Community News

Busy Week on the Green at Wangaratta Bowls Club

Busy Week on the Green at Wangaratta Bowls Club

It’s been a vibrant and busy week at Wangaratta Bowls Club, with full greens and strong competition across all events. Monday Triples saw a full field with Jan Harvey, Rodney Barter, and Glenn Harvey claiming victory over S. Farrel, H. Beech-Jones, and K. Pedlar. Runners-up were Glen, Nick, and John, who defeated Neal, Bruce, and Robyn. The jackpot once again went unclaimed. Tuesday afternoon was a special occasion as the club honoured its Patroness, Merle Elphinstone—our oldest Life Member wh

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MARIAN BOWLERS STITCH KINDNESS INTO EVERY SQUARE

MARIAN BOWLERS STITCH KINDNESS INTO EVERY SQUARE

The ladies from Marian Bowls Club have shown that community spirit is alive and well, recently donating ten beautifully handmade knee rugs to the residents of Nanyima Aged Care Home in Mirani. Over the past few months, members have been busy crocheting and knitting squares from home, later joining them together to create colourful, cosy rugs designed to keep elderly residents warm while in wheelchairs. On Wednesday, June 25, Marian Bowls Club President Thelma Johnston, Treasurer Judith Miller

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Stirring The Pot

Stirring The Pot

It’s not every week I get the privilege of having the Mayor cook me dinner — but thanks to Crunch Time, part of this year’s Mackay Festival of Arts, that’s exactly what happened. The live-theatre-meets-dinner-party event delivered five unpredictable courses dictated by democracy and whipped up by Mayor Greg Williamson himself. Let’s just say the democratic process took a dark turn when someone voted for Natto — a fermented bean experience that confirmed some things are better left off the plate

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Mackay Army Cadets Step Up For Veteran Homelessness Awareness

Mackay Army Cadets Step Up For Veteran Homelessness Awareness

Last Sunday, the Mackay Army Cadets once again laced up their boots and marched with purpose – this time around the Bluewater Trail – as part of a growing movement to raise awareness and support for veteran homelessness. Twelve months on from the extraordinary 382km trek in 2024, the cadets returned to action, completing a symbolic circuit of Mackay’s scenic Bluewater Trail. The event served as both a show of continued solidarity and a powerful reminder that, for many veterans, the battle

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Better Built Sheds

Dive In And Reeflect

July 3, 2025

Hi everyone,

Winter is well and truly here, and I’ve been hearing more and more about the amazing marine life this season brings! While whales often steal the spotlight, we’re also seeing more sightings of manta rays and dugongs!

It’s been freezing lately, I’ve been tucked up with my hot water bottle most nights! Luckily, the chill hasn’t stopped me from getting creative. I’ve been running some wonderful weekly art sessions at Eco Barge HQ, where we turn recycled waste into beautiful pieces. It’s been so rewarding to see how they’re coming along, and even more so to share it with a lovely community of like-minded people. We’re very lucky to have such a special crew here in the Whitsundays.

Happy reading and stay warm,
Ruth

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A Minute With The Mayor 27 June

July 11, 2025

Budget 2025–26: Building a Fairer, Stronger Whitsundays

Last week, Council handed down the 2025–26 Budget—my second as Mayor, and one that truly reflects the direction Councillors and I want to take as a region.

My first budget last year was delivered just weeks after we were sworn in. This year, we’ve had time to dive deep, confront the financial realities, and make tough but necessary choices to put us on a more sustainable path.

We uncovered a structural deficit in our general fund—around $10 million a year—partly masked by cross-subsidisation from water and sewerage revenue. That simply wasn’t sustainable.

At the same time, we’re facing rising costs, from roads to rubbish to insurance, and a $779,000 drop in state financial assistance grants. Like households, we’re feeling the squeeze.

That’s why this year’s budget includes significant reform, starting with how we fund our services. We’ve introduced a fairer, more modern rating system—built on principles of equity, simplicity, and sustainability.

For residential owner-occupiers, the average general rate rise is 2%, with utilities increasing by about 5%—an overall weekly increase of $2.92. For commercial and large industrial ratepayers, there’s a larger adjustment to bring their contributions in line with service use and property values.

