By Joseph Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay

The Australian sugar industry has long prided itself on resilience, innovation and a sense of collective purpose. However, recent events at the industry owned, not for profit, Queensland Sugar Limited (QSL) Annual General Meeting have cast a shadow over this reputation, sparking outrage across cane communities and industry stakeholders alike.

QSL has long served as the central marketing body for Queensland’s sugar exports, acting as an intermediary between growers, mills, and international buyers.
The actions of Wilmar Sugar and MSF Sugar in voting down critical constitutional reforms for QSL have drawn widespread condemnation from growers who form the backbone of the sugar industry, alongside Industry bodies and other milling companies alike.

Highlighting Wilmar and MSF being out of step with the rest of the industry, the three other milling companies using their vote - that being our very own Mackay Sugar Ltd, as well as Bundaberg Sugar and Isis Sugar - all sided with the growers to support the changes. But, alas, Wilmar and MSF voted down the aspirations of the wider industry.  It is great to see that the three supportive millers have the vision and whole-of-industry approach to the future of the Queensland sugar industry, rather than pursuing individual corporate agendas and controls.

These constitutional changes would have made QSL’s internal voting structure more reflective of the current marketing situation in the Queensland sugar industry, not that of the late 1990s when initial structure was created under what was basically a single desk marketing system.  Fast forward to the present, and we now have Wilmar Sugar and MSF who, amongst others, who are competitors to QSL yet, anachronistically and inappropriately, still have a major voice and vote in the structure and governance of an industry-owned business.

Last week’s crucial vote on proposed changes to QSL’s constitution represented a watershed moment for the future of Queensland’s sugar industry.

The reforms, designed to modernise the QSL structure, enhance transparency, and ensure fairer representation for those who market their sugar through QSL, were widely regarded as essential steps towards a more equitable and competitive future.  Yet the two multinational millers, Wilmar and MSF still believe that they have a moral right to influence an industry owned competitor modernising its governance to suit the current environment.

They have effectively stifled the voices of growers and other millers, perpetuating a status quo that limits competition and innovation. This self-serving stance risks eroding trust and cooperation within the industry, potentially driving a wedge between stakeholders at a time when unity is more critical than ever.  By blocking these changes, Wilmar and MSF have sent a concerning signal about their commitment to openness and fair play.

The sugar industry is a vital part of Queensland’s economy and rural communities, employing thousands and supporting countless local businesses. For the sector to thrive, stakeholders must work together—not against one another—to build a fair, transparent, and inclusive future. The actions of Wilmar and MSF in voting down QSL’s constitutional reforms have been widely condemned as short-sighted and self-serving, undermining the principles of democracy and collaboration upon which the sugar industry has built itself.

As the dust settles, it is imperative that all parties return to the negotiating table with a genuine commitment to reform and a willingness to put the interests of growers and regional communities first. Only by working together can the industry hope to secure a brighter, more sustainable future for Queensland’s sugar heartland.

In the end, history will judge those who chose to stand in the way of progress. The path forward may be fraught with challenges, but the determination and integrity shown by those supporting reform offer hope that the true spirit of Queensland’s sugar industry will prevail.

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Government Delivers Major Boost for Mackay Conservation

The Crisafulli Government has announced a $7.8 million investment to support land, soil, water and biodiversity projects across the Mackay, Whitsunday and Isaac regions, delivering a major boost for local conservation and community-led environmental initiatives.

The funding, part of the government’s Natural Resources Management Expansion Program (NRMEP), will help restore waterways, protect coastal reefs, and enhance wildlife habitats throughout the Mackay region — from Cattle Creek to the Coral Reef.

Reef Catchments will receive more than $4.8 million to restore eight kilometres of streambank along Cattle Creek, strengthen riparian corridors, enhance in-stream habitats, and reduce sediment flow into the Great Barrier Reef lagoon.

A further $1.9 million will connect 57 hectares of koala habitat from South Koumala to north of Eton, while nearly $1 million will fund inshore reef restoration through Coral IVF techniques and reseeding of seagrass meadows in Pioneer Bay.

Minister for Natural Resources and Mines Dale Last said the investment will deliver tangible environmental outcomes by empowering local expertise.

