Reflecting On 2025 And Looking To The Future

Collinsville Neighbourhood Centre had an incredibly busy 2025, filled with numerous achievements and spectacular highlights.

The centre reported over 7000 youth attendances at the Collinsville Youth Coalition for regular weekly trading and community events. The coalition also received over $25,000 in successful grants and sponsorships for equipment and enrichment programs thanks to contributions from GLENCORE, QCOAL Foundation, QLD COUNTRY BANK & AURIZON.

Many valuable community events were hosted over the course of the year, such as the Australia Day Awards and Ceremony, ANZAC Day Dawn and Morning Services and CYC Christmas Carnival.

There was no shortage of holiday programs and workshops, with over 20 being delivered, covering a vast area, from art roller discos to mental health awareness and kindness campaigns. Some of these programs included the Skateboard Workshop, Clay Day, Candle Making, Paints and Shakes, Music Bingo, Friday Night Teen Free Feeds, Basketball Competition, and Air Hockey Competition.

The Community Centre has supported various charities, local schools, and community groups, facilitating essential service visits, sports resources and promotion of tourist businesses.

With such an extensive organisation of activities and support of facilities, the Collinsville Neighbourhood Centre looks towards a bright future with great anticipation. The team have some great activities planned for 2026.

The centre continues to strive to bring ease and togetherness to the community.

2025 saw record attendances, and therefore the Collinsville Neighbourhood Centre looks forward to the adventures ahead in 2026.

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Photos supplied

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Bowen police are investigating an incident in which a counterfeit $100 note was allegedly presented at a local business on Richmond Road. The transaction reportedly occurred at around 11am on the 5th of January.

Staff at the business became concerned the note was not genuine and promptly contacted police. Officers attended the scene and seized the counterfeit currency.

Authorities are asking anyone with information about the individual involved - pictured in the released image - to come forward, as they may be able to assist with the investigation. Police are also urging local businesses to remain vigilant when handling cash and to report any suspected counterfeit currency immediately.

Counterfeit notes can appear genuine at a quick glance, but there are tell-tale signs to watch for:

• The word “props” written in the corner
• Illegible text
• Notes that feel unusually smooth and do not return to shape when scrunched
• Low-quality printing when examined closely

A full guide to detecting counterfeit money is available on the Reserve Bank of Australia’s website.

If you suspect you have received a counterfeit note, police advise handling it as little as possible and storing it in an envelope. Any relevant details about the transaction should be recorded, such as the person’s description, vehicle registration, or mobile number. The matter should then be reported immediately to police via Policelink using the online suspicious activity form. Information can also be provided anonymously to Crime Stoppers by calling 1800 333 000 or submitting details online.

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By Sebastian Conidi and Daniel Heggie

Severe weather warnings of heavy rainfall and damaging weather winds evolved overnight into news of a cyclone, as the Whitsundays was impacted by its first extreme weather event of 2026.

Beginning with a severe weather warning Friday morning due to a tropical low in the Coral Sea, by Saturday afternoon the public were advised to take shelter and secure their properties as Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji approached the area. Koji reached category two strength whilst offshore and weakened as it approached the North Tropical Coast. Even with the downgrade, the effects of the extreme weather event were felt.

As the cyclone approached, warnings were issued by government bodies on multiple social media platforms as well as text being sent from +61 444 444 444, the emergency alert number advising everyone to take shelter. Sandbags were made available for residents in low-lying or flood prone areas and could be accessed at pickup locations across Proserpine, Canonvale, Bowen and Collinsville. By Saturday night the cyclone approached with wind gusts of up to 130 kilometers an hour and was downgraded to a category one weather system as it hit the coast.

By Sunday morning, as the supportive phone lines were activated, the damage was clear.

Boats were destroyed as they got swept up in the wind or crashed against rocks. Intense rainfall resulted in flash flooding, causing multiple roads and highways to be closed. In the aftermath, fallen trees obstructed various paths whilst potholes created difficult driving conditions.

As people lost their livelihoods whether it was damage to homes or complete wreckage of boats, the community came together without hesitation to offer support to whoever needed it; collecting debris and providing whatever aid necessary. The overwhelming aid response served as a testament to the Whitsundays community, highlighting the positive group action that arises when people are in need.

