Imagine yourself sailing across the tropical blue waters of the Whitsunday Islands onboard your own exclusively skippered yacht surrounded by only your closest family and friends. Wings Sailing Charters Whitsundays offer the opportunity to explore the Whitsundays through a unique lens, with all-inclusive, private skippered charters giving you the private Great Barrier Reef experience you’ve always dreamed of.

The Wings fleet is made up of two impressive catamarans custom-built for comfort and adventure. The 50ft and 60ft fully air-conditioned sailing catamarans are spacious and stable with plenty of deck space to relax and bask in the vast beauty of the Whitsunday Islands. They’re available for private charter for anything from a two-hour sunset cruise to a five-day-four-night holiday adventure.

From your personalised initial enquiry all the way through to your selected charter and beyond, the Wings Sailing team will work with you to ensure you have the best event or holiday and exceed all your expectations. Overnight charters are an all-inclusive experience where everything is taken care of from all meals, refrigeration for all your BYO drinks, BBQ, beach toys, fishing and snorkel gear and kayaks. Marine Park fees, taxes, fuel and cleaning fees are all also included, so when Wings Sailing say all-inclusive, they mean all-inclusive. With comfortable bedding, private cabins and modern bathroom facilities, you can have your very own 5-star experience on these luxury floating hotels.

Family Get Togethers

A family charter creates amazing memories with your nearest and dearest. Whether it be for a special family reunion or birthday party, children and family of all generations are welcome onboard. Spend one, two, three or even four nights discovering the natural wonders of The Whitsundays paradise. Small groups up to 10 passengers and rates for 11-19 guests overnight.

Romantic Getaways

Imagine a backdrop of the twinkling Coral Sea to create the most captivating romantic setting for everything from the most magical proposal, intimate sunset sail or spectacular wedding day with 360 degree views of the Whitsundays. Wings can create a personalised charter working closely with you to help plan one of the most special moments of your life.

Personalised Parties

Suitable for up to 29 people, Wings has the spacious decks, foredeck netting and multiple seating areas for everyone onboard to relax in comfort. With features like the foredeck jacuzzi, back deck blue light swimming enclosure, top sundeck, three zoned Premium Spotify, night disco lights and delicious BBQ dinner, it is easy to see why this party boat is a class above. From hens and bucks night right through to milestone birthday celebrations and reunions.

Spacious deck area and private swimming enclosure included

Say ‘I Do’ aboard Wings

Slip into the jacuzzi with an ice-cold beverage in-hand

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What might seem strange to some is tradition to others, none more so than the Collinsville Bacon Busters wild pig hunting competition which kicks into gear for its eighth annual outing this weekend.

“Back, bigger and better than ever” the Bacon Buster will return on Saturday, August 20 at Collinsville Football Grounds, welcoming hundreds to take part in its celebration of community, as well as its eradication of wild pigs.

More than 200 entrants signed up last year for what is the town’s biggest annual event – clearing five tonnes of wild pig from the surrounding area over a three-day period.

Although centred around pig hunting, the three day event, which includes the Bacon Busters weigh in, is flanked by others: live musical entertainment, food vans, touch football, carnival rides, a licenced bar and market stalls, dog jumping, ute and “Iron Man” competitions, as well as car and bike shows.

It has in the past drawn odd looks and ire from animal activists - but organisers are steadfast that the event is an excellent one for the small town. A claim backed by Whitsunday Regional Councillors, who also note the event’s environmental importance: culling an invasive pest.

Previously, Bacon Busters has supported charities like Rural Aid and Aussie Farmers, and in 2022 they are proudly fundraising for RACQ CQ Rescue.

Organisers say it has “wider benefits for the community of Collinsville” by “uniting as well as reinvigorating [Collinsville’s] community with a sense of purpose, pride and well-being.”

What: Collinsville Bacon Busters

Where: Collinsville Football Club

When: Saturday, August 20

One of the region’s much-loved events is back this weekend: Collinsville Bacon Busters

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The fourth annual Don River Dash will blast across the riverbed in early September with buggies, trophy trucks, side by sides and motorcycles smashing and skidding through sand and dirt.

With less than a month before the famed Bowen event, prep is well underway as organisers set up for one of the “best offroad races on the East Coast” on September 9 to 11.

