Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
A single-vehicle bus crash has sadly claimed the life of one passenger at Gumlu, north of Bowen overnight. According to initial police investigations, at approximately 4pm on Thursday 14th May, a bus with 29 people on board was travelling south along the Bruce Highway from Cairns to Airlie Beach, when it left the roadway and rolled onto its side. Several other passengers were injured and transported to Townsville, Ayr, and Bowen Hospitals. The bus driver, a 70-year-old Mackay man, was transported to Bowen Hospital with minor injuries. As of Friday morning, three patients are confirmed to be in a life-threatening condition with one assessed on the scene and two airlifted to Townsville University Hospital. Multiple people were injured and transported to Ayr Hospital before being airlifted to Townsville University Hospital by Royal Flying Doctor’s Service. There are eight stable patients in Townsville whilst one remains in a stable condition at Ayr. The Bruce Highway has reopened at Gumlu. This tragic accident comes less than two years after a fatal bus crash on the same stretch of the Bruce Highway, which claimed the lives of three women in on June 3rd, 2024. On this occasion, a Greyhound bus with 33 people on board was travelling north along the Bruce Highway, also near Gumlu, when it crossed over to the wrong side of the road and into oncoming traffic. The bus struck a Land Cruiser station wagon travelling in the opposite direction. A 56 year old Townsville woman and two German women aged 21 and 33 passed away as a result of the incident. The 52-year-old bus driver from North Ward was charged with five counts of dangerous operation of a vehicle causing death or grievous bodily harm, but was subsequently found not guilty. Anyone with relevant dash cam vision of incident last night is urged to contact police. Investigations are continuing
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So, what’s going on with the property market? The thing about the property market is that it doesn’t stand alone in its own little world untouched by the drama going on around it. And there is a fair bit of drama at the moment. Let’s get all the dramas to form a conga line and point them out one at a time. First there’s inflation, an annoying factor that adds to the cost of living and affects people’s ability to buy real estate. Right behind inflation, and I mean very close, is its brother in arms/partner in crime/long-time bedfellow, interest rates. Interest rates have been particularly pesky lately as the Reserve Bank pushes them up in an attempt to bring inflation down. The idea is to make housing less affordable so you can make housing more affordable. Then there’s a war in the Middle East. War is very good for business if you are a weapons producer and part of the military-industrial complex but it’s not very good for everyone else. It certainly isn’t good for confidence and housing markets are pretty big on the old confidence factor. So, not good. This particular war has the additional benefit of taking place in the Persian Gulf, where a fair portion of the world’s oil is transported from Middle East oil producers to the rest of the world. The war has created a traffic jam in the Strait of Hormuz, which is restricting the supply of oil, meaning that in a world of demand and supply the price of fuel at the petrol bowser has gone up significantly. Which means our old friends inflation and interest rates give us another wave from the conga line and remind us of another impact on the property market. The conga line of dramas was joined this week by the Federal Budget and its changes to negative gearing, up until now a key driver in property investment and the supply of rental properties. Nothing changes for people who had negatively geared properties up until Budget night. My Pommy colleague Andy Collins, the Sales Manager at Gardian real estate, pointed out after the Budget that there was no way the changes would include investors’ existing properties because too many politicians own investment properties and the pollies wouldn’t do anything to hurt themselves. It’s up to you whether you think Andy is a sniping little Pommy whinger or an astute judge of human nature. Or can he be both? What Andy correctly pointed out is that from now on investors will be looking for properties that provide such good rental returns that they are positively geared, removing the need for negative gearing. That’s where Mackay’s strong rental returns come into it. Investors from southern markets have been active in the Mackay market because of those rental returns. When they can get returns like $750 a week on properties they have bought for $650,000, those southern investors realise Mackay offers better opportunities than the high-priced, low-rent options in their own cities. Andy was suggesting that it is possible that the budget changes will spur even more investment activity in Mackay because the removal of negative gearing makes investments in other markets unviable. I will delve further into the status of the Mackay market in upcoming columns but there are a few initial points to make. There is no doubt that, like every other market, the conga line of dramas has had an impact and given buyers pause for thought. But we are still seeing strong buyer activity and properties selling. As always, the buoyancy of our coal market and the jobs and business it provides will continue to be a driver of our economy and a key factor in the property market. Will the budget changes create an additional spur to our market and bring more investors in or is that conga line going to have a bigger impact? Stay tuned over the coming months.