“This funding is about backing real action, by supporting local experts who understand their region and what it takes to protect it,” Minister Last said.

“These projects will deliver real on-ground results for our environment and the communities who depend on healthy landscapes and waterways.

“During Labor’s decade of decline, NRM groups were left high and dry without the meaningful funding they need to support the great work they do across Queensland.

“Through our $117.84 million Natural Resource Management Expansion Program, the Crisafulli Government is giving those groups certainty by supporting the people who know their regions best.”

Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said the investment reflects the government’s commitment to long-term, practical outcomes.

“These projects will improve water quality, protect wildlife and support local jobs — and they’re happening right here in our backyard,” Mr Dalton said.

“This funding recognises the importance of local stewardship and is a major boost for our communities.”

Member for Mirani Glen Kelly said the announcement highlights the government’s focus on regional sustainability.

“From protecting koala habitat to restoring critical waterways, this is the Crisafulli Government backing local solutions and restoring trust in regional investment,” Mr Kelly said.
“Healthy ecosystems mean stronger farming, more resilient communities and better outcomes for future generations.”

Reef Catchments CEO Katrina Dent said the funding would help target priority areas for biodiversity restoration.

“We’re incredibly grateful for the Queensland Government's investment in natural resource management through the NRMEP,” Ms Dent said.

“This funding will allow us to scale up our efforts for critical ecosystems and to target hot spot areas where previous weather events have damaged key parts of the region.”

The funding marks a major milestone for the Mackay region, reinforcing its position as a leader in sustainable land and water management across Queensland.

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A $7.5 million partnership between North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) and James Cook University (JCU) will deliver a five-year program to advance marine science across four ports.

Building on a decade of nationally recognised collaboration, the partnership will deliver world-class monitoring, research, education and training.

It will also expand into new areas such as marine habitat restoration research, marine animal  studies such as dugongs and turtles, and increasing Traditional Owner engagement.

The collaboration is led by JCU’s Centre for Tropical Water and Aquatic Ecosystem Research (TropWATER).

NQBP CEO Brendan Webb said the new partnership solidifies NQBP’s long-term commitment to environmental stewardship and collaboration.

“As the only port authority managing three ports within the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area, we take our environmental and social responsibilities in these iconic surroundings seriously,” Mr Webb said.

“This partnership represents the gold standard for how industry and research institutions can work together to protect and understand the environment.

“Together, we’ve delivered world-class monitoring, empowered Traditional Owner engagement, and fostered the next generation of marine scientists. This renewed partnership ensures we build on those achievements into the future.”

JCU Deputy Vice Chancellor, Research Professor Jenny Seddon said the partnership continued to demonstrate the real-world impact of JCU’s research.

“Our collaboration with NQBP shows how industry and universities can work together and embed scientific expertise into core port operations to deliver real and lasting benefits to the environment, communities and industry,” Professor Seddon said.

Professor Michael Rasheed, JCU’s co-director of the program said at its core the partnership supports world class research and monitoring, including one of the world’s longest continuous running seagrass monitoring program.

“These programs have led to breakthrough knowledge on how coastal ecosystems function including developing tools for their effective management and approaches to restoration of seagrass meadows that can be applied throughout tropical Queensland and the Indo-Pacific,” Professor Rasheed said.

“The program reaches well beyond the ports themselves with results fed into regional reporting on waterway health and advancing science and management. This is a great example of how research and industry partnerships can benefit society,” he said.

Associate Professor Nathan Waltham, JCU TropWATER said the partnership is a model for how industry and research can work together to deliver real-world outcomes.

“We’re proud to be training the next generation of marine scientists and delivering the data and solutions needed for resilient, thriving port environments,” A/Professor Waltham said.

“It also provides extraordinary opportunities for our students and researchers to work at the
forefront of marine science.”

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North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation and James Cook University have launched a $7.5 million, five-year partnership to advance marine science, environmental monitoring, and habitat restoration across four Great Barrier Reef ports. Photos supplied

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Managing Risk In A Volatile Sugar Market

By Simon Hood
Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

Thank you to all growers who nominated Wilmar Grower Marketing as their GEI marketer for the 2026 season.