The event highlighted the unpredictability of the North Queensland wet season and demonstrated the importance of remaining vigilant during this time of the year.

Whitsunday Life has compiled a detailed timeline and extensive reporting on the event, tracking the effects of Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji across the region, including critical alerts, emergency actions, and major developments from Saturday to Tuesday.

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Timeline of Events of Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji

Friday, the 9th of January
A Severe Weather Warning was issued at 10:56am for the Whitsundays region, advising that a tropical low in the Coral Sea was expected to impact parts of Queensland later that day and across the weekend, bringing heavy to locally intense rainfall and damaging winds. Residents were advised to expect hazardous conditions through to Sunday.

A Tropical Cyclone Watch was in place from Tully to Airlie Beach, with a Tropical Cyclone Warning active further north.

At 4:55pm, a further Severe Weather Warning was issued for heavy to locally intense rainfall and damaging winds, with authorities warning of the potential for dangerous and life-threatening flash flooding.

Saturday, the 10th of January
At midday, an Advice-level warning was issued for the Whitsunday Local Government Area. Tropical Low 12U was developing slowly as it moved toward the North Queensland coast, with Bowen, Proserpine and Airlie Beach within the warning zone. Very strong winds and heavy rainfall were possible, with flooding risks identified in some locations. Residents were advised to secure loose items around their properties.

At 4:18pm, residents in low-lying or flood-prone areas were urged to prepare sandbags ahead of forecast heavy rainfall, with collection points established across Proserpine, Cannonvale, Bowen and Collinsville.

At 4:36pm, a Watch and Act warning was issued as Tropical Low 12U moved closer to the coast and was deemed likely to intensify into a tropical cyclone later that afternoon. Bowen, Proserpine and the Whitsunday Islands were included in the warning zone, and residents were urged to take shelter.
At 6:07pm, an Emergency Alert message was issued from the national emergency number +61 444 444 444, advising that the Whitsunday region would be affected by Tropical Cyclone Koji, with destructive winds likely. Residents were instructed to prepare to take shelter immediately, warn neighbours and secure belongings. A similar message was issued again around 8pm.

At 7:48pm, an Emergency-level warning was issued advising residents to TAKE SHELTER NOW, as Tropical Cyclone Koji approached the coast with destructive wind gusts of up to 130km/h.

Sunday, the 11th of January
At 8:24am, the Whitsunday Disaster Coordination Centre phone line was activated, providing the community with a direct point of contact to report issues and access updated information as conditions evolved.

At 8:45am, the Bruce Highway was closed near Merinda, north of Bowen, due to floodwaters. Motorists were advised to avoid the area and seek alternative routes.

By 11:42am, Tropical Cyclone Koji had crossed the coast between Ayr and Bowen and weakened below tropical cyclone intensity. Despite the downgrade, heavy rainfall continued between Ayr and Mackay, while strong winds persisted along coastal areas, including the Whitsundays.

At 12:08pm, advice to continue monitoring conditions was issued as heavy rainfall and strong winds remained across the region.

In the aftermath, multiple vessels were washed ashore across the Whitsundays, with several sustaining significant damage.

Throughout the afternoon, Hamilton Plains–Shute Harbour Road and sections of the Bruce Highway near Georgia Plains were closed due to hazardous conditions.

Monday, the 12th of January
At midday, the Whitsunday Disaster Management Group transitioned to Stand Down, activating recovery groups and response activities for impacted communities. All ongoing warnings for the region were lifted.

Tuesday, the 13th of January
Although some motorists reported limited access the previous day, the Bruce Highway was officially reopened at 7:16pm. Travellers were advised that some areas remained subject to flooding, with large potholes identified near Marlborough and sections of the roadway in poor condition.

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As Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji Makes Landfall

On Saturday, the 10th of January the Whitsunday Disaster Management Group issued a TAKE SHELTER NOW warning.

"Tropical Cyclone Koji is approaching the coast with the Whitsunday Region in the warning zone. Destructive wind gusts up to 130km/h, heavy to locally intense rainfall, and dangerous flash flooding are possible," said a Whitsunday Disaster Management Group spokesperson.

Whilst the system was downgraded Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said it is critical to never underestimate weather systems, but it’s just as important to stay calm and informed.

"Conditions can change quickly, and even downgraded systems can still bring heavy rainfall, flooding and damaging impacts," said Mayor Collins.

