Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
OPINION PIECE from the office of Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox There is no question that immigration into Australia is out of control. The government’s numbers are too high, and standards are too low. A sustainable migration program must consider our capacity to provide housing, healthcare, infrastructure and the essential services everyone relies on, and Australians must come first. But Labor’s decision to target Working Holiday Makers Visa holders is not the answer. These people filling vital gaps in our workforce are not the cause of Australia’s housing crisis. In many cases, they are living in accommodation provided by the very businesses that employ them. The National Farmers’ Federation has made the point that Working Holiday Makers generally stay in hostels, caravan parks or purpose-built on-farm accommodation. Resorts usually have on-site staff quarters. They are not the source of Australia’s housing shortage. So why is Labor making it harder for them to come here, when these workers fill genuine jobs that regional Australia holds? Working Holiday Makers fill approximately one in seven farm jobs nationally and are particularly important during peak agricultural periods, which for Dawson, it is right now! Farmers rely on these workers to plant, pick, pack and harvest the produce that ends up on Australian supermarket shelves. Having run one of Australia’s largest tomato farms, at times Working Holiday Makers made up more than 50 per cent of my workforce. Without them, much of our crop simply would not have been picked in time and rotted in the paddock. Some may say, why not employ the Australians who don’t have a job and are on “the dole”? Can I say, this does not work. Most farmers will employ Aussies over travelling backpackers, but many either don’t want to do the work or don’t turn up after the first day. Who picks the fruit or veggies then? Farmers are already warning that visa delays are leaving them without workers. The NFF says approvals that once took days are now facing processing times of up to three months, and this time frame can be the difference between harvesting a crop or losing it. That should concern every Australian already feeling the pressure at the supermarket checkout. The same problem is playing out in tourism. Across Dawson, Working Holiday Makers are an important part of the workforce supporting tourism and hospitality, particularly in the Whitsundays. They help fill shifts, work in hotels and restaurants, support tour operators and keep businesses running through their busiest periods. They also contribute to the local economy. They spend money on food, fuel, attractions and tours, supporting the small businesses that depend on a strong visitor economy. That is why tourism and business leaders across North Queensland are raising the alarm. They understand what happens when a regional business cannot get enough staff: opening hours are reduced, and services are cut, creating a downward spiral. We do need to reduce migration to sustainable levels. We need stronger integrity measures, and we need to crack down on rorts. But responsible migration policy means understanding which parts of the system are creating pressure and which parts are helping Australia function. Working Holiday Makers are not the problem. They are part of the workforce solution for regional. Australia. People have had a gutful of watching their standard of living go backwards. Groceries, fuel, housing and everyday expenses are already putting enormous pressure on families. The last thing Australians need is another reckless policy that makes it harder to produce food, harder to run regional businesses and harder for tourism operators to find the workers they need.
