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Local tourism operators are expressing concern toward troubling times ahead, with the federal government’s new visa restrictions set to shrink the backpacker workforce that drives seasonal operations. The Federal Government’s proposed cuts to Working Holiday Visas have raised concerns across two of the Whitsundays’ biggest industries. Bowen farmers warned that fewer backpackers could leave crops unpicked, and now tourism leaders in Airlie Beach have added that the same cuts could leave local businesses scrambling to find workers that aren’t there. At Airlie Beach’s Heart of the Great Barrier Reef sign, Tourism Whitsundays CEO Tim Booth and Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins spoke about what the proposed changes could mean for a region that relies heavily on tourism. “We can't have Airlie Beach named Australia's top tourism town in the small category and then have the knees cut out from us by federal policy,” Tim said. The proposed changes form part of the Federal Government’s effort to reduce migration, a topic that has been of hot debate by all three parties that Mayor Ry Collins believes the working holiday visas should be separated from. “Obviously the federal government is really coming in with broad brushstrokes to try and address the publicly perceived issue around net overseas migration (NOM),” said Mayor Collins. “Some of the dialogue I heard last week in Canberra was actually taking that working holiday maker class completely out of the NOM calculation. “I think that's a fair and reasonable way that they can make the numbers look as good as they want but it won't affect the actual number of workers that are here to support our industries.” The new restrictions look to cut the second-year extension on Working Holiday Visas from 57,000 to 45,000 slots, and 3rd year extension from 31,000 to just 5,000. According to Tourism Whitsundays, the Whitsundays hosts about 3,500 backpacker workers at any given time of the year. “I think for regions like the Whitsunday’s unemployment rate is lower than the national average by 0.9%, so at a 3.5% unemployment rate, we just don't have the workforce there that can pick up these roles that the working holidaymaker delivers for our communities,” Tim said. According to figures released by Tourism Whitsundays, in the year ending March 2026, domestic visitors spent $959.1 million in the region and international visitors spent a further $271.8 million. This spending was made possible by the abundance of workers delivering those experiences. “[Working holidaymakers] do a terrific job already in delivering world-class experiences, particularly here in the Whitsundays,” said Mayor Collins. “We do see working holidaymakers really take up that mantle, particularly in areas like customer service roles, hospitality roles, housekeeping roles... “What we're asking for is that we can stay strong as an entire tourism industry.” Having just returned from Canberra, the pair said raising regional and statewide voices is crucial to persuading the Federal Government to reconsider how the proposed restrictions would apply. “And then at a federal level, obviously through our federal member Andrew Wilcox, but we've also engaged with the members of the Labor Party around that as well. “But unfortunately it's starting to feel like a number of issues that we're campaigning on…along with things like disaster recovery funding arrangements which was one we linked into last week.” Photo caption: Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins and CEO of Tourism Whitsundays, Tim Booth. Photo credit: Zach Houtenville
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In this world of AI and other technological advancements, you don’t want to be the person who wanders around the office like a big old clumsy Tyrannosaurus Rex bumping into all the youngsters and stepping on their laptops and other devices. It’s one of the challenges of our times; getting the balance right in business in a world that is increasingly controlled by AI, robotics and a rapidly changing IT environment. I remember, some years ago now, when older family members had refused to embrace computer technology and mobile phones etc. They were really left behind and felt excluded in a world that had moved ahead without them. I’ve got a 19-year-old son who doesn’t have to think about it. Current and evolving technology is part of his life and, like others in his age group, he is completely at ease with something that is just part of his make-up and comprehension of the world around him. The trap you can fall into is letting the kids do all the IT stuff for you. My son set up our old TV with all the streaming services etc, which was the easy option for me, but I find it’s important to get involved and do it yourself otherwise everything will move ahead and you won’t be able to do things for yourself. But I am still stuck in some of the old ways. If I am ordering a takeaway meal I still ring the restaurant and go and pick it up. The old T-Rex wanders into the Thai or Indian joint and picks up his plastic bag of goodies, pays, and drives home. There aren’t many of us left. Uber Eats baby. Everyone has embraced