Last year the famed two-day Bowen event hit record entries for its race across the river, and organisers said it’s already topped the 2021 iteration, with over 200 bike entries and 110 car entries.

Don River Dash Event Secretary, Wanita Sparr said the Motorbikes and Off-road vehicles were all eagerly awaiting their chance to fight for the title of King of the River.

“My understanding is that [the Dash this year] sold faster in the first 24 hours than any other offroad race on Rider.net,” Ms Sparr said.

“We’ve been setting up over the past two weekends, and the Don was packed already with people getting race fit – there’s excitement in the air!”

Starting at the Bowen Showgrounds, the buggies will kick on in the morning before motorcycles shoot off in the afternoon, each completing three laps per day of the 51.4km course, for a total of 300km.

“The track is ever-changing; the river changes and that’s the part that gets the competitors excited,” Ms Sparr said.

“This year’s extra point of difference is more cars, more bikes. And more equals more excitement. Come along Friday night, we’ll have scrutineering, live music, a chance to meet the pros, and plenty of dancing.”

What: Don River Dash

When: September 9 until September 11

Where: Don River, Bowen

One of “The best offroad races on the East Coast” is back with the Don River Dash in less than a months’ time

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One of the most lucrative locations in Airlie Beach is now for sale following the announcement this week that Airlie Summit is ready for development with construction expected to commence in mid-2023.

The highest zoned piece of real estate in town, this 89-lot subdivision boasts 180-degree views of the bay from the most aerial aspect with the most highly sought-after views.

Explore Property Whitsunday have the honour of acting as the lead sales agent for the development and Principal Steve Marks says he has already received significant interest.

“I’m personally excited to see the next chapter in this amazing development,” Mr Marks said.

“I have a long history of involvement with the site, being the original selling agent for the first stage over 12 years ago and each stage since.”

Gold Coast based developer Alder Developments, alongside the company’s construction division Alder Constructions officially marked the start of construction on-site with a sod turning ceremony earlier this week.

“Alder Developments has re-invigorated the plans for Airlie Summit which is the last significant master-planned estate in Airlie Beach,” Mr Marks said.

“We have been inundated with enquiries since Alder’s plans were unveiled to the market, indicating there is significant pent-up demand for prestige land in Airlie.

“This is the final major subdivision site in Airlie’s freehold land market and astute buyers recognise that this is an opportunity never to be repeated.”

Alder Developments general manager Greg Tupicoff said each block has been carefully considered to make the most of its natural attributes to create a unique master-planned community where like-minded neighbours can enjoy a rare and incredible location.

“We intend to maximise the views that expand to almost 180 degrees stretching from Pioneer Point in the Whitsunday Islands to the Coral Sea Marina, Pigeon Island and beyond, and overlooking the town of Airlie Beach and the bay,” he said.

“Beyond the views, the focus on maintaining each block's natural slope and aspect invites a more interesting architectural response and inspires designs that engage more completely with the natural surroundings.”

Blocks are comprised of both residential and apartment lots within the 24-hectare parcel of land and Alder Constructions have now commenced civil works for the Lookout Release which consists of 16 new residential lots due to reach the construction phase next year.

Enquire now to get first look at this incredible opportunity.

Principal of Explore Property Whitsunday Steve Marks and Alder Developments general manager Greg Tupicoff ‘turning the sod’ earlier this week

Airlie Summit is the highest zoned land in town

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Most people enjoy eating corncobs and the great news is, you can grow them all year round here in the Whitsundays as they thrive in temperatures between 18-35 degrees. So, what problems can you come across growing corn and how can you ensure long, healthy ears (the corn itself) with full, consistent kernels?

Corn needs full sun. So, pick your location well ensuring they get at least eight hours sunlight a day.

Corn is shallow rooted and grow tall quickly, so when planting seeds make sure you plant them deeper than the usual recommendation of double the seed width. I plant my corn seeds between 3-4cm deep. If planted too shallow, I find the roots develop too close to the surface and can lead to a few issues. Shallow roots mean they are susceptible to dehydration. Seeds germinate in 6-10 days (depending on soil temperature) and each corn plant will produce one or maybe two ears.

