Excitement filled the room at Ocean International Hotel on Monday, 1 December 2025, as families gathered to celebrate the graduation of this year’s Prep-Ready Kids. The young learners, dressed in bright and colourful graduation gowns, proudly marked the end of a year filled with growth, learning, and new friendships.

The Prep-Ready Kids Program, funded by Multicultural Affairs through the Department of Women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships and Multiculturalism, continues to be highly valued by Mackay families, particularly those who are newly arrived and seeking additional support as their children prepare for the transition into Prep.

Throughout 2025, children participated in a wide range of activities designed to build early literacy, numeracy, listening, and social skills. The program also offered hands-on learning experiences, physical play, themed craft sessions, and opportunities for social interaction, helping boost confidence and school readiness.

This year’s graduation ceremony featured a slideshow showcasing the children’s progress, interactive games, a visit from Santa, and the presentation of certificates and medals. The event was made special by the attendance of special guests from Victoria Park State School, led by Prep Transition Officer Mrs. Taylor Warrell and the school captains, who assisted in congratulating the graduates.

For many families, especially those recently settling in Mackay, the morning served as both a celebration of learning and a celebration of community.

Program Coordinator Ela Maglente reflected on a rewarding year.

“It has been wonderful to witness the children’s development and confidence grow. We have also seen strong connections form among parents, and we are extremely grateful for the commitment of our volunteers who supported the program throughout the year,” she said.

Interest in the Prep-Ready Kids Program continues to increase, with families already enquiring about the 2026 intake. Sessions for 2026 will only be for Term 3 and Term 4, held each Monday during the school term, from 9:00 am to 11:00 am, at 43 Shakespeare Street, East Mackay.

Families seeking further information or wishing to register their interest can contact Ela Maglente at elam@tnhub.org.au.

‍

The Prep-Ready Kids Program celebrated a joyful year of learning and community as young graduates marked their achievements at a vibrant ceremony attended by families, school representatives, and supporters. Photos supplied

‍

Local Historian Brings Decades Of Stories To Life In New Book Launch

By Hannah McNamara

A lifelong Northern Beaches local, Mr Doug Peterson grew up roaming the sands and streets of Eimeo, Bucasia and Shoal Point long before they became the busy seaside suburbs they are today. Now, after a lifetime of collecting memories, tracking down old-timers and digging through historical records, he has gathered the region’s rich past into a book that will be launched at the Eimeo Hotel next Monday.

Mr Peterson said his passion for documenting local history was sparked by a simple truth.

“Everybody’s got a story, but not many people write them down. Even a tragedy today becomes a good story in twenty years.”

His new book, available exclusively at the Eimeo Hotel, traces the hotel’s origins, early ownership and colourful evolution from a humble coastal escape to the well-loved venue it is today. The hotel, he notes, once even featured a skating rink, which has since been transformed into the modern function room where his book launch will be held.

A natural storyteller, Mr Peterson has an eye for the quirks that make history human. He laughed as he recalled scenes that would leave today’s patrons stunned.

“One publican rode an old horse straight into the bar. Another fellow brought a snake in and put it on the counter… and he got a two-second warning to get it out.”

He also described the nearby Mango Avenue as it once was, lined not only with its signature mango trees, but also pineapples and coconuts. These stories, stitched together, paint a vivid picture of a region much changed yet somehow still familiar.

Some things, he says, haven’t changed at all.

Eimeo Beach has always been the place to be on a hot summer’s day. “Packed” hardly covers it. Public holidays were famous for crowds, just as they are today, and in those days, the Eimeo Hotel even served food and drinks directly to beachgoers on the shoreline.

For Mr Peterson, preserving these memories is more than nostalgia.

“If no one writes this history, no one will ever know… I reckon everybody should know the history… especially the younger generations. If we don’t pass it on, it disappears.”

The community is invited to celebrate the launch of his book next Monday, 15 December, in the upstairs Blue Room at the Eimeo Hotel, fittingly, the very space where the old skating rink once stood. Attendees can meet the author, hear stories firsthand and purchase one of the first signed editions for $16.50.

