Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Local tourism operators are expressing concern toward troubling times ahead, with the federal government’s new visa restrictions set to shrink the backpacker workforce that drives seasonal operations. The Federal Government’s proposed cuts to Working Holiday Visas have raised concerns across two of the Whitsundays’ biggest industries. Bowen farmers warned that fewer backpackers could leave crops unpicked, and now tourism leaders in Airlie Beach have added that the same cuts could leave local businesses scrambling to find workers that aren’t there. At Airlie Beach’s Heart of the Great Barrier Reef sign, Tourism Whitsundays CEO Tim Booth and Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins spoke about what the proposed changes could mean for a region that relies heavily on tourism. “We can't have Airlie Beach named Australia's top tourism town in the small category and then have the knees cut out from us by federal policy,” Tim said. The proposed changes form part of the Federal Government’s effort to reduce migration, a topic that has been of hot debate by all three parties that Mayor Ry Collins believes the working holiday visas should be separated from. “Obviously the federal government is really coming in with broad brushstrokes to try and address the publicly perceived issue around net overseas migration (NOM),” said Mayor Collins. “Some of the dialogue I heard last week in Canberra was actually taking that working holiday maker class completely out of the NOM calculation. “I think that's a fair and reasonable way that they can make the numbers look as good as they want but it won't affect the actual number of workers that are here to support our industries.” The new restrictions look to cut the second-year extension on Working Holiday Visas from 57,000 to 45,000 slots, and 3rd year extension from 31,000 to just 5,000. According to Tourism Whitsundays, the Whitsundays hosts about 3,500 backpacker workers at any given time of the year. “I think for regions like the Whitsunday’s unemployment rate is lower than the national average by 0.9%, so at a 3.5% unemployment rate, we just don't have the workforce there that can pick up these roles that the working holidaymaker delivers for our communities,” Tim said. According to figures released by Tourism Whitsundays, in the year ending March 2026, domestic visitors spent $959.1 million in the region and international visitors spent a further $271.8 million. This spending was made possible by the abundance of workers delivering those experiences. “[Working holidaymakers] do a terrific job already in delivering world-class experiences, particularly here in the Whitsundays,” said Mayor Collins. “We do see working holidaymakers really take up that mantle, particularly in areas like customer service roles, hospitality roles, housekeeping roles... “What we're asking for is that we can stay strong as an entire tourism industry.” Having just returned from Canberra, the pair said raising regional and statewide voices is crucial to persuading the Federal Government to reconsider how the proposed restrictions would apply. “And then at a federal level, obviously through our federal member Andrew Wilcox, but we've also engaged with the members of the Labor Party around that as well. “But unfortunately it's starting to feel like a number of issues that we're campaigning on…along with things like disaster recovery funding arrangements which was one we linked into last week.” Photo caption: Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins and CEO of Tourism Whitsundays, Tim Booth. Photo credit: Zach Houtenville
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In this world of AI and other technological advancements, you don’t want to be the person who wanders around the office like a big old clumsy Tyrannosaurus Rex bumping into all the youngsters and stepping on their laptops and other devices. It’s one of the challenges of our times; getting the balance right in business in a world that is increasingly controlled by AI, robotics and a rapidly changing IT environment. I remember, some years ago now, when older family members had refused to embrace computer technology and mobile phones etc. They were really left behind and felt excluded in a world that had moved ahead without them. I’ve got a 19-year-old son who doesn’t have to think about it. Current and evolving technology is part of his life and, like others in his age group, he is completely at ease with something that is just part of his make-up and comprehension of the world around him. The trap you can fall into is letting the kids do all the IT stuff for you. My son set up our old TV with all the streaming services etc, which was the easy option for me, but I find it’s important to get involved and do it yourself otherwise everything will move ahead and you won’t be able to do things for yourself. But I am still stuck in some of the old ways. If I am ordering a takeaway meal I still ring the restaurant and go and pick it up. The old T-Rex wanders into the Thai or Indian joint and picks up his plastic bag of goodies, pays, and drives home. There aren’t many of us left. Uber Eats baby. Everyone has embraced