You're in - you have your first full time job but now you need to learn to save. Here's how to budget your salary for the first time. The key is to start small and be consistent. Knowing exactly where your money goes each pay will give you control over your finances. You know what position you’re in and you’re better prepared to make informed financial decisions.

Start small
Leaving yourself a bit of wiggle-room is the golden rule of budgeting. So, start small with your savings. It keeps you focused, motivated and won’t feel like a total blow out if things don’t go to plan one week.

Streaming services
Option-paralysis aside, streaming services like Netflix, Stan and Spotify are so accessible that we sign up to them in the blink of an eye. Most services offer ‘family’ discounts so see if your friends are down to buddy up with you on an account so you can all save a few coins.

Lunches
Buying lunch at work every day adds up – quick. It can cost upwards of $20 or $30 a day just for coffee, lunch and a snack. While bringing your lunch to work every day isn’t always possible, doing it just two days a week can save you upwards of $200 a month.

Make swaps
This is a big one for the budding saver. There are endless swaps you can make to free up some cash in your budget, without it cramping your style. Some examples include choosing generic brands where possible in your grocery shop, and getting a reusable coffee cup for cheaper coffee shop trips (plus, it’s better for the environment – bonus!).

Stay home
This sounds so cliché but it’s fun. Promise. Next time you’re planning a night out with your friends for dinner, have them over instead. Put each friend on drinks, snacks or dessert duty and throw on some tunes while you whip up your favourite dish for your people.

Don’t forget that you’re essentially learning a new habit. And the key to creating a successful habit is consistency. Put a set amount into your savings from every pay, no matter how small, and be mindful every time you make the transfer.

It might feel like a process to start with, but seeing the figure grow month by month will motivate you to keep going. And with time, adding to your savings will become as second nature as stopping for your morning coffee. If you’d like to open a dedicated savings account, or talk more about budgeting and saving, contact us at Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank on 4943 2634.

NOTE: THIS ARTICLE CONTAINS GENERAL ADVICE ONLY. READERS SHOULD SEEK A TRUSTED PROFESSIONAL’S ADVICE ON FINANCIAL MATTERS.

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Early intervention has received a major boost in Sarina, with local organisation, Mudth-Niyleta Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Corporation awarded $300,000 through Round 1 of the State Government’s Kickstarter Grant.

The grant forms part of the Gold Standard Early Intervention program; a four-year, $100 million commitment aimed at breaking the cycle of disadvantage and crime through proactive, community-led support. This latest investment is set to deliver meaningful change for Sarina’s young people, providing early help to those most at risk.

The funding will support a new holistic youth wellbeing initiative designed by Mudth-Niyleta, focusing on culturally responsive case management and wraparound support for vulnerable, disengaged, homeless or at-risk youth aged 8 to 17 across the region.

“This funding means we can work alongside young people who are falling through the cracks, connecting them with the right support at the right time. It's about healing, guidance, and offering hope,” said Jazzan Arroyas, Program Manager.

The initiative will help local youth reconnect with education, access safe housing, build life skills and find positive pathways into employment and community connection.

“As a community-led organisation, we understand the challenges faced by our youth, and we also understand the power of early support and belonging,” said Sam Raciti, CEO of Mudth-Niyleta.

“This funding allows us to strengthen our efforts and deliver meaningful outcomes for young people who need a hand up.”

Chairperson Sam Hampton added: “We are proud of the work our team continues to do in Sarina and beyond.

"This investment is recognition of what can be achieved when community organisations are trusted to lead. We thank Glen Kelly’s for his advocacy and the Queensland Government for backing a project that will make a real difference.”

Mirani MP Glen Kelly also welcomed the news.

“This is a fantastic result for Sarina. Mudth-Niyleta are doing grassroots work that truly changes lives, and I’m proud to see this level of investment backing a local organisation that understands our community from the ground up.

“Supporting our young people, especially those facing complex challenges must be a priority, and this program is a powerful step in creating better futures. Congratulations to the Mudth-Niyleta team and everyone who worked so hard to make this happen.”