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With more than three decades of experience and deep roots in the land, Royce Dunn brings unmatched insight to rural property across the Mackay region. Joining Blacks Real Estate in 1991, Royce is a licensed real estate agent and auctioneer, who has spent the past 25 years as Director leading the agency’s rural department. Over that time, he has built a strong reputation for his knowledge across all areas of property sales and marketing, from farmhouses and grazing land to residential subdivisions. Coming from a rural background and operating his own small farm, Royce understands the realities of life on the land, and the expectations that come with it. That lived experience allows him to connect with clients on a practical level, offering advice that is grounded, honest and tailored to the needs of farming families. Known for his straightforward approach and strong work ethic, Royce is committed to delivering results, working closely with clients to navigate the complexities of rural property transactions and achieve the best possible outcome.
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From wildlife caring, to country kitchens or supporting people with disability – a world of volunteering opportunities awaits at this year’s Volunteer Expo! This year’s event is set to be one of the biggest on record, with 55 community, support and other organisations have registered. The Volunteer Expo is being held at the Mackay Showgrounds on Sunday, May 17 from 9am until midday. Deputy Mayor Karen May said volunteering is at the heart of sustainable and supportive communities. “There are so many benefits to volunteering – from the people and organisations being supported, to those who so generously donate their time and skills. It increases community and individual wellbeing and drives positive change in the community,” Deputy Mayor May said. “What’s great about events like our Volunteers Expo is it gives people a one-stop shop to see what’s out there – and it could be something you’d never thought of,” she said. “Feedback from previous years shows how valuable this expo is to our community groups, with one organisation signing up more than a dozen volunteers on the day.” Data from Volunteering Queensland shows that for every $1 invested in volunteering, there’s a $4.70 return to the community. More than 110,000 jobs were created in 2024 through spending on volunteering – with the sector worth more than $117-billion to the state economy. Cr May said volunteering gives people to build on their passions while learning new skills and meeting new people. “It also opens up opportunities beyond the organisation a person volunteers with – it can help build new professional relationships and create new connections,” she said. “Data from Volunteering Queensland shows the overwhelming majority of people (64 percent) volunteer because they want to help others and the Volunteers Expo has dozens of options for people to help others. Entry to the Mackay Volunteer Expo is free. For more information, visit the event page on Facebook
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by Rebecca Clark
The first winner of Photo of the Week for 2026 is Rebecca Clark. Rebecca’s photo is of the New Year’s Eve Fireworks at the Airlie foreshore, taken on her iPhone.
Theme: Celebrate.
These photographs are submitted by the Whitsundays Amateur Photographers group.
2026 is shaping up to be an exciting year of momentum and opportunity for the Chamber and their members!
They’ve got big plans, including a refreshed operations team, the launch of their Advocacy Manifesto and Vision for the Whitsundays research project, expanded Sub-Committees, and a new Cruise Ship Markets sponsorship program to create even more opportunities for local businesses to get involved and be seen.
These new initiatives will sit alongside their trusted activities, like Breakfast Briefings alternating between Airlie Beach and Proserpine, member-hosted monthly Speed Networking, the Whitsundays Jobs Fair, and the popular Tradies Pop-Up BBQ.
Returning in 2026 are their flagship events that highlight the best of the region’s business community.
The Whitsunday Business Awards, in partnership with Bowen Chamber of Commerce and Whitsunday Regional Council, will once again celebrate local excellence and give businesses of all sizes the chance to shine.