For those unable to attend, copies will also be available for purchase at the hotel.

In capturing the past, Doug Peterson has ensured the region’s stories aren’t lost to the tides, giving future generations the chance to understand the Northern Beaches’ evolution and appreciate what it has become today.

‍

Doug Peterson’s new book tells the colourful history of the Eimeo Hotel, from skating rink to a seaside icon. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara and imagery supplied

‍

Nominations are now officially open for the 2026 JSP Women’s Awards, with The Just Saying Project inviting the Greater Whitsunday community to celebrate the women whose stories bring joy, strength and purpose to the region.

Held on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at the MECC, the annual awards will feature acclaimed Australian author Belinda Alexandra as keynote speaker — a storyteller whose work embodies resilience, creativity and feminine strength, aligning deeply with JSP’s mission.

The opening of nominations also marks the beginning of the JSP Storytelling Season, a dedicated period where The Just Saying Project shares and uplifts women’s lived experiences across the region. This season will continue throughout the lead-up to the awards and beyond, shining a light on the stories that shape the cultural identity of the Greater Whitsundays.

The Just Saying Project (JSP) Founder Fallon Drewett said the storytelling element of the awards is what makes the event so powerful year after year.

“A story doesn’t have to change thousands of lives — sometimes it only needs to change one,” Ms Drewett said.

“When you nominate a woman, you’re not just filling out a form. You’re saying, ‘I see you. Your story matters. What you do matters.’ So many women feel invisible or unsure if their experiences count.

“This is our opportunity as a community to show them that they do.”

Now in its fifth year, the JSP Women’s Awards have become a hallmark event for the region, celebrating women across categories including The Resilient Rebel, Magic Muse, Health and Wellbeing Warrior, Rising Star, Mother of All Mothers, Woman Who Breaks the Mould and The Equaliser — which recognises male allies who champion women.

To help community members feel confident in writing strong and meaningful nominations, JSP will host a Nomination Writing Workshop on Saturday, January 10 at Ninety-Five, Victoria Street from 10am–3pm.

The workshop is open to everyone — women and men — and will guide participants in capturing the heart of someone’s story with clarity and care. Ms Drewett said the workshop is designed to remove the intimidation many people feel when nominating.

“Most people say, ‘I don’t know how to put it into words.’ But you don’t need perfect words — you just need honest ones,” she said.

“Every woman has a story,” she said.

“Some have lived through adversity. Some lead through love. Some create change in their workplace or community, and some spark joy through art or kindness. We want to honour them all. And we need the community’s help to do it.”

Nominations are now open and can be submitted via The Just Saying Project website: https://www.thejustsayingproject.com/nominate

EVENT DETAILS
2025 JSP Women’s Awards
Saturday, March 14, 2026
MECC – Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre
Featuring keynote speaker Belinda Alexandra

‍

Nominations have opened for the 2026 JSP Women’s Awards, inviting the Greater Whitsunday community to honour the women whose stories shape, strengthen and inspire the region. Photos supplied

‍

As we wrap up another big year at Community Bank Sarina, I want to thank our wonderful customers, local businesses and the broader Sarina community.

Stepping into the Branch Manager role in June, I immediately felt the warmth and genuine community spirit that makes this region so special. It’s been a privilege to meet so many of you, listen to your stories and see firsthand the pride people have in where we live.

This year, we also celebrated a milestone moment, 20 years of local banking. Two decades of profit for purpose - supporting our community, working alongside local organisations and assisting people to kick their financial goals is something our whole team is proud of.

As we head into the festive season, many of us start reflecting on our goals for the year ahead. Whether you’re considering a home purchase, reviewing your finances, planning for your business or simply wanting to feel more confident heading into 2026, our local team is here to support you.

We’ll be open over the holiday period (except public holidays), and we welcome you to come in for a chat, big or small. There’s real value in sitting down with someone who knows you, knows your community and genuinely wants the best for you. No call centres, no being passed around, just local people you can rely on.