Three things to be aware of when growing corn:

Air flow – space your planting and support pollination

Air movement is an important factor for successful pollination as corn are wind pollinated.

But that also means you want to grow them together. Plant corn rows roughly 60cm apart from each other and plant your seeds about 30cm apart.    

Did you know:  You can assist in pollination of your corn. Simply remove the tassels (the brown thing on the top of the plant) and wipe them over the silk of the corncob (the threads growing out of the top of the corn ear itself), this is a great way to ensure consistent kernels.

Water – corn is shallow rooted, so regular watering is important

Watering effects the number of kernels on the corn ears, if your plants dry out during pollination you will find the kernels are inconsistent and your corn does not develop properly, so watering corn is very important. They will have roots on the surface of the soil, so make sure you cover them in mulch when they become visible to assist with keeping them hydrated. If the leaves of your corn go yellow, this could be an indication that the plants are dehydrated and you need to water either more frequently or for longer periods of time when you do water, ensuring the water is penetrating deep into the soil.

Fertilise – corn grow rapidly – feed well

Corn are hungry, fast growers. You will need to feed them! Poultry manure is a great food for corn and is my go to, as it is high in nitrogen and promotes strong root growth in your corn. A liquid feed (I use Seasol) weekly will give great results too. Your corn will be ready to harvest anywhere between 60-100 days and roughly three weeks after the silks appear, the silk will have turned brown.

FUN FACT:  

• The tallest corn stalk recorded was 35 ft tall

• Each kernel of a corn is actually a fruit, and the cob is the stem the fruit grow on

• Corn is used in glue, paint, cosmetics and laundry detergent!

CORN CHOWDER

A rich and delicious soup for these colder Whitsunday nights.

This is quick to prepare and cooks in 30 minutes.

What you’ll need:

1 x Tablespoon Butter

2 x Tablespoons of olive oil

2 x Onions roughly diced

1 x Celery Stick cut into small pieces

2 x Garlic Cloves

Salt & Pepper to your taste

350g Diced Potatoes

5 x Corn Cobs worth of kernels (use sharp knife to remove from cob)

4 x Tablespoons Plain Flour

750ml Vegetable Stock (heated)

500ml Unsweetened Rice Milk

3 x Tablespoons Chopped Tarragon

2 x Tablespoons Lemon Juice

Method

Place butter, oil, onions and celery into a saucepan and cook over low heat until onions are transparent. Add garlic and cook for another few minutes. Add a pinch of salt and as much pepper as you like.  

Add diced potatoes and sprinkle with the flour. Stir over heat for three minutes, then add vegetable stock, rice milk and corn. Add Tarragon.

Simmer for 15 minutes to cook potatoes and corn.

Place in blender, a third at a time and ensure it is thoroughly blended. If there are still lumps, push it through a sieve. Add lemon juice and reheat on low heat.

If it is too thick for your liking, just add more stock or water.

Top with a few tarragon leaves and a sprinkle of pepper.

Serve with lightly toasted crusty bread

Corn is fast growing and ready to harvest between 60-100 days

Assist pollination by removing tassels and rubbing them over the corn silk

Corn tassels

Make a delicious home cooked corn chowder this winter

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Property prices in the Whitsundays have reached a new peak with a record number of houses punching through the $1 million mark this year.

The latest data shows a 25 per cent upswing in the last 12 months, and Taylors Property Specialists have revealed the region had a record-breaking year in 2021 with 75 properties, including units and vacant land, selling for more than $1 million.

By comparison, 22 properties sold for more than $1 million in 2020 and just seven in 2016.

This surge has pushed house prices to their highest point in 15 years and 2022 is already on track to shatter that record once more, with 53 sales in excess of $1 million already recorded for the year to date.

Rob Taylor, Principal of Taylors Property Specialists says he has seen firsthand the recent demand for lifestyle properties in the area.

“The push from buyers in southern capitals into regional markets during the pandemic has significantly increased the exposure of the area with many looking for a lifestyle change,” said Mr Taylor.

“This trend is continuing with regional Queensland experiencing record migration from the southern states.”

This trend has been reinforced by the recent stage one launch of Shute Harbour Marina Resort which generated more than $21.5 million in sales contracts issued and more than 600 enquiries.

Experts believe that having a development of this calibre located in the Whitsundays increases the overall measure and worth of property, driving it upwards even further.

