both days, supporting students throughout the experience.
Running from 9am to 2:30pm at the Resource Centre within Proserpine State High School, the summits promise a full day of connection, inspiration, and growth.
More than just a day out of the classroom, the B Kinder Summits are designed as a catalyst for lifelong impact. Students leave not only inspired, but equipped with the confidence and tools to take meaningful action, embedding kindness into the culture of their schools and creating ripple effects that extend far beyond the classroom.
As the B Kinder Foundation continues to grow its reach, initiatives like these are helping to reshape the conversation around student wellbeing, placing kindness, leadership, and community at the centre of education.
Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc. is celebrating 13 years of partnership with Cruise Whitsundays, working together to protect the Whitsunday Islands and care for marine life in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef.
To mark the milestone, Eco Barge volunteers have created a colourful artwork of the Cruise Whitsundays logo made entirely from recycled bottle top lids collected during island clean-up trips.
Founder of Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc., Libby Edge, said the partnership has been instrumental in supporting both marine debris removal and turtle rehabilitation in the region.
“Cruise Whitsundays has been an incredible supporter of Eco Barge for 13 years,” Ms Edge said.
“Their support helps ensure the Whitsunday Turtle Rescue Centre can continue caring for sick and injured turtles, while also helping us remove marine debris from island beaches to protect the marine life that calls this region home.”
Since 2009, Eco Barge volunteers have removed over 277,947 kilograms of marine debris from the Whitsunday region and cared for 302 sick and injured marine turtles through the Whitsunday Turtle Rescue Centre.
For more information or to volunteer, visit http://www.ecobargecleanseas.org.au/
Ecobarge have created a new art piece to symbolise their partnership with Cruise Whitsundays, working in tandem to help turtles and clean debris from the ocean. Photo supplied
MP Amanda Camm met with community members this week to discuss the proposed Mt Challenger wind farm. Photo source: Facebook
Member for the Whitsundays Amanda Camm met with locals at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre on Friday 24th April to provide an update in response to concerns over Alinta Energy’s proposed Mt Challenger Wind Farm.
The meeting attracted a passionate crowd, with Mayor Ry Collins also in attendance. To date there have been four community meetings held on the issue: two with Ms Camm, one with Federal Member Andrew Willcox and one broader community update session.
The Mt Challenger Wind Farm is a proposed project by Alinta Energy that seeks to develop over 30 turbines between Bowen and Proserpine in the Whitsunday Regional Council Area.
The proposal has been met with backlash by members of the community, most prominently the Whitsunday Wind Farm Action Group.
At Friday’s meeting, attendees raised concerns surrounding the objectivity of the Social Impact Assessment process. Also known as an SIA, the assessment is a mandatory stage of development to be conducted on large-scale energy projects under Queensland state law.
They also clarified that they want large-scale renewable energy projects like wind farms to be kept away from the coast and separate from homes with a minimum 3-kilometre setback from property boundaries. Several of the proposed turbine locations are currently planned close to existing rural homes, some situated within 1.5-kilometres of residences and less than 9-kilometres from Proserpine town centre.
Another key theme discussed was the eventual decommissioning of the turbines, as the community are seeking clear assurances that the structures will be properly decommissioned at the end of their life, with the site returned to its original condition.
The expected operating life of Alinta Energy’s turbines for this project is more than 30 years.
Ms Camm assured community members that their concerns and opposition to the project had been acknowledged and the issue would be further escalated.
“I want to give you all assurance that I am 100% against the project,” Ms Camm said.
It was also shared that Alinta’s proposals to erect a temporary ‘met mast’, a steel structure up to 160m high that would monitor wind and gather data to help determine whether the project is viable, have now been put on ‘pause’.
Ms Camm since highlighted the importance of the conversation.
"Spending time with the community and hearing directly from residents is incredibly important,” she shared.
“There are clear processes that projects like this must go through, and my focus is on ensuring the community understands how to engage at each stage, while making sure their feedback is acknowledged and carried forward.
“These conversations matter, and I will continue to support residents and ensure their voices are heard as each step of the process moves forward.”
According to Alinta Energy, the program is currently at the feasibility and engagement stage, which includes site-specific investigations and feedback from the community.
Such discussions took place at a pop-up office held by Alinta at Proserpine community centre on March 4th, though any further decisions regarding the project have not yet been shared.
“We’re committed to making a positive impact in communities to create social, economic, employment, educational, and environmental opportunities and outcomes.” The company stated.