it. My wife and daughter were having dinner together in Brisbane recently and my daughter noticed that her stockings or tights had “run” or a ladder in them. My wife suggested she jump in the car and drive to a nearby supermarket and get another pair. But my daughter ordered a new pair to be delivered to the restaurant by Uber. They were there in a jiffy and the night continued without the pesky interruption of having to leave the restaurant to buy them. It’s a great example of the modern world making things easier and how many of us need to ensure we are adjusting and understanding how things can now be done. There is another side to the coin, however. People have told me that I should get AI to write my columns. They say I could give it some examples of columns I have written and give it an idea for a new column and tell it to knock out 600 words on my chosen topic in my style of writing. It’s something I would never do. Apart from the fact that it would somehow seem like I was cheating, it would also not be authentic. I feel that however boring or pedestrian my stories and comments are, at least they are mine. They have come from my noggin, my experiences. It is my take on the world, not something that has been cobbled together by artificial intelligence. It’s similar in the world of real estate and, I’m sure, business generally. You need to embrace the technology, use it when it creates a better service, a superior experience for buyers and a better result for sellers. But there is still a place for picking up the phone and calling buyers, following up from open homes, doing the hard work that needs to be done as an agent. In a world of AI, robotics and Uber Everything the human element, the person-to-person connection still needs to happen to deliver good service and create the best result for clients.
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Maisy is a beautiful little soul who seems to understand that the very best place in the world is right beside someone she loves. She is affectionate, gentle, social and wonderfully trusting. She loves curling up on a welcoming lap, snuggling into your arms and settling close enough to make you feel as though you have always belonged together. Maisy is generous with her purrs, her cuddles and her sweet little air biscuits. She even places her paw in your hand as if to say, “I choose you.” But this gorgeous girl is not only a champion snuggler. Maisy is playful, curious and full of kitten joy. She loves exploring her toys, chasing anything that moves and turning ordinary moments into entertainment. She will happily amuse herself, but everything is even more fun when her favourite person joins in. She has that perfect combination of affection and personality, soft and loving when it is time to cuddle, and playful and bright when it is time for fun. Maisy will bring warmth to your home, companionship to your days and a little paw to hold whenever you need it. If you are looking for a kitten who will play with you, curl up with you and love being part of your life, Maisy may be the girl you have been waiting for. Maisy has been desexed, microchipped, received her first vaccination, been wormed and is litter trained. She is ready to begin her beautiful new life as a much-loved indoor companion. To arrange a meet and greet with Maisy, please call Ros on 0403 814 318.
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Tarren McAuley, Web Director and Co-Owner I remember when those AI posters started popping up – the first one looked kinda different. By the end of the week, when I’d seen 30 of them, I was much less enamoured + actively scrolled past anything that had that telltale paint smear style font. It’s not that the quality had gotten any worse between me seeing that first one + when I was sick of them by the 30th. But it was no longer novel or original. I think AI is especially susceptible to this because as soon as someone discovers a winning formula, everyone else jumps on the bandwagon, but because everyone is getting similar outputs, it gets old – quick. I think brands can fall into a similar trap. Humans are always looking for inspiration + when seeking it out, where better to look than the other players in your field. If you’re a tech company, you’re going to look at Samsung, Apple + the like. But when that happens too much, you get a feedback loop of samey-ness. For me, this is best exemplified by airline logos. Look at Qantas + Virgin, probably the two biggest brands in Australia. Both use a red plane-like icon, w/ their logo in big letters next to it. Bit cherry picked but even the other big players’ logos are similar - Emirates uses mainly red + shakes it up by having a slightly more exotic font. Jetstar ditches the red for orange + has their icon at the end but it has similar visual markers. This isn’t unique to logos, like w/ the poster example earlier – it could be your social tiles, your website or even your company email sig. Whatever it is, if you wake up one day + notice that the other businesses around you are looking a bit too similar, that should be your sign to start looking at a rebrand to shake off the rust + re-establish your unique identity. You know, until the cycle repeats again!
