Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Mackay Business Awarded $19,807 To Strengthen Security A Mackay business is among dozens across Queensland to receive State Government funding for security upgrades aimed at deterring crime and improving safety for staff and customers. Beyond Psyence Pty Ltd has been awarded $19,807 through Round 2 of the Secure Communities Partnership Program, with the funding to be used for access control and entry management measures. The business was one of 62 small and family businesses across the state to receive funding in the latest round of the program, which supports the installation of crime prevention infrastructure such as CCTV, secure fencing, bollards, alarm systems and lighting upgrades. Minister for Small and Family Business Steve Minnikin said the funding would help businesses take practical steps to improve security. “This program empowers local small businesses to take proactive steps to protect their livelihoods, employees, and customers, while contributing to safer communities across Queensland,” Mr Minnikin said. “I’m proud that two-thirds of funding in this release has been awarded to small businesses based in regional Queensland, ensuring support reaches every corner of our state.” The Secure Communities Partnership Program provides grants of between $5,000 and $20,000 to eligible small and family businesses that have been directly impacted by crime in the past five years, or operate in areas affected by crime. Applicants are required to contribute at least 50 per cent of the total project cost and can use the funding for a range of security measures including surveillance systems, access control upgrades, perimeter security and alarm systems. The latest funding round follows Round 1 of the program, which delivered $9.6 million for 42 projects in partnership with local councils. Queensland businesses with fewer than 20 employees and an annual turnover of $10 million or less remain eligible to apply for funding, with applications open until the 30th of June or until available funding is exhausted. Further information about the Secure Communities Partnership Program is available through www.business.qld.gov.au.
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Isaac Looks To The Future With Proposed $500 Million Fund Isaac Regional Council is proposing the creation of a long-term Future Fund designed to help safeguard essential services and financial stability for future generations as the region prepares for life beyond mining. The proposed Isaac Future Fund would gradually build a financial reserve using a portion of the region's current mining-related prosperity, with the aim of offsetting future revenue losses when mining activity eventually declines. Currently, almost 70 per cent of the council's rates income comes from the mining sector, creating what council describes as a significant future challenge when mines are decommissioned and mining leases are recategorised. To establish the fund, council is proposing to reduce the early payment rates discount for mining leases, workforce accommodation and renewable energy projects from 10 per cent to five per cent this year, before removing the remaining five per cent next year. All other ratepayer categories would continue to receive the full 10 per cent early payment discount. The change is expected to contribute approximately $3.2 million to the fund in its first year. Isaac Regional Council Mayor Kelly Vea Vea said the initiative was focused on protecting future communities from substantial rate increases needed to maintain services once mining revenue begins to decline. “The Future Fund is a long-term strategy intended to grow our own funds over the decades and used to replace mining sector income to maintain services to communities when mining eventually declines,” Mayor Vea Vea said. “We cannot rely on future governments to subsidise services and infrastructure when funding to local councils has already been reducing over time. Our Council knows that we need to generate our own revenue source to protect future generations from the long-term financial impact that is inevitable when we are so financially reliant on mining.” Council said the fund would not be financed by general ratepayers and would be protected from being spent for decades while it continues to grow. Once the fund reaches approximately $50 million, and subject to the necessary approvals, council intends to invest the money through the Queensland Investment Corporation to generate additional returns, with earnings reinvested back into the fund. The long-term target is to grow the Future Fund to around $500 million while preserving the principal for future generations. Mayor Vea Vea said the proposal reflected responsible long-term planning for the region. “Smart regions plan ahead and responsible leadership means thinking long term and beyond the next election or budget cycle. There are many hoops to jump through and a lot of work to do in order to get the Future Fund to where it needs to be. We have to start now.” Council has spent the past 12 months developing the proposal in consultation with the Queensland Treasury Corporation and pointed to similar investment funds established by other regional councils, including Western Downs. The Future Fund would remain subject to council governance, auditing and reporting requirements, with any future investment arrangements required to comply with Queensland local government legislation and council policies. CAPTION: Isaac Regional Council is proposing a new Future Fund designed to help protect community services and financial sustainability for future generations as the region prepares for the long-term impacts of a changing mining industry. Photo supplied