Read the full storySomeone sold a house in Sydney last week for $9 million less than they bought it for four or five years ago. The sellers had bought the property in Sydney’s eastern suburbs for $29 million and sold it for $20 million in a sale forced by their bank. I imagine the sellers are a little disappointed by the government’s decisions on negative gearing and capital gains tax and feeling pretty hurt by the increased interest rates. Australia’s interest rates are on the rise and are now sitting at levels not seen since 2011. Increased cost of living is hurting people around the country and interest rates are playing into that. But the impact of interest rates is not felt evenly around the country. The far-higher property prices mean people in the major cities suffer much more than regional areas with the rates increase. That is certainly not to say people in Mackay are unaffected by the cost of living; it’s just that the impact of interest rates increase on a $400,000 mortgage is much less than the impact on a $1m mortgage. There are other Mackay-specific factors that are in play when discussing the current housing market. The big factor is the role of coal in our economy. Most of the coal extracted and exported from our region is coking coal, which is used to make steel. The price of coking coal is around $280 a tonne, which is about 50 per cent up. Good activity in the coal market translates to good news for the Mackay economy, as it is an economic engine that other cities and regions just don’t have. Good activity in Bowen Basin flows throughout the Mackay economy; Paget workshops, transport, suppliers and related businesses all benefit. But so do other, non-mining-related businesses as they benefit from the general confidence and spending that goes on. The strong mining activity also means mines need to keep their staff levels up and that means more people moving to Mackay. Of course, Mackay is much more than a coal mining town but if the coal sector is going well those other areas definitely benefit. It is a confidence boost for Mackay people looking to get into the housing market and those wanting to upgrade or downsize. It also means continuing strong demand from people wanting to rent a property and it will be interesting to see what sort of activity that creates from investors. Investors have walked away from the big-city markets because they can no longer use negative gearing on established properties that do not have a sufficient yield to be positively geared. Negative gearing has never been a big thing in Mackay because our prices are lower and rental returns continue to be strong so many investors have a positively geared property. Around the country everyone is nervous about the state of play and the probability of more interest rate rises. But strong coal prices and an economy that is performing well mean Mackay might just be presenting an opportunity for buyers and sellers that doesn’t exist in other parts. I remember when national confidence was flying high and Mackay prices were going up significantly that many buyers were saying “I wish we had bought a while ago when the market wasn’t so hot”. I’m not armed with a crystal ball so I’m not here to tell you what is going to happen but I suspect there is a very good buying window right now for those looking for an opportunity.
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A local Mackay and Sarina based model has created a dress out of newspapers, including Mackay Life, for her upcoming pageant, representing her region and hometown on the runway as she vies for Miss Diamond International in Brisbane. Zoe Place will be competing this weekend in the three-day event, beginning this Friday 2nd October and ending on Sunday 4th October. The young model spent around a month creating her eco-fashion outfit, using old newspapers as the main material and transforming them into a bodice, skirt and flowers. Red elements were also incorporated into the design to give the dress a bold and glamorous pageant feel. Zoe said, “The entire concept was really about taking something that would normally be thrown away and turning it into something beautiful and meaningful.” Her eco-fashion creation will form part of a busy weekend in Brisbane, with the Miss Diamond International event including photo shoots, interviews, an eco-fashion show and the final pageant. Zoe has been preparing for the event by practising her strut and walking, preparing for interviews and getting comfortable in the different outfits she will wear throughout the weekend. Alongside her love of modelling, pageantry has also provided Zoe with a platform to raise awareness about causes close to her heart, including mental health, while fundraising for Beyond Blue. “Pageantry has given me more of a platform to combine my love for modelling with something that is really important to me.” “When I first started, I was more nervous about putting myself out there and worried about what others would think about me – but I’ve changed a lot through my journey in pageantry.” “Pageantry has also taught me that it’s not about how you look on stage. It’s about the person you are when you step off it.” “Every woman has their own unique journey and that journey is something we should all be really proud of.” “To me, it represents confidence, empowerment, kindness, and using your voice to make a difference.” Zoe said she was looking forward to meeting the other contestants, making new connections and creating memories. “I’m definitely looking forward to meeting all the new contestants and making new connections and creating memories that I will carry with me for a lifetime.” While Zoe hopes to eventually move to the city, her sights are set even further afield, with a dream of one day walking in New York Fashion Week. Mackay and Sarina local Zoe Place has created an eco-fashion dress from recycled newspapers, including Mackay Life, ahead of her Miss Diamond International pageant in Brisbane. Photos supplied