"Council plans conservatively and focuses on clear, measured communication so the community can prepare without panic because being informed and ready is always better than being caught off guard."

The Whitsundays Region experienced localised flooding, minor damage to council assets including fallen trees, debris and park infrastructure.

Mayor Ry Collins said there was no major damage widespread damage and he said this is thanks to early preparation, fast response and strong community cooperation.

"Council began preparations early, activating the Whitsunday Disaster Management Group and moving to Stand Up to coordinate planning and response," he said.

"A key focus was ensuring our community was informed, prepared and not alarmed, with clear messaging throughout the event. Crews secured assets, cleared drainage where possible, staged equipment and ensured the Local Disaster Coordination Centre was fully operational. That early, measured approach made a real difference and helped keep impacts manageable."

Communication was also a priority for the Whitsunday Disaster Management Group.

"The Whitsunday Disaster Dashboard [was] used as the primary source of truth for the community. This was supported through the Local Disaster Management Group, chaired by the Mayor, along with direct SMS alerts to residents, Council social media, website updates, media alerts and engagement through our disaster networks.

"All messaging was aligned with Bureau of Meteorology advice and updated as conditions changed, ensuring residents had reliable, consistent and trusted information throughout the event.

"I also want to sincerely thank our emergency services, first responders, SES, Council crews and partner agencies for their tireless work which played a key role in keeping impacts manageable across the Whitsundays."

Clean Up
Council crews are continuing clean-up efforts across the region following the recent severe weather, with teams focusing on public parks, beaches, roadsides and other Council-managed land.

Parks and works staff have been removing fallen trees, branches and storm debris from public areas to restore access and ensure safety for residents and visitors. Council has acknowledged some community confusion around the activity and has clarified that while crews are active in public spaces, residential green waste collections from private properties or nature strips are not being undertaken at this time.

To assist households with their own clean-up, Council is offering free green waste disposal at its waste facilities. Residents are encouraged to safely manage and transport their own green waste to these sites while recovery works continue.

Council has also advised that processing of green waste will take place at the Cannonvale Transfer Station from Wednesday, January 14. The required machinery will be operating on site during normal opening hours, and visitors are asked to be patient and follow the directions of site operators while works are underway.

Council thanked residents for their patience and cooperation as crews prioritise safety, the repair of damaged public assets and the reopening of key access points across the region.

Business As Usual
Whitsunday businesses thankfully face minimal damage during Ex-Tropical Cyclone and Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry want to hear about your impact.

With a short survey, Chamber will capture the effects of the cyclone on business operations, revenue, staffing, and recovery outlook. The insights gathered will be used to inform advocacy efforts, support requests, and discussions around recovery measures and future preparedness.

All responses are confidential and reported in aggregate only.

Take a few minutes to complete the survey by Friday 30 January and help advocate effectively on behalf of the Whitsundays business community. Contact Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry for more information.

Recovery
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins says ongoing recovery efforts remain the top priority following Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji, as Council continues to assess damage across the region and work with the State Government to secure the support needed moving forward.

Mayor Collins said Council teams are currently focused on clean-up works, repairing damaged assets and ensuring recovery assistance is available where it is needed most.

On Monday, the 12th of January Queensland Premier David Crisafulli visited the region and provided an important opportunity to highlight local impacts firsthand and discuss recovery needs directly.

“Today’s visit by QLD Premier David Crisafulli gave us the opportunity to walk through local impacts firsthand, talk directly about recovery needs, and ensure the right support is in place for the Whitsundays moving forward," he said.

Mayor Collins said communication between Council and the State Government was consistent and collaborative both in the lead-up to the weather event and throughout Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji.

“There was regular, open communication throughout the event,” he said.

"Council provided situation updates, preparedness actions and emerging impacts through district disaster briefings, while also participating in State Disaster Coordination Centre briefings."

He said the State Government provided guidance, coordination support and reassurance that assistance would be available if required, allowing Council to focus on local response efforts.

"I’ve officially decreed that we’ve had enough weather events for the season but jokes aside, the message is still to stay prepared. Know your risk, have a household plan, prepare an emergency kit, secure loose items around your property and stay informed through official channels."