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I always appreciate a robust discussion in our community, and I welcome the feedback regarding my recent opinion piece, ‘Why We Must Restore Biological Reality to Our Laws’. It is clear that the issues surrounding the Sex Discrimination Act are deeply emotive, and I respect the passion shown by your anonymous correspondent. However, I feel it is necessary to clear up some significant misunderstandings. My original article was focused on a matter of legislative principle: the need for our laws to reflect biological reality to ensure certainty, safety, and privacy in spaces reserved for women and girls. My article did not mention transgender individuals, I believe it is unhelpful to misrepresent my position in such a way, the added inflammatory rhetoric attributed to me was not part of my statement. I also want to address the concerns raised regarding domestic violence. We are in total agreement that domestic violence is an absolute scourge on our society, and it is a topic I have spoken about many times in my capacity as your federal representative. However, suggesting that my call for biological clarity in law somehow enables violence is a complete distortion of my intent and misses the mark entirely. We can be a community that is compassionate and supportive of everyone, while still maintainingthe clear, common-sense laws that protect the rights of women and girls, these two goals are not mutually exclusive. My goal is to return that clarity to our statute books so that the law serves everyone equitably. Advocating for clear, sex-based protections is not an attack on the humanity or rights of others, it is a necessary step to ensure that the foundational legal boundaries, which many women rely on for their sense of security, are not quietly eroded. I welcome a robust debate, but I prefer it to be based on what I have actually said, rather than on motives or ideologies that have been attributed to me. I remain committed to finding common sense solutions that ensure fairness and safety for all in our community.
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A practical community support initiative will take place in Mackay this month, with Mackay Pet Rescue Inc preparing to assist men experiencing hardship alongside their pets at the Neighbourhood Hub during Men’s Week. The event will be held on June 10th from 9am to 12 noon and will provide essential supplies and services aimed at keeping men and their pets together during times of vulnerability. For many attending, pets are not simply companions but a source of stability during difficult circumstances. The initiative is designed to reduce pressure on both individuals and rescue services by offering direct, immediate assistance. The Men’s Week initiative will provide a range of support items including pet food, tents, sleeping bags, dog sleeping bags, hygiene packs and flea and worm treatments. A veterinarian will also be on site to provide additional medical care. The program has been supported through a grant from the Mackay Community Foundation, enabling the rescue to expand its outreach during the colder months. President of Mackay Pet Rescue Inc Janet Ambrose said the focus is on ensuring people are supported before situations reach crisis point. “We’re making sure they don’t fall through the cracks, and they are seen, because they’re just as important, and we want to help their pets as much as we can.” “If we can help someone that’s vulnerable, so that they don’t have to give up their pet, then that’s a win, not just for them, but for us as well.” Ms Ambrose said the work carried out by the organisation is grounded in compassion and community responsibility. “Many of the owners we assist are facing illness, ageing, are homeless or experience a sudden life change. Pets are extremely important to people, and often provide essential emotional support during uncertain times.” “We’re here to help, because this is what humanity is all about.” “A lot of people think we’re just helping animals, but we’re really helping their owners too.” Between now and June 10th residents are encouraged to support the initiative by donating pet food through collection bins located across Mackay. Donation points include Northern Beaches Vet Hospital, Petbarn Greenfields, Petstock Paget and Bucasia Road, Pets Domain Rural View, Woolworths stores at Mount Pleasant, Oak Street, Ooralea and Rural View, Coles at Parkside Plaza and Sarina, Sydney Street Markets, and Goodes Butchers Sarina. What? Mackay Pet Rescue Men’s Hardship Drive Where? The Neighbourhood Hub When? June 10th 9am-12pm Mackay Pet Rescue Inc will support men experiencing hardship and their pets, providing essential supplies, veterinary care, and community donations to help keep them together during times of vulnerability. Photo supplied
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The community is invited to join a coastline clean-up this Friday to help protect the marine life that depends on the Whitsundays’ natural environment. Eco Barge Clean Seas will host the event at Boatyard Road, Jubilee Pocket, with volunteers meeting at 8:00am on Friday, 12th December. Everyone is welcome, from regular volunteers to first-timers wanting to make a positive impact while connecting with others.