The Whitsunday Business Conference is also back as the learning and networking event of the year, bringing together expertise, and connections to help businesses across the region grow and thrive.
2026 is set to be a big year — and we can’t wait to get started!
Save the date!
The first Business Breakfast Briefing will feature a preview of the year ahead, the launch of our new member resource hub, a showcase of local members, and a Q&A session.
When: 7:30am-9am Thursday 19 February
Where: Filby’s Motors, 62 Main Street, Proserpine
Open to all, with discounted and non-member tickets available. Breakfast included. Full briefing dates for February–July are on our website: www.whitsundaycoastchamber.com.au/events
Join today!
Joining the Chamber is a great way to strengthen connections, gain visibility, and access practical support for your business.
Membership starts from $99 pro-rata to 30 June 2026 – a simple and cost-effective investment in your business success.
Join today: www.whitsundaycoastchamber.com.au/join
The Bowen Visitor Information Centre next to the Big Mango has been very busy providing free refreshments to drivers in recent weeks.
The Information Centre is an official Driver Reviver Station and hundreds of drivers have taken advantage of this over the Christmas and New Year period.
The Driver Reviver program is a national road safety initiative that has been operating since 1989. It provides essential rest stops for travellers to reduce fatigue-related accidents by providing free refreshments – tea, coffee, water and snacks.
The Bowen Visitor Information Centre has been providing free tea and coffee for many years but became an official Driver Reviver Station in 2024.
Previously, the Driver Reviver stand was manned by volunteers during peak holidays times at the Mount Gordon Rest Stop across the road.
By moving the service to the information centre, drivers have access to the refreshments seven days a week and not only during peak periods.
Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said the organisation was proud to offer this free service, helping to promote road safety and providing an under-cover area for drivers to take a break.
“It is important to encourage drivers to take regular breaks when travelling – and we are perfectly located halfway between Mackay and Townsville and right on the highway,” she said.
There are signs to the north and south of the centre, directing travellers to the Driver Reviver Station next to the Big Mango.
“We are always busy during holiday times. During the wet season, when the road conditions are frequently changing to the north and south of us, many people call in to get up-to-date information and enjoy a coffee and a snack while they are here,” she said.
“Sometimes we even have free Driver Reviver merchandise for the whole family including soft toys and key rings.”
This family from the Gold Coast called in at the Driver Reviver Station at the Bowen Visitor Information Centre on Monday and the kids loved the Tiny Teddy biscuits and the Driver Reviver toys. Photo supplied
The Whitsunday Regional Council will be trialling new youth-focused groups at Proserpine Library from January 2026, offering local teenagers a dedicated space to connect, learn and unwind after school.
The program, titled Our Library, Our Space, will run every Tuesday from 3.15pm to 4.30pm between January and June and is open to young people aged 13 and over.
Designed as a relaxed and welcoming environment, the weekly sessions will rotate through a range of activities aimed at encouraging creativity, learning and social connection.
The first Tuesday of each month will host a Book Club, followed by a Study Club on the second Tuesday. A Creative Lab will run on the third Tuesday, with Games Lounge sessions scheduled for the fourth and, where applicable, fifth Tuesday of each month.
Participants can attend casually or choose to take part each week, with no requirement to commit long-term.
In addition to the new program, a range of youth activities are also on offer at the library during the school holidays.
Further details on Our Library, Our Space and other youth programs are available through the Whitsunday Regional Council Libraries website.
Proserpine Library
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A Year to Deliver for the Whitsundays
As we head into a new year, I want to use my first few columns to talk honestly about where Council is heading, what we’re focusing on, and what residents can realistically expect to see on the ground.
Over the coming weeks, I’ll touch on delivery, growth, advocacy, and the work Council does behind the scenes because there’s more happening across the Whitsundays than many people realise.
This year, my focus as Mayor is clear: delivery, not just discussion.
Across our region, communities have helped shape long-term plans for places like Airlie Beach, Cannonvale, Bowen, and Collinsville. Those plans matter and they reflect years of local input. But I know people want to see what that looks like beyond documents and diagrams.