We’ve also worked hard to reduce waste and improve how we operate by delivering $3 million in savings across areas like libraries, environmental services, communications, and internal functions. That’s allowed us to reinvest in core services, including an extra $2.5 million for road and footpath maintenance.

Importantly, we’re investing in the future, with a $114 million capital works program. That includes water and sewer upgrades, major road renewals, and improvements to parks, waste facilities, and community spaces.

Projects like the Cannonvale Community Hub, the Whitsunday Sports Precinct, and the Collinsville Hub are more than infrastructure—they’re a signal of confidence and a foundation for growth.

This budget is about balance—responsibility today, and ambition for tomorrow. It doesn’t fix everything overnight, but it sets us on the right track: fairer, more sustainable, and future-ready.

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And the Show goes on …

June 27, 2025

Proserpine’s very first show brought together an isolated community for social activity and friendly competition. While these days our community is no longer isolated, today’s show (now known as Show Whitsunday) continues to be an important and greatly anticipated social event. The people of the Whitsundays owe a debt to the many dedicated men and women who, for well over a century, have given their time and talents to make the annual show the success that it is today.

Rail, hail or shine, this annual event has drawn crowds. At times, volunteers have had to work under extremely difficult conditions to ensure that the show would go on. In 2007, despite rising floodwaters that threatened to take over the showground, the mud, and extreme cold weather, the show went ahead. It was the wettest on record resulting in the cancellation of several events including cattle and wood chopping. “Gumboots, raincoats and umbrellas were out in force as crowds mingled.” (“Whitsunday Coast Guardian” June 27 2007).

Three years later, Cyclone Ului in 2010 caused widespread damage to the grounds but was nothing compared to the utter destruction inflicted by Cyclone Debbie in 2017. BUT again, the show went on thanks to the tireless band of show committee and community volunteers.

The first official show was held on its current site in 1910 and members of the community have maintained the tradition of displaying their arts and crafts, their flowers and farm produce, and much more every year apart from 1919, when there were no exhibits due to restrictions during the great flu epidemic; the two years during World War 2 and 2020, during the lockdowns necessitated by the global Covid pandemic.

Recollections from our first show – 1910
Extracts from “Show Whitsunday: Celebrating 100 Shows” sheds an interesting light on this very first show held on the same grounds as it is today.

  • The guessing competition has been altered in the schedule and the first prize now is a Singer sewing machine valued at £15.
  • The secretary was instructed to write to the Tramway Board for an excursion train for Saturday 27th.
  • It was decided that in the event of the catering not to be tendered for, that it be included in the privileges to be sold by auction on Saturday and that a guarantee be given for 40 lunches at 2s 6d per head.
  • It is announced this issue (referring here to the local paper) that the business people intend to close on Thursday during show week at 1 pm to 7 pm, Friday close all day, Saturday open from 8 am to 10 am, close from 10 am to 7 pm. It is a poor heart that never rejoices, and it is hoped customers will call and give their orders in early and make it as light as possible for those who are connected with shops, so as to let them have the full benefits of the joyous time.
  • The Proserpine Show Ball during the carnival week was one of the most successful ever held at Proserpine. About 130 people were present and dancing was kept up till the small hours of the morning. Mr Setter’s taxi was busy engaged taking the dancers to and from the ball which contributed in no small way towards its success.

While times have certainly changed since 1910, the annual show remains a popular event in the social calendar. And this year, the 112th show is sure to deliver yet another fun-filled and action-packed two days of entertainment for all the family; something for everyone.

So, mark the dates in your calendar – June 20 & June 21. Your support is important if the show is to go on …

Story courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum. Photo and extract on the 1910 show sourced from the publication, “Show Whitsunday: Celebrating 100 Shows”.

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Zonta Champions STEM For Local Girls

June 27, 2025

The Bowen Zonta Club recently hosted an inspiring two-day STEM workshop for local girls, with a fantastic program of hands-on activities designed to build skills, curiosity and confidence in science, technology, engineering and maths.