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New Year, New Focus for Whitsunday Businesses

from Chamber President Allan Milostic

As businesses reopen following the impacts of Cyclone Koji, it’s been encouraging to see the strength of our Whitsunday business community once again on display. We know the impacts haven’t been the same for everyone, and cyclone events are a reminder of how important preparedness and community support really are.

As the new year begins, many businesses across the Whitsundays are returning with renewed energy and fresh goals. The start of the year is an ideal time to pause, reflect, and set clear, practical resolutions that support long-term success.

One of the most valuable resolutions a business can make is to review what worked well in the past year and identify where improvements can be made. This might include refining operations, strengthening financial planning, or investing time in staff development. Even small adjustments can have a meaningful impact over the year ahead.

Another important focus for 2026 is connection. Strong relationships – with customers, suppliers, industry peers, and the wider community – continue to underpin resilient businesses. Participating in networking opportunities, collaborating with other local organisations, and staying informed about regional initiatives all help businesses remain adaptable in a changing environment.

Preparedness is also key. Taking time early in the year to update business plans, review risk management and insurance arrangements, and plan for seasonal impacts can reduce pressure later on. A proactive approach allows businesses to respond with confidence when challenges arise.
Finally, supporting local remains one of the most powerful resolutions we can all commit to. Choosing local suppliers and services strengthens our regional economy and helps ensure the Whitsundays continues to thrive.

The Chamber looks forward to working alongside businesses throughout the year ahead. Thank you to our local businesses, teams, and customers for looking out for one another. By supporting local and checking in on each other, we’ll continue moving forward together.

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Managing growth without losing our Whitsunday lifestyle

Growth is coming to the Whitsundays. This is not a prediction, it’s already happening and the challenge for Council isn’t whether we grow, but how we manage that growth while protecting what makes this region special in the first place.

People don’t move here just for a house. They move here for the lifestyle because of our beaches, our open spaces, our relaxed pace, and the sense of community that still exists in our towns. Preserving that while planning for the future is one of Council’s biggest responsibilities.

Good planning isn’t about stopping growth, it’s about shaping it. Making sure new development respects local character, protects important natural areas, and doesn’t overwhelm existing communities. That means thinking carefully about where growth happens, what infrastructure is needed, and how communities are supported as they change.

It also means planning for the people who keep our region running like families, workers, volunteers and small business owners. Growth brings opportunity, but it also brings pressure on housing, roads, services and community facilities. Council’s role is to look ahead and make sure those pressures are addressed early, not after problems appear.

Protecting our lifestyle isn’t just about the environment although that’s critical. It’s also about liveability. Access to parks, safe streets, community facilities, and places where people can gather and feel connected. These are the things that turn a fast-growing region into a strong one.

I understand that growth can make people uneasy. Change often does. But growth, done well, can strengthen communities rather than dilute them. It can bring better facilities, more jobs, and improved services if it’s guided by clear values and long-term thinking.

Council’s job is to strike that balance: welcoming new people while looking after those who already call the Whitsundays home. Protecting what we love, while planning responsibly for the future.

That balance won’t always be perfect, but it will always be the goal.

In my next column, I’ll share why Council spends so much time advocating to State and Federal governments and why some funding battles are worth fighting for our communities.

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Following ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji, Council has conducted inspections of all stinger nets across our beaches. Wilson Beach’s enclosure is intact, while Boathaven Beach, Cannonvale Beach and Dingo Beach stinger nets require remedial works and further checks before public use.

For safer swimming, enjoy free entry to Council’s aquatic facilities, including Airlie Beach Lagoon, and the Proserpine, Bowen and Collinsville Swimming Pools and Water Parks.

If residents choose to swim in the ocean, a stinger suit is highly recommended during our stinger season, which runs from November to May every year.

Visit Council’s website or Facebook page for updates on all Council facilities following the recent weather events.

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Proserpine Lions Club will be hosting the Youth of the Year program once again. This is a special program dedicated to celebrating all the talent that the youth of Proserpine have to offer. The competition was initiated by the local lions cub to foster leadership and public speaking skills in young Australians. This year will mark the 61st Anniversary of Lions Youth of the Year which started in Brisbane in 1964.

Students are required to be between the ages of 15 and 19 at the time of the national final, and must have attended secondary school that year. The main focus of the program is to help students develop confidence in their ability to communicate with community leaders and present themselves so that they can excel in any field of interest. As students are about to enter employment or higher education, the program can help to hone their skills so that they are adequately prepared for whatever challenge they may face.