This year our Community Bank reached another major milestone, more than $5 million back to community to support local initiatives since 2005. Every customer who chooses to bank with us enables us to reinvest those profits back into the community we all share, strengthening the places, programs and opportunities that matter most.

On behalf of our team and the Community Bank Sarina Board, I wish you a safe, happy and refreshing holiday season. If 2026 is your year to set strong financial goals, visit us on Broad Street or call 4943 2634 - we’re here for you and here to stay.

Erin Ryley – Community Bank Sarina Manager

‍

The festive season often brings joy, connection and a chance to unwind.

Yet for some, this time of year can bring challenges, including emotional strain, financial pressures and relationship stress.

selectability Mackay and Sarina’s Regional Coordinator, Nicole Guzowski said with the holiday season fast approaching it was crucial to find support and meaningful connections.

“We know that the holiday season can be a tough time of year, but it’s really important to look after yourself and practice self-care,” said Nicole.

The selectability Mackay team has put together some simple but important self-care tips to help you navigate the holiday season.

Step away from social media: reducing comparisons to those online can increase meaningful connections.

Be kind to yourself: at such a hectic time of the year, remember to take time for yourself and rest to enjoy the season without burnout.

Be kind to others: spreading positive actions can enhance your mood and create a ripple effect on those around you.

Connect with your community: seek out community events and activities to build positive connections. selectability is running group programs that provide opportunities to meet new people, encourage connection, and learn new skills.

“Remembering to take care of yourself and reaching out to the appropriate support can reduce the risk of burnout,” said Nicole.

“Developing strong connections through social activities can also help towards reducing isolation during the season.

“A reminder to the community that selectability’s Clubhouse offers a diverse range of activities that allow recipients to foster friendships.

“There’s a line-up of activities to help recipients get into the festive spirit, such as Christmas crafts, singing group, and cooking to name just a few.

“We’ll be closed on the public holidays and running a reduced timetable from Monday 22 December 2025 until Monday 5 January 2026.

“If you’re looking for something to do over the holiday period, pop in and see the team.

“Support is available, whether you are on the NDIS or not.”

To find out more contact the team on 07 4864 3000 or pop into the Mental Health Hub at 21 River Street.

‍

Mackay region’s Mothers’ Union branch is stepping up to support local children living with domestic and family violence, launching a community push to place specialised books into libraries and support organisations across the region.

The initiative aligns with the global 16 Days of Activism, beginning 25 November, and will continue locally through to the end of the year as Mothers’ Union Mackay Region welcomes donations to expand the reach of the program.

The branch has already begun purchasing copies of This is Not Yours to Carry by Sarah Brown and Matt Brown – a children’s book for cycle breakers, to help children understand that the violence and anger in the home is not their fault. The resource is intended to provide practical support for children currently experiencing harm, while also helping to break the long-term cycle.

Mothers’ Union Mackay Region President Sheryl McAuley said the goal is to “get a copy of the book into every organisation that can benefit from it”.

“There are children in our community who are going to school each day carrying experiences no child should ever have to navigate,” Ms McAuley said.

“This book gives them language, reassurance and age-appropriate guidance so they know they are not alone.

“We believe early support is critical in keeping children safe now - and in helping prevent violence in the future.”

Ms McAuley said the project was a practical way for the community to participate in the fight against family violence.

“Awareness is important, but so is action.

“This is something tangible we can do right here in Mackay region to support our kids today.”

Distribution will include the six local public libraries, as well as organisations that assist those experiencing domestic and family violence. Mothers’ Union Mackay Region have Mackay Women’s Services, The Neighbourhood Hub, Broken Ballerina and Samaritan House Mackay on their list already, and are open to suggestions from the community for where else this resource would be useful for local kids.

Including postage, each book is $25. For more information or to donate, contact Mackay Anglican Cluster on 07 4957 3341 or email admin@mackayanglicans.org.au.