it. My wife and daughter were having dinner together in Brisbane recently and my daughter noticed that her stockings or tights had “run” or a ladder in them. My wife suggested she jump in the car and drive to a nearby supermarket and get another pair. But my daughter ordered a new pair to be delivered to the restaurant by Uber. They were there in a jiffy and the night continued without the pesky interruption of having to leave the restaurant to buy them. It’s a great example of the modern world making things easier and how many of us need to ensure we are adjusting and understanding how things can now be done. There is another side to the coin, however. People have told me that I should get AI to write my columns. They say I could give it some examples of columns I have written and give it an idea for a new column and tell it to knock out 600 words on my chosen topic in my style of writing. It’s something I would never do. Apart from the fact that it would somehow seem like I was cheating, it would also not be authentic. I feel that however boring or pedestrian my stories and comments are, at least they are mine. They have come from my noggin, my experiences. It is my take on the world, not something that has been cobbled together by artificial intelligence. It’s similar in the world of real estate and, I’m sure, business generally. You need to embrace the technology, use it when it creates a better service, a superior experience for buyers and a better result for sellers. But there is still a place for picking up the phone and calling buyers, following up from open homes, doing the hard work that needs to be done as an agent. In a world of AI, robotics and Uber Everything the human element, the person-to-person connection still needs to happen to deliver good service and create the best result for clients.
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Maisy is a beautiful little soul who seems to understand that the very best place in the world is right beside someone she loves. She is affectionate, gentle, social and wonderfully trusting. She loves curling up on a welcoming lap, snuggling into your arms and settling close enough to make you feel as though you have always belonged together. Maisy is generous with her purrs, her cuddles and her sweet little air biscuits. She even places her paw in your hand as if to say, “I choose you.” But this gorgeous girl is not only a champion snuggler. Maisy is playful, curious and full of kitten joy. She loves exploring her toys, chasing anything that moves and turning ordinary moments into entertainment. She will happily amuse herself, but everything is even more fun when her favourite person joins in. She has that perfect combination of affection and personality, soft and loving when it is time to cuddle, and playful and bright when it is time for fun. Maisy will bring warmth to your home, companionship to your days and a little paw to hold whenever you need it. If you are looking for a kitten who will play with you, curl up with you and love being part of your life, Maisy may be the girl you have been waiting for. Maisy has been desexed, microchipped, received her first vaccination, been wormed and is litter trained. She is ready to begin her beautiful new life as a much-loved indoor companion. To arrange a meet and greet with Maisy, please call Ros on 0403 814 318.
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Tarren McAuley, Web Director and Co-Owner I remember when those AI posters started popping up – the first one looked kinda different. By the end of the week, when I’d seen 30 of them, I was much less enamoured + actively scrolled past anything that had that telltale paint smear style font. It’s not that the quality had gotten any worse between me seeing that first one + when I was sick of them by the 30th. But it was no longer novel or original. I think AI is especially susceptible to this because as soon as someone discovers a winning formula, everyone else jumps on the bandwagon, but because everyone is getting similar outputs, it gets old – quick. I think brands can fall into a similar trap. Humans are always looking for inspiration + when seeking it out, where better to look than the other players in your field. If you’re a tech company, you’re going to look at Samsung, Apple + the like. But when that happens too much, you get a feedback loop of samey-ness. For me, this is best exemplified by airline logos. Look at Qantas + Virgin, probably the two biggest brands in Australia. Both use a red plane-like icon, w/ their logo in big letters next to it. Bit cherry picked but even the other big players’ logos are similar - Emirates uses mainly red + shakes it up by having a slightly more exotic font. Jetstar ditches the red for orange + has their icon at the end but it has similar visual markers. This isn’t unique to logos, like w/ the poster example earlier – it could be your social tiles, your website or even your company email sig. Whatever it is, if you wake up one day + notice that the other businesses around you are looking a bit too similar, that should be your sign to start looking at a rebrand to shake off the rust + re-establish your unique identity. You know, until the cycle repeats again!