Mr Taylor said the lifestyle opportunities available at Shute Harbour Marina Resort represent a unique investment to the astute buyer, boasting free-hold residential waterfront sites of 440sqm which the developer has earmarked for two and three-storey design concepts.

Land and berth prices will start from $1.75 million. Expressions of interest are also being taken on future stages which will include marina loft apartments and plaza terrace homes.

The development of the first stage of Shute Harbour Marina Resort, which will include the marina and the stage one release of land and marina berths, is expected to take two years to complete. Construction is expected to begin next year.

Shute Harbour Marina Resort where beth and land prices start at $1.75 million

Rob Taylor from Taylors Property Specialists

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Proserpine State School has its origins in the late nineteenth century when, in response to a rapidly expanding population in the rich agricultural areas of the district, parents met to discuss the possible establishment of a school in the district.

The first application for a state school was rejected as there was insufficient local money available, so the Education Department approved a provisional school which would meet all requirements for the time being.

The original site was Waterson’s Paddock near Phaff’s Crossing, almost opposite where the junior sports fields are now located. Ten acres was proposed for the site - five for the school and grounds and five for the children’s ponies, however, the Department of Public Land considered five acres to be sufficient. Between the town and school, there were lagoons which, during the wet season, prevented students from attending school.

So why was the school located in this position? Firstly, it was determined the school should be built on government land on the main road to Bowen which, at that time, was the area opposite where the Proserpine Cemetery is now located. Water was available and the soil was of good quality. Additionally, the building material could be acquired easily as there was a sawmill within two miles of the site and a good road to The Landing at Glen Isla.

And so, on August 16, 1897, the Lower Provisional School 779 opened with thirty-one pupils and Head Teacher, Mr Robert J Walke. As the community grew, so did enrolments, necessitating the appointment of Miss Daisy Field as assistant to the principal.  In 1902, when Mr Walke was transferred, Miss Field was responsible for the education of sixty-one pupils! The Education Department advised that this number did not warrant an extra teacher however she was appointed Head Teacher with a salary of £90 ($180) per annum.

In 1904, within just seven years of opening, a new school was constructed in response to increasing dissatisfaction of parents with the inaccessibility of the school in wet weather and its distance from the growing township. The new school was built on two acres of land opposite the post office in Main Street where the Proserpine Entertainment Centre now stands. It was opened in March with Miss Field as Head Teacher to seventy-two students and Miss Armanesco as assistant. The old building was removed and re-erected for the Foxdale Provisional School.

Finally, on March 15 of that year, the school was gazetted as a state school. Proserpine State School continued to grow. By 1906, there were 102 students enrolled and in 1912, a new wing was added. By 1923, there were 300 students, eight teachers and one head teacher.

In 1929, the school became a Rural School. Domestic Science and Manual Training were introduced as once weekly lessons for grades six and seven from other small district primary schools. In 1939, a High Top was introduced for students wanting to continue studies after year 8. In 1946, the Windemere school building was moved to behind the school and used for High Top students.

In 1957, due to overcrowding and limited play areas, plans were afoot to build a new school in Ruge Street for the High Top students and also a primary school in Sterry Street. In 1961, Proserpine State School – Secondary Department opened in Ruge Street and between 1966 and 1970, the transition of students from the Main Street primary school to the new Proserpine State School in Sterry Street gradually took place.

Story and photos courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum and “Enlightened Horizons” by Neville Smith.  

What: Proserpine State School 125th Anniversary Celebrations and Fete.

When: September 3, commencing 2.30pm.

Where: Proserpine State School

First Proserpine State School - photo c 1900

Proserpine State School Main Street c 1924

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Last week, the tides dipped down to their winter low and visitors and locals alike experienced Bowen’s Walk to the Lighthouse.

Around 3pm on August 11, hundreds departed to observe the annual pilgrimage which heads across a sand spit to North Head Island.

Only a few times a year do Bowen’s daytime tides go low enough (0.2 metres) for visitors to experience a walking tour of both a snippet of Bowen history and its natural splendour.

The group of roughly 300 people waded through the shallow water in the hour-long trek which headed through rocky outcrops and across sea grass flats, ending with travellers being greeted by one of Queensland’s oldest lighthouses.

