The Australian Air Force Cadets (AAFC) 110 Squadron in Bowen marked a significant milestone last week as they gathered for their Annual Inspection and Passing Out Parade.

Held under clear skies and a sense of quiet anticipation, the ceremony served as the squadron’s final parade for the year, a moment where discipline meets celebration. Cadets stood proudly in formation as family, friends and community members looked on, reflecting the hard work and commitment shown throughout the term.

Before the squadron was dismissed for the year, a series of awards were presented, recognising outstanding achievement, leadership and dedication among the cadets.

AAFC 110 Squadron awardees -
Dux of Initial Stage - Daniel Szollos
Dux of the Junior Stage - Rory Anderson
Intermediate Stage Cadet of the year - Tyler Woodfield
Senior Cadet of the year - Cooper Parry
Most Improved Cadet (Initial Stage) - Isaac Pisaniello
Most Improved Cadet (Junior Stage) - Oliver-James Crawford
Most Improved Cadet (Intermediate Stage) - Finley Hepburn
Most Improved Cadet (Senior Stage) - Archie Yuskan
Encouragement Award - Sam Galios
Attendance Award - Cooper Parry
Top Shot Award - Riley McAllister
Commanding Officers' Award - Cooper Parry and Riley McAllister
Special Acknowledgement - Zeke Flavel

The AAFC 110 Squadron in Bowen meet every Friday evening and cadets learn a variety of subjects including aviation, field and survival skills, leadership and personal development, drill and ceremonial, and service knowledge about the Air Force.

The AAFC 110 Squadron is currently accepting cadets for next year, cadets interested in joining can visit the barrack at 18 Livingstone St in Bowen.

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Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Recognised In Our Region

On Sunday the Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network hosted a ceremony for International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day at Queens Beach in Bowen.

The event offers support to people affected by suicide and provides a space to honour lost loved ones. The communty came together to remember those lost and provide support to those in need.

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It was a busy weekend for BMA CQ Rescue, with seven calls for help received in just 48 hours. Saturday alone saw five missions, keeping crews in the air from before sunrise until well after dark.

The first call came just before 2am from Hamilton Island, where a man in his 20s required urgent care for a suspected snake bite. By 8:51am, the crew was airborne again, this time to Bowen to treat a patient with testicular torsion, who was flown to Mackay for further treatment.

A man in his 40s experiencing cardiac issues was the next patient, with the crew tasked to Proserpine so he could receive onboard medical care en route to Mackay.

At 2:40pm, the team flew to Hayman Island after a man in his 30s suffered heart problems, transporting him to the mainland for further observations.

The fifth mission came at 8:49pm when the night crew was sent to Collinsville to assist another man with cardiac issues.

On Sunday, the first tasking followed the activation of an EPIRB. The crew located two boaties whose battery had failed, leaving them without communication. Both were safe, and a radio was winched down so they could coordinate with Marine Rescue Queensland Mackay, who were on their way to help.

The final mission saw the team sent to Moranbah to assist a teenager suffering complications from diabetes. She was flown to Mackay in a stable condition.

BMA CQ Rescue General Manager Lisa Martin said the weekend was exceptionally busy, but exactly what the service is prepared for. “When our community calls, we answer.”

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Rescue on Prudhoe Island. Photo supplied

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The SSAA Bowen Branch have a started accepting gifts for their Christmas Raffle, so far the gifts have surpassed $5000 and will continue to grow.

President of SSAA Bowen Branch Marty Duggan said they will continue to accept raffle contribution prizes until the end of the month, and they can be dropped to Marty's store Hunting and Shooting Supplies Whitsunday at 27 Main St, Proserpine.

Marty said the current raffle consists of a chainsaw, toolbox, spotlights, a brewery kit, spray paint kit, rum, hats, stubby holders and more.

He also expressed his thanks to the businesses that contributed to the raffle prizes, he said he received overwelming support from other local businesses.

Tickets are $10 each or three for $20, and can be purchased either at the SSAA Bowen Branch or Hunting and Shooting Supplies Whitsunday.

Hunting and Shooting Supplies Whitsunday will also be particpating in this years Proserpine Christmas Market after last years success of selling over 200 tickets.

Last year the SSAA Bowen Branch raised $4,700 and were able to instal a disabled ramp into their facility, this year they are looking to ugrade their facilities including a new kitchen and meeting area.

The Raffle will be drawn on the 17th December at the Bowen Complex on Roddy Hughes Road at 5pm.