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The winner this week is Elise Dunkis with this landscape of a windmill with the backdrop of a spectacular night sky, taken in South Australia.
Next week’s theme is Planet Earth: Landscapes, Oceans, Forests. Budding Photographers can enter by joining the Whitsunday’s Amateur Photographers group on Facebook.
Photos contributed by Whitsunday Amateur Photographers.
London Calling – The Ultimate British Rock Tribute is set to grace the Airlie Beach Hotel with a score of unforgettable tracks from wickedly talented performers. London Calling is a high energy tribute show celebrating the uncontested icons of British rock. From Queen to Led Zeppelin to Sting, the show promises top performances from seasoned musicians. These tribute performers aren’t just any set of musos, but rather experienced professionals with a wealth of great experience.
The show features Andy K as Sting – a leading tribute artist with performances across Berlin, Las Vegas and beyond.
There is also Michael Anderson as Robert Plant, a performer with over 20 years of global touring who has been described as near identical to the original Robert Plant in his heyday.
Finally, there is Fernando Castro as Freddie Mercury – the first Freddie tribute to have headlined the Las Vegas Strip with multiple residencies.
“I absolutely love Airlie Beach; it will be my second time here. This side of the world is fantastic”, said Fernando.
Despite a wealth of experience, the talented singer is always learning new things.
“You can never get complacent because it just breeds failure. I’m always trying to make each show better than the last.”
The group are excited to be back in Australia for a series of phenomenal shows.
“We’re happy to be back in Australia. We want to put on the best show we can.”
Musical highlights include timeless hits such as ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’, ‘Stairway to Heaven’, ‘Every Breath You Take’, ‘We Are the Champions’ and countless others.
Even though this act has previously been a high–end ticketed theatre show, Airlie Beach Hotel is pleased to be putting on 3 free shows, giving all music fans the chance to relish in the iconic rock soundscapes.
WHAT: London Calling – The Ultimate British Rock Show, 3 Free Shows
WHEN: Good Friday, Easter Saturday, Easter Sunday, 2pm-5.30pm
WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel
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Photo supplied
The community has been deeply saddened this month by the sudden passing of long-time local Nick Rorison, a man remembered for his kindness, integrity and enduring passion for flying.
Nick, aged 37, passed away unexpectedly on Monday 9th March. He is survived by his devoted wife Gyan, who shared a touching tribute to her husband.
“He was my love, my life and my person.
“I never ever thought I would be facing a life where he was not right there by my side, holding my hand, guiding and supporting me.
“We were each other’s biggest supporters and best friends. I am forever grateful for the 14 years we had together making memories, even though it will never be long enough.”
News of Nick’s passing has been met with an outpouring of grief and shock across the community, with many reflecting on the warmth, humour and unique spark that made him so memorable.
He was known as a genuine and compassionate person, always willing to listen and support those around him, leaving a lasting impression on all who knew him.
Family friend Mel Brookes shared a touching reflection.
“Nick was always so kind and loving to our boys, especially Reef in those younger days when he was so obsessed with his planes. He truly was his inspiration to love flying and one day be a pilot like him. So many memories airside, and so many with you both over the years. Sending you love.”
Nick’s love of aviation was well known throughout the region. From owning and operating Tiger Moth Whitsundays to his more recent work with CQ Adventure Flights, his presence in the skies was unmistakable.
Many locals will remember the sight of his plane looping gracefully above the Airlie Beach skyline, a reflection of both his skill and his adventurous spirit.
He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.
Nick’s funeral was held on Tuesday this week and a special memorial will be held at Whitsunday Coast Airport Shute Harbour on Tuesday 31st March at 2.30pm.