Participants can register online at ecobargecleanseas.org.au/volunteer, and lunch will be provided. By working together, the community can help stop debris on land before it reaches the sea.
When: Friday, 12th December at 8am
Where: Meet at Eco Barge Clean Seas, Boatyard Rd, Jubilee Pocket
Sign-Up: ecobargecleanseas.org.au/volunteer
Lunch provided
Hi everyone,
This week’s edition features a special profile of long-time Ruth2Reef contributor and Whitsunday Conservation Council President, Tony Fontes, who shares insights from 40 years of diving on the reef. We’re also highlighting a fantastic land-based clean-up with Eco Barge happening this Friday!
Happy reading,
Ruth
Considering his widely renowned depth of knowledge of the history of the Whitsunday Passage, coastline and islands, one could be forgiven for thinking that local historian, Ray Blackwood, was born on a boat of sea-faring parents and spent his entire life on our waters! Not so.
In fact, Ray comes from a banking background. The oldest of three boys, Ray was born in Harrisville near Ipswich where his father, Eric, was a bank officer. According to bank policy of the time, the family moved to towns throughout Queensland as Mr Blackwood Snr was transferred. After completing his secondary schooling at a boarding school in Warwick, at 16 years of age Ray also became a “Bank Johnny” when he commenced work at what was then Bank of New South Wales in Toowoomba.
In 1944, whilst World War II was still raging, Ray joined the Royal Australian Air Force, doing his initial training at Kingaroy. From there he went to Canada where he finished his training as a navigator. Shortly after Ray “got his wings”, he was returned to Australia just as the war had ended.
After his arrival home, Ray resumed his banking career in Queensland before being transferred to the Port Moresby branch in Papua in 1948. He remained there for 2½ years, returning to Queensland before being transferred to Fiji in 1951. In Fiji, Ray met and married Mavis Murray and while living there a daughter, Roslyn, was born. Upon the family’s return to Queensland, Ray took up a position in International Foreign Exchange at the Chief Queensland Office of the bank in Brisbane. Son, Vaughan, was born in Brisbane.
In 1981, Ray and Mavis retired to the tropics and bought a house at Shute Harbour. Their magnificent view across Whitsunday Passage inspired him to research and document the many stories including those of courageous people who chose to gamble their future for a life in the tropical sun known as ‘Paradise’. He became passionate about recording the history of the Whitsunday islands and their immediate coastline and correcting the many distortions of its history which had evolved. And so began his relationship with the Proserpine Historical Museum and the Bowen Historical Society and Museum. Ray became Patron of the Proserpine Museum in June 2013.
Taking his quest to explore Whitsunday’s history as a personal journey, in his yacht “Seaquel” and dinghy, “Fishbone”, Ray roamed the Whitsunday waters and islands repeatedly over the years, retracing the paths of early settlers. He ignored secondary sources and delved into all available first-hand information, basing his writings on a diligent search of primary sources such as shipping charts and recorded accounts, letters, diaries and official records. He purchased valuable maps from London; from the Navy; interviewed locals; continually returned to official records to authenticate or contradict previous publications and religiously sifted through his writings until his thirst for Whitsunday history was satisfied - or almost! As most historians would agree, research goes on forever.
The outcome of Ray’s vast and meticulous research was his publication “The Whitsunday Islands – An Historical History” and the later translation to digital CD format (IBM compatible), “The Whitsunday Islands 1770 -1990 Historical Encyclopaedia”. Ray has donated all of his research material to the Proserpine Museum and has also deeded to the museum the copyright of his work. “The museum is where my research and maps should be,” he declared.
In 2019, due to health issues, Ray and Mavis left the area they loved so dearly to be closer to family. Sadly, Ray passed away in 2022.
Story and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum
Ray Blackwood. Photo supplied.