‍

Mothers' Union President Sheryl McAuley with children's book aimed at assisting children experiencing domestic violence. Photo supplied

‍

Queensland’s much-loved giant mud crab populations are thriving, with a major new study reaffirming the State Government’s commitment to maintaining a world-class and sustainable fisheries industry.

A recently completed study led by Queensland’s Department of Primary Industries (DPI) and co-funded by the Australian Government through the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation (FRDC) has confirmed that there is no current threat to the sustainability of the species. The research highlights the effectiveness of existing regulations, including the male-only harvest policy and the 15-centimetre legal minimum size limit.

The extensive project analysed approximately 20,000 giant mud crabs collected from across the state, using cutting-edge genetic techniques and satellite tagging to examine stock structure, monitor population health, and deepen the understanding of mud crab biology—particularly the spawning migration patterns of females.

DPI Principal Fisheries Scientist and lead researcher Dr Julie Robins said the findings provide strong scientific reassurance that Queensland’s management frameworks are successfully supporting healthy populations.

“Giant mud crabs are an iconic species and a vital part of Queensland’s fisheries, with our state accounting for 64% of Australia’s commercial harvest,” Dr Robins said.

“A significant success was the robust genetic analysis of the mud crab populations along the east coast and the Gulf of Carpentaria.

“Queensland’s male minimum legal-size limit ensures a proportion of mature males are available to reproduce and over 90% of females sampled were mated and getting ready to spawn. This means there’s no shortage of mature crabs to produce the next lot of offspring.”

Dr Robins said the research not only expanded scientific knowledge but also provided crucial biological reference points for future management.

“This study has added tremendous value to our collective knowledge and laid the groundwork for future discussions about mud crab management in Queensland,” she said.

"The collaborative nature of this project, working side-by-side with the commercial fishers, was invaluable. Their local knowledge was key to successfully gathering data on this iconic species."

As giant mud crabs remain a Queensland favourite—both commercially and recreationally—the study’s findings offer welcome confirmation that current sustainability measures are working, ensuring the species continues to flourish for generations to come.

‍

Dr Julie Robins with one of the 20,000 giant mud crabs measured during the study (Photo Supplied)

‍

At Let The Children Play Toyshop & Games Store

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas, and Let The Children Play Toyshop & Games Store is getting ready to jingle all the way into its biggest and brightest festive season yet. The whole community is invited to join the fun.

Proudly locally owned since 2013, the much-loved toyshop has become a cornerstone of Mackay’s festive season. Known not only for their quality products, but for their active involvement in the community, this year, the team is rolling out a Christmas calendar worthy of a fairy-tale finale.

This Friday, 12 December, the long-running tradition with the Mackay and District Holden and GM Club returns, bringing rumbling engines, beaming families, and one very special VIP!

Club members will escort Santa through the City Heart in classic style before he arrives at the toyshop at 6.30pm for a night of Christmas-themed games, giveaways, karaoke and photo ops.

It’s just one example of how the toyshop continues to champion community connection.

Recent highlights include A Very Merry Christmas Escape, a festive collaboration with Escape Rooms Mackay, which sold out so quickly that an Easter-themed version is already in the works. Year-round, the toyshop hosts activities that spotlight local groups and businesses, ensuring playtime strengthens the fabric of the region.

In-store, families can explore a range of toys, games and puzzles, for all creative minds, many of which can’t be found in big-box retailers, and with knowledgeable staff ready to help customers discover gifts that spark imagination. For those who prefer the online shopping experience, their webstore offers convenience, free local delivery and easy click-and-collect.

As Christmas approaches, the team extends a heartfelt thanks to the Mackay community for more than a decade of support. Because when locals shop local, the whole town stays bright, joyful and wonderfully full of play.

Pop into Let The Children Play Toyshop & Games Store today, or shop online at www.playmackay.com.au

‍

Councillor Namarca Corowa

When people ask how I ended up on council, I don’t really have a political story to give them.

