What started as a sparkling night of fairy lights and celebration has now made a lasting impact for communities across Mackay and the Whitsundays. Life Publishing Group’s Enchanted Garden event raised $56,000 last year, with funds now supporting seven local charities making a real difference every day.

The funds are going to the Trudy Crowley Foundation, My Hospital Foundation, Orange Sky, Bowen and Collinsville Pet Rescue, Mackay Pet Rescue Inc, Fauna Rescue Whitsundays and the Townsville Spinal Unit.

Representatives from Life Publishing recently visited Mackay-based recipients, personally delivering $8,000 to each charity and seeing firsthand how the donations will help. Funding will support upgrades such as the mental health inpatient courtyard at My Hospital Foundation, keep Orange Sky’s vital mobile laundry and shower services running, and provide essential food, healthcare, and rehabilitation for rescued animals at Mackay Pet Rescue Inc.

Community generosity from the event continues to ripple across the region, turning a night of glamour into tangible help, hope, and opportunity for those who need it most!

Cover pic - Mackay Pet Rescue Inc Secretary and Foster Carer Beverley Joy with Foster Carer Allison Lakelin and Life Publishing Sales Account Manager Jessica Clark. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

Fairy Lights To Frontline Impact

Seven Local Charities To Benefit From Community Generosity

What began as a glittering evening beneath fairy lights and stars has come full circle, transforming celebration into tangible community impact across Mackay and the Whitsundays.

Life Publishing Group’s Enchanted Garden event, held at Elementa on October 25 last year, raised an extraordinary $56,000k, with funds now flowing directly into the hands of seven charities delivering frontline support where it is needed most.

The beneficiaries include the Trudy Crowley Foundation, My Hospital Foundation (formerly known as Mackay Hospital Foundation), Orange Sky, Bowen and Collinsville Pet Rescue, Mackay Pet Rescue Inc, Fauna Rescue Whitsundays and the Townsville Spinal Unit.

Last week, representatives from Life Publishing Group personally visited Mackay-based recipients, delivering $8,000 directly to three local organisations and gaining insight into how the funding will translate into real outcomes on the ground.

At My Hospital Foundation, Managing Executive Officer Ashleen O’Neil said the contribution would support the redevelopment of the mental health inpatient courtyard, a space in need of revitalisation.

“We’d just like to say a huge thank you to all who contributed…these donations will make a huge difference,” Ms O’Neil said.

“We really appreciate all the support from our community, and if anybody would like to come on board as a sponsor we would greatly encourage it.”

For Orange Sky, the donation will help keep vital services operating across the region.

“I couldn’t believe it when I was told about this donation. It’s amazing — absolutely amazing,” representative Judith Fisher said.

“We’re constantly maintaining the machines, such as detergents, maintenance, electricity… it all adds up.

“A huge, huge thank you, because without donations like this, we couldn’t operate in 55 locations around Australia. There are locations that simply wouldn’t be available without donations.

“We’re here for anyone who needs our services — even if it’s just for a chat. We’re always available, and we’d love to see you come down.”

At Mackay Pet Rescue Inc, volunteers shared the confronting reality of increasing numbers of abandoned animals, particularly cats, entering their care.

Funding from the Enchanted Garden will go toward essential items including food, veterinary treatment and rehabilitation, giving vulnerable animals a second chance at finding safe, loving homes.

While guests enjoyed gourmet tapas, premium beverages and world-class entertainment on the night of the event, the deeper purpose quietly took root. Every ticket purchased fuelled practical support, from mobile laundry and shower services, to hospital equipment and patient care initiatives, to rescue and rehoming efforts for animals who otherwise may not have survived.

The glamour of one unforgettable evening has now been converted into something far more enduring: hope, healing and help for communities across our region.

"At Life Publishing Group we are here to serve the community in every way we can. For almost 15 years this has been through our free publications, both magazines and newspapers, and we hope they have brought joy to many," said Life Publishing Group Editor in Chief Rachael Smith.

"Raising this money for these seven worthwhile charities represents a significant moment for us, a moment where we use the platform we have built over the years to give back to those who need it most. It has been an incredible few weeks with our team delivering cheques to the different charities and the gratitude from all the recipients has been wonderful to witness.