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By Michael and Val Kimpton
For far too long our residents have been asked to travel to Mackay or Townsville to make these lifesaving contributions. It is time we advocate and make sure the Whitsunday region gets a fair go! Excessive travel distances and time away from work can become very inconvenient and presents a significant barrier for many locals who wish to donate. We want to roll up our sleeves and donate, however that becomes difficult when we are forced to choose between losing a day of travelling with our already busy timetables and family commitments.
Time is precious, and that rings true even more so in isolated regional areas. It is hard to juggle work, school, sport, family and life in general with this kind of travel requirement. From personal experience, we have donated twice in ten years in the Whitsundays, whereas we would donate regularly every three months when living in Melbourne. The decision to donate can feel as though it’s been taken from us. We should feel encouraged not discouraged.
The population of the Whitsunday Regional Council is rapidly growing, now in excess of 40,000 people, which doesn’t include functional population numbers. The demographic experts have advised that in 10 years there will be a 30% increase – a rate faster than the Queensland average.
All these statistics point to a very valid reason to reintroduce a visiting blood bank in our region. At the very least we should introduce a trial run. Even a roaming bus between Mackay and Townsville – as is already done with Breast screenings in the area – would be a good start.
With the demand for blood supply at a 12-year high, this matter is of the upmost importance. Blood donations save lives. Most recipients are cancer patients, trauma victims and patients in emergency surgery. Blood has a use by date; it cannot be stockpiled. Australian Red Cross Life Bloods are always calling for more donations. One single donation can save up to 3 lives.
It’s time to open the discussion for an initiative that can make a huge difference. Signatures on our petition is all we need to get the blood flowing and move this process into a reality.
The day led locals to express appreciation for the women in their life, and also sparked conversations surrounding vital women’s issues.
This week saw many expressing appreciation for the women making a difference in the world.
“This International Women’s Day, Whitsunday Regional Council is recognising the women across our organisation who are helping deliver important projects and services for our community,” said Whitsunday Regional Council.
“From planning and procurement, on-site project delivery and engineering, to communications, customer service, library services, environmental management, finance, and IT support - to name just a few - their work is shaping the future of the Whitsundays and supporting the region’s growth.
“Today we acknowledge the professionalism, expertise and leadership these women bring to Council and to the communities we serve.”
The day also rose awareness about issues disproportionately affecting women, and invited fundraising and support.
1, 2- The remarkable women celebrated by Whitsunday Regional Council. Photos supplied
Blurb: Heavy rain was unable to stop the Zonta Club of Whitsundays from putting on their fantastic 26th Annual International Women’s Day fundraiser luncheon. Despite the tough weather, the event took place against the backdrop of beautiful views of the Shute Harbour Marine Luncheon. It was a fantastic occasion filled with laughs, fun and community spirit.
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Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi
Onlookers at Airlie Beach’s Whitsunday Sailing Club witnessed a spectacular save on Sunday when a catamaran broke free from its mooring and was pushed by rough seas straight toward the rocks, saved at the last second by the quick thinking boatie on board.
Commercial skipper Tony Ritter was watching from the Sailing Club with other parents as their children’s junior sailing session had been moved indoors.
The group was discussing the catamaran which had been slowly drifting towards the shore and was now approximately 400m from it’s original mooring, but didn’t realise anyone was on board.
The vessel’s owners were indeed away, but Whitsunday Sailing Club regular Andy had offered to check out a broken tender, so was on board at the time of the squall.
The wind swelled to 38 knots and rain began to pour, as the boat suddenly broke free.
Tony describes how Andy jumped into action, getting an engine started at the last second, steering the catamaran away from the rocks.
With just one engine kicking in, the boat swung around to settle on the pontoon where Andy could regain control, instead of hitting the concrete boat ramp. It was a gutsy move, that may well have saved the boat from wreck.
“People online are always quick to criticise. They say ‘why was it out there’, but there’s always a story,” Tony said.
“It happened so fast. Andy had 30 seconds to a minute to get the engine started and make a decision, with adrenaline pumping.
“He’s a generous, humble, quiet man, always around the yacht club, who would do anything to help anyone. He calmly stepped off the yacht afterward, like getting out of a supercar that had just rolled.”