There are numerous benefits to entering the Youth of the Year program. These include friendship, networking as well as the consolidation of skills in public speaking and interviewing. The program has demonstrated results, with many students reporting how they learned to negotiate complicated environments such as school processes, university application interviews and post-graduate situations.

The Youth of the Year program is only possible through community support. The team is assisted by dedicated volunteer judges and organisations who facilitate the space for the events to occur.

Each school is blessed to have a mentoring teacher who assists students with application forms, practices impromptu speeches, prepares the 5-minute speeches and helps get participants ready for their interviews.

"The Proserpine community has a generous heart, especially for youth programs", remarked program chair Jane.

Mrs Erin Jarred had admirably served this role for several years and will now hand over the role to Mr Scott Casey, another talented individual with a background in debating.

"The youths are absolutely amazing, and they boggle me every single year," said Jane.

"They have beautiful manners, they chat and make eye contact, they recognise us in the street and say hello afterwards. Their speeches both prepared and impromptu are sensational and the amount of work that they quietly do in the impromptu community gives you faith that the world is in very good hands."

The public speaking final will be held on Wednesday the 18th of February at the Whitsunday Activity Leisure Centre.

2026 will no doubt usher in a new pool of immense youth talent, so the community should be excited to see what our young residents of the region have to offer.

A great thanks to all members of the community who lend their support to this very special occasion. It is clear that 2026 will mark another great Youth of the Year program.

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2025's competition was a wonderful success! Photo source: Proserpine Lions Club

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As Queensland enters disaster season, driver trainers and motorcycle rider trainers are being encouraged to keep their professional credentials easily accessible, with accreditations now available through the Queensland Digital Licence app.

The Queensland Digital Licence app already supports digital driver licences, recreational marine licences and photo identification cards, and has been adopted by more than 1.2 million Queenslanders. Around 1,000 new users continue to sign up each day, highlighting growing confidence in digital credentials as a reliable alternative to physical cards.

Additional transport accreditations are expected to be added to the app in 2026, further expanding its usefulness for professionals who need quick, secure access to their credentials.

The app now allows accredited trainers to securely store their licences in one place, removing the need to carry physical cards that can be lost, damaged or left behind during severe weather events or emergency situations. With more Queenslanders relying on digital access during floods, cyclones and other disruptions, having credentials available on a mobile device provides an added layer of convenience and peace of mind.

Driver trainer and motorcycle rider trainer accreditations are the latest additions to the Queensland Digital Licence app, following the successful integration of Queensland Building and Construction Commission licences. The expansion continues the move toward providing practical, digital access to essential government services when they are needed most.

Trainer accreditations stored in the app are protected by industry-leading security measures designed to safeguard personal information and reduce the risk of identity theft or fraud. Users can also quickly check the status of their licence, including whether it is active, nearing renewal or expired, without the need to access separate systems or paperwork.

For learner drivers and riders, the app also offers reassurance, allowing credentials to be verified quickly and easily. This is particularly important during disaster recovery periods, when training and transport services may be operating under increased pressure.

With disaster season underway, the Queensland Digital Licence app offers a practical way for trainers and other licence holders to stay prepared, connected and credential-ready, no matter the conditions.

For more information on digital credentials, visit qld.gov.au/digitallicence.

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The credentials available on the Digital Licence app are: driver licence, photo identification card/Adult Proof-of-Age card, recreational marine licence, driver and rider trainer industry authority, and QBCC licences. Photo supplied

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There’s plenty happening across the Whitsundays, with local tourism operators rolling out fresh ideas and new experiences that make visiting our patch of Queensland even better.

Daydream Island Resort and Living Reef has launched a new Adventure Package for guests keen to get out and about. It blends island accommodation with curated activities, perfect for those who want a little more action alongside their reef and relaxation time.

Out on the water, there’s plenty to celebrate. Portland Roads Sailing the Whitsundays is heading into 2026 under the leadership of Josh, a Marine Biologist, Master Reef Guide, Master V Skipper and Master Diver. Josh brings a strong focus on stewardship, continuing the Tomorrow’s Reef Today initiative and sharing deeper connections to Ancient Ngaro Sea Country, reef science and conservation. Whitsunday Escape is also growing its fleet, giving guests even more ways to explore the islands. A new Leopard 40 launches in September 2025, followed by an Aquila 44 in December, with a Lagoon 42 and another Leopard joining the fleet in April 2026.