In 2026, you’ll see more projects move from planning into action. That means work progressing in our town centres, community facilities taking shape, and improvements becoming visible in everyday places.
Cannonvale will continue to play an important role as a growth hub, with community-focused infrastructure helping support a growing population. In Collinsville and Bowen, long-planned community and foreshore improvements are moving closer to reality. In Airlie Beach, planning is shifting toward delivering practical outcomes that support both locals and visitors.
At the same time, Council remains focused on the basics of our business which is roads, water, waste, parks and public amenities. These are the services that keep the region functioning, particularly during peak holiday periods when our population swells.
Not everything can happen at once, and not every project moves at the same pace. Construction costs, funding conditions and approvals all play a role. But the direction is clear that my Council wants fewer ideas sitting on shelves and more turning into on-the-ground results.
This year is about momentum. Turning plans into places, and conversations into outcomes one project at a time.
Next week, I’ll talk about how Council is managing growth across the Whitsundays and how we’re working to protect the lifestyle that makes this region such a special place to live.
You can stay informed and up to date with the latest news during storms and disaster events by signing up for Council’s opt-in notification service via the Whitsunday Disaster Dashboard. Choose to receive tailored real-time alerts by text message or email, including Emergency News and Weather Warnings, so you’re always across what matters to you most.
To sign up, visit the Whitsunday Disaster Dashboard and click the green ‘Opt-in Notifications’ button.
Welcome to the new year from Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine Branch Manager, Amanda Anderson, and the team.
In today’s digital world, convenience and security must go hand in hand. Online banking has made it easier than ever to manage money – paying bills, transferring funds and checking balances anytime, anywhere – but staying safe online is just as important as staying connected.
At Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine, keeping customers’ money and personal information secure is a top priority. Our systems include 24/7 fraud monitoring, multi-factor authentication, Payee Check for first-time payments, and secure online banking tools designed to protect customers at every step.
However, online security is a shared responsibility.
Community Bank Branch Manager Amanda Anderson shares some simple actions everyone can take to reduce risk:
“A simple rule to remember is: Stop. Think. Protect” says Amanda. “Stop if something feels wrong. Think about whether a message or call could be fake. Protect yourself by acting quickly and contacting your bank.”
At the end of the day, our goal is simple – to provide Whitsundays locals with banking that’s personal, secure and built around what really matters.
If you ever have questions or concerns about online security, the team at Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine is always happy to help.
Visit Amanda and the team at Whitsunday Plaza Cannonvale
Call (07) 4948 3599
Email cannonvale&proserpinemailbox@bendigoadelaide.com.au
Bendigo Bank – the better big bank.
Proserpine State High School (PSHS) has wrapped up its 63rd Annual Awards Night celebrations, proudly recognising students who demonstrated outstanding commitment, achievement, and character throughout 2025.
The final release of photo highlights showcases the school’s Awards of Excellence recipients - students whose dedication and positive contributions stood out across academic, cultural, sporting, and community areas.
School leaders said the Awards of Excellence reflect not only high achievement, but the values that underpin the Proserpine State High School community, including perseverance, respect, and leadership. These students consistently demonstrated a strong work ethic and a commitment to personal growth, setting an example for their peers.
The Annual Awards Night marked an important opportunity to reflect on the many milestones and memorable moments that shaped the 2025 school year. Families, staff, and students came together to celebrate success, acknowledge effort, and recognise the collective achievements of the school community.
Proserpine State High School extended its thanks to everyone who joined in the celebrations, whether in person or through the school’s series of photo highlights, which captured the spirit of the evening and the pride shared across the community.
As PSHS looks ahead to the 2026 school year commencing on Tuesday, the 27th of January, staff expressed confidence in another year of learning, growth, and opportunity, building on the strong foundations established throughout 2025.
A small souvenir teddy bear bought in a docklands gift shop in England is set to arrive in Airlie Beach this week after travelling more than 20,000 nautical miles as part of a Clipper Round the World Yacht Race delivery destined for two local children.