I would like to extend a warm welcome to the growing number of new growers who have chosen Wilmar for the first time. We don’t take any nomination, new or existing, for granted and remain committed to delivering strong returns, flexible products and personalised service to maintain your trust in this vital part of your business.

This year has been particularly challenging on the pricing front. Just 8 months ago, the March 26 futures contract was trading close to 20 USc/lb, with the AUD sugar price above $650/t. We are now facing a $465/t price and futures at 14 USc/lb.

Our recent October Pool results have reinforced our decision to relaunch the Managed Pool as the Managed Pool Plus (MPP) with the key difference being its extended time horizon for price management compared to the Production Risk Pool (PRP).

At the end of October, the MPP was forecast at $560/t Actual versus the PRP at $515/t. During the month, the 2025 Season price fell by about $70/t Actual, while the MPP dropped $40/t and the PRP $60/t, reflecting the MPP’s higher hedge profile.

The Grower Marketing team are fielding lots of enquiries from growers seeking guidance on sugar price outlooks. While no one can predict prices with certainty, our analysts expect global sugar stocks to build over the next 12 to 18 months due to large crops in India and Brazil, assuming normal weather.

Ethanol remains another key factor, with prices influenced by oil markets, relative feedstock prices, and government regulation. The recent dip in sugar prices below 14 USc/lb has already prompted some Brazilian mills to switch from sugar to ethanol, showing price signals are working to rebalance supply and demand.

Across all regions, growers are underpriced for the 2025 season, and even more so for 2026. While that is a challenge shared across the industry, it is important to look ahead. If you could lock in $525/t today for the 2025 season, would you take it? The 2028 season has that price available now, and pricing even a small portion early can help manage risk and secure a solid base as markets evolve.

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The AUD Sugar price has dropped considerably since it’s last high in April over $650/t to recent lows under $460/t Image supplied

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A home loan is one of the biggest financial commitments many of us will make – but paying it off sooner than expected is possible and it doesn’t always mean big changes. At Community Bank Sarina, we’re backed by Bendigo Bank and here to support locals with clear, practical ways to take control of their finances and make smarter decisions about their future. If you’re looking to reduce the life of your home loan, here are a few strategies worth considering:

Make extra repayments
Adding even a small amount to your regular repayments can reduce interest and loan term. For example, adding just $50 per fortnight on a $500,000 loan (30-year term, 6.5% interest) could save over $87,000 in interest and shorten the loan by nearly four years.

Offset accounts and redraw facilities
Keeping money in an offset account reduces the interest charged on your loan. Similarly, using a redraw facility allows you to access extra repayments if needed, while still reducing your loan balance in the meantime.

Find a lower interest rate
Even a small difference in interest rates can add up over the life of your loan. If your rate isn’t as competitive as it could be, it’s worth looking into options or talking to a lender about refinancing.

Review your loan regularly
Checking in on your loan and interest rate every few years – especially as your circumstances change, can help ensure your loan structure still suits your goals. Paying off a mortgage faster isn’t about making drastic sacrifices. It’s about finding the right tools, staying consistent and being supported by people who understand your goals.

At Community Bank Sarina, we take pride in being a profit for purpose organisation that invests in local people. If you’re looking for ways to pay off your mortgage sooner or considering refinancing, we’re here to talk. Come in and see the friendly team at 37 Broad Street, Sarina or call us on 07 4943 2634.

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The Mackay Regional Council has approved the development application for a new McDonald’s in Sarina, with Mayor Greg Williamson casting the deciding vote following a robust debate.

Speaking after the decision, Mayor Williamson said, “It was called to make a final decision on the development application for McDonald’s in Sarina.

“After a robust debate, I used my casting vote to actually approve the development application for McDonald’s in Sarina.”

The Mayor highlighted the economic benefits the new restaurant will bring to the community, particularly for local youth. “It's going to be a great thing for Sarina, particularly for the young people in Sarina. They're going to employ 120 people as casuals.”

Mayor Williamson also noted that McDonald’s has committed to working closely with the community to address concerns raised during the council meeting.