Day one saw 37 young girls dive into electronics by building their own operation games, experimenting with samples and learning fingerprint analysis as they worked to solve the mystery of who ruined Suzie’s birthday cake. This fun and interactive forensic unit had the girls thinking like real scientists and detectives, applying critical thinking and problem-solving skills at every step.

Day two shifted to the world of alternative power, where participants explored renewable energy through the creation of solar ovens (perfect for melting chocolate for a tasty morning tea with fruit) and the design and testing of their own mini wind turbines. The room was buzzing with energy and enthusiasm, and it was fantastic to see the girls so engaged, still answering quiz questions at the end of the day with interest and excitement.

STEM learning is vital for opening doors and creating opportunities for young women and girls. Experiences like these workshops not only build practical skills but help inspire future careers in industries where women are still under-represented. Programs like this help foster a love of learning, build confidence and show young girls that they belong in STEM fields.

A huge thank you goes to STEM Sisterhood for the fantastic activities, Abbot Point Operations for generous support, PCYC Bowen for the venue, and to the Bowen Zontians whose ongoing dedication to creating a better world for women and girls made this event possible. Thank you also to the parents who supported the girls’ involvement. The future for these young scientists is looking bright.

Having fun at the STEM Sisterhood workshop. Photos sourced: Zonta Club of Bowen

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When sugar cane came from Bowen

June 27, 2025

In the last half of the nineteenth century, there were several unsuccessful forays into sugar cane growing in Bowen. The Bowen Sugar Company in the 1860s and Hildebrandt Brothers in the 1880s were two early failures. However, with the opening of the railway from Bowen to Proserpine in 1910, cane growing on the Don River near Bowen revived with the Field brothers and James Maltby planting cane by the Don.

The only market for this cane was the Proserpine Mill, transporting it over the newly opened railway. In 1911, Don River growers applied for a sugar mill of their own. The newly formed Royal Commission was examining whether the industry needed more government-financed mills. Giving evidence in court, George Turner, Secretary of the Chamber of Commerce, and James Maltby who was already growing cane on a smaller scale, referred to 4500 acres of land suitable for cane growing in the area. But the final report recommended that Don River farmers send their cane to Proserpine until such time as Proserpine could no longer cope.

“The first Bowen cane came in 1911, 15 tons from the Field brothers and James Maltby. The supply grew slowly, the first substantial railings being 1512 tons in 1918, 80 percent of it railed from Delta Siding. Most of the rest came from the Don with small amounts from Euri and Merinda. Less than 300 tons was sent the following year, but with railings from Bootooloo as well, cane reached 1750 tons in 1923, the last season for which the Railway Department recorded sugar cane separately from other agricultural produce. Some of the cane may have gone to Inkerman Mill on the Burdekin.” A Crystal Century

In July 1920, Proserpine growers expressed their disapproval of cane coming from Bowen but Proserpine Mill continued to crush Bowen’s cane until 1939 though in declining amounts. Other sources indicate that in 1922, twelve to fourteen growers supplied cane with 1900 tons being crushed and that, anticipating a great supply, the Proserpine Sugar Mill assisted with freight costs from the Don River. From 1921 to 1926, 11200 tons of cane came from Bowen with an average CCS of about 14. After 1926, the supply dwindled until 1939, then stopped. The cane had tapered off in favour of tomato growing and small crops.

“Surviving figures from Proserpine Mill from 1926 to 1936 show an average of just under 200 tons per year from the Bowen area. At the same time, an average of 1000 tons came annually by rail from Red Hill (now Koolachu) and from Debella, O’Hanlon Siding and Longford Creek combined.” A Crystal Century

“Expansion within the cane industry and an easing of the assignment system encouraged a number of Bowen growers to revive the idea of growing cane in the 1990s. They made some preliminary plantings, testing trickle irrigation as a means of growing it with reduced water requirements. As there was undeveloped cane land closer to the mill which could be more efficiently serviced, directors of the milling association decided that Bowen growers would have to be responsible for transport to the mill yard. They declined to increase the maximum cartage allowance of 60 cents per tonne.” A Crystal Century

Despite this, some growers continued to plant sugar cane in the Bowen district, transporting their crop by road. It would be almost another two decades before the venture came to an end; the last cane being delivered to the Proserpine Sugar Mill in 2018 by Richardsons Cane Farming.