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1: Nick will be remembered for his humour, kindness and adventurous spirit
2: Nick and his wife beloved wife Gyan in happier times
3: Nick doing what he loved most, flying loops in his plane
Six-year-old Whitsundays pupil Titan wowed the team at Cruise Whitsundays after creating a gorgeous pastel drawing of their vessel, Seaflight, during art class.
His mum, Rachael, shared the image on social media, and the Cruise Whitsunday team soon responded with their appreciation.
Learning how much the crew loved the artwork, Titan kindly gifted them the original, which now hangs in the terminal office.
Cruise Whitsundays repaid this honour with an invitation for Titan and his family to experience the real Seaflight for themselves with a trip out to the reef pontoon.
Liza Muller, Sales & Marketing Manager at Cruise Whitsundays, said the interaction was a special reminder of the company’s connection to the local community.
“With multiple vessels crisscrossing the region every day, we’ve really become part of the landscape — something we’re incredibly proud of,” she said.
“To see that reflected through the eyes of a young local like Titan is so special. It’s amazing to see kids across the Whitsundays recognising and connecting with what we do.”
This good deed is a charming reminder of how special it is for young ones to be brought up in this corner of the world – and how sharing our passions can create connections, open opportunities and bring joy to the people around us.
Hi Everyone,
This week, our amazing team came together for our quarterly Team Connect - three days dedicated to reconnecting, realigning, and recharging. It’s always a highlight on our calendar, and this one certainly didn’t disappoint.
A big thank you to Judy Porter from Shiift, who led us through an insightful session, helping us better understand our individual personalities and how they all contribute to us coming together as a team.
In true celebratory style (and making up for a missed Christmas party!), we also took to the water aboard Viper for a day we won’t forget in a hurry. From the breathtaking beauty of Whitehaven Beach to snorkelling at Mantaray Bay - where we met resident Maori Wrasse, Gorgeous George - it was pure magic!
For some of our newer team members, it was their very first time experiencing the islands, while for others it was the first time they had snorkelled since a child.
Across the three days, each department rolled up their sleeves to help shape our mission, sharing the words that define who we are and what we stand for. It was incredibly rewarding to see so much overlap, with values like community, trust, positivity, adaptability, accountability, engagement, and fun rising to the top. It’s a reflection of a team that’s not only aligned, but genuinely passionate about what we do.
Of course, as luck would have it, while we were all off connecting, some major local events popped up! Our apologies to the Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Coexistance Queensland - we’re grateful to those who stepped in to capture moments so we could still share them with our readers in the paper this week.
Finally, on a more serious note, our thoughts are with two local families who have experienced sudden and tragic loss this week. News like this ripples through a community like ours, and we share in that grief alongside them.
Our prayers and thoughts are with you.
Rach
Quote of the Week: “When we understand that each day isn’t one more day, but one less, we start giving more value to what truly matters.” (Unknown)
Since 2009, Brad Sobott has proudly called the Whitsundays home, making the move from Sydney with his young family in search of a better lifestyle. What began as a temporary change soon became permanent, with Brad recognising the region as an ideal place to raise a family.
Over the years, he has become a familiar and respected figure in the community, contributing to local projects, supporting charity events, and sharing his extensive real estate expertise. With more than two decades of experience—including running his own agency—Brad brings a deep understanding of the market to every client interaction.
A skilled auctioneer as well as a sales specialist, Brad has conducted over 500 auctions across the region. Known for his professionalism and ability to achieve strong results, he is equally at ease negotiating privately or commanding the auction floor.
Brad believes that while experience is essential, the way clients are supported throughout the process matters just as much. He takes pride in providing a thoughtful, attentive service, ensuring each property journey is as smooth and positive as possible.
Though he has received numerous awards, Brad says his greatest achievement is the lasting relationships he has built with clients. For him, success is measured not just in results, but in trust, community connection, and the life he continues to build with his family in the Whitsundays.
Emily Neil has recently started with Tourism Whitsundays as a Marketing and Administration Assistant, where she supports the team across a mix of marketing and administrative tasks. Emily really enjoys learning the role and gaining a behind-the-scenes look at how Tourism Whitsundays bring the Whitsundays to life.