My values weren’t formed in boardrooms or strategy sessions. I grew up at Slade Point in the 70s 80s and 90s, a family of 8 in a 2-bedroom house.  I grew up in a working-class family, so I understand what it’s like to struggle in our community. My values were shaped watching my parents go to work every day to make a living. We didn’t have everything, but what we had was everything to us and most of the time, that was each other. My values were also shaped in my adult working life, sitting with families, working in youth justice, listening and helping people break cycles instead of repeating them. Those experiences don’t make headlines, but they make leaders.

Before council, I spent years working with young people who had every reason to give up on themselves. I saw firsthand how identity isn’t built through lectures or labels, it’s built through the experience of being seen, respected and believed in. I worked with families trying to hold things together. I listened to mothers who didn’t want their children to follow the same path. I walked with men facing their own choices, deciding whether to finish the story differently than it began.

It doesn’t matter where you start, but it does matter how you finish. I’ve seen people rise from places others had written off. I’ve seen character revealed when someone takes responsibility for their own story. And I’ve seen communities heal when someone decides to finish differently than they began.

People started coming to me, not just for help with a situation, but to share ideas about the future. Every question was a sign. Every story was an invitation. And slowly, the work became bigger than a program, it became community leadership.

From youth justice, I moved into restorative practice, then to men’s programs, cultural education and local advocacy.  By the time someone asked me, “Have you ever thought about council?” it wasn’t a strange question. It felt like a natural step not a leap.

When I arrived at the council table, I didn’t arrive with a political agenda, I arrived with values formed by community; responsibility, belonging, second chances, accountability, cultural respect, identity, listening to understand.

So when decisions came across the table, when I saw agenda items, I also saw faces. When I saw statistics, I saw stories. I didn’t see a policy platform, I saw a place I love.

I want you to see some of what I see through my eyes: what it feels like to make decisions that affect real lives, how the smallest conversations can shape perspective, how every person contributes a piece to the bigger picture and how much wisdom sits quietly in our own community. Leadership isn’t telling people what to think - it’s showing what you’re learning, openly and honestly, so the journey is shared.

‍

Corrie Thompson is the founder of NQAIRS Group 100% Indigenous owned, Corrie created NQAIRS Group in 2016 in Mackay to help families find their missing family members and war graves from Boer War, World War 1 and 2 all over the world. Corrie has made his legacy to bring their spirits home to the families to put our Aussies heroes to rest through their dreamtime stories.

Corrie has worked as a genealogist for the Australian War Memorial for the Last Post Ceremonies and Corrie is a non- serving full member for Mackay RSL branch with his long family connection as his family members have served for Australian Imperial Force and the British Empire from the Boer War, WW1, WW2 and recent. Corrie’s family members have always served with all Australian Defense Forces from a Light Horseman to a Sergeant on the front line.

Corrie has been a great advocate for so many amazing Mackay and national non-profit (NFP) charities including Shed Happens, SIDs Foundation Queensland, Mackay RSL Branch, Sarina Fighters Association (The Den Mauy Thai), Heart Kids Mackay, Fighters Against Child Abuse, Ring Side Foundation and Equal Access for Autism.

In 2017 NQAIRS Group created North Queensland Memorial Service to assist with funeral homes mentoring them for Indigenous (Sorry Business) and Buddhist funerals.

Using NQMS slideshow video memorial service is for free for children’s funerals as well assisting where we can.

Corrie has been an ancestry investigator for ancestry tv programs here in Australia, England and New Zealand.

Corrie has been a massive advocate for Indigenous companies preforming Indigenous service and programs as there are companies out there who go under NFP for Indigenous programs, but they are non-Indigenous owned or non-Indigenous boards taking Indigenous grants and initiatives away from Indigenous companies and communities. (Black Cladding).

Services: Ancestry Genealogist, Funeral service tributes, Videography, Music film producer & editor and Indigenous business wraparound mentoring,

NQAIRS@outlook.com
0432500926

‍

5 Edible Native Plants for Your Garden

Australia is home to more than 700,000 native plant species, many of which can also be enjoyed as food. Known as bush foods, these plants have long been used by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people for nutrition, medicine, and cultural practices. Here are five edible natives that are both tasty and great for your garden.