Some everyday items can spark dangerous landfill fires if they’re thrown in the bin. Common culprits include household batteries, lithium-ion batteries from phones and tools, gas bottles and butane cans, flares and ammunition.
Drop batteries off safely at B-cycle collection points at Council Customer Service Centres and libraries, at the Collinsville and Cannonvale Transfer Stations, and participating supermarkets and hardware stores. For all other hazardous items, talk to our friendly staff at your nearest transfer station or landfill and they will help you manage them correctly.
Disposing of these hazardous items safely helps protect our environment and keeps our community safe. For more information, visit Council’s website.
After just 10 weeks in its new location, Figs and Honey Café is already becoming a favourite stop for locals, offering a warm, cosy atmosphere and a menu built entirely on fresh, house-made food.
Owner Amber Jamieson who has lived in the region for thirteen years, originally ran Figs and Honey as a home-based catering and specialty cake business. Known for her wedding cakes, event catering and raw and vegan-friendly treats, she continues to offer these services while now operating the café full-time.
Moving into a storefront at 6/35 Main Street in Proserpine has allowed her to expand Figs and Honey and now welcome regulars.
The true hero of Figs and Honey, isn't Amber or the star barista Ellie Callan, it is the homemade products.
“We make everything ourselves. Food should be real food—fresh, nutritious and made from scratch,” she said.
“Nothing is brought in pre-packaged. We make our own dressings, frittatas, granola and all our baked goods.”
The café serves an all-day menu with classics such as bacon and eggs, alongside weekly specials and a varied cabinet selection that typically includes bagels, Turkish breads, vegetarian options, waffles and cakes. Fresh juices, made to order from ingredients such as apple, pineapple, watermelon, ginger, celery and mint, have also become a customer favourite.
Within weeks, the café has built a solid base of regulars—some so comfortable they simply say, “Just cook for me.”
“If we’ve got the ingredients, we can make it,” she said.
“I want people to enjoy what they eat, and I like keeping things flexible and personal.”
Owner Amber Jamieson and barista Ellie Callan. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie
Once a terrified dog with a heartbreaking past, Zephyr is now learning what it truly means to feel safe and loved. This gentle boy came into rescue after experiencing significant trauma, and while the scars on his face tell part of his story, they don’t define who he is today. Thanks to patience, care, and the comfort of a stable foster home, Zephyr has begun to flourish into a loyal and affectionate companion.
In foster care, Zephyr has proven himself to be calm, gentle, and incredibly devoted. He loves spending time with his people and has shown just how resilient he can be when given kindness and consistency. His transformation from fear to trust has been remarkable.
About Zephyr:
• Gentle, loyal and affectionate
• Calm and easygoing once he feels secure
• Enjoys walks and quiet companionship
• Best suited to a peaceful home with patient owners
• Has been around a cat but will need supervision
• Desexed, vaccinated and microchipped
Zephyr has come a long way—he now plays, cuddles and greets each day with a little more confidence. All he needs is a forever home where he can continue his journey surrounded by understanding and care.
To learn more or arrange a meet-and-greet, get in touch with Bowen & Collinsville Pet Rescue by emailing bcpri.adoptions@gmail.com. Zephyr is ready for his happy ending — he just needs someone willing to give him the chance.
Following its successful return, the Whitsundays Writers Festival is strengthening its foundation with a new leadership team dedicated to celebrating the region’s own literary voices.
The Festival is proud to announce the appointment of three local professionals to guide its future. Richard Evans, a Whitsunday author of nine political thrillers will serve as President and Festival Director. He will be joined by Secretary, Strategy and Marketing Manager Cait Fleming and Treasurer and Operations Manager Dr Julia Evans, who also works as a publishing services consultant. They will be supported by a committee of local authors, community specialists, and representatives from regional libraries and schools. Together, they hope to build upon the legacy of outgoing President Karen Jacobsen and her committee.
“Our core mission is to provide a platform for the exceptional writers we have right here in the Whitsundays and to connect them directly with our community of readers,” said incoming President Richard Evans. “We are building a festival that is by, for, and about our region’s literary culture. Our vision is bold: to shine a spotlight on local literary talent.”