“A huge thank you to all the local businesses and individuals who donated on the night and to everyone in our team who contributed to the success of our first charity event."

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Last week, we published a memorial piece on my old neighbour Al, or “Owl” as my son fondly called him, Alistair Gourlay, who passed away after a long battle with leukaemia. Al was a kind, friendly presence in our neighbourhood, an active member of the community, and will be missed by many.

Sharing his story felt like such an important way to remember such a lovely man. Seeing his face in the paper also prompted me to let you all know that, at the sad time of a loved one’s passing, we can publish a memorial piece celebrating their life for you, completely free of charge.

One of our caring journalists will work with you to craft a thoughtful tribute that honours their story and contribution to our community. While funeral notices are available as a paid service to share details of arrangements, the memorial story itself is our public service to you. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if we can help.

In other news, it’s encouraging to hear that the Shute Harbour Boat Ramp will finally receive investment through Olympic funding. This is fantastic news for our boating community, and I’m excited to see what other opportunities may come our way as we prepare to play a part in the 2032 Olympic Games.

It’s also been uplifting to see the strong engagement with our recent stories.

A generous local reached out after reading about Vari Galletly’s efforts to fund pilot lessons for one of her African orphans and was inspired to offer support.

Meanwhile, the story of local boatie Kevin Ditton recovering his boat, Fright Train, from the rocks at Pigeon Island attracted more than 250 Facebook likes and an outpouring of positive comments.

This was a welcome reminder of the power of journalism to create uplifting coverage of what was previously a tragic event.

Hope you enjoy this week’s edition too!

Rach

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This weekend, 5 volunteers joined the Eco-Barge team to clean up debris left over from Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji.

Efforts were focused on Bowen’s Rose Bay, gathering and responsibly disposing of the debris previously littering the sand.

The mission was also an opportunity for the team to scope out the rubbish and debris taken by the sea, as they formulated plans to return by boat to clean the waters as well as the shoreline.

With more community clean-ups on the horizon, the Eco Barge team and their volunteers deserve recognition for looking after our oceans, and the beautiful beaches we’re lucky to have on our doorsteps.

Eco Barge would like to thank Whitsunday Regional Council for their support in this cleanup effort.

The next event will be a day of Recycling & Sorting Marine Debris at Eco Barge HQ, halfway down Boatyard Road, in Jubilee Pocket. To sign up, or learn about future volunteer opportunities, visit https://ecobargecleanseasinc.volunteerlocal.com

1. Eco-heroes team up to save our shores

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By Sharon Ashman

School refusal is a complex behavioural presentation. It is often driven by anxiety, emotional distress or unmet needs within the child’s environment. Behaviourally, school refusal serves a function usually to reduce distress or regain a sense of safety.

Children who refuse school may experience overwhelming anxiety related to separation, academic pressure, peer relationships or sensory overload. Avoidance temporarily reduces anxiety, reinforcing the behaviour over time. Without intervention, this cycle can become entrenched.

Effective behavioural change focuses on gradual exposure, predictability and emotional support, rather than force or punishment. Collaborative planning between families, schools and mental health professionals is essential. Small, achievable steps such as partial attendance or supported transitions, help rebuild confidence and reduce avoidance.

Equally important is validating the child’s experience. Statements like “School feels really hard right now” reduce shame and increase engagement. In addition, check the situation for what is called secondary gain. What is the child doing when not at school? Such things as gaming, playing on phone, watching movies are secondary gain. Consider working with school to have schoolwork at home with the same hours and rules as if the child is attending school to reduce secondary gain.

Behavioural progress is strongest when emotional regulation strategies are taught alongside attendance plans. Breathing techniques, grounding strategies and clear routines help children tolerate discomfort rather than escape it.

School refusal is not a failure of parenting or discipline. It is a signal that a child needs support to feel safe, capable and understood within their learning environment.

For more information visit my website  https://www.personaltransitions.com.au/ or give me a call 0418708214.”  NDIS FRIENDLY

Contributed with thanks to Sharon Ashman of Personal Transitions.