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Dingo Beach is set to come alive with festive cheer when the annual Mega Christmas Market returns on Sunday, the 14th of December, from 8am to 12 noon. Hosted by the Dingo Beach Progress Association, the much-loved event promises a morning packed with entertainment, family fun, and Christmas spirit.

One of the highlights of the day will be the arrival of Santa and his elf, who are scheduled to roll in at 10am aboard a big yellow fire truck—a sight sure to delight children and adults alike. The festive atmosphere continues at 10:30am with a special performance of Christmas carols by the Proserpine Citizens Band, filling the foreshore with traditional tunes.

In the true spirit of giving, the Market will once again support the Wishing Tree Appeal, encouraging locals to donate gifts for children facing a tougher Christmas this year.

Visitors can also enjoy a fabulous Christmas BBQ, try their luck in the Christmas hams and seafood raffles, and treat the kids to a morning of free activities, including face painting by Emily, super train rides, and plenty of free treats.

With something for all ages, the Dingo Beach Mega Christmas Market is shaping up to be a must-visit event to kickstart the festive season and bring the community together.

What: Mega Christmas Market
When: Sunday, the 14th of December, from 8am to 12pm
Where: Dingo Beach

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Who’s making decisions if you can’t?

Life is unpredictable. A Power of Attorney gives someone you trust the legal authority to make decisions on your behalf if you’re unwell, away, or unable to manage things yourself.

It’s one of those documents people don’t think about, until they really need it. We’ll help you set it up properly and make sure it reflects your wishes.
Whitsunday Law – Helping you prepare for the "just in case."

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With over $1.5 billion in property sales and more than 40 years of combined experience across Hamilton Island and the Whitsundays, the Sotheby’s team—Wayne, Lynn, and Joe—offer an unmatched level of local knowledge, professionalism, and proven results.

Backed by the global prestige of Sotheby’s International Realty, we provide full-service coverage from both Hamilton Island and the mainland—ensuring no enquiry is missed and every opportunity is maximised.

We live and invest locally, and we’re committed to securing the best outcomes for our community.
Thinking of selling? Let’s talk.

Call us today to book your no-obligation appraisal. Wayne – 0416 024 168, Lynn – 0415 039 060, Joe – 0415 070 114

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At APW, we make corporate registry and secretarial tasks simple—so you can focus on growing your business. Our services cover:
✅Company, Trust & Super Fund setup
✅Corporate register maintenance
✅Director, shareholder & unit holder changes
✅Address updates & meeting minutes
✅Annual review compliance
✅Business name registration

We also help you choose the right corporate structure to maximise tax benefits, minimise risk, and protect your assets.

✨Smart structures = smarter business

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In the age of DIY everything, it’s tempting to believe financial decisions can be made with a quick Google search and a dash of confidence. But when it comes to retirement planning, borrowing, wealth building, investing, or personal insurance, the stakes are far too high for guesswork.

Consider retirement. Many underestimate how market downturns can devastate a portfolio when you’re drawing income instead of contributing. History shows crashes like the GFC and COVID slump wiped out years of growth, forcing some to delay retirement by five years or more. Without a strategy—such as a “bucket approach” to protect income streams—you risk selling assets at rock-bottom prices just to fund living expenses.

Borrowing is another minefield. Overleveraging in today’s high-interest environment can turn a dream home or rental property into a financial nightmare. Debt taken on without a realistic, clear repayment plan often balloons out of control, leaving people shackled to obligations they can’t afford.

Then there’s insurance. Many assume their superannuation cover is “enough,” only to discover too late that it barely scratches the surface of their family’s needs. Calculating the right level of protection—whether lump sum or income replacement — requires a deep dive into personal circumstances, something generic advice simply can’t provide.

The truth is stark: households working with qualified financial planners consistently make better decisions, from managing risk to optimising tax strategies. They avoid costly mistakes like chasing returns, timing markets, or relying on bad online advice—errors that lead to unnecessary fees, financial anxiety, and delayed goals.

At Eclipse we’re happy to sit down with people for one or two initial meetings at no charge.  We’ll do that deep dive into where you’re at and what’s important to you and discuss the strategies and products that will help you get there.  Once we understand the scope of advice required, we’ll quote fees and you decide if you want to proceed to formal written advice and assistance with setting things up.