Andy has now moved the boat to safe waters. Tony captured a video of the incident which can be viewed on his Facebook page.
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CAPTION: 1- The unmoored boat, heading for the rocks as seen from the Whitsunday Sailing Club.
A critical offshore medical emergency in the Whitsundays on the afternoon of 5 March, prompted a swift and highly coordinated response from an aeromedical rescue crew, highlighting the vital role of emergency services in some of Queensland’s most remote locations.
The incident unfolded when a man aboard a cruise ship became critically unwell while the vessel was at sea and unable to access a nearby port. With time of the essence, a rescue helicopter was tasked to the scene to deliver urgent medical care.
Upon arrival, the helicopter crew conducted multiple winch operations to deploy a paramedic, doctor and aircrewman onto the deck of the ship. Once on board, the medical team immediately began stabilising the patient while the aircraft remained overhead.
To maximise the helicopter’s available flight time before refuelling became necessary, the cruise ship was manoeuvred closer toward Mackay as treatment continued on deck. This coordination allowed the rescue crew to remain airborne long enough for the patient to be prepared for evacuation.
Once stabilised, the patient was carefully winched from the vessel into the helicopter and flown to Mackay Base Hospital, where he was handed over for further critical care.
The operation showcased the extraordinary teamwork required for complex offshore rescues, with pilots, aircrew and medical staff working seamlessly together under challenging conditions.
Missions such as these demonstrate how emergency crews bring lifesaving care to people in need, no matter how far from shore they may be.
BMA CQ Rescue have been referred to as a community funded lifeline in the sky. Based in Mackay, the rescue helicopter service operates 24/7, 365 days a year, reaching the vast and remote corners of Central and North Queensland. The highly trained crew responds when every second counts, providing critical aeromedical care to urgent search and rescue missions. Whether it’s a serious accident, a medical emergency or a search and rescue operation, the team is dedicated to keep the region safe.
As a non-for-profit charity organisation, BMA CQ Rescue are reliant on donations, and therefore every little contribution helps. The group do vital work that saves lives and provides urgent care in extreme situations.
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Crews from BMA CQ Rescue performed a winch rescue from a cruise ship in the Whitsundays during a critical offshore medical evacuation on 5 March. Photo source: Facebook
International Women’s Day celebrations across the Whitsundays have highlighted the strength, leadership and community spirit of women in our region - and now new opportunities are opening to help local women take the next step in their careers.
Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm said the celebrations were a wonderful reminder of the important role women play in shaping communities across the region.
In Proserpine, the Lions Club and local volunteer Lyn Burke organised an International Women’s Day luncheon which quickly sold out, with more than 140 tickets snapped up by locals eager to celebrate the occasion together. While heavy rain unfortunately forced the event to be postponed on the day, organisers are already working on a new date so the celebration can still go ahead.
Meanwhile at Shute Harbour Marine Terminal, the Zonta Club of the Whitsundays hosted a successful International Women’s Day event recognising two local women for their contributions to the community.
Ms Camm said the events reflected the strong community spirit across the Whitsundays.
“It is fantastic to see people coming together to celebrate and support the women who make such a difference in our community,” Ms Camm said.
At the same time, Ms Camm said there was exciting news for women looking to grow their careers, with Round 2 of the Women’s Career Grants opening on 23 March.
The program provides one-off grants of up to $5,000 to help women overcome financial barriers when returning to work or taking the next step in their careers.
The funding can assist with costs such as workwear, childcare, training, recertification, tools or technology.
More than 1,000 Queensland women were supported in the first round of the program.
Expressions of interest are now open ahead of applications opening later this month at womenscareergrants.com.au.
Ms Camm encouraged local women to take advantage of the opportunity.
“This program is about supporting women to step back into the workforce, build their careers and create greater financial security for themselves and their families,” she said.
Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Electorate Office.
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Lyn Burke and Lions – International Women’s Day
Photo supplied
The Whitsundays was proudly represented by some of its finest tourism operators at the 2026 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards, held in Perth last Friday night.