Sharon Ashman holds qualifications as a Post Graduate Psychiatrist, MPAS and CMHN. Photo supplied

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It has been a busy start to February for Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ) Whitsunday crews, with multiple late-night medivacs and a large-scale search and rescue operation keeping volunteers on the water across the region.

Stinger Medivac Turns Into Multi-Stop Activation

On 10 February, what began as a straightforward medical evacuation quickly evolved into a complex, multi-stage activation stretching into the early hours of the morning.

MRQ Whitsunday was initially tasked just before 10pm to retrieve a stinger victim from a yacht at Haslewood Island and transfer the patient to a waiting helicopter.

“We have been tasked by QAS/VTS to convey a stinger victim from his yacht on Chalkies to a waiting chopper on the beach. No more info available,” Skipper Shane said he was told.

However, incorrect coordinates, rough seas and shifting information added complications. At one point, crews were advised the patient had already been transferred by a passing yacht.

“No sooner had we turned for home than the radio crackled a new task. ‘Could you call into Hamilton Island on the way and pick up a patient’,” Skipper Shane said.

The combined activation — including a stop at Hamilton Island for a second medivac — took more than three and a half hours, with crews returning to base around 2am before completing refuelling, washdowns and paperwork closer to 3am.

“We don't risk our people for the sake of property,” Skipper Shane said, explaining the decision not to attempt towing a vessel in dangerous night conditions.

Dual-Vessel Search for Missing Kayaker

On 29 January, both MRQ Whitsunday vessels, WS11 and WS31, were deployed as part of a police-led search and rescue operation for a missing kayaker last seen at 5.30pm without a life jacket.

“A search and rescue was required for someone on a surf ski without a life jacket, missing since 5:30 pm. It was now close to 8pm,” Skipper Shane said.

Crews battled rough 20-knot south-easterly winds as they conducted coordinated search patterns near South Molle and Long Island.

“At 25 knots getting buffeted was no buffet,” Skipper Shane said.

The missing kayaker was eventually located by helicopter close to shore, where crews had predicted he may have drifted.

“We punched through the waves to get home and cleaned up by 10:20pm.”

Medivac Under a Full Moon

Earlier in the month, on 2 February, MRQ Whitsunday responded to another medical evacuation from Hamilton Island.

Despite the urgency, conditions were calm, with crews travelling under a full moon.

“Once the pre starts and risk assessments were done, we headed off with a light wind and a stunning full moon! It was a perfect night,” Coxswain Nat R said.

After collecting the patient from Hamilton Island Marina, crews transported them safely back to the mainland.

“The full moon on the water was really special.”

Volunteers Answering the Call

The February activations highlight the vital role MRQ Whitsunday volunteers play across the region, responding to emergencies at all hours and in all conditions.

From search and rescue missions to complex inter-island medical evacuations, crews continue to work closely with Queensland Ambulance Service, police and other agencies to ensure the safety of locals and visitors across the Whitsundays.

1. MRQ Whitsunday responded to a medical evacuation situation under the light of a full moon. Photo source: MRQ Whitsundays
2. MRQ Whitsundays works primarily to save lives at sea. Photo source: MRQ Whitsundays

The Shute Harbour Recreational Boat Ramp project is now fast-tracked for delivery, spurred on by efforts to bring lasting legacies to the region ahead of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic games.

“This is fantastic news for our region,” said Member for Whitsunday, Amanda Camm.

“The Shute Harbour Recreational Boating Facility has officially been recognised as a priority project, meaning planning and delivery can now be fast-tracked to ensure it’s completed as part of the 2032 Games legacy.

“This is about delivering real infrastructure for our community, not just for the Games, but for generations of locals, visitors, boaties and tourism operators who rely on safe, accessible marine facilities.”

Locals have long complained of safety and congestion issues at the current ramp, criticising its poor design.

Many believe, the existing boat ramp and walkway is a fixed-structure, meaning it is submerged at high tide, making it unsafe and unfit for purpose.

Insufficient car and trailer parking facilities have also been flagged, which lead to situations where boaters cannot launch their vessels.

Many users feel the boat ramp was poorly designed under the previous government, with insufficient community input and disregard for local needs.

A key proposal for the upgrade is the installation of a floating pontoon, which can be removed or adjusted to suit tidal conditions.