The bear will be given to Airlie Beach siblings Harper, 12, and Jack, 9, who both take part in junior sailing and have grown up around boats and regattas. Their connection to the global race began in Portsmouth, the historic UK port where the Clipper yachts depart on their circumnavigation of the world.
While attending the race’s departure festival, grandmother Pauline Porter noticed the Great Ormond Street Hospital team yacht displaying teddy bears on its stand. Great Ormond Street Hospital is one of the United Kingdom’s leading children’s hospitals.
Crew members explained the bears were being carried aboard to bring comfort and joy to sick children following the race. After mentioning that her grandchildren live in Airlie Beach one of the Clipper Race stopover ports Pauline asked whether a teddy bear could be taken all the way to Australia for them.
With the crew’s agreement, she purchased a Spinnaker Tower souvenir bear and handed it to the skipper, where it was officially placed on board the yacht.
Airlie Beach marks the halfway point of the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race, with yachts having completed approximately 20,000 nautical miles by the time they arrive. The bear is expected to reach Airlie Beach later this week, with supporters and visitors anticipated at Coral Sea Marina between January 13 and 15. The fleet is scheduled to depart again on January 19.
The Great Ormond Street Hospital team is currently performing strongly, sitting first in the general rankings and well positioned to win the current leg.
For Harper and Jack, the bear’s arrival is especially meaningful. Harper has ambitions of becoming both a sailor and a marine biologist and dreams of one day taking part in the Clipper Race herself.
The Clipper Round the World Yacht Race is open to everyday people from all walks of life, with no prior ocean sailing experience required before undertaking its intensive training program.
Participants can choose to complete one leg or the entire race, making it one of the most inclusive and challenging sailing events in the world.
For Airlie Beach, the arrival of the Clipper fleet (and one very well-travelled teddy bear) highlights the town’s place on a truly global stage.
As Host Port Sponsor, Coral Sea Marina will provide a wide range of experiences which will be delivered for Clipper Race crew, supporters and organisers, showcasing the very best of the Whitsundays.
The Race 6 Prize-giving will be held at Coral Sea Marina on Monday 12 January, welcoming more than 300 race crew, officials and supporters to celebrate the leg concluding in Airlie Beach.
Supported by Whitsunday Regional Council, the evening will feature a cultural welcome, official prize-giving, live music and refreshments, all set against a sunset backdrop over the marina and yachts.
Crew and visitors will also be invited to a 'Meet the Whitsunday Wildlife' experience in the Coral Sea Marina Gardens, where keepers from Whitsunday Wildlife will introduce international guests to a range of iconic Australian animals through an interactive encounter.
Sustainability and science will be highlighted through an engaging talk hosted by the International Seakeepers Society, focusing on Great Barrier Reef citizen science and how sailors can contribute to marine research.
In addition, Reef Catchments will offer a Seagrass Nursery Tour and Talk for selected crew, providing insight into research being conducted at the marina’s seagrass nurseries, followed by a guided exploration of the seagrass meadows at Cannonvale Beach.
Adding a touch of adventure, Pioneer Adventures will take one sailor from each boat on a glass-bottom boat tour, offering a unique view of the underwater environment in Shute Harbour.
Throughout the stopover, The Garden Bar Bistro will host daily ‘Golden Hour’ from 3–5pm, welcoming Clipper Race crews and supporters to unwind with cold drinks, waterfront views and relaxed Whitsundays hospitality.
Maisie is a beautiful 2.5-year-old girl who has overcome a difficult past and is now searching for a calm, understanding home where she can finally feel secure and loved.
Timid at first, Maisie takes a little time to trust — especially around loud noises and unfamiliar situations — but once she feels safe, she blossoms into an affectionate, loyal, and wonderfully dopey companion. Her famous Dalmatian grin makes an appearance when she’s happy (or just a little nervous!), and it’s impossible not to fall for her.