1. Macadamia Nuts (Macadamia spp.)
   Native to the rainforests of northern New South Wales and southern Queensland, macadamia nuts are loved for their sweet, buttery flavour and health benefits. Aboriginal people traditionally used them for gifting and bartering, and native animals such as possums and cockatoos also enjoy them. Macadamia trees are hardy and can be grown in a range of soils, making them a practical choice for home gardens.
2. Riberry (Syzygium luehmannii)
   Riberries have a spicy, clove-like flavour and were a staple food for Aboriginal communities along the east coast. They can be eaten fresh or used in sauces, jams, and chutneys. In the garden, riberries make attractive ornamental trees, growing 8–10 metres tall in cultivation, and provide food for native birds like emus and figbirds.
3. Kangaroo Apple (Solanum aviculare)
   This small, round fruit has a juicy, sweet, and slightly tangy flavour with a hint of melon. Aboriginal women traditionally used the unripe fruit to make a medicinal drink. Ripe kangaroo apples are safe to eat raw or in salads, while green berries should be avoided as they are poisonous. The shrub also produces vibrant purple flowers and makes an attractive addition to backyards.
4. Lemon Myrtle (Backhousia citriodora)
   Lemon myrtle is prized for its citrusy flavour and fragrant leaves, which can be used to make tea, dressings, and sauces. Rich in essential oils and vitamin C, it has long been valued for its medicinal properties. This versatile plant can grow into a medium tree or be pruned to a shrub, and its flowers attract bees, nectar-eating birds, and butterflies.
5. Midyim/Midgen Berry (Austromyrtus dulcis)
   Midyim berries are small, white and purple-speckled fruits with a sweet-tart taste. Traditionally used for food and medicine, they are also enjoyed by native birds and lizards. The plant’s attractive foliage and coppery growing tips make it ideal for a low hedge or border, while the berries can be eaten fresh or used in desserts.

Try Them in Your Garden
These edible native plants offer unique flavours and health benefits while supporting local wildlife. If you have space, consider adding them to your garden – they provide food, attract pollinators, and bring a taste of the bush right to your backyard.

‍

Kangaroo Apple (Solanum aviculare) is one of several edible plants you can grow in your own backyard (Photo Supplied)

‍

When it comes to renovating a home, not every upgrade will deliver a return on investment. Whether you’re planning to sell soon or simply want to maximise your property’s potential, focusing on renovations that truly add value is key. Here are the top five renovations that can make a real difference.

Kitchen Upgrades

Often described as the heart of the home, the kitchen is one of the first spaces prospective buyers notice. Simple yet impactful improvements—such as modern cabinetry, updated bench tops, and energy-efficient appliances—can dramatically increase both appeal and value. Even small touches like new handles, a fresh splashback, or under-cabinet lighting can make a kitchen feel contemporary and inviting.

Bathroom Improvements

Bathrooms are another area where buyers tend to focus. Outdated fixtures or tired tiling can make even a well-maintained home feel dated. Installing new taps, vanities, and mirrors, along with updated lighting and flooring, can transform the space. For added value, consider creating a spa-like atmosphere with rainfall showerheads or a freestanding bath—luxury touches that stand out without requiring a full remodel.

Outdoor Spaces

Outdoor living has become increasingly important, especially as homeowners seek functional areas for entertaining or relaxation. Investing in a well-designed patio, deck, or landscaped garden can significantly boost appeal. Even small projects like a pergola, garden lighting, or a deck extension can make the property feel more spacious and inviting. Curb appeal, including fresh landscaping and a tidy exterior, also leaves a strong first impression.

Energy Efficiency Upgrades

Sustainable and energy-efficient features are becoming a major selling point. Installing solar panels, upgrading insulation, or replacing old windows with energy-efficient alternatives not only reduces utility costs but also enhances marketability. LED lighting, water-saving fixtures, and modern heating and cooling systems are practical improvements that buyers increasingly value.