“They’ve also committed to working with the neighbours, and work with the council to ameliorate some of the concerns that were raised… about the neighbourhood impact of having McDonald’s on the main street. So, all in all, I think it is a pretty good outcome.”

The new development is expected to create significant employment opportunities while providing a long-term addition to Sarina’s main street. Council hopes the project will support local economic growth, offer jobs for young residents, and balance community needs with development benefits.

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Locals are invited to come together for a free community BBQ celebrating International Men’s Day as a chance to connect, enjoy a great lunch, and raise awareness about men’s health and wellbeing.

The event will be held on Wednesday, 19 November 2025, from 11am to 2pm at 160 Boundary Road, Ooralea, and promises to be a relaxed and welcoming afternoon for all ages.

Guests can enjoy a complimentary BBQ lunch, fun giveaways, and free blood pressure checks. It’s also a great opportunity for mates, colleagues, and families to come along, start conversations, and show support for the important men in their lives.

The event is proudly supported by Family Health Care Mackay, BeWorkFit Mackay, and Shed Happens, who have joined forces to highlight the importance of regular health check-ups and open conversations around physical and mental wellbeing.

Organisers hope the casual setting will encourage more men to take a moment for themselves, to chat, check in, and connect with local services that are here to help.
Everyone is welcome to attend, so grab your mates, head down to Ooralea, and be part of a positive community event that celebrates men, their health, and the power of looking out for one another.

Meet our pet of the week - Kobe. Kobe is an 11 month old American Staffordshire X, who is looking for his forever home.

Kobe loves to be around his people, loves to walk and run to burn off all his extra energy —and then cherishes curling up beside you at the end of the day.

Kobe is still a young pup who will need ongoing training, but lucky for his new family, he has mastered the basics already.

He lives up to his breed with excitement, but his big smile and warm heart truly make Kobe a great companion.

Kobe is desexed and up to date with all vaccinations, has also received flea tick treatment and worming, also microchipped.

He is looking for his forever family who will love him and his beautiful personality.

Available for adoption through Lucy's lucky tags and dog Rescue. For more information, please email: lltagsanddogrescue@gmail.com

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At Poetry In Print

The Poetry in Print curation team is proud to present a bold new initiative that brings together the rhythmic pulse of poetry and the tactile beauty of printmaking in a celebration of creative dialogue and community storytelling. This unique project pairs nine poets from Mackay Poetry Slam with eleven printmakers from Printbank Mackay, exploring the alchemy that occurs when word meets image.

The project began with a live warm-up session, where each poet presented two original works to an audience and their paired printmaker. From there, the printmakers were invited to respond visually to at least one poem by their assigned poet, with the
freedom to engage with others if inspired.

The result is a diverse and deeply personal collection of prints that reflect the emotional resonance, humour, and humanity embedded in the written word.

“This project is about more than just art,” says the curation team.

“It’s about connection — between disciplines, between artists, and between the community and the stories that shape us.”

Poetry in Print is an independently developed initiative, driven by the passion and collaboration of local artists. It reflects Mackay’s growing reputation as a hub for innovative, community-led arts practice.

The final works will be exhibited in a public showcase that invites viewers to experience the interplay between text and texture, voice and vision. Each piece is accompanied by the poem that inspired it, offering a layered encounter with the creative process and the power of collaboration.

Exhibition Details:

What: Poetry In Print Exhibition
When: Opening night: 5th of December 5-8pm. Then Open daily from 10-2pm 6th – 14th of December 2025
Where: 96 Victoria Street Mackay (Groove Moover Studio)

Some of the talented printmakers from the "Poetry in Print” project back in May

Poetry in Print unites Mackay poets and printmakers in a creative exhibition celebrating words, art, and community, showing December 5–14 at Groove Moover Studio. Photo source: Printback Mackay

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Protein, Creatine And The Cognitive Edge

By Michael James – Fitness Industry Professional, Facility Owner & Wellness Coach

Training is only half the story. The other half — the part that often makes or breaks your results — is nutrition. What you put into your body determines how well you recover, how much energy you have, and even how sharp your brain feels day to day. At Fitness Cartel Mackay, we’ve made this a priority by including a café stocked with protein shakes, supplements, and the right fuel to support both physical performance and mental clarity.