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Trends, reels and the endless cycle of always wanting more has quietly bombarded the minds of countless social media users of all ages, but one former Mackay local has made it her mission to help others understand the effects of social media and find practical ways to break free from online addiction. Alexis Zahner is in Mackay over the next week to teach upcoming generations about social media and the effects it can have on the mind, particularly on identity, self-discovery, as well as the marketing strategies that get viewers hooked and influence their decisions. It is something Alexis knows first-hand can be a useful tool, but also a great disruption to authenticity and the world as we see and experience it. Alexis will hold a free meet and greet and book launch today, Friday 2nd October, at 5.30pm at the Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club, where she will give a talk and answer questions relating to her debut book, Real: Reconnecting to Yourself in a World of Likes and Lies. A former Mackay girl, Alexis spent the past 15 years working across business psychology, marketing and media, with her interest in social media influence beginning during her university studies at James Cook University in Townsville. Her own experience as a social media user, travel blogger and influencer eventually led her to question how much of her identity, decisions and values were being shaped by what she saw online. “The tipping point came for me about 3 years ago when I had this feeling that I couldn't separate influence from my own personal decision making,” she said. “I couldn't separate my own likes, dislikes, values, relationships from what I was being exposed to and being influenced by online.” “I found that I needed to take some time away from social media to recalibrate what was important to me and sort of reconnect and come back to myself.” Alexis said she understood the feeling of questioning who you are outside of social media. “I know what it feels like to live a life under the influence of social media and have that existential crisis of thinking to yourself, who am I? What do I like? What's the kind of life I want to live? and struggling to separate myself from influence.” Alexis is particularly passionate about reaching teenagers, who she says are in an important stage of identity development, and will share this message with Mackay high school students during her upcoming school talks. “Teenagers are really easily influenced by social media. So it's a really important age where we start educating them – not just on the mental health repercussions of things like social media and how it shortens their attention span, but how it actually influences who they become.” “If you're asking yourself these questions, it's not your fault. Social media is actually geared to create this impact on you.” Alexis encourages people of all ages to “start expanding beyond what you see on the platform.” “Dare to indulge in the things that you've always been curious about or things you used to love,” she said. “Don't be afraid to put the phone down to let yourself be curious and have fun.” What: Alexis Zahner's 'Real' Book launch When: 5.30pm Friday 2nd October 2026 Where: Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club Former Mackay local and author Alexis Zahner is returning home to share her experiences with social media and her debut book, Real. Photo supplied
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The Great Barrier Reef is the largest coral reef system on Earth and one of Australia’s most iconic natural wonders. Stretching for more than 2,300 kilometres along the Queensland coast, it supports thousands of species of fish, corals, molluscs and other marine life. Yet alongside rising ocean temperatures, another invisible threat is increasingly affecting the Reef — ocean acidification.
Ocean acidification occurs when the ocean absorbs carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the atmosphere. The world’s oceans absorb roughly one-third of the CO₂ released by human activities such as burning fossil fuels and deforestation. When CO₂ dissolves in seawater it forms carbonic acid, which lowers the water’s pH and alters ocean chemistry. Since the beginning of the industrial revolution, the average acidity of surface ocean waters has roughly increased by 30%.
It is worth noting that even slight shifts in ocean chemistry can have major consequences for marine organisms.
Corals, the foundation of the Great Barrier Reef ecosystem, are particularly vulnerable. Reef-building corals construct their skeletons from calcium carbonate, a mineral formed using carbonate ions dissolved in seawater. As ocean acidity increases, the availability of these carbonate ions decreases. This makes it more difficult for corals to build and maintain their skeletons, slowing growth and weakening reef structures.
Scientists have already observed declining calcification rates in many reefs. Research suggests that coral calcification across the Great Barrier Reef may have dropped by roughly 15–20% since 1990. Slower growth means reefs recover more slowly from disturbances such as storms, bleaching events or outbreaks of coral-eating crown-of-thorns starfish.
Ocean acidification can also cause existing coral skeletons to dissolve more easily. In more acidic conditions, calcium carbonate becomes less stable, which can lead to erosion of reef structures over time. This weakens the physical framework that supports the entire ecosystem.
The impacts extend beyond corals themselves. Many other reef organisms — including shellfish, plankton and coralline algae — rely on calcium carbonate to form shells or skeletons. Increased acidity can reduce their growth, survival and reproductive success.
Despite these challenges, scientists emphasize that the future of the Great Barrier Reef is not yet sealed. Reducing carbon dioxide emissions remains the most important step in slowing ocean acidification. This means moving away from fossil fuels and transitioning to renewable energy as quickly as possible.