Flooring and Paint

Sometimes, the most cost-effective renovations make the biggest difference. Fresh paint in neutral tones instantly brightens a home and creates a blank canvas for potential buyers. High-quality flooring—whether hardwood, engineered timber, or modern tiles—adds elegance and durability. Even replacing worn carpets with fresh, neutral flooring can significantly improve the perception of a property.

When considering renovations, it’s important to focus on upgrades that balance personal enjoyment with market appeal. Kitchens and bathrooms often yield the highest returns, while energy efficiency and outdoor spaces increasingly influence buyer decisions. Smaller, budget-friendly touches like fresh paint and flooring can complete the transformation, tying together the overall aesthetic.
Investing in the right renovations not only enhances your lifestyle but also ensures your property is well-positioned to attract buyers and achieve maximum value. Whether you’re preparing to sell or simply want a more enjoyable living space, strategic improvements can make all the difference.

‍

Last Friday, the Whitsunday Regional Council released a Request for Expressions of Interest (REOI) for the Build Whitsundays Water and Sewer Network program. The project promises to deliver essential trunk water and sewer infrastructure to key growth areas, enabling the development of more than 3,000 new homes over the next decade.

Mayor Ry Collins said the project represents one of the most important foundations for the Whitsundays’ future liveability, affordability and economic strength.

“This is a game-changer for our region,” Mayor Collins said.

“If we want more homes, more choice and more affordability for our families and future workforce, we have to build the infrastructure that makes that possible and Build Whitsundays delivers exactly that.”

“Council has been strongly advocating for housing-enabling works and is committed to delivering the right projects in the right places.

“We’ve fought hard to get this project moving, and Friday’s REOI release shows the momentum is real."

“This is about planning properly, delivering strategically and setting the Whitsundays up for long-term success,” Mayor Collins said.

“Our message to industry is that we’re open for business, and we want the best contractors to partner with us on this once-in-a-generation infrastructure build.”

Council invites suitably qualified contractors/suppliers to submit an EOI via VendorPanel. Those unable to attend in person can attend remotely via online Microsoft Teams. Please confirm your attendance via contracts@whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au no later than 12.00 pm (AEST), Friday, 5 December 2025. The terms and conditions of this REOI will apply to the Project Briefing, and any queries must be submitted via the forum within the Vendor Panel only.

Council encourages all prospective contractors and subcontractors to attend.

In addition to supporting housing development, the project also aims to stimulate work and employment across the region, allowing people to make a valuable contribution and give back to the community.

Mayor Collins said the momentum behind the project signals a strong forecast for 2026.

“It’s an exciting time to live, work and invest in the Whitsundays, and this project is one of the biggest catalysts for growth we’ll see in a generation.”

This project is proudly funded by the Queensland Government’s Residential Activation Fund.

‍

What 40 years of diving The Great Barrier Reef tells us

‍

By Ruth Puddefoot

Airlie Beach in 1979 was a raw, developing town, with unpaved roads and a social life centred on the Airlie Beach Hotel. Arriving in the area with a backpack strapped to his back, PADI Dive Instructor Tony Fontes, like many others, was looking forward to experiencing the Great Barrier Reef for the first time. Little did he know that first dive would change his life forever and lead to 40 years exploring the 2300km of reef available to him.

Over those 40 years, Tony has seen the impacts of environmental change on the reef, and he says that while a lot has changed over the decades, it has not always been for the better. “The health of the Reef has declined, primarily due to poor water quality, coastal development, poor and illegal fishing practices, and climate change. In the Whitsundays, this can be seen in reduced coral cover, increased algae, and poor visibility,” Tony reflected.

Sadly, according to Tony, the Great Barrier Reef has been no stranger to mass coral bleaching events caused by underwater heatwaves and has sadly suffered 6 mass bleaching events in the last nine years. “The immediate loss is healthy coral cover. But over time, there is a reduction in the overall biodiversity on the Reef. It can take years for a reef to recover from a serious bleaching event.”

“Unfortunately, as our oceans heat up, we can only expect more frequent bleaching events,” Tony added.