Four local businesses were named finalists at the national awards after first taking out honours at the state level last year. Pinnacles Airlie Beach was a finalist in the Self-Contained Accommodation category, Iconic Whitsunday Adventures was a finalist in Tour & Transport Operators, Shute Harbour Marine Terminal was a finalist in the Tourism Retail, Hire & Services category and Whitsunday Escape was recognised in the Unique Accommodation category.
While none of the local operators took home a national award on the night, reaching the national stage after winning at the state level remains a significant achievement.
The Australian Tourism Awards bring together the country’s leading tourism operators, celebrating excellence, innovation and outstanding visitor experiences across the industry.
This year the awards featured 26 categories, ranging from Major Tourist Attractions, Festivals & Events, Ecotourism and Cultural Tourism to Accommodation and Food Tourism, with a total of 179 finalists nationally.
“These finalists demonstrate the quality, creativity and dedication that make the Whitsundays a world-class tourism destination,” said Tim Booth, Chief Executive Officer of Tourism Whitsundays.
“Their achievements highlight the diversity and innovation in our region and set a high benchmark for the industry nationally.”
Local Tourism Operators Shine On National Stage
“Congratulations to all the winners and those nominated at the Australian Tourism Awards held in Perth last night,” said Pinnacles Airlie Beach in a Facebook post over the weekend.
“It was a great night celebrating industry, and we are so proud of our team and being able to represent Queensland.”
Owners of Iconic Whitsunday Adventures, Nicole and Jeremy Graham, said it was an incredible honour to represent Queensland on the national stage alongside some of the country’s most respected tourism operators.
“Being recognised as a finalist at the Australian Tourism Awards is something we are incredibly proud of,” said Nicole Graham.
“To represent not only the Whitsundays but also Queensland at a national level was a very special moment for our business and our team.”
The event was made even more meaningful for the family as their children, Georgie and Bracken, were able to attend the awards with them.
“Our children have grown up alongside the business and have seen firsthand what it takes to run a tourism operation in a seven-day-a-week industry,” Nicole said.
“Taking them with us to the national awards was incredibly special. They’ve been part of the journey, and it felt right that they could share that moment with us.”
Nicole said the recognition was a reflection of the passion and dedication of their entire crew.
“Our team are the people creating unforgettable experiences for our guests every single day. To be recognised at both the state and national level is something that belongs to all of them.”
The Qantas Australian Tourism Awards recognise operators who deliver unforgettable visitor experiences, drive innovation and contribute to the growth and sustainability of their destinations.
The Whitsundays’ representation across four categories underscores the region’s strength as a leading tourism destination.
“The commitment of these businesses to creating memorable and unique experiences is what makes The Whitsundays so special for visitors from across Australia and the world,” Mr Booth added.
Captions:
1: The Graham family from Iconic Whitsunday Adventures. Photo supplied
2: The team from Pinnacles, Airlie Beach. Photo supplied
In the pouring rain last week, veteran visitor and honourary local to the Whitsundays Jan Smith was searching for her son-in-law in a drenched carpark at a nearby shopping centre.
Spotting a white Ute that looked exactly like his, she swung open the door and jumped straight into the vehicle, ready to be driven home in the dry comfort of what she thought was his car.
When she turned to look at her son-in-law, however, she instead found a young man in his twenties beaming at her with a wide, friendly grin.
“I think I might have gotten in the wrong car!” she said, laughing at the mistake.
“That’s ok,” he replied. “Are you alright? Can I help you find the right car?”
Jan politely declined and jumped back out into the now lighter rain to continue her search for the correct vehicle.
A few minutes later she noticed the same young man approaching her.
“Are you sure you’re ok?” he asked, once again offering to help in any way he could.
Fortunately, at that exact moment Jan spotted her son-in-law heading towards them. He had been waiting a little further along since the agreed pickup time and had seen her.
Jan said goodbye to her good Samaritan, but the moment stayed with her long after.
Not only did it give her a funny story to share with friends and family about accidentally jumping into a stranger’s car, it also a reminder of the kindness that is everywhere in our community.
“To think he would get out of his vehicle again to check on me, what a lovely young man,” she said.