Maisie has experienced trauma earlier in life and needs a home where she can form a strong bond with her person.
About Maisie:
• Female | 2–2.5 years old
• Medium size – approx. 25kg
• Desexed, microchipped, fully vaccinated & up to date with heartworm prevention
• Low to medium energy
• Good with children
• Good with livestock & chooks
• No cats or small animals
• Good with other dogs, though introductions need to be managed carefully
• Arthritis in left knee – managed with ongoing anti-inflammatory medication
• Has successfully beaten heartworm
• Adoption fee: $400
If you think you could offer Maisie the safe, loving home she’s been waiting for, please email bcpri.adoptions@gmail.com to learn more or arrange a meet and greet.
Throughout the history of Proserpine many family names are mentioned. Today, we can attribute the development of Proserpine and surrounds to the foresight, confidence, and generosity of these people. One such family was the Jupp family after whom a street in Proserpine is fittingly named.
The Jupps settled in Proserpine in 1895, but the family had made a great impact in the district prior to this date having relocated from Bowen. Jonathon Jupp, his wife, Maria (née Forward), and children, Emily 13 and George 12, arrived in Bowen from Manchester, England on 1/2/1884 on the steamer ‘Duke of Buckingham’. Jonathon was a saddler but on the shipping records, he was listed as a gardener and carpenter.
The family lived at Ukalunda mine 120 miles south west of Bowen. Jonathon became a hawker and travelled with his horse drawn covered wagon between Bowen and Proserpine selling his household goods to the delight of the women folk. Sharing news, gossip and passing on the neighbours’ messages, Jonathon was always a welcome sight. It was a great thrill to see someone, such was the isolation of these women and children upon whom he called. A piece of hat trimming, a pipe for father, materials, cotton, pots and pans - he had it all.
Spending a lot of time on her own must have been hard for his wife, Maria. Sadly, she died of rheumatic fever in 1890. In 1895, Jonathon and his son, George, a saddler, moved to Proserpine where they built a store - Jupp & Son Store in what is now known as Main Street. This was situated at the present site of Epicure.
The store catered for everyone, with stocks of food, clothing and farm equipment. At the time there were only three other buildings in Main Street. The rest of the area was bush with blady grass and acacia bushes. A small amount of sugar was growing, the sugar mill was being built, families were moving into the district and workers were needed for the cattle and sugar industry. The area was growing.
When his store was built, Mr Jupp Senior arranged to have a postal service office (known as Lower Proserpine) and, in 1896, this service was elevated to Post Office. In the following year, he applied for the erection of telegraph quarters and connection with the main line. The new telegraph wires hung for 21 months before a telephone was installed! In 1905, a Post and Telegraph Office was built in Main Street.
Jonathon Jupp died in Bowen in 1903 leaving his son, George to carry on the business. Before his death, a new shop was built and called “J Jupp & Son, General Storekeepers”. Then, in 1908, George Jupp built a new store with a façade clearly announcing – “Established 1895, Geo. W. Jupp – Grocery, Hardware, Drapery.” George lived on the corner of Main and Chapman Street next to his store.
George Jupp contributed significantly to the community. He was a foundation member of the Proserpine Shire Council, the Chamber of Commerce and the Loyal Proserpine Lodge MUIOOF. He was a member of many other organisations including the Hospital Committee, the Rifle Club and the State School Committee.
A friend to all, he lent valuable assistance to the many struggling farmers in those earlier days. He was also a very talented man and turned his hand to icing many wedding cakes that featured intricate designs and much detail.
George’s wife, Rose Mary Jupp, died in March 1940 and two weeks later, George died. Their daughter, Lillian, married earlier in January. The family continued the business on the site of 47 Main Street and eventually sold in 1946 to Mr John Maltby and his sister, Rose.
Story and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum
A 35-year-old Irish tourist has died following a drowning at Whitehaven Beach on New Year’s Eve, prompting renewed reminders about safety at unpatrolled island beaches.
