Last week, Tourism Whitsundays, along with 15 of our members, embarked on The Whitsundays East Coast Roadshow, visiting Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. In each city, we hosted a networking event that brought together key trade partners and front-line travel agents. These events served as an excellent opportunity to engage with the professionals that promote and sell Whitsundays holidays to travellers all across the country.
More than 300 representatives registered for the events, and they were greeted with the infectious energy and enthusiasm of The Whitsundays' operators, who were outstanding ambassadors for our destination. Their vibrant presence helped bring a bit of The Whitsundays sunshine to each city. Through connecting with the attendees and providing training and updates, our members were able to showcase the strength and uniqueness of their products and highlight the wide range of exceptional experiences available in our region.
In addition to the networking events, we also met with Tourism Australia and Tourism and Events Queensland to discuss the latest developments in the region and updates on attending operators’ products. Providing these updates enables our state and national tourism bodies to further promote our region in their key domestic and international markets. The roadshow was a resounding success, reinforcing The Whitsundays as a must-visit destination while strengthening relationships with key industry partners across the country.
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Contributed by Laura Knipe, Marketing Manager, Tourism Whitsundays

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Last week, our Visitor Services Manager, Dea, joined Explore Group Australia's Sales Manager, Chris, for an unforgettable sail and snorkel trip to Whitehaven Beach and Chalkies Beach.
Read about Dea's adventures here!
Aboard a purpose-built catamaran with a small group, we set sail from Hamilton Island to the serene shores of Chalkies Beach.
After a thorough safety briefing, we plunged into the water for snorkelling, relishing the thrill of following a green turtle and swimming among vibrant marine life.
Dedicated staff members ensured our safety and enjoyment throughout the experience. After a refreshing lunch on board, we made our way to Whitehaven Beach.
There’s no better way to connect with nature than by feeling the silky sand beneath our toes and gazing at the calm, crystal-clear waters. Our adventure continued with a guided hike to the breathtaking Whitehaven Lookout.
This 2 km return trip is worth the effort, even on a steamy summer day. The panoramic view of the peaks of Whitsunday Island and the stunning shoreline of Whitehaven Beach is awe-inspiring every time, whether it's your first visit or your fiftieth.
For our return journey to Hamilton Island, the crew hoisted the sails, ensuring each passenger left with a big smile and a sense of wonder from the experience. A massive thank you to each crew member on board; their customer service and professionalism were remarkable.
Contributed by Dea, Visitor Services Manager Tourism Whitsundays

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As Mayor of the Whitsundays, my focus in this first term has been on advocating for our region and driving economic development that delivers real, tangible benefits for everyone in our community.

Our region is experiencing exciting growth, and we’re committed to keeping that momentum going forward—planning not just for today but for the next 30, 40, even 50 years, so that our community and our youth have every opportunity to thrive.

I’m also actively engaging with our federal and state governments to secure joint funding. Last week I spent significant time in Brisbane and at Queensland Parliament, meeting with ministers and officials to advance our regional priorities—especially housing, infrastructure, roads, and community services.

I had a productive session with new Whitsunday Minister Amanda Camm MP, along with discussions with Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie MP, key representatives from Transport and Main Roads, Sport and the Olympics, and the CEO of the Qld Reconstruction Authority.

With Council tightening its belt while we work to improve the liveability for our residents, these partnerships are vital. They help ensure we can continue to provide essential services and invest in projects that make the Whitsundays an even better place to live and work.

In line with our long-term vision, I’m delighted to announce the appointment of Paul Hanlon as our new Manager of Investment, Attraction, and Growth, starting next week.

Paul is no stranger to our region—he worked with the Whitsunday Regional Council’s economic development team from 2019 to 2021 and knows first-hand what makes our area so special.

His impressive experience across Australia, including his most recent role as CEO of the Shire of Woodanilling, demonstrates his proven ability to lead major infrastructure projects and we are confident he will help us create new jobs, attract investment, and secure long-term developments that improve the quality of life for all Whitsunday residents.

We’re committed to working together—Council, stakeholders, local businesses, and state/federal partners—to make each opportunity count.