Our Mackay journalist said to me this week that perhaps we should mention the conflict in Iran and how it is beginning to cause concern locally.
I think she’s absolutely right.
Sometimes living here in the Whitsundays can feel like we exist in a small, beautiful bubble, a tropical microcosm somewhat removed from the chaos and tragedies unfolding around the world. But even here, thousands of kilometres away, we are starting to feel the ripple effects of events happening in the Middle East.
Fuel prices have sky-rocketed, groceries seem to be getting more expensive by the week, and there’s a general sense of uncertainty in the air. Conversations that once centred on weekend plans or the weather are now touching on global tensions, oil prices and what it might all mean for Australia.
For many of us, this is probably the first major global event since COVID that has made us collectively sit up and pay attention again. It’s understandable that people feel a little uneasy, wondering how something so far away could affect our businesses, our jobs and our daily lives.
At the same time, it is worth remembering that while we may be feeling the pressure economically, others around the world are facing circumstances far more confronting. For people living in regions directly affected by conflict, the uncertainty is not about petrol prices or grocery bills, but about safety, stability and survival.
That perspective doesn’t make the pressures we are feeling here any less real. Challenges are always relative to where we stand. But it does remind us how fortunate we are to live in a place where, despite global tensions, we can still wake up to the beauty of the Whitsundays, go about our daily lives and feel safe within our community.
Perhaps in times like these, the best thing we can do locally is look out for one another, support our businesses and remember that even when the world feels unsettled, our community remains one of our greatest strengths.
Rach
Quote of the Week: “You may kill me with your hatefulness. But still, like air, I’ll rise” (Maya Angelou)
Whitsunday local Jure Portelli has made history as the first ever Australian to be selected for the incredibly prestigious Honda Racing School Suzuka Formula Class. At just 17 years old, she is also the only female driver to be selected for the 2026 intake.
This incredible opportunity only seeks out the top racing talent and has launched careers of Indy 500 and Formula 1 drivers. Jure managed to beat fierce competition, securing her place in the advanced course against only a few dozen of the most talented up and coming drivers in the world.
This wonderful achievement is making the region incredibly proud as we eagerly anticipate the next stages of her undoubtedly fruitful career.
Local Talent Makes History
Jure Portelli Becomes First Australian at Honda Racing School Suzuka
North Queensland is celebrating a remarkable achievement in the world of motorsport. Seventeen-year-old Jure Portelli has made history as the first Australian ever selected for the prestigious Honda Racing School Suzuka Formula Class. Even more inspiring, she is the only female driver in this year’s intake.
The Honda Racing School in Japan is known worldwide for nurturing some of the best young racing talent. Led by Indy 500 winner Takuma Sato, the program has helped launch careers like that of Formula 1 driver Yuki Tsunoda. For Jure, this opportunity follows a tough competition against 30 drivers from across the globe, which included two days of intensive testing. Only 10 made it to the next stage, and after further trials, Jure secured her place in the advanced course.
This achievement reflects not just Jure’s skill, but her dedication and versatility. She has honed her driving across many disciplines—from endurance racing and rally to training with the Ferrari Driver Academy. Her journey began in local karting, and in just five years she has reached the world stage.
To take this next big step, Jure will be relocating to Japan to complete her training. This comes with considerable costs for travel, living, and coaching. As a grassroots racer supported primarily by her father, who also serves as her mechanic, Jure is now calling on the local community for sponsorship and donations to help make this dream a reality.
Her story is one of passion, family support, and sheer determination. It’s a proud moment for North Queensland and a wonderful example of what young people from our region can achieve with the right support.
Let’s rally behind Jure Portelli as she races toward an exciting future, representing our community on the international stage.
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Photo supplied
Queenslanders are being reminded that simple home maintenance can play a key role in protecting properties during severe weather events.
Advice from Get Ready Queensland encourages residents to keep their homes well maintained throughout the year to improve resilience during cyclones, storms and flooding.
Basic maintenance tasks such as checking roof conditions, clearing gutters and trimming overhanging tree branches can help reduce the risk of damage when extreme weather strikes. Ensuring gutters and downpipes are free from leaves and debris allows water to drain properly and prevents overflow during heavy rainfall.