“Our benefit sharing approach is all about listening to the community to meet local needs. This could include grants, sponsorships, or opportunities for education and skills development. The project is expected to bring a range of benefits, including jobs across construction, operations, and decommissioning phases; upgrades to essential services like roads and emergency response; and contributions to initiatives led by the community itself.”
Fuel price pressures and supply concerns are beginning to bite across the Whitsundays, with local businesses reporting rising costs, shifting customer behaviour and growing uncertainty. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
Whitsundays businesses are feeling the growing strain of fuel price volatility and supply uncertainty, as regional leaders push for stronger support and practical solutions to protect the local economy.
New data from Business Chamber Queensland highlights the scale of the issue, with 95 per cent of businesses reporting impacts and more than 70 per cent experiencing major or severe challenges.
Locally, early results from the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s Fuel Crisis Business Impact Survey reveal businesses are still operating, but under increasing pressure.
According to Executive Officer Dr Julia Evans, rising fuel costs and supply concerns are already affecting day-to-day operations, staffing and customer behaviour.
Businesses across sectors including tourism, construction, transport and professional services reported adjusting operations, reducing hours, changing logistics, delaying jobs and shifting to remote work or carpooling.
Eighty per cent of respondents reported fuel-related cost increases of between 11 and 25 per cent, while a further 20 per cent experienced increases as high as 50 per cent.
Customer behaviour is also shifting, with businesses reporting fewer bookings and enquiries, increased cancellations, greater price sensitivity and a noticeable move toward online purchasing.
The Chamber’s President Mr Milostic said the situation is escalating rapidly.
“The high cost of living and high cost of doing business existed before the fuel crisis, they are now being amplified.”
While fuel supply remains stable for now, the Chamber warns that broader economic impacts are already being felt across the region, with ongoing uncertainty likely to shape business conditions in the months ahead.
Dry conditions are expected to intensify across the Whitsundays as a strong El Niño looms. Photo source: Shutterstock
The upcoming 2026 El Niño has been forecast to be among the strongest on record, bringing hotter, drier weather in the coming weeks.
With already drier-than-average conditions recorded in early 2026, farmers are bracing for a challenging season as worsening soil moisture deficits and water scarcity raise concerns.
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins has sought to reassure the community, saying Council will continue to keep a close watch on the evolving conditions.
“As Chair of the Local Disaster Management Group, we’re watching the El Niño outlook closely and what it could mean on the ground here in the Whitsundays,” said Mayor Collins.
“We’ve only just come through flooding, so the prospect of flipping straight into dry conditions is a real concern.”
Mayor Collins assures residents the Whitsunday Shire will remain in a strong position, pointing to Peter Faust Dam, which is currently at 100 per cent capacity; the first time it has reached full capacity since 2011.
“Peter Faust Dam gives us a solid buffer, but we know how quickly conditions can change in North Queensland, and having come out of the ag sector myself, I know exactly how quickly things can tighten up,” he said.
“When you start talking water, pasture and input costs all going the wrong way at once, it puts real pressure on families and businesses. And when ag feels it, the whole region feels it.”
Mayor Collins acknowledged that although the farming sector are feeling the pressures at the moment, prolonged heat and dry conditions can also impact tourism, increase bushfire risk, and put added strain on local communities.
Mayor Collins said that while Whitsunday Regional Council is taking the necessary precautions and making preparations, it cannot face such an unpredictable period alone, calling for additional support from higher levels of government.
“We’re not sitting back. We’re actively managing water, working closely with emergency services on bushfire readiness, and continuing to strengthen our resilience planning across the region,” he said.
“But the reality is regions like ours can’t carry this alone. We’ll need strong, ongoing support from State and Federal Government — particularly for our primary producers and for health and wellbeing services, because we know the pressure builds quickly when conditions turn.
“North Queensland communities are tough — we always are. But it’s about being prepared, backing each other in, and making sure our communities have the support they need to get through whatever comes next.”
131 sanitary products were donated by generous members of the community to locals in need this week, in an initiative driven by Share The Dignity.
Targeting period poverty, the organisation works to make a real difference in the lives of those experiencing homelessness, fleeing domestic violence, or otherwise in need, by distributing period products to women, girls, and anyone who menstruates who needs support.
Their motto? “When someone is doing it tough, the last thing on their mind should be dealing with their period.”