The walk, which is dotted with giant red starfish and sea cucumbers, was once a low-key tradition followed annually by Bowen locals but it has now become a must for travellers cruising the Queensland Coast.

In 2018, it famously appeared on Channel 7’s Weekender with its growing a cult following, but Covid put an end to its rapid development. This year, however, it was close to its former glory.

Bowen Tourism and Business Sales and Marketing Manager Leanne Abernathy said she joined as a Walk to the Lighthouse pilgrim on the day.

“It was awesome. The day that I walked out, there were about 300 people who got to see a great display of marine life like starfish and sea cucumbers,” Ms Abernathy said.

“I think it’s something different. You can only do it a couple of times a year and it’s so popular with locals because of that – the natural splendour on display.”

It takes roughly 20 minutes to cross the strait from the mainland to North Head Island. Then, through the granite outcroppings of the island, it takes just 25 minutes to reach the lighthouse.

Ms Abernathy said there was a mixture of locals but a lot of visitors, including internationals.

“It was great to see locals and tourists alike taking advantage of the natural tides, and it was great for our Bowen Tourism and Business volunteers to experience the event, too.”

Melissa Beuzeville, Kev and Viv Clark, Wendy Jensen, Leanne Abernathy at the Lighthouse on North Head Island, just off Bowen

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Airlie Beach local Paitin Powell headed to this year’s Miss Grand Australia beauty pageant in Sydney in late July with one purpose: to show women from the Whitsundays that they can achieve international goals.

Representing Queensland in her Miss Grand debut – a competition similar to Miss Universe and Miss World - Paitin competed against 19 other finalists from across the country in a bid for the Australian title, and made it all the way to the final two.

“When Amber and I were called as the final two, I was so excited with how far I had come. I knew I would be grateful whatever the outcome,” Paitin said.

“When I started the competition, I said to myself: stay true to who you are and where you come from. I was the only North Queenslander, so it was important for me to promote the Whitsundays and North Queensland – I achieved that.”

Paitin placed second overall, being given the title of first runner-up – an accolade she was incredibly proud of.

“I am over the moon with that placing, especially considering this was my first time competing in this program,” Paitin said.

With the top two finish, Paitin gained not just experience, but a skincare ambassadorship with Defence Skin.

She plans to continue working alongside Miss Grand Australia and create awareness for Destiny Rescue – a charity she has already raised $2500 for in her Miss Grand Australia bid.

“I want to say a huge thank you to everyone that was a part of my journey and supported me and my fund raising,” Paitin said.

She plans to compete for the title of Miss Grand Australia 2023 next year.

Paitin Powell placed as first runner up in her debut at the Australian wide iteration of the Miss Grand beauty pageant

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The largest regional and rural advocacy group in the country celebrated a milestone in delicious style last week, inviting communities across the state into their halls to celebrate their centenary.

Queensland Country Women’s Association (QCWA), founded in 1922, opened its doors for a ‘Sconversation Day’ – a morning tea backed by home-baked goods - on August 11 in honour of their 100th year anniversary.

The hundreds of branches of the organisation across Queensland honoured their organisations founder, Ruth Fairfax, as well as looked towards its future in an ever-changing landscape for women.

Often associated with cooking and craft, QCWA have been and become much more than that – they are a place for effecting positive change. A place for women to connect and empower themselves, to improve the conditions of women and children everywhere – especially those in rural and remote Australia.

Although the country may have changed in the hundred years since it began – communities are closer than ever before - the need for social connection, and the need for a kind community has not.

With a symbol of the early days – scones and tea, which had been an icon of the association from the 1920s onwards – QCWA celebrated their colossal impact on rural Australia, but most importantly, the impact they had on women.

The Proserpine Branch of the QCWA marked the occasion at their premises on 4 Faust Street, with members having spent the morning diligently baking scones, cupcakes, and other tasty treats for the centenary.

“As a state, CWA is one hundred years old, and in celebration of that birthday, all branches are having scone day today,” Branch President Elaine Fieldman said.

“For me, what CWA in my 16 years of membership has meant, is having the support of other women. I think that’s why a lot of members come and be a part of the organisation.

“You meet really nice people who are generous with their time and their support, and that’s always what we’ve wanted to generate – that friendship group.”