At the same time, local conservation efforts — such as improving water quality, managing fisheries, and protecting vulnerable reef areas — can help strengthen the Reef’s resilience.
The Great Barrier Reef has survived dramatic environmental changes over millions of years. However, the rapid pace of modern climate change and ocean acidification presents an unprecedented challenge. Protecting this remarkable ecosystem will require both global climate action and continued efforts to safeguard the reef locally, ensuring that future generations can continue to marvel at one of the world’s greatest natural treasures.
Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Conservation Group.
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Healthy reef
Photo supplied
This week’s newsletter ends on the Ides of March, and with no Julius Caesar in sight, it was all great news!
Starting with Tuesday the 10th, first place went to skipper John Brown, ably assisted by lead Ian Passfield, who is improving with every game, and second David Bradley, who also played well as part of a strong team effort. Second place went to the team led by skipper Tony Whitehorn with Sue Dakin, who, as a rookie, is practicing hard and developing into a classy player for our little club.
Wednesday afternoon’s Social Bowls was arranged by big John Askew after illness sidelined Mervyn Stewart. The biggest winning team of the day was led by Tony Whitehorn with lead Keith Bates and second Rene Thommen, another impressive new bowler who is improving at a rapid rate.
Wednesday night’s Business House Bowls, organised by Yvonne Spees with husband Bob Spees, saw Team Girl Power claim their sixth straight win, taking them to 18 points. Four teams remain on 14 points, with all games very close—often decided by just a single point. With all 12 teams still in contention, any team could take the title.
The Men’s and Ladies’ Singles competitions are progressing well, with results to be published next week.
No Scroungers were played this weekend due to 14 teams competing in the Mixed Pairs. By Sunday morning, four teams remained: Joan McGrath with Peter Barrett versus Margo Stanley and John Fielding; and Tony Whitehorn and Betty Whitehorn against Bobby Spees and Ladda Purdie.
Sunday afternoon’s final was contested between John Fielding and Margo Stanley and the pair of Bobby Spees and Ladda Purdie. To everyone’s surprise, it was Ladda—who had spent the past two years nursing her husband Bruce Purdie before he sadly succumbed to diabetes—and Bobby, who had been suffering from a severe bout of vertigo and was close to withdrawing, who triumphed. A wonderful win against all odds, and they are this week’s featured photo.
Sunday afternoon also saw 20 bowlers take part in social bowls. Bar manager Fiona Greener threw the dice, awarding five points for each winning team plus one point for every end won. The winning team, with 18 points, was led by skipper Dennis Donadelli, ably assisted by Lyn Graham.
Second place went to the capable team of Andy McDougall with lead Alan Pershouse on 17 points. Third place went to the team of Mark Mawson with second Gail Simms and lead Liz McManus on 15 points, rounding out a fantastic afternoon of action.
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Bob Spees and Ladda Purdie after their win in the Mixed Pairs
Photo supplied
In the vibrant real estate landscape of the Whitsundays, Melinda Butcher has built a reputation as a trusted and energetic property specialist who combines professional expertise with genuine local insight.
Known for her down-to-earth nature and friendly approach, Melinda brings enthusiasm and determination to every property journey. As a devoted mother of two and long-time local, she understands the lifestyle that makes the Whitsundays such a special place to call home. Having experienced both coastal living and larger acreage properties herself, she offers clients a practical, firsthand perspective on the region’s diverse property opportunities.
Melinda’s career spans more than two decades in leadership and sales roles, where she developed a strong customer-focused philosophy that continues to shape her work in real estate today. Her approach centres on building lasting relationships, ensuring that every client feels supported, informed and confident throughout the process.
“Real estate is more than just a transaction,” Melinda says. “It’s a journey that can be emotional, personal and incredibly rewarding.”
With that philosophy at the heart of her work, Melinda strives to bring trust, transparency and professionalism to every step — whether she’s helping a family find their dream home, guiding a seller through the market, or welcoming newcomers to the Whitsundays community.