Financial planning isn’t about selling products; it’s about crafting a roadmap tailored to your life. Before you take that leap—whether it’s a big investment, a new loan, or planning for retirement—pause and seek expert guidance. It could be the smartest investment you ever make.

For a free consultation with local people who understand the complexities of these or any other financial matters, contact Eclipse Financial Planning at 4/1 Carlo Drive, Cannonvale on 49467359 today or visit www.eclipsefp.com.au

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Across every tier of management, Imposter Syndrome sits like a quiet assassin. Hate to say it, however, it doesn’t magically disappear as you climb higher; it just gets more creative. Executive Imposter Syndrome just has better vocabulary and access to better coffee.

At entry level, it shows up as the constant need to double-check every email, apologise for having an opinion, and they end up leading defensively.

At middle-management tier, Imposter Syndrome becomes a full-blown circus. These team-members are managing up, down, sideways, diagonally—tying themselves in knots while quietly thinking, “Any minute now, someone’s going to realise I’m winging 40% of this job.” They’re the ones showing up to meetings with coffee-fuelled enthusiasm masking mid-level panic.

At the executive level it can resemble a world of big titles, bigger responsibilities, and even bigger self-doubt. They look confident because they’ve mastered the art of saying things decisively. Their Imposter Syndrome is just better dressed, shakes hands firmly, and nods at strategy documents like it understands them. But it still whispers at 3am: “Hope no one notices you Googled half the words you used today.”

The truth? Imposter Syndrome is universal. If anything, the higher people climb, the lonelier it gets—and the less safe it feels to say, “I don’t know.”

Research suggests up to 82% of people in management experience Imposter Syndrome at some stage. The trick to managing Imposter Syndrome isn’t “being more confident”—it’s calling out your brain’s negative self-talk. Start by naming it when it shows up: “Ah yes, my internal troll has logged on.” Then reality-check your thoughts—evidence beats emotion every time. Stop comparing your behind-the-scenes to everyone else’s ‘highlight reel’ and ask for help when you need it. High performers aren’t the ones who know everything; they’re the ones who stay curious, learn out loud, and keep moving anyway. Imposter Syndrome doesn’t disappear—you just get better at not letting it drive the bus. Name it, Challenge it!

However, maybe the problem isn’t that people doubt themselves. Maybe the real problem is workplaces pretending everyone shouldn’t.

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The inaugural Whitsunday Business Awards brought a new sense ofexcitement and pride to the region last Friday night as theProserpine Entertainment Centre welcomed guests from every corner ofthe community. More than two hundred people filled the venue, comingtogether to recognise the achievements, innovation and resiliencethat define the Whitsundays business landscape.

The evening openedwith a warm, lively atmosphere supported by live music and theenergetic hosting of radio personality Meecham Philpott. Hosted bythe Whitsunday Regional Council, alongside the Whitsundays and BowenChambers of Commerce, the event drew strong backing from sponsorsincluding Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale Proserpine, BishoppOutdoor Advertising, Whitsunday Life Newspaper, Whitsunday Transitand a wide network of category sponsors and local suppliers whosecontributions helped bring the awards to life.

Judging was carriedout by an independent panel who assessed every submissionindividually and confidentially. Entries were measured against clearcriteria that focused on excellence, innovation, community impact anda commitment to business growth. This process ensured fairness andintegrity, resulting in a powerful showcase of the region’s risingtalent, community champions and industry leaders.

By the close of thenight, one message was clear. The first Whitsunday Business Awardshad achieved far more than simply recognising winners. It brought theregion together, celebrated local stories and strengthened the senseof pride shared across the business community.

WINNERS

Rising Star:Shontelle Betzel, Bowen Rail Company

Small Business Hero:EDGE Dance Studio Whitsunday

Customer ServiceExcellence: Magnums Accommodation Airlie Beach

Eco Excellence:Coral Sea Marina

Trailblazing YoungEntrepreneur: Sam Vanderpoel, Rolling with Netherpoel

Community Champion:Bowen Tourism and Business

Regional GameChanger: Whitsunday Life Newspaper

Business Leader ofthe Year: Kellee Fogg, Whitsunday Law

Business of theYear: Bowen Old People’s Home Society (Murroona Gardens)

Hall of Fame: AbbotPoint Operations

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Murroona Gardens has capped off a standout year, claiming Business of the Year 2025 at the Whitsunday Business Awards, along with a Highly Commended in the Community Champion category.