Emergency services were called to Whitehaven Beach, on Whitsunday Island, at about 11am on the 31st of December after the man was found unresponsive in the water. Despite efforts by first responders, he was unable to be revived.
The man has since been identified as Sean Keaney, 35, originally from Ballinagh in County Cavan, Ireland, and living in London at the time of his death.
A Queensland Police Service spokesperson confirmed a report is being prepared for the coroner.
The tragedy marks the second serious water-related incident at Whitehaven Beach in just over a week, following a near-drowning on the 23rd of December 2025.
Whitehaven Beach, famous for its white silica sand and crystal-clear waters, is a popular destination for tourists and boaties but is unpatrolled, with no lifeguards on duty.
The Queensland Department of Environment would not comment directly on the incident, referring media to safety advice published on its website. Authorities have previously warned that visitors to the Whitsunday Islands are responsible for their own safety, noting that mobile phone reception is limited and medical assistance can take hours to arrive.
In Ireland and the UK, tributes have poured in for Mr Keaney, described by friends and family as a much-loved son, brother, and friend.
A death notice shared online read: “Loving Son of Bridie and the late Charlie, Brother of Cathriona, Fiona, Breda, Katie, Matt, Cathal and Thomas. Sadly missed by his Mother, Sisters, Brothers, Sisters in law, Brothers in law, Nieces, Nephews, Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, Relatives, Neighbours and Friends.”
London-based Gaelic football club Tara GFC, where Mr Keaney played for four years, also issued a tribute.
“After transferring from Crosserlough GFC in Cavan to Tara GFC, Seán spent an incredible four years with our club, leaving a lasting impact on everyone he met,” the club said.
“We were incredibly lucky to have Seán by our side as we celebrated last year’s and this year’s Championship victories, as well as the All Britain titles. A man always found on the dance floor with smile that could light up a room and a laugh that could warm your heart. Seán will be unbelievably missed by us all.”
The statement added: “On behalf of the Tara men, ladies and youth, we extend our deepest condolences to the Keaney family, extended family and friends.”
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has confirmed it is aware of the incident.
“The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade is aware of the incident and stands ready to provide consular assistance,” a spokesperson said.
Hundreds of thousands of tourists visit Airlie Beach and the Whitsunday Islands each year, with authorities continuing to urge visitors to exercise caution when swimming at unpatrolled beaches and to be aware of local conditions and safety advice.
Irish tourist, Sean Keaney tragically drowned at Whitehaven Beach on New Year's Eve. Photo source: Tara GFC
Whitsunday State Emergency Service (SES) volunteers have been warmly thanked for their continued efforts to support the community during the recent weather events.
Volunteers have attended to countless service calls since Christmas Day, with the majority of calls requiring roof repairs during intense rainfall.
“A big thank you to SES who came and tarped my roof today – one inch of rain fell while they worked – what an awesome group of people – they were all completely drenched at the end of the job,” expressed a local resident.
“These volunteers are often the change in many of our community members’ lives. Thank you for continuing to commit endless hours to helping others,” added another.
Crews of both local and visiting volunteers have been on the ground working through tasks over the past few weeks, thanking the community for their patience during such an unpredictable and busy time.
“Weather conditions are different across our northern region right now - some communities are still receiving rain, others are watching forecasts closely, and some are waiting to see if more rain will arrive,” said an SES Spokesperson.
“SES crews are on the ground across the region, supporting communities and preparing to respond where needed. Teams are moving into place and working through priorities to make sure help continues to get to the right places at the right time.”
If you need assistance, phone 132 500 or visit the SES Assistance Queensland App. In an emergency, call 000.
SES volunteers have been working tirelessly to support the local community. Photo credit: Betina Wilks
As the new year begins, many Mackay locals are setting fresh intentions around health, strength and overall wellbeing. For those looking to reset, refocus or simply start where they are, Fitness Cartel Mackay has quickly positioned itself as a premier all in one gym and wellness destination, built around community, support and results.