Two of the most important tools in this space are protein and creatine. While they’re often associated only with muscle building, the science shows their benefits extend far beyond bigger biceps or stronger lifts.
Protein – the foundation of recovery

Every time you train — whether lifting weights, attending a class, or going for a run — your muscles experience tiny tears. Protein is what rebuilds and repairs those fibres, making them stronger and more resilient. Without enough protein, your progress slows, soreness lingers, and your body simply doesn’t adapt the way you want it to.

But protein isn’t just about recovery. It helps regulate hormones, supports immune function, and keeps you feeling fuller for longer, making it a vital ally for fat loss and energy management. For anyone chasing tone, strength, or simply better health, prioritising protein is non-negotiable.

Creatine – more than just muscle

Creatine is one of the most researched and effective supplements in the world, and its benefits go well beyond the weight room. Yes, it helps muscles produce explosive power, making it invaluable for strength and performance. But recent studies have highlighted something even more exciting: creatine’s impact on the brain.

Supplementing with creatine has been linked to improved memory, faster processing, and greater mental resilience under stress. In other words, it doesn’t just help you train harder — it helps you think clearer. For busy professionals, students, or anyone who wants to stay sharp, creatine is proving to be one of the most valuable tools available.

Convenience meets science

At Fitness Cartel Mackay, our café will make it easy to put the science into practice. Post-workout shakes blended with quality protein, creatine supplementation options, and expert advice will all be on hand. That means you don’t have to guess, and you don’t have to compromise. Refuelling becomes simple, enjoyable, and effective.

Fuel your ambition

Family, community, ambition — our core values run through everything we do. By fuelling properly, you’re not just helping your body recover; you’re giving yourself the energy to show up for your family, perform at work, and chase your goals with confidence.

Because fitness isn’t just about the hours you spend in the gym. It’s about how you feel in every other hour of the day. And the right nutrition is the key to unlocking that.

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Bowen’s Youngest Residents Celebrated At Annual Baby Welcoming Ceremony

Under clear spring skies, Bowen families gathered at Hansen Park for a heartwarming celebration — the 2025 Baby Welcoming Ceremony. This cherished tradition, now more than 20 years strong, brought together 30 proud families to honour their newest arrivals, from tiny newborns to curious near-one-year-olds.

Mayor Ry Collins praised the “spectacular spring morning” and the incredible sense of community on display, commending the Bowen Lions Club for their dedication in keeping the event alive. With laughter, stories, and plenty of smiles, the day captured Bowen’s true spirit — a place where every new life is celebrated and every family belongs.

More Than 30 Families Attend Special Baby Welcoming Ceremony

Bowen families gathered at Hansen Park on a beautiful spring morning for the 2025 Baby Welcoming Ceremony, a much-loved community tradition that has been running for more than two decades.

The event saw 30 families come together to celebrate their newest additions — from babies just a few weeks old to others nearing their first birthday.

Mayor Ry Collins described the occasion as “a spectacular spring morning at Hansen Park for Bowen’s 2025 Baby Welcoming Ceremony,” adding that it was “an incredible turnout with 30 families coming together to celebrate their little ones — some just a few weeks old, others nearing their first birthday.”

He said it was heartwarming to hear the stories and journeys of so many new parents.

“Mel and I felt truly privileged to be part of this beautiful tradition that’s been running for over 20 years now — a testament to the care and dedication of the amazing ladies (and some hard working gents) from the Bowen Lions Club,” he said.

Mayor Collins also commended the Bowen Lions Club for their ongoing commitment to the event.

“Take a bow — you’ve created something special that continues to bring joy and lasting memories to so many young families in our community,” he said.

The ceremony once again highlighted Bowen’s strong sense of community and the joy that comes with celebrating the next generation.

Also in attendance on the day was Councillor Michelle Wright.

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Hi Everyone,

Many of you will know that my love for the environment inspired me to create Ruth2Reef, a column dedicated to showcasing ways we can protect it. That’s why, when I came to write this week’s article about the Ngaro Track on page four, I found myself at something of a crossroad.