Ms Camm said the inclusion of Shute Harbour in state-wide planning highlights the importance of The Whitsundays to Queensland’s tourism and marine industry.

“These changes will cut through red tape, provide planning certainty and ensure our region benefits from the infrastructure investment that comes with hosting the 2032 Games.

“The Government is getting on with the job of delivering the infrastructure Queensland

needs, and The Whitsundays will see the long-term benefits.”

The fast-tracked delivery forms part of the Government’s broader plan to ensure the 2032 Olympic

and Paralympic Games leave a lasting legacy for communities across Queensland.

Mayor Ry Collins called the fast-tracked delivery “an important step forward for marine infrastructure in our region as the home of Olympic sailing in 2032.

“The Whitsundays offers some of the best sailing conditions anywhere in the world, and we are ready to showcase our region on the global stage."

1 – Minister for Transport and Main Roads, Hon. Brent Mickelberg, MP Amanda Camm, and Mayor Ry Collins at sunny Shute Harbour.

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A day out on the tranquil sands of Horseshoe Bay turned into a harrowing emergency for an Ayr family, when their nine-year-old granddaughter Olivia was stung by an Irukandji jellyfish.

Chris Richardson, Olivia’s grandmother, is now sharing the family’s story to raise awareness about the dangers of Irukandji stings.

On Monday 2nd February, the family spent their morning teaching Olivia to fish in the shallows – even though, as Chris jokes, the seagulls got 90% of the bait. At lunchtime, Olivia suddenly stated her skin felt really itchy, all over her body.

Thinking it was just sea lice, Chris sent Olivia for a shower, but when she returned feeling worse, she decided to take her home to see a doctor.

But quickly, the symptoms progressed, with Olivia complaining of pain, her skin now hurting all over.

Chris admits she initially wondered if Olivia was exaggerating, joking that her granddaughter has a flair for dramatics and will request a bandage for the lightest scratch.

But then, Chris asked Olivia to pinpoint the pain, and Olivia said, “it feels like it's in my chest and it's going around my back.”

Straight away, alarm bells sounded.

A former nurse, Chris recognised the symptom as an indication of heart distress, which presents this way in women — very different from the crushing chest pressure more commonly described by men.

Instead of driving home to Ayr, Chris and Olivia’s Grandfather, Bob, made a decision that likely saved Olivia’s life, choosing to head straight to Bowen Hospital’s emergency department.

According to the treating doctor, had they attempted the longer drive home, Olivia may have gone into cardiac arrest in the car.

On arrival at the emergency department, Olivia had begun going into cardiac fibrillation. Staff moved quickly, administering antivenom and magnesium — a treatment used to reduce pain and protect the heart from dangerous rhythm disturbances associated with Irukandji syndrome.

Seeing Olivia in such pain was incredibly difficult for Chris and Bob, with Bob also treated for shock.

Chris credits the staff at Bowen Hospital for their exceptional service, keeping calm, and treating her granddaughter with an astounding level of care — from the receptionist at the front desk to the emergency nurses and the attending doctor.

Praising Doctor Luke, she said, “He’s got three daughters himself, which helped him relate to Olivia. He spoke to her very gently and held her arm while she was crying, explaining everything they were going to do and why.”

Later, Chris joked to her husband, “If I ever get sick, you bring me down to Bowen Hospital.”

Olivia was kept in hospital for two days on an intravenous drip before being discharged. While the physical side effects — tingling skin and fatigue — eased within days, the emotional impact has lingered, with Olivia going through occasional bouts of tears as she processes what she experienced.

“She kept crying out, “I’m not going to die. Nanny, don’t let them make me die”,” Chris explained.

Thankfully, Olivia has now made a full recovery. The family hope the experience won’t keep her from enjoying the ocean — now equipped with a new understanding of Irukandji risks and safety precautions.

Chris warns locals and holidaymakers to be careful; Irukandji jellyfish are small, around the size of a fingernail and so are difficult to see. The initial stings themselves can go undetected, but their aftermath can include severe pain, nausea, high blood pressure and heart complications.