Residents are also encouraged to repair any loose fittings, rusted areas or damaged timber around their homes to strengthen structures before storm season arrives.
Insurance is another important step in preparing for disasters. Queensland is the most disaster-affected state in Australia, with communities regularly experiencing events such as cyclones, floods and bushfires. Authorities recommend reviewing home and contents insurance policies to ensure adequate coverage.
Preparing ahead of severe weather warnings can also make a significant difference. Homeowners are advised to secure outdoor furniture, toys and other loose items that could become dangerous in high winds. Vehicles should be parked in sheltered areas away from trees, waterways and powerlines.
Sandbags may also help reduce flood impacts if placed correctly around entry points such as doors and garages. Residents should also identify the safest room inside their home to shelter in during a storm, ideally away from large windows.
Checking on neighbours, particularly elderly residents, and ensuring pets and livestock are moved to safe areas are also important steps during extreme weather.
By staying prepared and maintaining homes regularly, Queenslanders can reduce risks and better protect their families and property when severe weather occurs.
CAPTION: Clearing your gutters is a simple, yet effective way to prepare your home ahead of severe weather. Photo source: Shutterstock
The Queensland Government has opened the second round of its Residential Activation Fund, making $500 million available to councils and landowners to help deliver infrastructure needed for new housing developments across the state.
The funding forms part of the government’s $2 billion Residential Activation Fund, which aims to support the construction of new homes by ensuring essential infrastructure such as roads, water, sewerage and power are in place to enable residential development.
To date, the program has helped unlock land for approximately 98,000 homes across Queensland through a combination of construction and planning projects.
Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jarrod Bleijie said the funding would help accelerate housing supply by supporting the infrastructure required for new developments.
“More homes across the State are needed and fast, and a key way we can play our part is to unlock land and break down barriers that have been holding back councils and the industry,” Deputy Premier Bleijie said.
“The Residential Activation Fund is literally making inroads, by providing funding to get the foundations right and generational infrastructure like roads, water, sewerage and power in place, so builders can get building and more Queenslanders have a place to call home.
“Queensland is open for business and we call on councils and landowners to come to us with their projects.”
Local Government Association of Queensland CEO Alison Smith encouraged councils to apply for the funding to help accelerate housing supply in their communities.
"Councils are playing their part to increase housing supply through zonings and approvals, but infrastructure is often the missing ingredient," Ms Smith said.
"Councils had called for enabling infrastructure funding, and the creation of this Residential Activation Fund is helping to meet council needs. Round One has already proven to be a gamechanger that is helping councils to tackle this infrastructure 'gap' and we applaud the State Government for this initiative.”
The second round of funding is open to councils and landowners seeking support for infrastructure that will enable residential developments and support growing communities across Queensland.
LEGENDS ON THE LAWN is thrilled to announce the next stellar line-up for their outdoor show. The next concert will be headlined by Australian music icon, Jimmy Barnes, and supported by crowd favourites Jon Stevens (The Noiseworks/INXS Collection), Birds Of Toyko, Baby Animals, Busby Marou and Bachelor Girl.
Mayor Greg Williamson said that after record attendance last year, LEGENDS ON THE LAWN was back for its fifth year in Mackay and had cemented its place as the region's biggest music festival.
“LEGENDS ON THE LAWN has a fantastic formula that works, a tremendous lineup of iconic Australian artists, beautiful outdoor location and a festival delivered like a well-oiled machine,” Mayor Williamson said.
“And what an incredible lineup we have this year, we’re excited to see Harrup Park packed once again in 2026 and look forward to welcoming thousands of passionate music fans to the Mackay region.”
Jimmy Barnes is the heart and soul of Australian rock and roll. He has 22 #1 albums, more than The Beatles, and he has sold more records in Australia than any other local artist. For over 40 years he has delivered some of the country’s most intense and iconic live performances both as a solo performer and as front man for the legendary Cold Chisel, leading him to be inducted into the ARIA Hall of fame … twice. He is truly in a league of his own.