Her strong work ethic, local knowledge and commitment to achieving results have quickly made her a valued resource for buyers and sellers across the region.
For Melinda, real estate isn’t just about property — it’s about people, community and helping others find their place in one of Queensland’s most beautiful coastal regions.
World Storytelling Day, observed on 20 March, celebrates the threads that hold families together: our stories. Stories of what people valued, how they coped in hard times, what made them laugh, who they loved, why they made certain decisions, and the lessons life taught them.
This day is also a reminder to act while we still can.
Dementia is one of the most significant health challenges facing Australia. According to Dementia Australia, around 446,500 Australians are currently living with dementia, and the number is expected to rise. For many families, dementia brings an extra layer of grief because it can take away a person’s ability to recall and share their own life story.
I understand this personally. My dad lives with dementia, and there is a particular kind of sadness that comes with it. It is the feeling of, “We missed it.” We missed the opportunity to sit down, ask the right questions, and capture his life story while his memory was still there.
Memory loss is often gradual. Over time, whole chapters can become difficult to access, and families are left with unanswered questions.
Many people plan to write things down “one day”. The problem is that “one day” might be too late.
Writing a life story is one of the most practical ways to preserve what matters. It captures the voice and personality of the person, their version of events, and the context that brings family photos to life. For children and grandchildren, it can become a source of comfort and connection for decades.
Writing your life story can begin with a few simple conversations and a handful of questions: Where did you grow up? What was school like? What work did you do? Who were your closest people? What tested you? What are you proud of? What do you hope your family understands about your life?
One memory often leads to another. As people talk, stories return. Details emerge and the shape of a life becomes clear.
World Storytelling Day is a reminder, and it is also an invitation. If there is someone in your life whose story you value, begin now.
Contributed with thanks to Natalie Stockdale – Airlie Beach Author
This weeks poem was submitted by Amelia Rutley. If you’re interested submit your poem to sebastian@lifepublishinggroup.com
She surrendered
To the slowness, to the simple
To the shuffling of priorities and the shifting of goalposts
To being at the bottom of the list with her partner.
And maybe the dog.
To scooters ridden down hallways
To catch ups at playgrounds and fragments of conversations
To sticky banana good morning kisses and soggy breadcrumbs underfoot
To crayon boxes beside dinner plates
To Disney soundtracks on repeat
To late nights, early mornings and 2am stumbles down hallways.
She surrendered.
Because to fight it would mean to be drowned by it.
And so she was swept up in the tides of change, of mess, of chaos, of love and of life.
And the sands shifted below her and the waves ebbed and flowed and crashed and calmed
around her.
Until one day she found she could stand again
In waters that felt new, but familiar at the same time.
She breathed in her surroundings - soaking in the sunlight, drinking in the details, stretching
into her space
And she lived.
Bowen musician Natalie June has released her new single ‘Ticket to Paradise’, now available on streaming services such as Spotify and Apple Music.
Natalie got her start performing shows in and around town.
“I didn’t have a lot of confidence to pursue music at first. It was just something I did quietly at home,” she said.
“Then, in the last couple of years, I started going to open mics at the Yacht Club and got more comfortable performing in front of people.”
Since then, Natalie has had opportunities to support local and touring festivals.
“Those opportunities were what really inspired me to start recording music.”
Natalie recorded all the instruments herself, using a laptop and interface. With the new release – inspired by the likes of Lana Del Ray and Nora Jones – a music video was filmed in Greys Bay with some of it also captured at Rose Bay, showing off the natural beauty of the region.
The song focuses on inner happiness and belonging. Head to YouTube to see the ‘Ticket to Paradise’ video and get a glimpse of Bowen’s great foreshores.
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Photo source: Facebook
Welcome back to the creative corner. I just want to start by saying how much I appreciate the poetry submissions. In the first few weeks it seemed like it wasn’t going to work but now my inbox is flooded and I couldn’t be more excited to share people’s poetry across the region. Keep sending it in!!