The Richardsons commenced cane growing in 2008; one of the last three growers in the Bowen area around that time. A combination of factors spelt the end of this venture - costs of harvesting; transport costs and the loss of previously leased land which further impacted viability; all further exacerbated by low sugar prices. It might have been a far different story if the more recent favourable sugar prices had existed at the time.

Story and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum and information also sourced from “A Crystal Century” by John Kerr. Thanks also to Mr Dave Richardson from Bowen for his input.

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Strengthening Local Business Through Connection, Advocacy, and Support

June 27, 2025

Join the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry Today
In a dynamic and evolving economic environment, the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry remains a trusted voice and support network for businesses across the region. With more than 230 members and growing, the Chamber brings together a broad cross-section of businesses to advocate for local needs, foster collaboration, and provide timely access to valuable information and services.

What is the Purpose of the Chamber?
The Chamber exists to create a strong and sustainable business environment in the Whitsundays. As an independent, member-led organisation, it works to influence policy, improve regional conditions, and promote economic development. Its core purpose is to strengthen the capacity and success of local businesses by connecting them to each other, to decision-makers, and to opportunities that support long-term growth.

What Membership Offers
Chamber membership supports businesses at every stage—from sole traders and small businesses to established companies and industry groups. Key member benefits include:

Advocacy and Representation: The Chamber actively represents member interests at all levels of government, advocating on critical issues such as infrastructure, planning, regulation, and regional growth.
Connection and Collaboration: Members connect through regular events, networking functions, and working groups, opening doors to new partnerships, referrals, and shared initiatives.
Visibility and Promotion: Through social media, newsletters, the online directory, and other platforms, members gain valuable exposure. Advanced membership levels include opportunities for media features and event participation.
Access to Resources: Members stay informed with updates on policy changes, funding opportunities, training programs, and exclusive member offers that support business growth and resilience.
Influence and Leadership: All members receive voting rights and can nominate for the Chamber Board or join sub-committees to help shape the Whitsundays' economic future.

Flexible Membership Options
With six levels available—starting from just $99 and including a joint membership with Tourism Whitsundays—the Chamber offers a solution to suit every business. Optional packages are also available for those seeking additional promotion and event exposure.

Be Part of Something Bigger
Chamber membership is an investment not only in your business, but in the prosperity of the wider Whitsundays community.

Visit www.whitsundaycoastchamber.com.au/join to learn more or join today.

Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry board. Photo supplied.

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A Fond Farewell from Ruby & Koa 🐾

June 27, 2025

Hey all,

I’m putting my editorial writing skills to the test today, so please forgive any typos Ruth and Daniel haven’t caught!

As I wrap up my time with Life Publishing Group, I want to say a heartfelt thank you to all the incredible clients, business owners, and community members I’ve had the pleasure of working with. From sales and social media to weekly chats with advertisers, unforgettable events, and Core Magazine photoshoots, this journey has been one I’ll always cherish.

To the amazing Life Publishing team, thank you for the laughter, support, and constant inspiration. It’s been an honour to work alongside such a passionate and creative group. A special shoutout to Crissy, the admin and production queen, being your right-hand girl has been an absolute highlight. And to Ruth, thank you for becoming such a special part of both mine and Koa’s life. You’re officially Koa’s aunty now whether you like it or not!

Now, Koa and I are off on a new adventure as I step into a career in support work, something I’ve always felt drawn to. A move to Melbourne may also be on the cards, but no matter where we end up, the connections and memories made here will always stay close to our hearts.

If you see us out and about, don’t hesitate to say hi, we’re always up for a chat (especially Koa).

With love and gratitude,
Ruby & Koa

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Pet Of The Week Meet Rooney!

June 27, 2025

Meet Rooney — a 6-year-old Bull Arab cross with a heart as big as his paws. Rooney has been waiting patiently for his forever home, and we think it’s finally his time to shine.

This handsome boy is a big softie at heart. Rooney is incredibly gentle, affectionate and adores human company. He’s the kind of dog who’ll rest his head on your lap and look at you like you’re the centre of his world. He’s also been working with trainers and has made great progress — he now walks beautifully on the lead, is fully house-trained and thrives in a calm, predictable environment.