Having grown up in the Whitsundays and attending St Catherine’s Catholic College, Emily has been a local for over 10 years, so choosing to live and work here has always felt natural. It’s such a special place that combines a relaxed coastal lifestyle with incredible tourism opportunities, and she feels really lucky to call it home.
In her new role, Emily is most looking forward to building skills in marketing and helping promote the Whitsundays to a wider audience. She loves combining creativity with local knowledge to showcase what makes this region so unique.
One thing she thinks everyone should know about the Whitsundays is that it’s so much more than just a holiday destination. The Whitsundays is a vibrant, close-knit community full of hidden gems, and Emily loves sharing those local insights with new travelers.
Contributed with thanks Emily Neil, Marketing and Administration Assistant, Tourism Whitsundays.
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Emily Neil
Photo supplied
Cannonvale’s much-loved Easter Carnival is set to return in 2026, promising a vibrant afternoon of family fun, entertainment and community spirit.
The event will take place on Friday, 27 March from 5pm to 9pm at the Cannonvale State School oval, bringing together locals and visitors for an evening packed with activities for all ages.
This year’s carnival will feature a wide range of attractions, including rides, games, live entertainment, raffles and face painting, along with a special visit from the Easter Bunny. Families can enjoy interactive experiences such as the Cruise Whitsunday Treasure Hunt, while adults can unwind in the dedicated 18+ Pilchers bar area.
A variety of food stalls will also be on offer, including the popular cake stall and the Airlie Crane Hire food stall, serving up classic carnival favourites. Funds raised throughout the evening will go towards the installation of a new shade structure over the school playground, helping to keep students safe while they play year-round.
Entertainment will run throughout the evening, with live performers and an MC keeping the atmosphere lively. Visitors can also browse the craft stall, enjoy free professional face painting, and take part in raffles featuring prizes donated by local sponsors.
With free entry, attendees are encouraged to bring along their friends, family and festive spirit for what is shaping up to be a memorable community event.
Scan the bar code below to purchase your unlimited arm bands for the rides.
For more information, contact Sabrina on 0401 959 572.
What: Cannonvale’s Easter Carnival
Where: Cannonvale State School Oval
When: Friday, 27 March, 5pm to 9pm
To celebrate International Day of Storytelling, the Whitsundays Writers Festival is inviting writers of all levels to take part in a special Fast Fiction Competition — a creative challenge designed to spark imagination and celebrate the art of storytelling.
Writers are encouraged to craft an original story in 250 words or less, inspired by the prompt: Something unexpected washed ashore on Whitehaven Beach…
The competition is open now and closes at 11:59pm on Friday 3 April 2026, with entries submitted online via the festival website. Free to enter, participants can submit as many entries as they like, making it an accessible opportunity for both seasoned writers and newcomers to share their creativity.
The winning writer will receive a $100 cash prize, along with a free day pass to the 2026 Whitsundays Writers Festival — a chance to connect with fellow writers, readers, and literary voices from across the region.
Festival Director Richard Evans says the competition is designed to inspire and encourage storytelling in a fun, low-pressure way.
“This is about celebrating the power of stories in a place as inspiring as the Whitsundays,” he said. “We’re excited to see how writers interpret the prompt and bring the region to life in just 250 words.”
Aspiring entrants are encouraged to think creatively, embrace the spirit of the Whitsundays, and let their imagination lead the way.
When: 10:30am–4:30pm Sunday 13 September 2026
Where: Whitsunday Marine Club, 7 Altmann Ave, Airlie Beach
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Photo source: Shutterstock
Copper thieves who risk lives by cutting telecommunications and plunging deadly intersections into darkness could now face life in jail under proposed new legislation welcomed by Member for Burdekin Dale Last.
Public consultation has now opened as the Crisafulli Government works to tackle rising metal thefts, including copper wire, which have seen criminals not only endanger their lives, but the lives of others in the community.