I’ve decided recently that I want to read more Australian books and watch more Australian cinema. As a country that imports a lot of media and culture from overseas (mainly the US and UK), we risk losing our own sense of self by refusing to engage with our own stories. Consuming Australian-made media, and promoting its creation, allows us to better understand Australian identity and politics. It can open discussions and help people reflect on what it means to live in this country.
I recently watched ‘The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert’ (1994), an absolute classic. Some of my favourite Australian films would have to be ‘Wake in Fright’ (1971), ‘Picnic at Hanging Rock’ (1975) and ‘Muriel’s Wedding’ (1994).
I’m currently reading ‘Cloudstreet’ by Tim Winton which I borrowed from the library and it’s absolutely incredible. His work easily rivals that of the greats on an international stage. More Australian authors I’d like to check out are Patrick White, Christos Tsolkias, Helen Garner, Richard Flanagan and Peter Carey.
Consider what your favourite piece of Australian media is.
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Thirty-five years ago, on March 19, 1991, the Proserpine Dam was opened by Premier Wayne Goss. Three months later, the public was treated to a gala day to celebrate its completion. For years, the district had endured severe flooding and this dam promised and delivered relief from these regular and often devastating occurrences.
Debate over the importance of a dam on the Proserpine River had a long history dating back to 1939 when the Chamber of Commerce first approached council to gain urgent consideration to provide a town water supply. Cost estimates proved too big a project for Council. It wasn’t until October 1946 that approval was given for a loan to allow the long-awaited water supply to become a reality. In 1947, damage from heavy rains which caused infrastructure and food shortages, was further proof of the need for a dam on the river.
But progress was slow. Despite numerous floods that underscored the community's vulnerability, the decision to construct the dam remained contentious. Decades of advocacy for town water supply continued, even after a fire in 1949 destroyed Main Street. It took another thirty-four years before the Shire Council was able to draw the government’s attention to the urgency of this matter. The pivotal moment came in 1983 when National Party member Mr. Geoff Muntz championed the cause and successfully initiated the dam's construction, marking a decisive step toward securing the region's future water supply and flood protection.
Approval for the dam was received in January 1985 followed by establishment of the dam village in 1986. Thiess Contractors Pty Ltd led the main embankment, spillway, and tower bridge construction, with local businesses handling walkways, shelter sheds, and barbecues. Additional project contributors included Kalanda Constructions, Transfield Corporation (Qld) Pty Ltd, VSL Prestressing (Aust) Pty Ltd, and the Water Resources Board.
The dam's construction was not without challenges. On December 13, 1988, floods destroyed infrastructure and trapped three Queensland Water Resources workers. On December 24, 1989, John Coutts was fatally struck by a reversing front-end loader. He was wearing ear plugs and apparently did not hear the huge machine approaching.
Almost five years after construction began, the $50 million dam was completed by Christmas 1990. It was expected to take several years to fill but Cyclone Joy moved in on Christmas Eve and three months later Lake Proserpine was 98% full, providing a magnificent site. It had already proved its value by saving Proserpine from potentially disastrous flooding during the wet season of 1990 – 1991 when the area received two years of annual rainfall in two months.
It would be another twenty years before the first overflow which occurred in late December 2010; a source of great relief after it had fallen to its lowest level of 10.7% in 2007. There were further overflows in March 2012 and then March 2013 and now, in March 2026, water is once again spilling over the dam wall.
The Peter Faust Dam was so named in recognition of Mr Peter Faust who, as Chairman of the Shire for over fifteen years, was instrumental in securing government support for its construction. Furthermore, about 15000 acres of land had been resumed from the Faust family’s Proserpine Station for the lake which would be formed by the dam.
Today, residents and visitors enjoy the many benefits of this dam which provides mitigation from flooding; an invaluable irrigation source for farmers; a reliable water supply for residents from Midge Point to Bowen and out to the islands; and a popular recreational facility.