For their March ‘Dignity Drive’, Share the Dignity installed collection points at Whitsunday Woolworth stores for shoppers wanting to support their mission, and the yield has been delivered to the Whitsunday Counselling and Support Office.
Emma Anderson, a volunteer for the organisation and newcomer to the Whitsundays, expressed her gratitude for the generosity of the community she now calls home and highlighted that all donated products will be used locally.
With March seeing soaring fuel costs, causing many of us to feel a squeeze, the drive highlighted how even in tough times, the community is willing to give.
Residents, veterans, first responders and families gathered in large numbers for the 9.30am ANZAC Day service at Jubilee Park, filling the park in a moving show of respect and remembrance.
Earlier in the morning, participants assembled at the Caneland Central ground level car park off Matsuura Drive from 8am before the parade stepped off at 8.30am, making its way through the city to the commemorative service.
Local representatives laid wreaths during the ceremony, as the community stood together to honour the service and sacrifice of Australia’s veterans.
Lest we forget
Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
A strong crowd gathered for the afternoon service at the South Sea Islander Meeting Hut, hosted by the MADASSIA. Community members, veterans and families came together for a moving ceremony that included the laying of wreaths and speeches from community leaders honouring those who served.
Live singing and gentle acoustic melodies added to the reflective atmosphere, with attendees later sharing refreshments in the hut following the 3.00pm service.
Lest we forget
Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Large crowds gathered under clear, sunny skies for the morning service at the Bucasia Cenotaph, with the grassy hillside along Bucasia Esplanade filled with community leaders, residents, veterans and families overlooking the ocean. School children dotted the slopes, creating a powerful scene of community remembrance as the service unfolded.
The parade assembled at the southern end of Bucasia Esplanade at 10.10am before walking to the cenotaph for the 10.30am ceremony, where the Northern Beaches community gathered to honour those who served. A sausage sizzle followed the service, bringing attendees together in the spirit of mateship.
Lest we forget
Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
See more photos here: https://www.mackayandwhitsundaylife.com/social-pics/bucasia---northern-beaches
Crowds gathered at dawn by the Seaforth Beachfront Cenotaph, creating a moving scene of remembrance as the sun rose over the ocean. Veterans, residents, families, community leaders and first responders stood together to honour those who served.
Students from Seaforth State School delivered a heartfelt speech reflecting on the importance of remembering and honouring veterans. A hot breakfast was later available at the bowls club, with proceeds supporting the construction of the Seaforth Cenotaph.
Lest we forget
Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
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Anzac Day in Proserpine began with a moving dawn service, followed by a gunfire breakfast at the Proserpine RSL. With the sun high in the sky, a march later commenced to the cenotaph, where fallen soldiers were commemorated, thought-provoking poems were shared, and wreaths were laid to remember all those who gave their lives in service of our country. Members from 122 Army Cadet Unit Whitsunday Detachment played an important role in proceedings, with music provided by the Proserpine Citizens’ Band.
7 Wonders has been removed from Rose Bay by MSQ in conjunction with North Queensland-based contractors.
Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ) has safely removed the 70-tonne derelict vessel 7 Wonders from where it laid spilling debris into the sands of Rose Bay, Bowen, following Ex-tropical Cyclone Koji.
The abandoned vessel, weighing about 70 tonnes, was removed over a two-day period between 20th-21st April through a coordinated effort between government, Whitsunday Regional Council, and hired contractors.
Following the announcement of the removal last week, MSQ were the subject of criticism amongst Whitsunday-based contractors who shared their frustration about not being invited to bid for the tender for the work, with operations being conducted mostly by companies based in Mackay and Gladstone.
MSQ have since responded to the line of questioning, revealing that they worked with Mdive, based out of Gladstone, Airlie Cranes & Rigging, a Whitsundays localisation of Townsville-based JD Group, CLS Cranes from Camilleri and Claytons from Mackay.
A spokesperson shared:
“Maritime Safety Queensland is working with six local contractors in the Whitsunday and Mackay region, four of which were invited based on their capability to support significant land-based cleanup operations.
“In addition to the six local contractors, MSQ is working with five other contractors, which have a local presence.
“Under the Queensland Procurement Policy 2026, Maritime Safety Queensland is required to ensure procurement decisions are ethical, transparent and defensible, achieve value for money, and appropriately manage safety, environmental and operational risks.
“All contractors engaged by Maritime Safety Queensland must meet mandatory eligibility and compliance requirements, including the Queensland Government Supplier Code of Conduct.