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This month, we meet Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry member Tolita Dukes of 8 Seconds.
For the past 12 years, Tolita has been transforming how Whitsunday businesses approach marketing—taking it from an overwhelming afterthought to a systematic, stress-free process that delivers consistent results.
8 Seconds specialises in helping time-poor business owners escape the constant juggle of wearing too many hats with done-for-you marketing management.
"After 27 years in the Whitsundays, I've seen firsthand how our local businesses struggle to maintain marketing consistency while managing operations," Tolita shares. "We're supposed to be one of the most aspirational destinations in the world, yet many owners feel perpetually behind on their digital presence."
Tolita has identified two game-changing trends reshaping local business success: the time-saving power of AI-driven marketing automation, and the critical importance of review management in driving new customer decisions.
"98% of customers check reviews before booking or buying anything. Managing your reviews effectively is no longer optional—it directly determines whether new customers choose you or your competitors."
Tolita offers two practical insights:
   • From overwhelm to control: "Marketing isn't mysterious—it's a business process that can be systematised. We help clients transform from feeling behind to confidently managing their presence."
   • Customer service is your strongest marketing tool: "Most businesses overlook their biggest marketing opportunity—the everyday interactions with customers. Our Customer Service Hero program creates consistent standards that turn every interaction into a powerful marketing moment, regardless of staff turnover. It's the simplest, most cost-effective marketing tool at your disposal."
As a Chamber member, Tolita really enjoys the networking opportunities.
"It's a fantastic way to exchange ideas, find support, and celebrate each other's successes. Running a business can often feel lonely, especially when you're working independently, so being part of this community helps me stay engaged and inspired" said Tolita. Find out more at 8seconds.com.au.
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Tolita Dukes, Queensland Tourism Awards 2024

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Elder abuse is an issue that’s often overlooked, but the team at the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre is set to change that by equipping older Australians with the knowledge to recognise and respond to potential abuse. The session’s primary goal is to raise awareness of what elder abuse looks like, allowing attendees to address it if it happens to them or their loved ones and will be led by Sergeant Stephen Smith, Mackay District Crime Prevention Coordinator.
He states it’s an immerging issue that needs discussing, "While elder abuse does not have a legal definition yet, it is an issue which police are responding to in our domestic and family violence and also some criminal investigations," as Smith puts it, "Raising awareness also helps people who are demonstrating elder abuse to begin taking accountability and changing their behaviour."
With his expertise, Smith emphasizes the importance of understanding elder abuse as a growing concern. The session will cover many forms of elder abuse including physical, emotional, financial, and neglect, and will provide opportunities to help attendees identify these abusive behaviours.
By building awareness, individuals can build a foundation of understanding what elder abuse is. Attendees will also have the opportunity to ask questions, share personal experiences, and leave with a clearer understanding of the steps they can take to prevent elder abuse in their communities. As a vital step towards addressing elder abuse join in to make your loved ones safer.
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WHAT: Elder Abuse Info Session
WHEN: Tuesday 18th March, 11am-12.30pm
WHERE: Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre
RSVP: 14th March

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The Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue will be at Pets Domain in Bowen on the 8th of March for their Adopt-A-Dog Day! Mark it in your calendar as the day you could meet your new, best furry friend and loving companion.
Run by 100% volunteers, the Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue aims to give the animals in their care the best change at finding forever homes, and you just may be the one. Come and meet all their lovely pooches at the monthly markets hosted by Pet Domain Bowen, grab a snag at the sausage sizzle and maybe even win a raffle prize too!
The whole family is invited to come and pet the puppies, meet the dogs and feel the joy of a wagging doggy tail. This is your change to meet them, maybe add a new member to your family, and support your local rescue. There will also be face painting, tons of market stalls and food vendors, so make a dog’s day and visit Pets Domain in Bowen!

WHAT: Adopt-A-Dog Day & Monthly Market
WHEN: Saturday 8th March, 8am-1pm
WHERE: Pets Domain Bowen at 79 Powell Street, Bowen QLD

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During the recent North Queensland flooding, train drivers Jade and Renee spotted a stranded echidna along the Gregory Development Road.
With the help of the Bowen Rail Company’s rail traffic controller, the little creature was carefully relocated to a safer area away from traffic. Once out of harm's way, the echidna was able to get back on his way, snuffling through the bush.
This encounter highlights the Bowen Rail Company’s ongoing commitment to wildlife protection. From the early stages of designing the rail corridor to avoid critical habitat areas, to implementing monitoring programs that track and protect local wildlife, the company takes every opportunity to ensure the safety and preservation of their local native species.
The Bowen Rail Company is dedicated to making sure that both the environment and wildlife are safeguarded while continuing to operate services, demonstrating responsibility to both nature and the community.
Thank you Jade, Renee, and the rail traffic controller for looking out for this little guy.