Peter Faust Dam continues to be “a dam good story” …
Story and photo courtesy of Proserpine Historical Society. Information sourced from the PHMS publication, “A Dam Good Story”
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This week’s theme was In My Town, and the winner is Alissa Tomlinson with this gorgeous photo taken at serene Hydeaway Bay.
This week is free choice, with members invited to submit on any topic that inspires them.
Photos supplied by Whitsunday Amateur Photography group on Facebook.
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On Sunday 15th March, the Whitsunday Lions Club hosted the Youth of the Year Zone Final at Whitsunday Sailing Club. It was tough competition between Isaih Howell (Bowen State High School), Kodie Mackie (Collinsville State High School), Sophie Morgan (St Catherine’s Catholic College) and Tiarne Watson (Proserpine State High School). Despite great performance on everyone’s part, Kodie Mackie took away the public speaking prize and Tiarne Watson won overall. Congratulations to all who participated and everyone who helped organised. The next round will be the District Final which will be hosted by Townsville Mt Stuart Lions Club on Saturday 28th March.
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Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi
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Queenie is a small Kelpie cross with a gentle nature who is searching for a calm home where she can continue learning that the world is a safe place.
At around two years old, Queenie has already shown how resilient she can be. While she is still nervous, she is steadily improving in foster care and beginning to trust the people around her. With time and patience, she forms a loyal bond with those who care for her.
Rescuers describe Queenie as sensitive and gentle, with a medium energy level. Because she can be shy, she would suit a quiet household where owners are willing to give her the time and stability she needs to adjust. Secure fencing is required. She is reported to be suitable with children, while her compatibility with cats is currently unknown.
Her veterinary care is fully up to date. Queenie has been vaccinated, desexed and has completed her council transfer.
The rescue operates as a foster-based organisation rather than a traditional shelter, meaning animals are cared for in private homes until they are adopted. This allows dogs like Queenie to begin building confidence in a home environment while they wait for their permanent family.
Queenie’s adoption fee is $400. Interested? Send a message with your name and phone number to Bowen-Collinsville Pet Rescue Inc.
Photo source: Facebook
For nearly two decades, the Geed Up Band has been proving that entertainment doesn’t always have to be polished, predictable, or even remotely sensible to be unforgettable. In fact, their latest production proudly embraces the opposite philosophy. Returning this March with two free performances, the group promises audiences a show that is louder, sillier, and - by their own admission - even worse than the last one.
And that’s exactly why people love it.
The self-proclaimed ‘worst show ever’ will take the stage at 2pm on Saturday, March 28 and again on Sunday, March 29, offering audiences two completely free performances packed with music, comedy, dance, and plenty of unexpected chaos. But beneath the tongue-in-cheek title lies a show that has become a beloved community tradition.
The Geed Up Band first came together on the Gold Coast nearly 20 years ago. What started as a group of performers with big personalities and even bigger voices quickly evolved into a highly sought-after entertainment act. Over the years, the group has built a reputation for delivering a unique mix of sultry vocals, three-part harmonies, high-energy dance routines, and comedic humour that keeps audiences of all ages thoroughly entertained.
This year’s production promises to raise the bar — or perhaps lower it, depending on how you look at it. The show features new singers, fresh dancers, and a range of surprises that even long-time fans won’t see coming.
But while the show itself might lean into chaos and comedy, the cause behind it is deeply meaningful. Through their performances and community support, the Geed Up Band has proudly raised $20,000 for mental health services, demonstrating that entertainment can also make a real difference.
The combination of humour, music, dance, and community spirit is what makes the Geed Up Band so special.
Get on down to the Airlie Beach Hotel for a show somehow worse than the last one.
WHAT: Geed Up’s Worst Show Ever, 2 FREE SHOWS
WHEN: 2pm Saturday 28th March and Sunday 29th March
WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel
1 – Geed Up gear up for shows at Airlie Beach Hotel. Photo supplied
The community’s planned celebration of International Women's Day, originally scheduled for 7 March, was postponed due to severe weather conditions. The event has now been rescheduled and will take place on Friday, 28 March, from 1pm to 5pm at the Proserpine RSL.