Whitsunday Regional Council advises swimmers to take the following precautions:

• Wear protective clothing such as a full-body lycra or neoprene suit. Not all suits offer equal protection — lycra and neoprene offer the greatest defence.
• Wear protective clothing even when wading, as many stings occur in shallow water. Enter the water slowly, as box jellyfish may swim away if given the opportunity.
• Swim between the flags and follow lifesavers’ advice at patrolled beaches.
• Be aware of high-risk conditions, including sustained north-easterly winds, calm seas, sea lice sensations in the water, and visible salps or plankton.
• Always carry vinegar when boating or undertaking marine activities.

If you suspect an Irukandji sting, call 000 immediately. When in doubt, treat it as Irukandji and seek urgent medical attention.

1 – 9 Year Old Olivia overcame a nasty Irukandji sting. Photo supplied

2 – The brave girl spent 2 days in Bowen Hospital, receiving exceptional care. Photo supplied.

3 – Irukanji jellyfish are transparent, and one cubic centimetre- making them hard to detect. Photo source: Shutterstock

Coral Sea Marina is proud to once again support Clean Up Australia Day, inviting the community to roll up their sleeves and help protect our beautiful coastline on Sunday 1 March 2026.

Volunteers will gather from 8.30am to 10.30am, starting at Point D – The Gardens, Coral Sea Marina, before heading out to help remove litter and debris from the surrounding foreshore areas. The annual event is part of the nationwide Clean Up Australia Day initiative, which brings together communities to care for and preserve local environments.

The event is a fantastic opportunity for families, friends, boating enthusiasts and local businesses to make a tangible difference while enjoying the outdoors. Every piece of litter collected helps protect marine life and keeps our waterways pristine for everyone to enjoy.

The Clean Up Australia Day initiative was started thirty-five years ago by Ian Kiernan – just an “average Australian” with a simple idea to make a difference in his own backyard. An avid sailor, Ian was shocked and disgusted by the pollution and rubbish that he continually encountered in the oceans of the world.

Taking matters into his own hands in 1989, Ian organised a community event called ‘Clean Up Sydney Harbour’ with the support of a committee of friends. He expected just a few hundred volunteers. Instead, 40,000 people showed up, sparking a national movement.

Now, Clean Up Australia is held every year on the first Sunday in March, bringing local communities together across the nation.

Over the years, more than 23-million wonderful volunteers have stepped up, pulled on their gloves, and donated their time to improve the environment.

This year, that could include you.

Coral Sea Marina is inviting community members of all ages to volunteer and be part of this important initiative. Walk the boardwalk, hop on your own boat, or drive to your chosen destination after collecting your clean up kit from the marina. Whether you can spare the full two hours or simply want to show your support, your contribution will help keep our region beautiful.

1 – Members of the Coral Sea Marina Team, ready to make a difference. Photo supplied

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Two people have been charged with dangerous drug offences following a search warrant at Airlie Beach on Monday, 16th February.

Around 8am, Whitsundays Tactical Crime Squad (TCS), with the assistance of Dog Squad, executed a search warrant at a Hermitage Drive address.

It will be alleged police located approximately nine ounces of cocaine, with an estimated street value of more than $100,000.

It will further be alleged officers located a quantity of cannabis, utensils, and cash.

A 25-year-old man from the Sunshine Coast has been charged with two counts of possessing dangerous drugs (cocaine and cannabis), and one count each of trafficking dangerous drugs, possessing tainted property, and possessing utensils.

A 22-year-old woman from Brisbane has been charged with two counts of possessing dangerous drugs (cocaine and cannabis), and one count each of trafficking dangerous drugs, possessing property suspected of having been used in connection with the commission of a drug offence, and possessing utensils.

Both are due to reappear before Proserpine Magistrates Court next month.

Mackay Whitsundays Support Services Group Inspector Shelley Moore said there is no place for dangerous drugs in our community.

“Our officers will continue to disrupt the unlawful supply of dangerous drugs from our streets,” said Inspector Moore.

“We have zero tolerance towards illicit substances, and investigators remain committed to holding all offenders to account.”

1 – The Whitsundays Tactical Crime Squad seized nine ounces of cocaine at an Airlie Beach address

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An ambulance was called to Magnums Hotel at 10:10pm on Sunday, 15 February, following a reported snake bite.