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The Whitsunday Regional Council's Parks and Gardens team has been diligently working on significant upgrades to the Rose Bay Foreshore, improving both functionality and aesthetics for the community.
One of the key updates is the entrance upgrade, where three new sandstone blocks have replaced the old, worn post and railing system. These sandstone blocks not only provide a sturdier and more reliable entry point but also enhance the overall appearance of the foreshore, adding a touch of rustic elegance to the space. This change reflects a commitment to maintaining a welcoming and open spaced beach environment for locals and visitors alike.
Another improvement is the relocation of the beach shower, which has been moved to a more convenient location, making it easier for beachgoers to rinse off after a swim. To further enhance this area, two additional sandstone blocks were added around the shower, creating a more cohesive and visually appealing space. These thoughtful council upgrades ensure the foreshore remains functional, attractive, and enjoyable for everyone who visits and uses the beach.
Thanks to the Whitsunday Regional Council’s dedicated Parks and Gardens crew for their hard work and ongoing efforts in keeping local spaces clean and in top condition. Their commitment to enhancing the beauty and usability of the Rose Bay Foreshore is greatly appreciated by the community.
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The new sandstone block at the entrance to Rose Bay Foreshore. Photo Sourced: Whitsunday Regional Council Facebook Page.

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The Greater Whitsunday Vet Services are so excited to announce that they are having an Open Day Event for their new Proserpine clinic! The open day is so important as it showcases the brand-new clinic in its entirety. Come along on the 9th to see what your patients experience at the clinic, check out the amazing diagnostics equipment and experience how the pristine hospital ward is presented.  Collect an insight into what the day-to-day vet life looks like with a cool clinic tour every hour!
Get excited as they bring the local community together with over 20 market stalls in the spacious carpark including delicious food vendors. Greater Whitsunday Vet clinic is thrilled to support local businesses and for all the Proserpine and Whitsunday locals to meet their amazing new staff.
It is important to them that the locals know what Greater Whitsunday Vet Services brings to their community. Come along and have a chat to the friendly staff, share your experiences and ideas as they are always looking to enhance their services.
There will be a kid’s colouring competition to help give back, raffles to be won and staff ready to offer any advice that may be needed for your beloved pet. So, bring your dogs and your kids for a fun day of facepainting and even a best dressed competition - it’ll be a day for the whole family to enjoy!
WHAT: Greater Whitsunday Vet Service’s Proserpine Clinic Open Day
WHEN: Sunday, 9th March 10am-2pm
WHERE: 52 Main St Proserpine, Entrance via Dobbins Lane

Our previous best dressed pups, and a wonderful clinic tour on the day of the event! Photo supplied: Glenys Mansfield