Getting around the region has also become easier. Heart of Reef Car Rental has realigned pricing, with vehicles now available from as little as $99 per day and expanded its fleet to include new people movers for families and larger groups. Over at Heart of Reef Shuttles, guests will spot newly upgraded, modern buses on the road, offering a more comfortable ride. The team has also introduced Custom Day Trips, allowing groups to design their own day out with private transfers and local know how.

It’s great to see our local businesses stepping up with new ideas and initiatives, giving everyone even more reason to get out and enjoy The Whitsundays.

Contributed with thanks to Rosanagh Gallivan, PR & Social Media Manager, Tourism Whitsundays

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Sarah Hannington Compton

It is often said that behind every successful man stands a good woman. From the early years of settlement, women were playing a major role in the development of the shire, not only in their traditional roles as wives and mothers but as active and essential members of the farming and business communities.

One such woman was Sarah Hannington Compton.

Born in Lambeth, Surrey, England on the 17th of October, 1870, she was the eldest of Sarah and John lllidge Gray's fifteen children. The family migrated to Australia on the ship “Macquarie” in 1889.

Sarah's sister, Miriam, had married and her husband was working on Havilah Station near Bowen. While visiting them, Sarah met her future husband, John Compton, who also worked there. John and Sarah married in Bowen in 1893. They had six children. Sadly, their first child died at nine years old.

In the first years of married life, they travelled around the Bowen district while John, a proficient carpenter, built homes and stockyards.

In 1895, they took up Block No. 3 on Glen Isla Estate, growing sugar cane in anticipation of Proserpine's Central Sugar Mill which opened in 1897. Until their home was built, they lived in a humpy with a grass roof. It was cool but there were plenty of snakes. Living conditions were poor, so a couple of years later, with their young family, they moved to another farm, Fern Hill, at Mt Julian.

John Compton was one of Proserpine's representatives on the Bowen-Proserpine Tramway Joint Board. He also agitated for Proserpine to become a shire separate from Bowen's Wangaratta Shire. In March of 1910, this dream was realised, and John was elected first Chairman of Proserpine's Shire Council. As Chairman’s wife, Sarah provided strong support to John throughout his time in office. In 1912, she was given the honour of opening the McGregor Bridge at Taylor's Crossing, Glen Isla.

After selling their Mt Julian farm in 1915, they built a home on Auburn, their town cane farm located where Edward Street is now situated. Sarah and family were then very involved in Presbyterian Church activities. Sarah was also an active member of Proserpine Hospital Ladies' Guild.

In 1920, the Comptons were once again on the move, selling their farm and buying another, Yelvertoft, at Mackay corner, Proserpine. Then followed a short residence in Warwick before they returned to Proserpine in 1922, living in a home on their land in the Herbert/Main Street area. In 1923, John once again caught the pioneering bug and cleared land for farming at Lethebrook where he built yet another home. Sarah continued to immerse herself in local activities.

When John Compton died in 1932, Sarah remained on the farm with the help of son, Alex. When he married and left in 1939, she hired a manager until 1949, when she sold the farm to the Pratt family, moving to a new home in Herbert Street. Sarah managed on rental income earned from five houses that had been built on Compton land by O H Gray and sons, circa 1938. She supervised these tenants. As was a common practice for widows in years gone by, she rented part of her home to young married couples; sometimes, taking in young men as boarders; usually bank workers.

Throughout this time, Sarah continued to attend the Presbyterian Church and crafted many items to sell at their functions. She was also active in CWA and Red Cross.

At 94, Sarah had a serious fall and was admitted to hospital. Unfortunately, she suffered memory loss, however she lived on to almost 103 years, becoming Proserpine's first centenarian.

Naming Sarah Compton Lane on former Compton land was fitting acknowledgment of Sarah’s contribution to her community.

Story and photo courtesy of Proserpine Historical Museum.

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The Stylist Airlie Beach

Despite being in business for just over three months, The Stylist Airlie Beach has been making a name for themselves.

Husband and wife duo Amanda and Dexter Greyvensteyn noticed a gap in the market and Amanda's keen eye, exceptional attention to detail, and love for interior design made it an obvious decision.