General Manager and Director of Nursing, Megan Murray, said the recognition felt deeply personal to the whole organisation. She described the win as “an incredible honour” that reflects the everyday effort of staff, volunteers and families who form the Murroona Gardens community.

The Bowen aged care provider has been on a strong run in 2025, also taking out Medium Employer of the Year at both the North Queensland and Queensland Training Awards. It now heads into December as a top-three national finalist for the Australian Training Awards – Small Employer of the Year.

Megan attended Friday’s event with Executive Support Manager Sally Vico and Operations Manager Jodie Masunu. She said having them there mattered. “Having them beside me was very special. They represent the strength of our leadership team and the passion that drives the work we do every day."

What sets Murroona Gardens apart is its people-first approach and long-standing community ties. Megan said the organisation aims to be somewhere older residents feel safe, supported and genuinely valued, describing it as “more than a service. It is a family."

The organisation is also in a period of growth, with work underway on a new dementia small house community and expanded Support at Home services.

Megan thanked staff, the Board, volunteers and local families for their trust.

"This award belongs to Bowen. We are proud to serve our community and excited for what the future holds as we continue to build a stronger, kinder and more connected Murroona Gardens."

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Whitsunday Law director Kellee Fogg has been named Business Leader of the Year, a recognition she describes as both humbling and energising for the entire firm.

The award adds to her earlier accolade of the Pride of Workmanship honour received in 2010, and marks a significant milestone in a career built on professionalism and strong community ties. Kellee said the achievement belongs to her whole team.

"On behalf of our team, I am honoured and absolutely thrilled to receive the Business Leader of the Year award, and I want to sincerely thank my incredible team for their unwavering support and dedication," she said.

Kellee attended Friday night’s presentation with her husband Paul and all but two staff members from Whitsunday Law, making the moment even more meaningful.

She believes the firm’s consistency is what set it apart from other nominees.

"Consistent high standards of service and communication are the key," she said.

"In this digital age, the art of speaking and communication feels like it is slowly disappearing when it may be required more than ever, especially with increases in scams."

Kellee hopes the region understands the breadth of services Whitsunday Law can offer, noting the team can assist clients statewide in property and commercial matters.

She thanked her staff, her husband Paul and the wider community for their support and trust.

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Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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The Bowen Tourism and Business team were very proud to win the “Community Champion” award at the 2025 Whitsunday Business awards.

The award was accepted on the night by three team members – Leanne Abernethy, Glenn Womal and Cindy Tonks.

This not-for-profit organisation operates the Bowen Visitor Information Centre next to the Big Mango at Bowen and the information booth at Bowen’s Front Beach.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said the team were very honoured to be named community champions.

“We provide information, maps and brochures about the entire region, we promote the region in our marketing, and we stock a lot of local and regional produce,” she said.

“We are very proud to refer our visitors to attractions and businesses right throughout the region and to showcase our region’s produce by selling so many local products.

“Our belief that tourism is everybody’s business means non-tourism businesses have the opportunity to benefit from the work of our organisation.

“We are supported by 20 volunteers who go above and beyond to ensure everyone is made welcome when they come to our Visitor Information Centres."

Leanne thanked the committee for being so supportive and the Whitsunday Regional Council for their help with funding support.

The Bowen Visitor Information Centre welcomed a record number of visitors in the past financial year and have broken records again in the first quarter of the current financial year.

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Leanne Abernethy, Cindy Tonks and Glenn Womal. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Edge Dance Studio Whitsunday

Edge Dance Studio Whitsunday owner Emma Whybird is celebrating after being named Small Business Hero at this year’s Whitsunday Business Awards a moment she says reflects the heart and hard work behind the studio.

Emma said the recognition means a great deal to the entire EDGE community.

"We are thrilled and honoured to have won this award. Being recognised within our community means so much to us," Emma said.

"Every day, we pour our hearts into creating a joyful, inclusive, and fun space for children and families. This award is a beautiful reminder of the impact that our work is having. "

Ten members of the EDGE family joined her at Friday night’s ceremony, making the win all the more meaningful. "They are at the core of our studio. They are the ones who lift our students, support our families, and help create the magic that happens inside our walls every day."

Emma believes the studio’s balance of professional training and a warm, family-focused environment helped them stand out. The business has grown strongly in recent years, expanding its programs, performance opportunities and community involvement.

She says many people don’t realise how broad the studio’s offerings are, from preschool dance and exam work to drama classes, community events and large productions.

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Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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