Back by popular demand is Jon Stevens with The Noiseworks & INXS Collection Tour. Jon is back performing songs from the legendary bands that catapulted him into Aussie Rock Royalty.
The performance will bring hits like Take Me Back, New Sensation, Touch, Don’t Change, Hot Chilli Woman, Never Tear Us Apart, No Lies and much more.
Formed in Perth in the early 2000’s, Birds of Tokyo have grown from independent roots to become one of Australia’s most popular contemporary rock bands.
Since their 2008 breakthrough Universes, all five of the group’s albums have reached the ARIA top 3 including two #1 hits: March Fires (2013) and Human Design (2021). Classic songs like “Good Lord”, “Plans”, “Lanterns”, “Two Of Us”, “Brace” and “Unbreakable” have all been top 10 airplay hits and more than seventy of their tracks have featured on Triple J.
It has been 35 years since one of Australia’s most revered rock bands, Baby Animals, burst onto the scene with the release of their 8x Platinum, ARIA Award winning, self-titled debut album, featuring iconic hits ‘Rush You’, ‘Early Warning’, ‘Painless’ and ‘One Word’.
Their album went eight times platinum and won three ARIA Awards – Best Album, Best Debut Album and Best Debut Single.
Busby Marou are one of Australia’s most loved live acts, known for their unique blend of heartfelt storytelling, soaring harmonies, and exceptional musicianship. Tom Busby (Rockhampton, QLD) and Jeremy Marou (Torres Strait Islands) have been playing together for two decades, forging a deep musical connection that shines on stage and in the studio. With five critically acclaimed albums, including an ARIA #1 and multiple ARIA-charting releases, their songs have amassed millions of streams and won a fiercely loyal fan base.
Formed in 1992 by Tania Doko and James Roche, Bachelor Girl became one of Australia’s most loved acts of the 90s and early 2000s, achieving major success locally and internationally, including signing with Clive Davis at Arista Records.
Still delivering a hit-filled, dynamic live show, Bachelor Girl remain a vital force in Australian music and are currently working on a major new project set to be announced soon.
All Ages Show. Under 18s must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
What: LEGENDS ON THE LAWN 2026
When: Saturday 30th May
Where: Harrup Park, Mackay Qld
Tickets: Www.Ticketmaster.Com.Au
Waiting for God is a British sitcom that ran on BBC1 from June 1990 to October 1994 starring Graham Crowden and Stephanie Cole as Tom and Diana, two spirited residents of a retirement home who spend their time running rings around the home's oppressive management and their own families.
The show, written by Michael Aitkens, became so successful that it not only ran for five series, but is still repeated on various channels in several countries including the UK, New Zealand, and Australia.
Now the stage version of Waiting for God, also written by Michael Aitkens, is coming to Kucom Theatre, and director Bronwyn Grannall – whose productions of The Vicar of Dibley delighted Mackay audiences in 2018 and 2022 - will be holding auditions at Kucom on Sunday 22 March.
For more information as it comes to hand, visit the Kucom Facebook page.
Meet Scooby-Doo 🐾
This handsome 1-year-old Rottweiler cross is bursting with love, loyalty, and personality! Scooby has spent the last few months in care getting all his vet work done and learning how to be the best boy he can be. Now, he is ready to trade kennel life for a home and a family of his own.
Scooby is a sweet and affectionate companion who thrives on being close to his people. The big softie does experience some separation anxiety when left alone — he just loves company too much.
Because of this, Scooby’s ideal home would be with a family who’s home often and ideally has another calm, desexed dog to help him feel safe and secure.
This gorgeous boy is microchipped, fully vaccinated, and desexed, and he’s now ready to find his forever family.
Scooby is the kind of dog who will greet you with a wagging tail every day and never leave your side. At just one year old, he’s just a pup, with plenty of time to grow, learn and love – all he needs is someone willing to give him that chance.
If you’ve got room in your heart (and on your couch) for a loyal best friend, Scooby-Doo would love to meet you.
Please contact Aaron T 0400 821 800 to arrange a meet and greet.
1- Can you give this gorgeous boy the love he deserves?
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