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Glen Kelly, Sam Hampton, Sam Raciti and Jazzan Arroyas discussing the Queensland Government’s Kickstarter Grant allocation. Photo supplied

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Relax At Airlie’s Boathouse Apartments

Perched on the edge of the Coral Sea and flanked by swaying palms, The Boathouse Apartments in Airlie Beach is where luxury and leisure meet in perfect harmony. This premium waterfront escape offers a rare blend of refined indulgence and family-friendly comfort — all with the Whitsundays as your backyard.

Offering expansive two- and three-bedroom self-contained apartments, The Boathouse Apartments is tailor-made for those who travel with style but seek the warmth and space of home. Each apartment features a private balcony with sweeping marina views, a full gourmet kitchen, and laundry facilities — ideal for longer stays or those who like to pack light. Interiors strike a sophisticated balance between coastal chic and contemporary ease, inviting guests to unwind the moment they arrive.

It’s a place where morning coffees are sipped to the sound of rustling palms, and the sea breeze follows you from balcony to poolside. Lush tropical gardens wrap around a full-sized tennis court and tranquil swimming pool complete with sun lounges and a shaded wading area. It feels like a private sanctuary — yet everything you need is just steps away.

Located on the Port of Airlie Marina, The Boathouse Apartments isn’t just one of the most stylish addresses in Airlie Beach — it’s also one of the most connected. A five-minute waterfront stroll leads to the heart of town, with buzzing cafés, boutiques, and the laid-back Airlie Beach Hotel, known for its live music and welcoming atmosphere. On Saturdays, the beachfront markets come alive with local makers, foodies, and artists.

Dining is a delight before you even leave the building. The marina promenade below The Boathouse Apartments features a handpicked mix of waterfront restaurants and bars — perfect for breakfast with a breeze, sunset drinks, or seafood dinners under the stars.

Boathaven Beach — Airlie’s only true tidal beach — is just five minutes away. Framed by palms and bathed in warm aquamarine waters, it’s perfect for morning swims or afternoons lazing on the sand. The ease of walking to and from the apartment means less planning and more spontaneous moments.

Another standout advantage is proximity to the Cruise Whitsundays terminal. Guests can walk from their apartment to board day trips to Whitehaven Beach, Hamilton Island or the Great Barrier Reef — no shuttles or parking stress required. The Whitsundays are truly at your doorstep.

And while the region is known for adventure, The Boathouse Apartments is all about relaxed sophistication. It’s where families reconnect, couples toast to milestones, and friends reunite after reef days. Here, luxury isn’t loud — it’s present in the details: polished timber finishes, calm coastal styling, and the serenity of a marina outlook.

In response to growing demand for high-end stays and multi-generational travel, the team behind The Boathouse Apartments has also launched Paradise Private Collection — a portfolio of premium holiday homes for guests seeking a more private, standalone experience.

The first property, Cala 14 at The Cove, has already proven popular with wedding groups and families looking for five-star comfort with room to spread out. This expansion allows guests to enjoy the same warm service and trusted management The Boathouse is known for, now in a broader range of luxury settings.

Whether you're chasing reef adventures or simply a stylish place to unwind, The Boathouse Apartments delivers a Whitsundays stay that feels both exclusive and welcoming.

For those seeking relaxed luxury with everything at their fingertips, The Boathouse Apartments isn’t just a place to stay — it’s a place to return to.

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Fringed by palms and filled with light, Cala 14 at The Cove is the jewel of the new Paradise Private Collection. Designed for relaxed luxury and effortless entertaining, this premium holiday home offers a private, high-end escape in the heart of the Whitsundays — perfect for wedding groups, family retreats, or anyone seeking five-star comfort with room to breathe

The Boathouse Apartments is where laid-back luxury meets effortless style. This premium waterfront haven in Airlie Beach offers the perfect blend of marina views, spacious coastal-chic interiors, and family-friendly comfort — all just steps from the heart of the Whitsundays

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Photography by Photos By Nell

In an era where first impressions are made in milliseconds and your online presence often precedes your handshake, professional imagery is no longer optional—it’s essential. This August, Photos By Nell is set to redefine personal branding with her highly anticipated Be Seen Branding Days, a curated headshot and content experience designed for entrepreneurs, creatives, models, and professionals ready to show up and stand out.