Mr Last said the proposed legislation demonstrated how seriously the Crisafulli Government was taking the theft of copper wire.
“We’ve seen drivers forced to navigate pitch black intersections on some of the deadliest intersections of our highway while copper cabling has also been cut from emergency generators and telecommunications infrastructure in these despicable acts,” Mr Last said.
“Under the proposed legislation criminals who target essential key infrastructure where the life or health of a person is endangered or the conduct occurs during or in the lead-up to a natural disaster will face up to 25 years imprisonment.”
“As the Premier said earlier this year these are the lowest of acts and our government is taking action with penalties to reflect the seriousness of these crimes and the cost they impose to taxpayers to undertake repairs.”
Mr Last said following the introduction into parliament the proposed legislation was now up for consultation and encouraged anyone affected by these crimes to make their voices heard.
“As with any new legislation it’s important the mechanisms and outcomes achieve what our communities expect which is why we encourage anyone affected by these sorts of crimes to make their voices heard during the public consultation process.”
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Photo source: Facebook
At Collinsville State High School, students are proving that when it comes to education, bigger isn’t always better.
As the 2026 Student Council school president, Kodi Mackie says they are often asked whether attending a school with fewer than 150 students feels limiting. The answer is simple: the school’s size is not a barrier, but a launchpad.
Reflecting on her final year, Kodi offers one key piece of advice to fellow students—carpe diem, seize every opportunity. In larger schools, it can be easy to blend into the background, but in a smaller environment, students are encouraged to step forward and make the most of every chance presented to them.
From being named Best Public Speaker at the Lions Youth of the Year Zone Finals to earning a place on the QCE Student Reference Group, these achievements highlight how initiative and willingness can open doors, regardless of location.
Collinsville State High is also embracing innovation, with students participating in the Hydrogen
Horizon (H2GP) racing team, gaining hands-on experience with renewable energy technology while
competing against schools across Queensland.
Beyond the classroom, students are supported to explore a wide range of opportunities, including Student Council, the Noosa Film Academy, STEM Girls Camp, QMEA programs and International Women’s Day initiatives.
One standout achievement for Kodi is being selected for the 2026 Queensland Youth Parliament,
offering the chance to travel to Brisbane, develop leadership skills and debate legislation in a real
parliamentary setting.
As graduation approaches, Kodi's message is clear: geography does not define potential. At Collinsville State High, students aren’t just looking to the horizon—they’re already owning it.
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Founded in December 2024, Clean Sunnie is a Whitsundays-based cleaning and property care business built on a simple but powerful belief: premium results don’t require toxic shortcuts. Specialising in short-stay and Airbnb turnover cleans, residential cleaning, and commercial and workspace services, Clean Sunnie delivers high-end outcomes while prioritising people’s health and the environment.
Central to the business is the Five-Star Reset service — a premium short-stay clean that prepares properties to a hotel-level standard using eco-safe, non-toxic systems. Beyond cleaning, Clean Sunnie supports hosts with linen coordination, eco-conscious restocking, and an online retail range of sustainable products, with free local delivery across the Whitsundays for essential items.
Clean Sunnie was founded by Nadine Brown in response to a clear gap in the local market. Despite the Whitsundays’ global environmental significance, many cleaning practices still rely on harsh chemicals and single-use waste. With a background in health and environmental science, Nadine recognised an opportunity to challenge industry norms and demonstrate that sustainability and exceptional presentation can go hand in hand.
As expectations across tourism and accommodation continue to rise, guests and property owners are increasingly focused on indoor air quality, chemical exposure, waste reduction, and authenticity over greenwashing. This shift has driven strong demand for Clean Sunnie’s approach, where sustainability is embedded into systems, training, pricing, and service design — not added on as a marketing label.
Responding to this demand, Clean Sunnie is preparing to launch Sunnie Eco-Stays, an eco-focused co-hosting and short-stay management service designed to help owners operate high-performing, low-waste, non-toxic properties.