Despite this, Tony states that the Whitsundays itself has not suffered through a major bleaching event. While the reef in 2017 did suffer a very serious mass bleaching event that should have hit the Whitsundays, instead it received Cyclone Debbie, “which provided enough cloud cover and rain to reduce the water temperature and prevent serious bleaching.”

The local weather and changing conditions, which have led to, as Tony explains, “more intense rainfall and cyclones”, have meant that the infamous Cyclone Debbie, unfortunately, did have a detrimental impact on the reef’s health. While the Great Barrier Reef still hosts a vibrant underwater city for tourists to enjoy, sadly, some of the best dive and snorkel sites are “yet to fully recover,” Tony admits.

Part of being a diver is having a special responsibility to protect the marine world and the reef. For Tony, it’s about wanting to give back to the place that has been his home for the past four decades. Therefore, he has “built a reef protection module into all [of his] courses, particularly at the instructor level.”

“The modules are designed to increase one’s awareness as to the fragility of the Reef and how we can better protect it,” Tony emphasised.

Since the headlines have hit about mass bleaching and Cyclone Debbie, the tourism industry has still managed to thrive, with snorkelling to see some of what the Whitsundays have to offer being plentiful.

After years of exploring this submerged continent of biodiversity, Tony is now the President of the Whitsunday Conservation Council, where he continues to work hard to protect this underwater haven as the Reef Campaigner, focusing on fostering community awareness and education programs. This includes regular public presentations (Green Drinks), reef walking tours for kids and adults, and support for hard-working conservation groups like Eco Barge and Whitsunday Seagrass, alongside the occasional film night.

“We also advocate for better Reef protection, working with the council, state and federal governments. I have recently returned from a week in Canberra knocking on the doors of our Federal politicians to improve our current Nature Laws (which just passed),” Tony enthused.

So, do we still have time to save the reef? Tony's answer in short is “yes.”

“The future of the Reef is unknown, but it is also unwritten.” [CREATE JUMP OUT QUOTE]

“There is certainly an urgency but there is still time.”

“Climate change is the greatest threat facing the Reef. To rein in climate change will require a global response to reduce carbon emissions and move to renewable energy sources. Australia must lead the way.”

“But climate change is not the only threat. Poor water quality, coastal development and poor/illegal fishing practices are homegrown threats that reduce the resilience of the Reef. But boosting the Reef’s resilience, we can buy the time we need to stop the onslaught of climate change.”

‍

Tony Fontes has been diving the Great Barrier Reef for 40 years. Photo supplied.

‍

Hi Everyone,

With just a few weeks until Christmas — how are we all holding up!?

I honestly love this time of year: the build-up, the anticipation, the summer heat, the parties, the catch-ups, the gift-giving… all of it.

And then suddenly, like a balloon, something just pops and it all becomes a bit too much!

That’s exactly where I’m at right now — all the good vibes and happy moments have crescendo’d into overwhelm, and I’m simply taking it one day at a time while looking forward to that blissful, free week at Christmas.

Once a year our papers take a break, and it’s the one time I can fully let go, detach, and switch off. I love it so much.

Of course, it also means special family time, reconnecting, enjoying the slow pace, embracing that content, slightly lethargic feeling of having eaten too much, and indulging in those luxurious afternoon naps.

Whatever your festive season looks like this year, I hope you’re carving out a little calm in the chaos. I hope you’ve got friends and family close, and enough energy to get through the big day with a smile.

Here at the paper, we’re excited to capture all the festive moments for you — from the Airlie Beach Christmas Carols last Sunday to the Proserpine Twilight Markets on Friday. There are so many vibrant community events happening, so make sure you get out and enjoy them!

While you’re wandering around in the coming weeks, you might spot our new Cadet Journalist, Sebastian Conidi, out and about with his camera in hand.

Seb has just moved up from Melbourne and is new to the region, so if you see him around, please stop and say hello.

Welcome to the team, Seb — can’t wait to see you dive into local stories across this beautiful community.

Rach

‍