"I thought there must be demand for it," exclaimed Amanda.

"So I made a couple of phone calls to a few of real estate agents, and they said, 'Yes, there is definitely a market for property staging in Airlie Beach'."

The Stylist Airlie Beach focuses on making homes look spectacular for sale, and Amanda said she likes to think of it as part of the marketing strategy for selling your house.

"We present your property in the best way that it can be presented," she said.

"So when people walk into the homes they fall in love with the house and can see themselves living there. When more people are attracted to the property it creates more competition within buyers."

Most importantly it makes viewers feel an emotional connection to the home.

"I go by the motto of first impressions matter," said Amanda.

"I think it's very important that when somebody does walk into that house, they fall in love straight away, they want to buy it, and so they put their best offer in and hopefully gets the seller the best price they can achieve."

The Stylist Airlie Beach have various packages ranging from a one-bedroom, one-bathroom apartment to large four-to-five bedroom homes. Amanda and Dexter provide a complete end-to-end staging service, including furniture selection, delivery, installation and styling. After the sale, all items are professionally removed, leaving no work for the seller.

They prioritise all areas of the home and source everything, artwork, furniture, and outdoor living too.

Amanda acknowledges that some sellers may initially be deterred by the cost but explains that staging does not usually require an upfront payment. In many cases, real estate agencies allow the cost of staging to be paid from the settlement proceeds once the property has sold, offering a stage now, pay later option.

Since starting last October The Stylist Airlie Beach has received great reviews with Amanda noting that numerous clients comment "I'm so glad I've done this" and "I don't want to sell my house anymore." Reviews that are a testament to the hard work, love and care that Amanda and Dexter have for their business.

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Amanda and Greyvensteyn style your homes ready for sale. Photo supplied

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Role: Skipper

Skipper David Sautret says a lifetime on the water has taught him that sailing is as much about character as it is about skill.

David, from near Bordeaux in southwest France, has been sailing for 26 years and is responsible for every aspect of the Yacht Club Punta del Este vessel and crew.

“It’s complicated, I am responsible for everything,” he said.

"From the boat being on-course, off-course, boat safety, crew safety. So everything that's that's happening on-board is under my responsibility. It has to be monitored by myself."

David has been sailing for over two decades and says it's the freedom and challenge that holds his interest.

“It’s the only thing I keep on doing through the years,” he said.

“I love the freedom it gives you, to be in the middle of nowhere, in the middle of the ocean, confronting yourself to nature and the elements.”

His path to the Clipper Race began unexpectedly in 2023 while training in the UK. He recalls being astonished by the number of boats, the training and the organisation.

David said he was so impressed he applied for the race but he just missed the cut off, so he considered his application was an early application for the next bi-annual race.

Reflecting on the race so far, David described it as “good and bad, but at least it’s an adventure”.

Despite challenges he said recent strong results had lifted the team.

We scored a lot of points in the in the last two races. We are coming back in the overall ranking. So I'm pretty happy about that."

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David Sautret is Skipper onboard the Yacht Club Punta del Este. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Role: 1st Mate

Though hailing from Cork in Ireland, the Clipper Race is the most amount of travelling first-mate Lorraine O’Hanlan has done in her life. Discovering an interest in sailing in her early 20s, Lorraine is clearly very passionate about getting out onto the water, having participated in last the race as well as the current one. The prior race was her first time ocean sailing.

“I love ocean racing; I like the big long distances”.

Despite the brief experience, Lorraine clearly possesses insightful knowledge into how races are one and lost.

“You can fall behind, but because they’re such long races you can fight and come back up. If you fall behind it’s usually because you haven’t had a good 24 hours, maybe your speeds haven’t been great, maybe your sail plan hasn’t been as good for the conditions you have compared to other boats. In another 24 hours with a better sailing plan, superior speeds and current, you can start knocking miles off.”

As the first mate, she has the role of assisting the skipper and crew, “you’re almost like the second in command.”

Above all, Lorraine most enjoys the direction and sense of purpose that sailing gives.

“It’s almost like a simple world. You have one objective which is to make the boat go as fast as it can. Regardless of the weather it’s always this amazing environment, it really puts everything in perspective.”

With the team achieving their first podium position in the race, Lorraine hopes to find similar success with the subsequent legs of the race.

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