While scaling without compromising standards has been a key challenge, Clean Sunnie has met it through strong systems, clear processes, and pricing that supports fair wages and ethical operations. As a Chamber member, the business values opportunities to connect, collaborate, and help shape a more sustainable future for Whitsundays business and tourism.
Contributed with thanks to the Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry
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Grief is hard. Sorting the paperwork shouldn’t be.
When someone passes away, there are often legal and financial matters to manage: probate, transferring assets, dealing with the bank.
We’ll guide you through the process with care and clarity. We know you’ve got enough on your plate, so we focus on making things easier, not more complicated.
Whitsunday Law – Taking care of the legal, so you can take care of each other.
Are you feeling stuck? Evert client’s situation is unique. That’s why we take the time to understand your goals and provide tailored solutions that work for you.
Domenico (Bill) Fazio emigrated from Sicily in 1924 and settled in the North Queensland town of Silkwood where he had a blacksmith’s shop, before working for some time at the Ipswich Railway Department. When Bill came to Proserpine, he farmed in the Preston district for three years before taking over Perry and Co's blacksmithing business.
Bill and his first wife, Minnie, rented a house in Blair Street. Initially, he leased and later bought a block in Main Street from Mrs Daisy Biggs (near the present-day location of Fraser Ford). Working with Bill was his father, Mr Fazio Snr, a wheelwright by trade and possibly the only one in town at the time. Old Mr Fazio would make or repair wheels for cane truck carriers. Chiselled wooden spokes were placed onto curved wooden blocks and then a steel rim, heated in an open wood fire, was placed over the perimeter and burnt onto the wooden wheel. It was cooled with water as quickly as possible to shrink the steel and fix it tightly.
It was in the late 1940s/50s that Bill Fazio made a big impact in his trade in Proserpine. “The Difficult we do immediately The Impossible we take a little longer” said his advertisement but local farmers remember his humble comment when he finished a welding job ... "He no looka too good, but he plenty strong." Apparently, Bill wasn't the neatest welder in the business, but his welds always held!
His business went from strength to strength as reported by the “Guardian”: "Mr Fazio has made rapid advancement in his sphere of industry. Apart from the usual repair jobs associated with blacksmithing, he has branched out into the production of farm implements of his own design which secured a ready market among the farming community of Proserpine and throughout a wide area of North Queensland."
Bill won first prize at the Mackay show for both his wheel grubber and a double mouldboard plough with attached rake. He took the Fazio Grubber and Cultivator as far north as Ingham for demonstration purposes. Orders rolled in the only holdup being the shortage of steel at the time.
The “Proserpine Guardian” June 18, 1948 cited this letter –
"Dear Sir, The grubber which you made for me has given me entire satisfaction, having been in use for some time now. It is very strongly made and has stood all the tests that I have given it. 1 can strongly recommend it to anyone desirous of securing a good grubber. Yours faithfully, J Biggs, Lethebrook, Proserpine.
In the early stages of development of mechanical cane harvesters, Bill was involved with the manufacture of the Rolleston harvester which he exhibited at the Proserpine Show in 1951. The Rolleston was invented by Mackay cane farming brothers. A demonstration of Bill’s model was held on EO Dray's Waterson farm and generated a lot of interest but advancing technology soon surpassed it and expectations were left unfulfilled.
Bill’s wife Minnie had died in 1954 aged 55. He married a second time and had three children Mario, Cristina and Agata. The Fazios would often visit the Vitanza family at their Myrtle Creek farm and when Vitanzas moved to town in 1952, their daughter, Lucy Zamparutti (Marano) would do the book-keeping for Bill. Such was their friendship that Antonio Vitanza and Bill bought a cane and dairy farm at Maryborough in the early sixties.
After many years in Proserpine, the Fazios left the area and settled on the farm in Maryborough. Their eldest child, Mario, still resides in the district. The Vitanza family remained in the district, farming in the Conway area though Antonio and son, Joe, often visited.
Story and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum. Thanks also to Tony Vitanza for his recollections.
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