“Engagement decisions are based on capability, safety and environmental risk management, and the ability to mobilise within required timeframes, particularly for high risk maritime and emergency response activities.
“Procurement for the Ex-TC Koji recovery was undertaken under Queensland Government arrangements that apply to critical incident response, allowing expedited and, where necessary, direct sourcing to address urgent safety, environmental and navigational risks.”
Maritime Safety Queensland General Manager Kell Dillon praised the collaborative effort in removing the vessel.
“The removal of the 7 Wonders demonstrates our commitment to protecting Queensland’s waterways and ensuring they remain safe and accessible for everyone,” Mr Dillon said.
“Derelict vessels not only threaten marine ecosystems but also create risks for recreational and commercial water users.
“The 7 Wonders removal highlights the importance of community cooperation in reporting and monitoring abandoned vessels. We encourage residents to report any derelict or abandoned vessels to the relevant authorities to ensure action can be taken.”
L-R Deputy Chair Maree and Chair Karen May at Half Tide Dawn Service ANZAC Day 2025
Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank believes commemorating ANZAC Day is an important way we can come together as a community. It’s a time to pause, reflect and honour the bravery and sacrifice of our servicemen and women.
The Community Bank Sarina team and Board are deeply grateful to the many volunteers who work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the ANZAC Day services across our region are delivered with dignity and respect. We commend all volunteers’ commitment to preserving tradition and ensuring that younger generations continue to understand the significance of ANZAC Day.
One of these volunteer groups that we are proud to support is the 131 Army Cadet Unit Sarina and local students – whose involvement supports bringing these commemorations to life. Recognising the role of commemorations in the community, Community Bank Sarina has continued to support the Cadet’s participation through our community grant program.
Community Bank Sarina has assisted the 131 Army Cadet Unit Sarina with training equipment, drones, cameras and accessories, alongside earlier contributions towards a training trailer and facilities used during field exercises.
We look forward to seeing the 131 Army Cadet Unit Sarina, along with others in the community, at one of the services in our region. From the early morning reflection of dawn parades to the heartfelt tributes at regional services, our community gathers to pay their respects. Whether you’re laying a wreath, standing in quiet reflection or simply showing up, your presence matters.
Sarina and district ANZAC Day service times – 2026
Sarina Dawn Parade and Service
4.15am – Parade assembly, Railway Square (Information Centre)
4.28am – Dawn Service at Cenotaph
Hay Point Dawn Parade and Service
5.00am – Assembly at the footpath near ‘The Shack’ Half Tide Memorial Park
5.30am – Dawn Service at Memorial
Koumala Parade and Service
6.20am – Free bus departs Sarina (Sarina Sports and Services Club)
7.00am – Parade & service at Cenotaph
9.45am – Bus returns to Sarina
Sarina Main Parade and Service
9.35am – Parade assembly, Railway Square (Information Centre) car park
10.00am – Service at Cenotaph
Queensland’s Energy Roadmap is aiming to strengthen power reliability and put downward pressure on electricity prices across the state. Photo source: Shutterstock
Six months after its release, the Government’s Energy Roadmap is beginning to deliver on its promise of more affordable, reliable and sustainable power across Queensland.
The plan aims to put downward pressure on electricity prices while strengthening the state’s energy system through continued investment in coal, gas, renewables and storage. It also focuses on unlocking new supply, including exploring gas potential in the Taroom Trough and progressing key infrastructure projects.
Treasurer and Energy Minister David Janetzki said the roadmap was already achieving results.
“The Roadmap is our plan to deliver new supply in the right places, at the right time, while keeping the lights on and putting downward pressure on prices,” Treasurer Janetzki said.
“Power prices in Queensland are set to drop by about 10 per cent next financial year, in contrast with prices soaring under Labor by 19.9 per cent in a single year after the former Government failed to properly maintain power plants.”
Since mid-2025, more than a gigawatt of new storage and renewable energy has become operational, with further developments underway. Market interest has also surged, with more than 50 parties engaging in proposals for new gas-fired generation projects.
“There’s been overwhelming market interest with more than 50 parties engaged and over 10 gigawatts (GW) of prospective gas-fired generation identified across 17 projects, highlighting Queensland is open for business for new energy investment,” he said.
The roadmap also includes initiatives such as the Investor Gateway and North West Energy Fund, designed to attract private investment and support long-term energy security across the state.
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