The patient, a man in his 20s, was treated at the scene before being transported to Proserpine Hospital in a stable condition after sustaining a bite to the leg.

The incident serves as a timely reminder for residents and visitors to the Whitsundays that snake season is in full swing. Snake activity is expected to remain elevated through to April, driven by the region’s warm and humid conditions.

The most commonly encountered snakes in the Whitsundays include the green tree snake and scrub python, both of which are non-venomous. However, residents are also urged to remain alert for venomous species such as the eastern brown snake and the taipan.

In the event of a snake bite, authorities stress the importance of calling Triple Zero (000) immediately and remaining as still and calm as possible. Lying down is recommended, with the entire body kept immobile to slow the spread of venom through the lymphatic system.

If the bite is on a limb, a firm pressure bandage should be applied over the bite site and wrapped upward toward the heart, covering as much of the limb as possible. The location of the bite should be noted to allow medical staff to assess it without removing the entire bandage.

A splint should then be applied to the affected limb using any rigid object, such as a stick, branch or rolled newspaper. The patient should remain lying down and avoid movement until emergency services arrive.

Photo source: Shutterstock

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What if business failure didn’t begin with declining sales, but with burnout, disconnection, silent terror and avoidance? What if someone was ready to talk about what really happens before a business starts to fall apart?

That conversation is being led by MyPathway's Cassandra Walsh, an experienced Small Business Mentor with the MyPathway The Self-Employment Assistance Program, who brings not just credentials, but compassion and lived understanding to the stage. Through the federally funded Self-Employment Assistance Program, MyPathway is delivering a powerful, must-hear presentation that shines a light on the emotional and mental journey so many local entrepreneurs are silently walking.

In her signature honest, hyperactive, and deeply relatable style, Cassandra opens the conversation by naming what no one else does: the gut feeling that something’s wrong, the spark that fades, the pretending that becomes exhausting.

“This isn’t about spreadsheets or profits,” Cass says. “It’s about the unspoken weight business owners carry and why we need to stop carrying it alone.”

From the early warning signs like fatigue and self-doubt, to the quiet shame that creeps in when you think you're the only one struggling Cassandra breaks it down with clarity, care, and credibility.

But the talk doesn’t stop at naming the problem; it leads into real, practical, local solutions.

Through MyPathway’s Self-Employment Assistance Program in the Whitsundays, Cassandra and the full MyPathway national network offer fully funded, practical support for business owners who are ready to move from stuck to supported.

This free program* includes:

• 1:1 personalised and Customised business mentoring
• In-depth Business Health Checks
• Strategic Business Advice Sessions (privately $500 per hour)
• Certified nationally recognised training in finance, marketing, and business planning

And it’s not just theory, it’s tailored to real small business life in regional Queensland. Whether you're running a home-based startup or managing a a small team, this program meets you where you're at.

If you’ve been feeling the pressure, if your spark is fading, or if you just need someone to talk to who gets it; this is your sign.

Cassandra Walsh is here in the Greater Whitsundays region, and the door to real support is open. You don’t need to push through alone.

The Self-Employment Assistance Program is your permission to pause, reset, and rebuild with help from business mentors that actually understand.

Cassandra Walsh. Photo supplied

There are some projects that are simply about getting the fundamentals right for our community and the Shute Harbour Recreational Boating Facility is one of them.

The recent announcement that the project will be fast-tracked under the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games approvals framework is very welcome news for the Whitsundays.

I’d like to acknowledge Premier David Crisafulli and Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm for their support in helping move this important project forward.

For locals, Shute Harbour isn’t just infrastructure on a map. It’s where families launch their boats at first light. It’s where tourism operators connect visitors to our islands and reef. It’s part of our identity as a region that lives and breathes the water.

Having the project recognised as a priority means greater certainty around planning and delivery. That matters and not just because of the Olympics, but because our boating community deserves safe, accessible and modern marine facilities.

Yes, the Whitsundays will host Olympic and Paralympic sailing in 2032. That’s something we should all be proud of. But long after the closing ceremony, our community will still be here, launching boats, running businesses and welcoming visitors from around the world.

That’s why this project is so important. It’s about legacy. It’s about making sure the right infrastructure is in place for future generations. It’s about backing our marine industry, supporting jobs and improving safety and capacity at one of our key gateways.