Greater Whitsunday Vet Services, a local Bowen veterinary clinic, has expanded to service the wider Whitsunday community by opening a new clinic in the heart of Proserpine.
Located at 52 Main Street Proserpine, the new clinic will offer a comprehensive range of veterinary services including routine wellness exams, vaccinations, dental care, desexing, advanced imaging, surgical procedures, general health care, and preventative treatments.
Greater Whitsunday Vet Services Practice Owner and Veterinarian, Dr Jason Mansfield, said the expansion marks a significant milestone in the clinic’s mission to provide exceptional veterinary care.
“We are excited to extend Greater Whitsunday Vet Services’ reach throughout the Whitsunday region by opening up a new clinic on the Main Street of Proserpine,” Dr Mansfield said.
“Expanding to Proserpine will ensure accessible healthcare can be provided to all families and their beloved animals, meeting the growing needs of families in the wider Whitsunday region.
“The Proserpine clinic features state-of-the-art technology and equipment ensuring all our vets and nurses can deliver accurate diagnoses and effective treatments, enabling our customers to make informed decisions about their animal’s health and wellbeing.
“We approach veterinary medicine with a modern, professional, and compassionate mindset, and with currently six vets and 10 nurses the local Proserpine community can rest assured their animals will be getting the best care possible.”  
Their mission is focused on staff development, to offer number-one recommendations that provide the best patient outcomes.
We invite everyone to come and visit us at the clinic for our Open Day Sunday 9th March 2025 10am – 2pm and learn more about how we can help support the health and wellbeing of their animals and see our new clinic for themselves.
Clients can make appointments at their clinics in Bowen or Proserpine by calling (07) 4786 1010, or through their website: vetwhitsundays.com.au Greater Whitsunday Vet Services is there for you and your animal needs with 24/7 Afterhours service and mobile visits.
Opening Hours: Proserpine
Monday to Friday - 8:30 AM - 5.00 PM
Saturday & Sunday CLOSED
Opening Hours: Bowen
Monday / Tuesday / Wednesday / Friday - 8:30 AM - 5.00 PM
Thursday - 8:30 AM - 7:00 PM
Saturday / Sunday CLOSED

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Greater Whitsunday Vet Services has 6 qualified veterinarian professionals working between Bowen and Proserpine (with over 35 years of combined experience) and all being involved in mixed animal components. These dedicated local vets approach veterinary medicine with a modern, professional and compassionate mindset.
The Greater Whitsunday Vet team are staunch advocates for animal health providing sound advice and professional recommendations, always striving to offer the best possible care for your animal companions and livestock.
These passionate vets are always learning and developing their skills whether that is introducing a specialist to coach, training at another clinic or attending an out-of-town conference they are always looking at ways to innovate and learn to give their clients the best services available.
The Proserpine and Bowen clinics feature state-of-the-art technology and equipment ensuring all their vets and nurses can deliver accurate diagnoses and effective treatments. Their skilled team can provide most surgeries in-house allowing your animals to get the best care without traveling too far.
Greater Whitsunday Vets Services provide their vets with a wonderful work-life balance ensuring your animals receive the best possible care when they are on the job. It also allows them to enjoy the beautiful Whitsunday Region with their family and friends.

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Our wonderful Vet team. Photo supplied: Glenys Mansfield
no animal is too big for our amazing team! Photo supplied: Glenys Mansfield

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The veterinary nurses at Greater Whitsunday Vet Services aren't just standard, they are top-notch client liaisons. The team’s philosophy centres around friendly and easy interactions making your visit to the clinic as comfortable and seamless as possible.
Greater Whitsunday Vet Services’ nurses are here to ensure that clients feel heard, understood and cared about as much as possible and are devoted to understanding the needs of your pets. Each knowledgeable liaison will welcome you into the consult room and ensure they capture every bit of history or concerns you may be having.
Clear communication is at the heart of every service, enabling you to make informed decisions about your animal’s health and well-being. They will ensure you leave the consult room with complete clarity and understanding.

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Greater Whitsunday Vet Services Operational Manager, Georgia Bowser, is a Proserpine local, born and raised on the farm. Georgia rotates between the Proserpine and Bowen clinics throughout the week ensuring that the staff and productivity of the business is on track.
Georgia has over 8 Years experience as a Veterinary Nurse and brings a wealth of practical knowledge to the clinic. She enjoys coaching and training staff whilst allowing innovative ideas from the team for further development. Georgia loves to help her team thrive to ensure that we are providing a service like no other.
Greater Whitsunday Vet Services continues to provide Georgia with career opportunities and personal development to ensure she stays up to date with what our clients need and want in 2025. They have also provided her with a work-life balance stability helping her in personal achievements like recently purchasing her own property.
The knowledge and expertise she has gained from her career is assisting her and husband Jack to smoothly operate their farm. Equipping them with better ideas for animal health, profitability, and innovation so that they have their property long into the future.
Georgia said “Working for Greater Whitsunday Vet Services has been and continues to be, an amazing workplace. It is full of innovation and our team prides themselves on providing a client experiences like no other.” Customer service and clarity have unfortunately disappeared in some businesses, and this is something Georgia strongly focuses on with the team. they aim to bring back the old standard and making it so much better, ensuring a strong rapport across the team and clients.