Rooney would be best suited to a home with no other pets, as he prefers to be the only animal in the household. In return, he’ll reward you with all the love and loyalty he has to give. He loves his toys, enjoys a daily stroll, and is happiest when he’s simply by your side.

If you’re someone who enjoys a quieter lifestyle and has a secure yard and a comfy spot indoors for Rooney to lounge, he could be your perfect match.

Rooney has been desexed, vaccinated and health checked. All he needs now is someone to give him a second chance at life.

Could you be Rooney’s hero?

To meet this beautiful boy or to find out more, contact Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue Inc:
• Phone: 0459 757 455
• Facebook: Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue
• Email: bcpri.adoptions@gmail.com

Rehoming fee: $650
Breed: Kelpie X
Age: 7 years
Sex: Male
Other dogs: Yes
Fences: 6ft

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State Budget Promises 'Fresh Start' for Whitsundays

June 27, 2025

With Major Investments In Health, Housing & Tourism

The 2025 State Budget has been unveiled, promising a “fresh start” for Queensland with a strong focus on health care, housing, infrastructure, and community safety. For the Whitsundays region, the government says the funding package delivers vital investment across key local services and industries.

Among the headline announcements is a major expansion of Mackay Hospital, with at least 128 new overnight beds slated to restore and improve access to health services. The government says this initiative forms part of its fully-funded Hospital Rescue Plan, aiming to address capacity issues across the state’s public hospitals.

The budget also delivers $44.1 million to expand and improve social and community housing across the Mackay Whitsundays, targeting one of the region’s most pressing needs—access to secure and affordable housing.

Tourism infrastructure has also received a boost. The Whitsunday Skyway project has been allocated $5 million, which Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm says will help drive local job creation and enhance tourism experiences in the region.

“This investment supports more local jobs for our region and delivers greater opportunities for visitors and residents alike,” she said.

The budget also includes a $44 million investment in energy infrastructure, aimed at improving reliability and safety for Airlie Beach and the Whitsunday Islands through a new 66-kilovolt switchyard.

Premier David Crisafulli said the budget marks a new direction for Queensland.

“Today’s Budget delivers the fresh start Queensland needs and Queenslanders voted for,” he said.

“We are delivering to restore safety where you live, health services when you need them, a better lifestyle through a stronger economy, and a plan for Queensland’s future.

“This Budget delivers cost of living relief with the $100 Back to School Boost and the $200 Play On! Sports Vouchers Program, a fully-funded Hospital Rescue Plan, a new nation-leading home ownership program to reduce the deposit gap, as well more police and early intervention to make Queensland safer.”

Other key cost of living initiatives include a $100 Back to School Boost and support for first-time homebuyers through a new home ownership program targeting the deposit gap.

Local Budget Highlights:

  • Abbot Point Rural Fire Brigade Station – $800,000 for a new facility
  • Bowen and Proserpine Pool Solar and Shade Upgrades – $750,000
  • Collinsville Community Precinct – $14.6 million for major upgrades
  • Collinsville Men’s Shed – $400,000 expansion
  • Collinsville staff accommodation upgrades under Hospital Rescue Plan
  • Games On! – $75,000 for Proserpine Rugby League Football Club upgrades
  • New and upgraded police facilities in Proserpine and Mackay
  • Reef Joint Field Management Program – $19.2 million
  • Shute Harbour Boat Ramp – new four-lane ramp to be delivered

Queensland Treasurer David Janetzki and Premier David Crisafulli handed down the 2025 State Budget earlier this week promising a 'Fresh Start' for Queenslanders. photo supplied

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Editor's Note 27 June

June 27, 2025

Hi Everyone,

Last week when I was in the Burdekin, racing through a few morning emails in my hotel room before heading off to an event, I saw this message pop up in my inbox:

____Hi, my name is Brian, nice to meet you.

I'm emailing you because I'll be arriving in Proserpine today. I'm starting a road trip, and until I find a job, I want to save as much money as I can. So, I wanted to ask if I could go to the food bank and pick up some groceries. If possible, I'd like to know the address and hours, as well as any fees or requirements.