For the Proserpine Branch, though, it acted as a dress rehearsal for celebrations next year, when they reach their own 100-year anniversary.

“Next year will be our own 100 years, and we’ll be celebrating it alongside the Mackay branch and with the public,” Ms Fieldman said.

“Dates have not been finalised, but it will be an excellent celebration, I assure you.”

QCWA Proserpine Branch President Elaine Fieldman, Treasurer Robyn Creighton, Lindsay Creighton, and Councillor Al Grundy enjoying scones and a tea at the centenary celebration

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I was recently reminded of the importance of kindness in this world.  While visiting my sister we spoke about all the great work the Suicide Prevention Networks do across the country.

She shared with me a personal experience where she was going about her busy daily schedule when she bumped into an old school friend that she had not seen for 15 years.  They were not close at school and she had an appointment she was running late for, but made 2 minutes to say a quick hello, a hug and tell him how good it was to see him.

She didn’t give it a second thought until around a week later when she received a message from him.   He thanked her for her smile, hug and kind words and explained he was actually on his way to take his life when he ran into her.

Our lives are so busy and we constantly have our heads buried in our phones, commitments, responsibilities and schedules that we often miss the opportunities that present.  Like most mental health issues, the most valuable thing we can give to someone struggling is some of our time to talk.

We all have daily opportunities to impact those around us.  Whether we choose to ignore the opportunities or embrace them, is up to us.  Don’t underestimate the power of asking someone how they are, giving someone a smile, encouraging them on something they do well at, giving them a hug, or including them in a conversation.

A simple act of kindness can actually save a life.  

Written by Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network Treasurer Paul Burke

As little as a conversation with an old friend you pass by on the street can save a life, writes contributor Paul Burke

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The recent influx of international tourists combined with the travelling grey nomads, who enjoy spending the winter months in sunny North Queensland, have been major factors contributing to the biggest visitor numbers ever recorded in Bowen.

Bowen Tourism and Business welcomed 5751 visitors in July, an average of 185 customers per day passing through the doors of the Big Mango Visitor Information Centre south of Bowen and the information booth at Bowen’s Front Beach.

The previous record month was September 2020 when the team welcomed 5375 visitors.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy, said the visitors were from all states of Australia as well as overseas.

“We have noticed an increase in the number of international visitors since about February,” she said.

“It has been great to see Bowen buzzing this winter and we expect the numbers to remain strong.”

Records show that 23 per cent of visitors were staying in Bowen, 22 per cent were making a day trip into Bowen and a further 5 per cent wanted information for towns to the south, meaning at least half of visitors were spending money in our region.

Chief Executive Officer of Tourism Whitsundays Rick Hamilton said it was fantastic to see record visitation and the return of international holidaymakers.

“Bowen attracts an array of domestic and international visitors showcasing world-class beaches, a variety of accommodation options and an incredible number of day trippers staying elsewhere in The Whitsundays,” he said.

“Congratulations to the wonderful team and volunteers at Bowen Tourism and Business. Their experience and knowledge are a testament to these results, encouraging guests to explore more, enjoying the secluded beaches, fringing reefs, stunning lookouts and of course, The Big Mango.”

QUICK FACTS

• 5751 tourists visited information centres in Bowen in July

• That’s 185 visitors per day on average

• 23 per cent of visitors were staying in Bowen

• 22 per cent were making a day trip into Bowen

• 5 per cent wanted information for towns to the south

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy with visitors John and

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Airlie Beach was alive and buzzing earlier this month with the Reef Festival kicking off the traditional events season. The main street was a hive of activity with the car show, parade and carnival bringing hordes of people not just into town but into the region.

The benefits that events bring to the region cannot be underestimated. Firstly, there is obviously the immediate financial impact that drawing people to the area brings – people in town will spend money. Accommodation suppliers, food and beverage, retail and tour operators all benefit – as do their suppliers and support industries. The exposure the area receives through direct marketing, social media and word of mouth from these events is incalculable and inarguably results in future visitation for longer periods.

Even more extraordinary is that almost without fail, the many events that the region hosts are organised, manned and run by volunteers. We are fortunate that we have an abundance of residents willing to give generously of their time. The region genuinely owes you a huge debt. You are all wonderful ambassadors for the Whitsunday Community.