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Georgia leading our last big event Photo supplied: Glenys Mansfield

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In today’s fast-evolving agricultural landscape, sugarcane growers must go beyond traditional farming practices to build resilient and profitable businesses. Recognising this need, CANEGROWERS introduced the Business Essentials workshop series, a comprehensive program tailored to empower sugarcane growers with the tools and knowledge necessary to navigate the complexities of modern agriculture.
Now in its fourth year, the program is more flexible than ever, offering a mix of in-person workshops and online webinars, so growers can tailor their participation to their specific needs.
The series provides practical knowledge, expert insights, and financial support opportunities to help build a profitable, resilient, and future-ready farm business.
With experienced trainers—including specialists from other agricultural sectors like cotton and grains—growers gain fresh perspectives across a wide range of topics, including:
   • Building a professional business: Learn to set achievable goals, develop robust strategies, and manage unforeseen risks effectively.
   • People management: Gain insights into attracting and retaining the right talent, navigating legal requirements, and fostering harmonious family working relationships.
   • Workplace health & safety (WHS): Understand your obligations, establish practical safety protocols, and create a culture of safety on the farm.
   • Sugar pricing strategy and industry knowledge: Demystify the complexities of sugar pricing, enabling informed and profitable decision-making. Enhance your understanding of industry-specific terms and practices, such as relative payment systems and Commercial Cane Sugar (CCS) metrics.
   • Advanced Bookkeeping: Elevate your financial management skills, including considerations around managing your own Business Activity Statements (BAS).
Growers can choose sessions that align with their specific interests and needs, mixing and matching between in-person workshops and online webinars. This approach ensures that participants can maximise the benefits of the program without compromising their operational responsibilities.
By equipping growers with a comprehensive farm business resilience plan, the program not only enhances operational effectiveness but also positions businesses to secure essential funding and support for future challenges.
The program also offers personalised one-on-one support, helping you develop a comprehensive business plan and implement strategic solutions that drive real, measurable success for your farm.
“There comes a time when you do need to step back and say, right what are our biggest issues, how are we going to get around them, are we going to do something about them or are we just going to ignore them. And look at where you want to be in that five-year or 10-year mark”
Jill Fox (Mackay)
Embrace this opportunity to transform your sugarcane farming business and register your interest today! The Business Essentials workshop & webinar series is more than just a learning experience; it's an investment in the future resilience and profitability of your enterprise.
“You are with your fellow growers. It's an outlet to provide support”
Paul Schembri (Mackay)
Don’t miss this opportunity to learn, network, and grow! For more details, workshop dates, and registration, visit canegrowers.com.au.

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What marine creature can have up to 21 arms, hundreds of venomous spines, a taste for coral, and the ability to appear in plague-like numbers?
If you guessed the Crown-of-thorns starfish, you’d be right!
Often referred to as COTS, Crown-of-thorns starfish are native to the Great Barrier Reef and are not an introduced species.
According to the Australian Institute of Marine Science, genetic studies have shown that there are at least four species of COTS. The species found on the Great Barrier Reef is currently referred to as Acanthaster cf. Solaris.
These large marine invertebrates feed on coral as adults, playing a significant role in the reef ecosystem. However, when their numbers surge, they can cause widespread damage.
COTS outbreaks are a major cause of reef-building coral loss on the Great Barrier Reef, with each starfish capable of consuming up to 10m² of hard coral per year. In addition, they have an incredibly fast reproductive rate, with a single female able to release millions of eggs annually.
Master Reef Guides in the Whitsundays often assist in controlling excess numbers at local tourism sites, while the COTS Control Program works throughout the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area to monitor and manage outbreaks.
The COTS Control Program uses a combination of data and modelling to prioritise reefs based on their ecological and economic value to the wider reef. So far, in the 2023–2024 period, the program has targeted 192 priority reefs, protected 11,640 hectares of reef habitat through targeted culling, and removed 50,227 Crown-of-thorns starfish.
The Crown-of-thorns starfish isn’t just a thorn in the reef’s side, it’s a royal pain for the coral. For updates on the work being done to manage them, head to the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority website:
Www2.gbrmpa.gov.au
Fast Fact: COTS have eyes in their arms.