The team’s first priority is a focused, community-centred event in 2026, which will pave the way for future growth.
The Festival Committee is now seeking expressions of interest from local authors for programming and participation in the 2026 event and beyond. Writers in the Whitsundays region are invited to contact hello@whitsundayswriters.com
“This is a festival built on local talent,” said Cait Fleming. “We want to hear from our writers, involve them in the journey, and create an event that truly reflects the stories of our home.”
The Whitsundays Writers Festival promises to strengthen its community focus of fostering a vibrant literary culture by connecting local authors with readers and celebrating the power of local storytelling.
All are welcome to save the date for a special one-day celebration of local literary talent.
• When: Sunday 13 September 2026
• Where: Whitsunday Marine Club, Airlie Beach
• What: A day dedicated to local authors, local stories, and the readers who bring them to life.
Contributed with thanks to Dr Julia Evans
Welcoming the new team. Photo supplied
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Looking Out for Each Other This Time of Year
I had the privilege of joining the Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network (WSPN) breakfast in Cannonvale recently as a guest speaker, and it was one of those mornings that remind you just how strong and connected our community really is.
Before most people had even hit the snooze button, the turnout was incredible with a mix of tradies in hi-vis, small business owners grabbing a cuppa on their way to work, emergency services staff coming off shift, and plenty of familiar community faces. All there for one reason: to look out for each other.
Events like this matter. They create space for honest conversation, which we often avoid because life gets busy or because we’re conditioned to “just get on with it.”
But the truth is, all of us, at some point, carry heavy things. As the guest speaker, I shared a bit about my own journey with the group as like anyone, I’ve had my ups and downs, and there have been times where stress has crept up on me more than I’d like to admit. This time of year, especially, the fatigue, the deadlines, the cost pressures, and the general rush of life can stack up quickly.
One of the most important things I’ve learned, and I’m still learning, is that we’re not meant to carry everything alone. Talking helps. Good mates help. Checking in helps. Even just recognising that you’re not the only one feeling stretched can take some weight off your shoulders.
A big hats off to Matt Stokes and the whole WSPN team for continuing to build these safe and open spaces. They don’t just run events they help shift culture and remind us that real strength isn’t staying quiet; it’s speaking up and listening without judgement.
Thanks to ShirtFront Solutions and Enzed Whitsunday for hosting and to Amanda Camm MP for sponsoring the breakfast. These partnerships show what can happen when business, community and leaders lean in together.
As we head into the tail end of the year, I want to encourage everyone to take a moment for yourself and a moment for someone else. Slow down where you can. Reach out if you’re struggling. And if someone crosses your mind, then send the text, make the call, say g’day.
We’re a better, stronger Whitsundays when we look out for each other.
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The Bowen Tourism and Business staff and volunteers celebrated Christmas with a get-together in Bowen last Sunday afternoon.
About 40 people attended the Christmas party including volunteers and their partners, staff and committee members.
Everyone received a Secret Santa gift from the Bowen Visitor Information Centre.
Manager Leanne Abernethy said volunteers were an integral part of the organisation and the Christmas party was all about celebrating their dedication, passion and efforts.
“We simply couldn’t do what we do without them,” she said.
Steve Fisher, better known as Fish, volunteers at the Big Mango every week.
He spoke on behalf of the volunteers and mentioned several awards that Bowen Tourism and Business had won in 2025 including Top Tourist Town in Queensland, Best Big Thing in Queensland, Community Champion in the Whitsundays and a Bronze Medal for volunteers at State Level.
He thanked the staff for their dedication and spoke about the busy Grey Nomad season in 2025.
The Bowen Visitor Information Centre welcomed a record number of visitors in the 2024/25 financial year and have already welcomed more visitors since July than the same period last year.
Bowen Tourism Volunteers - Back row: Viv Clark, Margaret Hurst. Front row: Marie Bailey, Colleen Skinner.
Bowen Tourism Volunteers - Anne Steen, Anne Mason and Mark Steen with the Chair of the committee Jenn Honnery.