Held at a luxury villa in Eimeo on August 19 and 20, the event is a masterclass in aesthetic storytelling. Think California cool meets coastal chic, with styling cues borrowed from the Baja Peninsula and Malibu’s golden hour. From sunlit corners and architectural backdrops to beachside glam, every inch of the location offers the perfect stage for images that feel as elevated as the brands they represent.

But this isn’t just about beautiful photos. It’s about building a visual legacy.

At the heart of Be Seen is a simple truth: you are the face of your business. And if your current visual content doesn’t reflect the standard you deliver, then it’s time to rethink the power of your imagery.

Photos By Nell captures the kind of brand content that works while you sleep—professional, polished, and unmistakably you. In a market oversaturated with AI-generated visuals and off-the-shelf stock images, there’s an increasing desire for something real. Nell delivers exactly that: authenticity with artistry.

Sessions range from a quick lunch break shoot to ones with the full hair and makeup glam experience, with confidence coaching to ease nerves, and a range of high-impact backdrops to create a full year’s worth of content in a single session. Designed for busy professionals, it’s a luxurious but efficient experience—an empire-level upgrade slotted neatly between your morning meetings and afternoon deadlines.

And the returns? Exponential.

A strong set of branding images elevates social media, pitches, websites, and press kits. It creates trust, visibility, and magnetism—three of the most powerful assets in any modern business.

With limited spots available, Be Seen offers exclusivity as part of its allure. This is for those ready to take their personal brand seriously—and look the part.

Because in today’s digital economy, your image does more than speak. It sells.

Be Seen Branding Days
August 19–20 | Luxury Eimeo Villa
Hosted by Photos By Nell

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Work has begun on the much-anticipated stage one upgrade of Langfords Park in Eton, with construction getting underway earlier this week.

The project will be delivered by contractor Vassallo Constructions on behalf of Mackay Regional Council.

The upgrades reflect the ideas and priorities of residents who participated in the community consultation.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the upgrades would make Langfords Park a more welcoming and enjoyable space for families, sporting groups and the wider community.

“This upgrade is a fantastic outcome for Eton and a great example of council and the community working together to improve a much-loved local space,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Stage one will deliver a better located new playground with roofed shade and covered seating, improved access and enhancements that support community events and sporting activities,” he said.

Member for Mirani Glen Kelly said the Crisafulli Government was committed to supporting vital infrastructure delivery for the people of the Mackay region.

“We want to see rural and regional communities across Queensland thrive, which is why we have made Works for Queensland a permanent funding program,” Mr Kelly said.

“Projects like this will not only help improve the liveability of local communities but also support tens of thousands of jobs in rural and regional council areas.”

Stage one works include:

A new, fully fenced playground with shade cover and seating, catering for infants and children aged up to 12 years old.
Additional shade trees along the new footpath.
A new picnic shelter with electric barbecue and setting, overlooking the oval.
A formalised Hill Street entry with a 1.5-metre-wide concrete path linking key facilities.
Installation of football goal posts within the oval.
Pressure washing of the existing tennis court.
A retrofitted lockable gate to prevent vehicle access through the park, with access provided to the Pony Club on request.
Upgrade of seating and tables within the park.

The contractor will be onsite Monday to Friday from 6.30am to 6.30pm and Saturdays, if required. Works are expected to be completed by late-December 2025, weather permitting.

Langfords Park and its public toilets will remain open during construction, although some areas will be cordoned off as required.

The tennis court will be accessible, except during pressure cleaning works, which are scheduled for August and will take about seven days to complete.

The project will involve the removal of seven overgrown shrubs and one tree, with 38 new trees to be planted as part of the landscaping works.

“We thank residents for their patience during construction and look forward to delivering a revitalised Langfords Park that meets the needs of the Eton community for years to come,” Mayor Williamson said.

The Langfords Park Playground Renewal project is proudly funded by the Queensland Government’s Works for Queensland program in association with Mackay Regional Council.

To follow the progress of this project, visit connectingmackay.com.au/Langford-park-upgrade

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Langfords Park is set for a fresh new look, with stage one upgrades bringing a shaded playground, new picnic areas, and improved access — all shaped by community feedback and proudly supported through Works for Queensland

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A once plain and overlooked pedestrian tunnel at the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens is set to be transformed into a vibrant celebration of local biodiversity, thanks to a new public art initiative funded by the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF).