Recently opened on 27th November 2025, the facility has already attracted a strong and growing membership base, offering an expansive and inclusive approach to fitness that caters to all levels. However, like many businesses navigating growth and innovation, Fitness Cartel Mackay found itself in the spotlight after a Mackay woman raised concerns on a community page about a camera allegedly positioned above shower stalls in the wellness area.
While the post sparked online debate, Co Franchisee Cliff Forster said the matter was addressed swiftly, transparently and in collaboration with authorities.
“One of our members raised a concern about the camera in the restrooms and we take that seriously,” Mr Forster said.
“As soon as police advised us the cameras needed to be removed, they were taken down. They are now in the process of being relocated outside of the bathrooms.”
Mr Forster explained the cameras were AI operated and installed by a security company as part of a tailgating prevention system, designed to ensure only authorised members accessed the Wellness Centre.
“The cameras were set up directly above the security swiper panel in the male and female restroom, positioned above the security door access into the Wellness Area,” he said.
“They are fixed lens cameras, which do not have capacity for panning, tilting, moving or zooming. Focused only on the swiper panel, they are activated by AI technology to ensure authorised access only. No member’s privacy was ever breached.”
He added that the system only recorded when more than one person entered at once.
“If one person walked through, it wouldn’t record. It only activated if multiple people entered together, to capture tailgating and help ensure safety for our members – which is our number one priority.”
Despite reassurance that no harmful or inappropriate footage existed, Mr Forster acknowledged the concern caused and apologised for any distress it may have caused members, as well as the general public.
“We absolutely understand the concerns of the public and the member who raised the issue,” he said.
“We apologise if this caused any sort of concern. The camera system was designed and installed by our security provider, and once we received guidance in conjunction with the Mackay Police, the cameras were removed swiftly.”
Fitness Cartel Mackay also issued a public statement confirming the cameras had been disabled and removed, working closely with Mackay Police to ensure full compliance. Footage shared proves the only shower cubicle in camera-shot had been blacked out, with only the doorway, entry, and card swipe access point visible.
“Our intention was always safety,” Mr Forster said.
“We strive to make this gym a respectful place for our members, and that will never change.”
More importantly, Mr Forster said the situation has not impacted the gym’s thriving membership base, with the facility continuing to operate as normal and welcoming members into the new year with confidence.
Beyond the headlines, Fitness Cartel Mackay remains focused on what it set out to do from day one, creating a supportive, inclusive and comprehensive health and wellness environment for the Mackay community.
More than just a gym, the centre offers a full spectrum of training and Wellness options under one roof. Members have access to extensive strength and cardio zones, functional training areas, Reformer Pilates, cycle studios and dedicated beginner spaces designed to remove the intimidation factor for those just starting out.
The Wellness Centre introduces premium recovery experiences including hot and cold plunge pools, hot rock sauna, compression therapy and red-light therapy, reinforcing the idea that recovery is just as important as training itself.
A wide range of group fitness classes is included with every membership, encouraging consistency, motivation and connection. Add childcare facilities, social spaces and a welcoming atmosphere, and many of the traditional barriers to getting started are removed.
As the new year unfolds, Fitness Cartel Mackay offers options to suit every lifestyle, every goal and every starting point. Whether you are returning to training after a break, stepping into a gym for the first time, or committing to long-term wellbeing, the new year is the perfect opportunity to set fresh goals and create healthy habits that last.
There has never been a better time to prioritise yourself, invest in your health and make fitness a regular part of your life. With a supportive team, world-class facilities and a community atmosphere, Fitness Cartel Mackay makes it simple to start strong, stay motivated and feel confident in your journey.
Now is the time to turn "One Day" into "Day One" and inspire a healthier you, at Fitness Cartel Mackay
View from the AI cameras installed at the entryway of the male and female restrooms, designed to monitor and prevent tailgating, ensuring member safety. The cameras have now been removed and will be relocated to the outside of the restroom. Image supplied
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