Photos supplied
After almost 20 years running the community’s much-loved St. Paul’s Op Shop, Chris Hinschen is preparing to retire from management and the St. Pauls Anglican Church are set to take over the role in the new year.
All current volunteers have already agreed to return, with Annette Pryce and Noreen Sainsbury announcing they will each assist a couple of days a week.
Saturday trading, has been trialled for several months and has become popular with visitors from as far as Mackay, Annette and Noreen say they will continue Saturday trading.
Chris’s final day will be on Friday 19th December, with the shop reopening on Monday 19th January under the new management.
Although the setup will remain largely unchanged, the church will now take on full overheads including rent, rates and insurance. Volunteers note that while prices remain affordable, the shop will now operate as a business to help fund essential costs such as the church roof repairs.
St. Pauls Anglican Church hope to expand the shop’s community focus by creating a welcoming space for conversation, coffee, sitting areas, pastoral care and support services in the future.
New volunteers are warmly invited, with even an hour of help making a difference. Contact Father Jeffery Akoai on 0458 451 230, Nerine Pryce on 0448 846 805 or Annette Sainsbury on 0409 417 180 to express interest or visit the Op Shop located on Dobbins Lane in Proserpine in the new year.
Donations will pause during the break to allow volunteers to prepare and avoid a backlog.
Father Jeffery Akoai, Nerine Pryce and Annette Sainsbury at the St. Paul’s Op Shop in Proserpine. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie
As we wrap up the year here in The Whitsundays, it feels like the perfect time to take a breath, look back on what we’ve achieved together and get excited for what’s shaping up to be a huge summer for our region.
It’s been a pretty exciting year of progress. We’ve had the announcements of the Ngaro Track and Twin Creeks Mountain Track and big momentum behind the Whitsunday Skyway. Plus, with new island developments underway on Hook and Lindeman Island, there’s plenty happening that will keep our region moving forward in all the right ways.
Holiday bookings are looking really strong, currently up 10% on last year with Christmas and New Year sitting at around 85% occupancy. It’s safe to say it’s going to be a lively festive season across The Whitsundays, and busy for our tourism businesses. January’s a little softer at the moment at around 50%, but we all know how many travellers book on a whim, so we’re expecting that to lift.
Because this is my last column for the year, I want to say a huge thank you to our community, our tourism partners and everyone who backs The Whitsundays day in, day out. Your enthusiasm and hard work are what give this region its magic.
Wishing you all a safe, happy and very sunny festive season. Whether you’re working through, travelling, or just kicking back with friends and family, enjoy it. Here’s to an even bigger 2026.
Contributed with thanks to Tim Booth CEO, Tourism Whitsundays
Tourism Whitsundays CEO Tim Booth. Photo sourced: Online
What started as uncertainty has quickly turned into excitement, connection, and festive cheer as Proserpine prepares to come together this Friday night for the Proserpine Twilight Christmas Fair.
Only a short time ago, it looked as though the much-loved Christmas fair might not go ahead this year. However, following a team discussion at the office of Amanda Camm MP, about how best to support a community Christmas celebration, a decision was made - even if a little last minute - to bring people together and make it happen.
By joining forces with Whitsunday Regional Council and the Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce, the Proserpine Twilight Christmas Fair was born, with one clear goal: to give the community a chance to connect, celebrate, and share in the Christmas spirit.
Since announcing the event, the response from the community has been overwhelming. Local businesses, stallholders, food vendors, and volunteers have all stepped forward, keen to be involved and support the evening.
Already, excitement is building, with shops and dining venues planning to stay open on the night, live entertainment and market stalls coming together, and families looking forward to enjoying a relaxed festive evening in the heart of town.
This Friday night’s fair is shaping up to be a wonderful example of what Proserpine does best - coming together with generosity, enthusiasm, and community pride.
Everyone is invited to head into Main Street, enjoy the atmosphere, support local businesses, and share in a joyful celebration as Proserpine lights up for Christmas.