The mural project, titled “Connecting Gardens Through Art”, aims to inject colour, creativity, and education into the tunnel space beneath the railway track, creating a striking visual link between two major sections of the gardens.

The project, led by local artist and photographer Pamela Finger, received $9500 in funding through Round Three of the 2024/2025 RADF grants. Painting is expected to begin in September, following community consultation in August and pending weather conditions.

Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson said the mural would enhance the visitor experience while also promoting the region’s natural wonders.

“The tunnel is a popular route for walkers and cyclists, and it is set to become a dynamic canvas, telling the story of the region’s unique flora and fauna,” Mayor Williamson said.

“The mural will help visitors identify native plants and animals from the Central Queensland Coast Bioregion,” he added.

Pamela Finger said she was thrilled to have renowned local muralist Kate Brunner take the lead on the artistic side of the project.

“Kate is well-known for her beautiful artwork, including collaborating with other artists to paint the Fifth Lane mural,” Ms Finger said.

“Kate will be collaborating with volunteers from the Botanical Art Interest Group, part of the Gardens Friends group, during this project,” she continued.

“The volunteers will gain hands-on experience in mural painting under Kate’s guidance, building valuable artistic skills while contributing to a lasting community asset.”

The initiative embodies the purpose of the RADF program — to support local creatives, foster community collaboration, and celebrate regional identity through artistic expression.

Round One of the 2025/2026 RADF grants is now open for individuals, groups, and organisations seeking support for local arts projects, with applications closing on the 15th of October, for projects starting after the 26th of November.

The RADF is a partnership between the Queensland Government, through Arts Queensland, and local councils to promote arts and cultural development in regional communities.

To learn more or apply, visit: www.mackay.qld.gov.au/radf.

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The Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens tunnel is currently in need of a refresh

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The headline appeared on my social media news feed one day last week: “Dog owners must spend a minimum of three hours a day with their dogs under proposed ACT Government laws.”

We are well past April Fool’s Day so the story about Government reaching into people’s lives was true.

Yep, under the proposed law, it would be illegal for people to spend less than three hours a day with their dogs in the ACT.

The story raised so many questions in my mind: Would there be video surveillance in people’s properties so that human to pooch contact could be timed by Government bureaucrats? Would Government rely on neighbours to dob in neighbours who had failed to spend three hours with their dog on a given day? Perhaps there could be a peephole policy to help dobbers get evidence. Could a nasty boss keep an employee back at work for emergency overtime and then dob the person in for not spending three hours with their dog?

Don’t get me wrong, I know that dogs are social animals and it’s important that their owners spend time with them.

My dog Millie gets more than three hours a day of human company, along with regular walks/runs, ball throws etc. But I don’t need a government to tell me that or stick their nose into such matters. That’s not where they belong.

But I fear that I am in the minority and most people don’t seem to mind governments, more and more, wandering into their lives dictating what they do, say or think.

I’m more in the individual freedom camp than the government-knows-best gang.

Some may recall Nicolas Cage in the movie Wild at Heart when he proclaims that his snakeskin jacket “represents a symbol of my individuality and my belief in personal freedom”. I’m not sure if sure snakeskin jackets are banned these days but governments will be looking at it.

None of this means that I am some anarchist that thinks Governments do not have a role in making laws, keeping people and their property safe and protecting their rights. It’s about achieving the right balance.
The other side of the coin is the new laws and regulations that were introduced last week by the Queensland Government in relation to people selling real estate in this state.

These laws are designed to ensure that sellers disclose key information about a property and that a buyer is informed if the property is affected by proposals such as a transport infrastructure project or a resumption of land.

There are other matters that also need to be revealed such as encumbrances on the property, disputes with a neighbour over a tree on the land and unlicensed building work in the previous six years and under the new laws buyers are entitled to pull out of a contract if such matters are not revealed.

There is an additional cost for sellers who now have to pay for the required searches that legally must be done so that the information can be provided to a buyer prior to a contract being signed.