The new trail is an incredible addition, a 32 km hike across awe-inspiring Whitsunday Island, all while promoting what it claims to be, which is 'ecotourism.' I love hiking and I am always keen to discover new places and test my limits, especially in a way that’s as environmentally conscious as possible. I genuinely believe this initiative gives both locals and visitors the chance to explore more of the natural wonders we’re so lucky to have.

At the same time, with my environmental columnist hat on, I completely understand the concerns of environmental members of our community. Protecting our national parks is essential, and we must make sure we don’t allow development to turn these pristine landscapes into a ‘concrete jungle,’ as has happened in many other parts of the world.

While I am not always sure who is right or wrong when there is a disagreement, I try to remain as neutral as I can in my journalism, giving all sides a voice. I recently attended a sustainable travel journalism masterclass with some of the world’s best, including National Geographic editors, and something one of them said really resonated with me: “No travel is ever entirely sustainable,” and “while it is important to bring different cultures together through travel, economically and environmentally there will always be negatives too, and we should remember to maximise the benefits alongside the negatives.” I hope that through my article, readers can see this perspective and how I have tried to incorporate all opinions on this new track and represent it fairly.

Enjoy delving in and reading about this new addition to the Whitsundays, and on the topic of who is right or wrong? Maybe the answer is: neither.

Ruth

I’ve also started using a new app that gives me a “word of the day,” so I thought I’d share today’s with you: latitudinarian - a person who is open minded and tolerant. Quite fitting I think!

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Last Wednesday, November 5th was another big day for MRQ Whitsunday who came to the aid of a stranded boatie at Little Black Reef.

The 5.5-metre cabin cruiser, with two people on board, had broken down early in the morning when the call came through to Bill, the team’s 24/7 communications officer. Without hesitation, the crew rallied, with skipper and volunteers heading to Coral Sea Marina to prepare the rescue vessel.

Nat was first on scene to begin prep work, while Rodney and the skipper departed the marina at 7.50am under calm, glassy conditions, ideal weather for a safe and steady recovery.

On arrival, the crew found the vessel anchored in the lagoon at the centre of Little Black Reef. With the tide high, Nat and Rod launched the tender, towed the broken-down boat to the rescue vessel, and began the long tow home at 10.25am.

After a smooth return journey, the cruiser was safely brought back to Coral Sea Marina and rafted to the boat ramp by early afternoon.

The rescue wrapped up around 2pm, marking another successful mission for the dedicated volunteers.

The rescues that MRQ Whitsunday carry out are a testament to the teamwork and community spirit behind every callout.

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MRQ Whitsunday volunteers Nat R. and Rodney S. during the rescue on November 5th. Photo sourced: Facebook

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Around 50 people attended the Remembrance Day Service in Cannonvale this Tuesday 11 November. The service opened with a welcome from the President of Airlie Beach RSL Club Dianne Trueman, followed by a short address and prayer led by Father Andy Wilson.

Father Wilson reflected on the anniversary of the end of World War I, honouring those who made the ultimate sacrifice, those wounded in battle, and those who continue to bear the emotional scars of war.

Attendees joined together in the Prayer of Remembrance, giving thanks for the courage and sacrifice of servicemen and women and dedicating themselves to the pursuit of justice, freedom, and peace.

Wreaths were laid to the sound of piper Mick Patullo before John Schweitzer recited The Ode to the Fallen. The service then paused for the Last Post, the lowering of the national flag, and a minute’s silence, followed by the Rouse and flag raising by Bryce Fraser.

Jenni Borellini and Airlie Norton led the New Zealand and Australian national anthems respectively, before Father Wilson offered a prayer for those who serve in the Australian Defence Force. The ceremony concluded with the Lord’s Prayer and a reading of In Flanders Fields by John Schweitzer.

We will remember them.

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Yet The New 32-Kilometre Hiking Trail Sparks Debate

By Ruth Puddefoot

Discover the real Whitsundays Island on a brand new long-distance hiking trail
Stretching 32 km along the southern end of Whitsunday Island, the brand-new Ngaro Track offers spectacular vistas, ever-changing scenery, and a connection between two iconic destinations: Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet. Visitors can explore the island’s remote interior and even camp overnight at bespoke campsites.