WHAT: Proserpine Twilight Christmas Fair
WHERE: Main Street, Proserpine
WHEN: Friday 12 December, 5pm - 8pm
Contributed with thanks to Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP
Just before 10.00am on Saturday 6 December, emergency services received a Triple Zero call reporting a vegetation fire along Kingfisher Terrace, with smoke visible across the area. Initial alerts listed the warning zone as Airlie Beach, Jubilee Pocket, Cannonvale, Woodwark and surrounding areas.
As the incident escalated, multiple crews were deployed, including a mix of Rural Fire Service and Queensland Fire and Rescue units. Due to the location and size of the fire front, an aerial water bomber was also tasked to assist.
Water bombing operations began just before 3.30pm, with aircraft collecting seawater for repeated drops over the fire ground.
Firefighters worked throughout the afternoon to contain the blaze. According to a Queensland Fire Department spokesperson, crews achieved containment at approximately 6.00pm on Saturday 6 December.
By around 9.00pm, teams were conducting perimeter patrols and confirmed the fire was still burning safely within containment lines.
Crews returned to the scene at about 6.00am the following morning to reassess conditions. The fire remained within control lines and was expected to continue producing light smoke for several days.
A Queensland Police Service spokesperson confirmed the Police are investigating the grass fire.
They announced their were no threats to members of the public and no injuries were reported.
Officers are appealing to anyone who may have information regarding the fires to come forward.
Photos sourced: Facebook
The Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry has launched its “12 Days of Christmas Business Preparation” campaign to help local businesses navigate the pressures and opportunities of the peak festive trading period.
Designed as a practical, day-by-day guide, the initiative provides targeted advice across business continuity, staffing, customer service, cash flow, cyber safety, and wellbeing. The campaign recognises that the Christmas and New Year period represents both a critical revenue opportunity and a high-risk period for operational strain, particularly for small and regional businesses.
The resource encourages businesses to plan ahead by reviewing staffing rosters, preparing contingency plans, strengthening cash flow management, and refreshing marketing and customer engagement strategies. It also places strong emphasis on leadership wellbeing, urging business owners to consider their own health, decision-making stamina and support networks during one of the busiest times of the year.
Chamber President Allan Milostic said the campaign was developed in response to growing feedback from members seeking simple, actionable support.
“This is about giving businesses clear, practical tools to minimise risk and maximise opportunity during a demanding period. Strong preparation helps protect both profitability and people,” he said.
The campaign is freely available via the Chamber’s website and is supported by links to additional resources and expert guidance.
Businesses are reminded that the advice is general in nature, and specialist support should be sought where circumstances require tailored financial, legal or operational advice.
The Chamber continues to encourage all businesses to review the resource and use it as a practical checklist to finish the year strong and prepare for a productive start to the new year.
Learn more: https://www.whitsundaycoastchamber.com.au/12-days-of-christmas/
We would like to welcome our new Production Co-Ordinator, Georgia McDonald.
As one of our newest additions to the team, Georgia brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her role. Georgia initially started in hospitality, working as an assistant manager for a hotel back in England. After moving to Australia, she continued her hospitality work, working at Beaches Bar & Grill in Airlie Beach for two years before deciding to pursue a different career path.
As a fan of journalism, Georgia had always dreamt of working for a magazine, so it became a dream come true when she landed the role with the Whitsunday Life team. Among Georgia’s greatest skills are her abilities to read situations, focus on important tasks and interact with people. Her interpersonal skills are also informed by experience working in a call centre for an insurance company, as well as time spent as a recruitment consultant.
She enjoys the busy pace of the job and the ability to communicate and foster working relationships with the clients every week.
In her spare time, Georgia enjoys exercise, whether it be at the gym or walking as well as exploring as much of the landscape that she can. She also has a great passion for reading, particularly fantasy. Most of all, Georgia enjoys hanging out with friends.
The Whitsunday and Mackay Life team are thrilled to have Georgia on board as we warmly welcome her. We are delighted to welcome her and look forward to what we'll accompolish together.
Production Co-Ordinator Georgia McDonald Photo credit: R Jean Photography
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