The Whitsundays offers world-class sailing conditions and a community deeply connected to the ocean. Hosting Olympic sailing is a tremendous opportunity, and with it comes responsibility to deliver the infrastructure that supports both the event and our long-term future.

Council looks forward to continuing to work with the State Government to see this project delivered.

This is a practical step forward and one that will benefit our community for many years to come.

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Did you know?

When you’re in a public place with your dog, the law requires your pet to be under effective control. This means you must be physically able to control your dog by having it on a leash, secured to a fixed object and under constant supervision, or under continuous voice control in a designated off-leash area. Failing to comply can result in an on-the-spot fine. For more information, head to Council’s website.

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Coexistence Queensland is inviting residents, landholders and businesses across the Whitsunday region to a free community energy and resources forum held at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre on 20th March.

The event offers community members the chance to ask questions, access clear information and engage directly with industry and government about current and future development.

The Queensland Community Energy Forum will bring together community members, energy and resource developers, agriculture representatives and government for a day of presentations, question-and-answer sessions and information booths.

Warwick Squire, CEO, Coexistence Queensland, said the forum is designed to equip landholders and communities with the information they need to confidently engage with energy developers.

“When it comes to development, locals want clear information and straight answers,” Mr Squire said.

“This forum will bring everyone into the same room – landholders, industry, government and community. By listening to each other, we can reduce uncertainty, build trust and make meaningful decisions together.”

Janette Hewson, Chief Executive Officer, Queensland Resources Council, said the resources sector had a long-standing connection to the Whitsundays region.

“Whitsundays families and businesses have supported our industry for generations,” Ms Hewson said.

“Communities always want to be informed and know what developments mean for their land, their livelihoods and their future. Forums like this are important in shaping how development happens, in unlocking new resource opportunities and seeing more investment going back into regional communities."

The expo will take place between 8am – 3pm, with light refreshments and lunch provided.

For more information, visit www.qldenergyforum.org.au/proserpine-20-march-2026
or call 1300 548 021

1 - Warwick Squire, CEO, Coexistence Queensland, Stephanie McKechnie, Energy Engagement and Education Advisor, Queensland Farmers’ Federation, Cr Neville Ferrier, Mayor, Banana Shire Council, Katie-Anne Mulder, CEO, Queensland Renewable Energy Council, and Cr Shane McCarthy, General President, AgForce Queensland. Photo supplied

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Piotr Ferenc, managing director and registered migration agent at Airlie Beach’s Pacific Center, has spent over 20 years transitioning talented workers and long-distance loved ones to our shores.

From his office on Shute Harbour Road, Piotr helps onshore clients transition from temporary stays to permanent residency, and assists employers in finding effective and cost-efficient pathways to bring the talent they need into Australia

With two decades of experience, Piotr knows immigration law and visa process inside out; but the thing that sets his business apart is the team’s level of care.

According to Piotr, visa applications can be overwhelming at the best of times and feel like total minefields at the worst, with complex and often confusing instructions and requirements to navigate.

That’s why a migration agent’s support is so valuable, with many clients coming to Piotr too late — after their own missteps have led to rejected applications and significant financial losses.

“There is a great deal of technical detail behind the scenes that most people don’t see, along with many potential pitfalls. “The longer an agent has been in the business, the more of those traps they can foresee. That’s why experienced agents are so in demand — and why we are so busy.”

One of the most rewarding parts of the job, he says, is seeing people he helped settle in Australia years ago now thriving within their communities.

With a growing client network, Pacific Centre is expecting a strong year ahead, and working across all visa categories, the team can assist almost anyone planning to make Australia home.

1 – Piotr Ferenc, expert on all things migration. Photo supplied

Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre are on the lookout for volunteers to help out in their popular Op Shop!

If you enjoy working with people and want to support your local community, they’d love to hear from you. No experience needed, just a great attitude! A Working With Children Blue Card will be required, however, the centre can assist you setting one up for free.

So, if you want to be part of something great, meet new people, and make a difference, get in touch by calling 49467850, emailing nc@whitnc.org.au, or popping in to see the team.

1 – Join an amazing team of volunteers. Photo: Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre

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