Thank you so much for your response and help.____

I’ll be honest – my first instinct was to flag it for later, or maybe suggest he try Google - but then I stopped in my tracks.

Because really, isn’t answering his request exactly the role of a local newspaper? Surely we are a fountain of local knowledge, a place to ask questions—big or small—and get real answers from people who know the community.

After thinking it over, replying to Brian wasn’t just the kind thing to do—it was part of my job. Actually, it was my duty.

The fast pace of weekly deadlines can sometimes pull focus away from the small, human moments that are actually at the core of what we do. Brian’s message was a timely reminder to pause, and make space for the little questions that can make a big difference.

Brian—if you’re reading this, I hope my quick reply helped you find your way to the Foodbank. I wish I’d had more time to give you a fuller response, but I’m really glad you reached out.

And to everyone else—never hesitate to drop us a line. Whether it’s about the local footy scores or finding where to donate clothes, we’re here for all of it.

Rach

Quote of the Week: "If you see someone without a smile, give them one of yours" (Dolly Parton)

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ST CATH'S STUDENTS SHINE AT YEAR 12 FORMAL

June 27, 2025

Taking centre stage for their special night, the Year 12 students of St Catherine’s Catholic College celebrated their School Formal last Thursday at VMR Whitsunday, the evening set against the backdrop of a stunning sunset.

The much-loved local school is also marking a major milestone this year—its centenary. Known for the many multi-generational families who have passed through its gates, St Catherine’s has played a proud role in the community’s story.

You can read their special eight-page 'pull-out' feature inside celebrating the school’s rich history and exploring the journey from Then to Now.

St Catherine's Catholic College students shone and their Year 12 Formal last week. Photo supplied

Find the social pics here: https://tinyurl.com/243gomph

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Do We Have Lift-Off?

June 27, 2025

What's Happening With Australias First Orbital-Capable Rocket?

By Ruth Puddefoot

After a few turbulent weeks, Gilmour Space Technologies is back on track with its Eris TestFlight1 mission, following the successful resolution of a payload fairing issue that led to two launch scrubs earlier this month.

Now back on the pad at the Bowen Orbital Spaceport, the Eris rocket has had a new payload fairing installed and has entered the next phase of launch preparations, with system testing currently underway. A revised “No Earlier Than” (NET) launch target of 1 July has been confirmed via Gilmour Space Technologies’ Facebook page, sparking renewed excitement.

The root cause of the delays was traced to an unexpected power surge during a routine vehicle shutdown on 15 May. The surge, believed to have resulted from electrical backfeed from downstream devices, triggered the payload fairing system and caused it to separate prematurely. While shutdowns are a standard part of launch operations, the fairing system is a single-use mechanism and had never been activated in previous testing in order to preserve its reliability. Unfortunately, this meant the fault went undetected until the rocket was fully prepped for launch.

It has been a challenging period for the team, who were just moments away from entering the fuelling stage of the countdown. Despite thorough rehearsals and checks, Gilmour explained this was the first time the separation mechanisms had been fully energised, meaning they were pressurised and armed for flight. The experience became a valuable, albeit costly, learning curve.

A replacement fairing was promptly shipped from Gilmour Space’s Gold Coast facility and has now been fitted. Following an internal investigation, the company implemented both hardware and software changes to prevent a recurrence. They even joked that, despite early suspicions, the culprit wasn’t the curious cockatoo spotted poking around the wiring.

While a June launch had been the initial goal, recent weather conditions delayed those plans. The revised NET launch date remains subject to weather, wind and ongoing system checks.

Despite the setbacks, optimism remains high at the Queensland-based launch startup. The recent success of ElaraSat, Gilmour’s satellite developed in collaboration with CSIRO and launched via SpaceX and Exolaunch, marked a major milestone. ElaraSat is now in orbit, with tracking and commissioning support currently being provided by LeoLabs and KSAT.

Gilmour Space’s journey with Eris TestFlight1 forms part of Australia’s growing footprint in the global space sector. Scrubs and technical hiccups are said to be all part of the process, especially with new vehicles, but each delay brings valuable lessons that help shape a stronger path ahead.

The countdown continues.