The afternoon will recognise and celebrate the contributions of women within the local community. Organisers are encouraging residents to attend and support the event following its earlier cancellation.
In addition, volunteers are being sought for a commemorative activity ahead of ANZAC Day. On 18 April at 9am, community members will gather at the Proserpine Cemetery to place approximately 400 Australian flags beside the graves of service personnel.
This year, organisers are introducing a new feature to assist volunteers and visitors. A QR code system will be available for both local cemeteries, providing access to information about the service personnel buried there, including their names, photographs and personal stories.
Community members interested in assisting with the flag placement are encouraged to volunteer and help honour the region’s servicemen and women ahead of the ANZAC commemorations.
Friday 20 March
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Grandview Hotel: Ash Smith (from 8pm)
KCs: Retro Joe (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Kaedan McCarthy (4pm – 7pm)
Saturday 21 March
Airlie Beach Hotel: Katie Jayne Country (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Grandview Hotel: DJ Night (from 8pm)
KCs: Bear Brewer (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Kieran McCarthy (4pm – 7pm)
Coral Sea Marina Resort: DJ Sugarlips (1pm – 5pm)
Sunday 22 March
Airlie Beach Hotel: Katie Jayne Country (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
Coral Sea Marina Resort: Loui Battour (1pm – 5pm)
KCs: Bear Brewer (from 8pm)
Grandview Hotel: Mike Duff (1pm – 5pm)
Sorrento: Simon Briley (4pm – 7pm)
Monday 23 March
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm – 7pm)
KCs: Josiah (from 8pm)
Tuesday 24 March
KCs: Mick Woodbridge (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm – 7pm)
Wednesday 25 March
KCs: Michael Hayes (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm – 7pm)
Thursday 26 March
Airlie Beach Hotel: Aaron Saxon (6.30 – 9.30pm)
KCs: Mick Woodbridge (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Lucy Rose (4pm – 7pm)
The spirit of community was on full display in Bowen on Friday 6 March, as local NDIS providers, participants and supporters gathered to celebrate the eighth Monthly Provider group social event. The gathering was hosted at the newly opened fit-for-purpose centre of Grow and Evolve Whitsundays at 19 Brisbane Street and held in partnership with Bowen Flexicare.
What began eight months ago as a simple idea to strengthen collaboration between Bowen’s NDIS providers has grown into a thriving monthly tradition. Through the commitment of local service providers and the generosity of the wider community, the gatherings have become an important space for connection, inclusion and shared purpose.
Last week’s event was one of the most vibrant yet. The afternoon was made even more memorable by the generous support of local businesses. Bowen Woolworths, Bowen Domino’s and Bowen Subway donated food and refreshments, while Eden Events transformed the space with beautiful decorations and a photo backdrop that added a sense of celebration to the day.
For participants, it was more than just a social outing. It was an opportunity to experience something special created through the combined efforts of a community that genuinely cares about inclusion and connection.
The monthly social catch-ups offer far more than a fun afternoon. They provide a safe and welcoming environment where participants can build friendships with clients from other providers, strengthen their social confidence and enjoy meaningful experiences together.
Over the past eight months the group has explored a range of local venues and activities. These have included lawn bowls at Wangaratta Bowls Club, pool and darts at the Larrikin Hotel, beach picnics and scavenger hunts, as well as lively musical bingo days.
Each event has reinforced a simple message. When providers and the community work together, participants benefit in ways that extend far beyond their NDIS plan. They gain connection, joy, belonging and opportunities to grow.
As the monthly provider group continues to expand, Grow and Evolve Whitsundays say they are excited about the future of both the initiative and their new centre. With strong community backing and a shared commitment to collaboration, the gatherings are expected to continue creating opportunities for social inclusion and positive experiences for Bowen’s NDIS participants.
The success of the events is a testament to what can be achieved when a community comes together. Grow and Evolve extend their sincere thanks to every provider, participant, volunteer and local business that has contributed to making these gatherings possible.
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Photo supplied
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