Offering both guided and self-guided tours, the government describes the track as providing a “range of first-class ecotourism experiences.” Hikers can climb the towering Whitsunday Craig, one of the island’s highest peaks, and meander through mangroves in the upper reaches of Hill Inlet. Along the way, they encounter the island’s rich plant and animal communities, as well as abundant marine life in the crystal-clear waters of the Whitsunday Sea. The track also traverses Ngaro Country, acknowledging the enduring connection of the Ngaro people to Land, Sea, and Sky as integral elements of their identity and culture.

The State Government, promoting a new era of ecotourism in Queensland, is anticipating the track’s official opening after the completion of construction. Officials claim that “the Ngaro Track will welcome low impact, guided commercial tours and self-sufficient walkers to experience the natural and cultural wonders of the Whitsundays like never before.”
Environment and Tourism Minister for Science and Innovation Minister Powell highlighted the track’s potential for tourism growth:

“Queensland is the home of the holiday, and opening up immersive experiences in some of Queensland’s most jaw-dropping destinations is what makes our state so memorable,” he said.

“Move over, Tasmania – Queensland is setting a new benchmark for ecotourism with our Destination 2045 plan.”

Member for Whitsundays Amanda Camm welcomed the addition to local tourism offerings:

“This is exactly what visitors and locals want to see in this beautiful part of the world,” she said.

“The ability to be immersed in nature, and be guided through such an important cultural destination,
will be unique for everyone who does the Ngaro Track.”

Mayor Ry Collins also praised the project:

“The Whitsundays have always been the heart of Queensland’s nature-based tourism, and projects like the Ngaro Track help strengthen that reputation while celebrating the cultural and environmental values that make this region so unique.

“This initiative is being delivered entirely by the Queensland Government, and we understand it has been carefully designed to balance access and protection while ensuring the natural beauty of Whitsunday Island remains front and centre.

“You only have to look at the famous Overland Track through the Cradle Mountain–Lake St Clair National Park in Tasmania to see that sustainable tourism experiences like this are vital for regional economies, local jobs, and growing respect for Country.

“The more people who get to experience our environment in the right way, the more they value its protection.”

Tourism operators have also expressed excitement. Iconic Whitsundays co-owner and former Tourism Whitsundays Board Member Nicole Graham said:

“The National Parks do a fantastic job.

“People want these walks all around the world. So why shouldn’t we have them?

“We're in the Whitsundays, and we've got these unique islands, and it's such a fantastic opportunity to have this walk and have it an overnight.

“I've done overnight hikes, and I think they're a fantastic way to really enjoy the ecotourism and build that ecotourism in our region.”

However, environmental activists have raised concerns. The Whitsundays Conservation Council, the region’s peak ecological body and volunteer group, says conservation—the cardinal principle of a national park—is being sidelined.

Council President Tony Fontes stated:

“The State environmental agenda appears to have been taken over by tourism and business interests.

“WCC and our members have consistently voiced only the strongest opposition to private, commercial exclusive operations on public lands and that includes National Parks.

“There has been little to no community consultation regarding this project. To date, there is little information and no details on many aspects that raise concerns in this proposal.

“What we do know is that the trail will be exclusive to one commercial operator (World Expeditions). They will set the price for all walkers and it will not be cheap. This track has been built by Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service with our taxpayer dollars. This is not ecotourism, it is eco-exploitation.”

Michael Buggy, World Expeditions (WEX) Director of Australasian Operating Companies Michael Buggy said WEX was delighted to play a role in bringing the Ngaro Track to the public.

“We can’t wait to welcome walkers on the Ngaro Track, Queensland’s newest multi-day hiking adventure and a truly special journey through one of Australia’s most iconic landscapes.”

With its combination of natural beauty, cultural significance, and adventure tourism, the Ngaro Track is poised to become a landmark attraction for the Whitsundays. But as the excitement builds, the debate over access, commercialisation, and conservation continues, highlighting the delicate balance between tourism development and environmental stewardship.

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The Ngaro Track - World Expeditions. Photo credit: Matt Horspool.

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