Bowen rocket set to launch

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The Whitsundays Wedding Industry Central Hub

June 27, 2025

Weddings Whitsundays stands as the region’s go-to  planning resource and promotional hub for wedding planning in the Whitsundays, connecting couples globally with our unparalleled beauty and professional services.

The fundamental purpose of Weddings Whitsundays is two-fold: to passionately promote this magnificent region as the ultimate wedding destination and to foster the growth and success of local wedding businesses. For members, being part of this collective is invaluable. With its recent strategic merger into the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Weddings Whitsundays has amplified its ability to assist members.

This new structure means members gain enhanced marketing reach through dedicated website listings and forthcoming promotional campaigns as well as gaining access to business resources, business education, and unparalleled networking opportunities at Chamber events.

Furthermore, membership is now just $299 per business, and grants access to powerful advocacy, ensuring your voice is heard on vital industry matters. Weddings Whitsundays is more than a directory; it's an investment in a collaborative future, ensuring your business thrives and contributes to our local economy, solidifying the Whitsundays' reputation as a world-class wedding destination.

Scan here to see full membership inclusions and join Weddings Whitsundays.

Weddings Whitsundays can help you plan your wedding. Photo credit: Brooke Miles Photography

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Coffee With A Cop

June 27, 2025

The fifth annual Coffee with a Cop catch up is set to take place at Whitsunday Plaza next Wednesday 2 July at 10am.

The popular and ongoing event has become a powerful tool for building trust between police and the public.

“Sometimes are reluctant to speak to police because of the position that we hold,” explained Officer in Charge of Whitsunday Station Senior Sergeant Anthony Moynihan.

“Sometimes the only interaction that people ever have with the police in their life is through something serious, sad, or they're getting a traffic ticket.

“Coffee with a Cop, is a way for us to have conversation with the general public and see us as normal people. There's no better way than sitting down and having a cup of coffee with someone and having a general conversation.”

Coffee with a Cop is a global event and Sergeant Billy Li is looking forward to its return at the Whitsunday Plaza.

Thomas Glisson centre manager of the Whitsunday Plaza said that Coffee with a Cop has been a key part of building community and retailer relationship with the police in a natural area for all.

“This I believe has helped build a stronger community interaction with police of all age groups,” he said.

“It is something that we enjoy having each year to assist the police and community to interact, talk and share a coffee as everyday people.”

What: Coffee with a Cop
Where: Whitsunday Plaza
When: 10am - 11:30am Wednesday 2 July

Constable Mitchell Dentler, Constable Kai Osmetti, Officer In Charge Senior Sgt Anthony Moynihan, Constable Mason Bira, and Sgt Billy Li are ready for Coffee with a Cop next week. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Tourism Whitsunday and Daydream Island Host ATEC Event

June 26, 2025

Last week, Daydream Island and Tourism Whitsundays hosted an action-packed ATEC Explore North Queensland event and The Whitsundays was proudly front and centre.

Hosted by the Australian Tourism Export Council (ATEC), the event brought together international travel buyers and local tourism operators from North Queensland to help strengthen the region’s international presence. With 11 Whitsundays operators present and eight from Tropical North Queensland, our region was passionately represented.

They were joined by 25 international travel buyers from key distributors, including online and in-person travel agencies, wholesalers, and tour operators from the United Kingdom, the United States, Europe, Asia, and more.

The main event was a jam-packed day of one-on-one, ‘speed-dating’ style meetings where each operator got the chance to meet with each buyer. These appointments gave them the chance to showcase their products and build partnerships with the buyers to ensure that they are visible and bookable in international markets.

However, the benefits of trade engagement events extend beyond the partnerships created in the room. They are an important part of ensuring The Whitsundays is seen and desired by travellers around the world. By increasing our visibility to international markets, we help to keep the region at the top of bucket lists all over the world and remain competitive on a global stage.

If you are a local tourism business and are interested in learning more about how you can increase your international visibility and bookings, don’t hesitate to reach out to Tourism Whitsundays.

Contributed with thanks to Tourism Whitsundays Marketing Manager Laura Knipe

ATEC event attendees at Lovers Cove on Daydream Island. Photo supplied

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