And, just in case you missed it – the Mayoral election was held on Saturday 13th August. The next few years will be even more challenging than the past. We are once again heading into unknown financial and social issues. We need a leader to guide the region as a whole – ensuring we build on the strengths of our diversity.

From Allan Milostic, President of Whitsunday Coast Chamber of Commerce

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High achieving athletes from across the region were publicly congratulated for their sporting efforts at a Council meeting earlier this week where they were presented with gift bags by the Acting Mayor John Collins.

A total of nine local students had been financially supported by Council under its Junior Elite Athletes initiative, a scheme that assists with costs incurred when travelling to participate in representative competition at regional, state or national level.

Tyson Williams-Allen competed at the Under 15 and Youth Australian Weightlifting Championships and his successful lifting gave him the gold medal for the Under 15, 67kg male Australian championship category.

Prior to this, Tyson won Gold at the state championships in April and last year. He also won gold in the Queensland all schools competition last year.

Abigail and Charlotte Lee, recently travelled to Dalby for the 2022 Australian Pony Club Queensland State Show Jumping and Jump Equitation Championships.

Abigail was riding Snapchatter and successfully came home with the silver medal in the 120cm show jumping and Charlotte rode Hazardous, placing sixth overall in the 110cm show jumping competition.

The girls travelled as part of the Zone 22 State Equestrian Team representing the Whitsunday region from Collinsville to Proserpine.

Maxwell O’Keefe and Reef Peel went to Fiji recently representing North Queensland at the National Schools Futsal Championships.

Their team made it to the semi-finals in their age group and the two boys were among the leading goal scorers in the competition.

Despite their team unfortunately losing 4-1 in the final against Suva, the boy’s talents were identified, and they have been invited to participate in the 2022 overseas tour.

Twins, Russell and Connor Harris represented Australia in the Under 15 division at the Open Skiff World Championships in Carcans, France in July.

The boys said it was great to meet sailors from around the world and compete in very large fleets. They are looking forward to participating in the World Championships scheduled to be held in Italy in July next year.

Alice Wheeler was selected to represent Northern Queensland Girls 16-19 years Football team in Cairns.

The Northern team performed well with some close games and placed sixth in the overall competition.

Jake Pettigrew recently represented North Queensland at the Queensland School Boys Championships and was selected as a shadow player for the Queensland team, heading to Sydney in September to compete at the National Championships.

(left to right) Alice Wheeler, Acting Mayor John Collins, Charlotte Lee and Abigail Lee

from left) Maxwell O’Keefe, Tyson Williams-Allen, Reef Peel, Acting Mayor John Collins, Russell Harris, Jake Pettigrew and Connor Harris

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The gate to the Historical Cemetery has been locked and the signpost has been removed from the main road near Bogie in a bid to give the local community time to heal from the recent tragedy which saw three-people shot dead on the remote cattle station nearby.

The closure was ordered at last week’s Ordinary Council Meeting after concerns were raised by Councillor Michelle Wright, who asked for the changes to be considered in respect of the Schwarz family and their neighbours.

The signpost at the Normanby Road turn-off from Peter Delemonthe Road, which signals a 77 kilometres track to the Historical Cemetery, was removed on Friday and the gate to the cemetery has now been locked.

The graves are registered, and photos have been taken of each gravesite so that they can soon be displayed at the local library for public interest.

The community are still in shock following the triple murder of a local family, 71-year-old Mervyn Schwartz, 59-year-old Maree Schwarz and Maree’s son Graham Tighe, 35.

They are survived by Maree’s other son, Ross Tighe, who was shot in the abdomen but managed to escape and run into the bushland, finding a ute and driving 40 kilometres to raise the alarm.

Owner of the adjacent property, Darryl Young, was arrested and charged with the alleged murders several hours later.

It is believed the two families had a disagreement over land boundaries and cattle branding, an issue Young is known to have had for many years and raised with previous owners of the neighbouring property.

With a population of roughly 160 people, this devastating event has undoubtedly rocked the small community of Bogie and giving them time to heal privately is a respectful way to move forward.

The signpost guiding tourists to an historical cemetery site located metres from the murders has been removed

Darryl Young has been charged

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