The changes to the law do ensure that buyers are given more information about key matters that might affect the property and that they don’t find out after moving in, for example, that part of their front yard is going to be lost when the road is widened.

While there will be an additional cost to sellers, the intention is that buyers are armed with more information prior to signing a contract.

These changes feel less about governments meddling in areas they don’t belong and more about actually doing their job and providing reasonable protections for buyers who need to know what, specifically, they are buying.
Although, we still need to keep an eye on the lot of them.

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The number of homes commencing construction in Australia is set to increase over the next few years, driven by strong population growth, low unemployment, and falling interest rates. However, long-term structural issues continue to pose risks to housing affordability and national supply targets, according to the latest outlook from the Housing Industry Association.

HIA Chief Economist Tim Reardon said the sector is showing signs of improved confidence following a period of weak activity, particularly in apartment construction.

“We expect new home commencements to increase steadily through the second half of the decade,” said Mr Reardon.

“Detached house building will lead this recovery, peaking in 2027, with apartment construction set to follow as market conditions and policy settings improve.”

Recent interest rate cuts and historically strong migration are adding to demand for new housing. But ongoing constraints including land shortages, regulations and taxes are increasing the cost of construction and limiting supply. This will continue to drive up the cost of both renting and buying a home.

“The only way to close the growing gap between supply and demand is through meaningful reform—particularly at the state level.”

The HIA report forecasts that home building will fall 20 per cent short of the Australian Government’s target of 1.2 million new homes over the five years.

“We need to unlock land, streamline planning processes, and remove barriers to investment if we are to meet the housing needs of a growing population,” Mr Reardon said.

“Australia has the capacity to deliver, but it will take a coordinated response from all three tiers of government to overcome these constraints.”

While detached housing is showing strong growth in Western Australia, South Australia, and Queensland, activity remains subdued in New South Wales and Victoria. Apartment construction is yet to recover from a collapse in foreign capital caused by punitive state taxes and is expected to rebuild gradually towards the end of the decade. This growth will be boosted by ongoing demand from migration and Olympic focused building in Brisbane.

“Housing demand is not going to decline with a rise in interest rates. It is continuing to grow along with the population. Structural reforms are needed now to shape affordability, economic opportunity and living standards for the next generation,” concluded Mr Reardon.

Forecasts:

Detached houses: There were 26,880 detached houses that commenced construction in the December quarter 2024, which brought the 2024 calendar year to 107,240 detached starts, up by 7.0 per cent compared to the previous year. This increase is expected to continue with a further 3.7 per cent in 2025 to 111,240, and 6.7 per cent increase 2026 to 118,660 and to a peak in 2027 of 120,910 starts. Detached starts are then expected to fall as the cost of land and rising borrowing and construction costs see households shift demand to unit construction, seeing starts fall to 108,240 in 2030.

Multi-unit dwellings: There were 15,390 multi-unit dwellings that commenced construction in the December quarter 2024, which brought the 2024 calendar year to 60,940 multi-unit starts, the lowest in 13 years. This is expected to be the trough of this cycle with the number of multi-unit starts increasing to 68,850 in 2025. A further 9.6 per cent increase in 2026 will still see multi-unit commencements remain anaemically low at 75,450. From this point, capacity constraints should ease, while demand continues to exceed supply, resulting in an additional 13.0per cent increase in starts in 2027 to 85,250. This expansion should continue and exceed 100,000 starts in 2029 for the first time since 2018. From this point, the increase in multi-unit starts will ease.

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Making The Most Of Outdoor Space

In Mackay, where the line between indoors and outdoors often blurs, our backyards are more than just an afterthought — they’re an extension of our living space, a stage for entertaining, relaxing, and making the most of our tropical lifestyle. Whether you have a compact courtyard in town or a sprawling rural block, thoughtful design can transform any outdoor area into a place where you’ll want to spend more time.

Decks that invite you outside
A well-designed deck remains a cornerstone of Queensland living. In the Mackay region, hardwood and composite materials are popular for their durability in our humid climate. Elevated decks can catch the breeze and the view, while ground‑level options work beautifully as seamless extensions of open‑plan living areas. Add comfortable seating, soft lighting, and a few potted statement plants, and you’ve instantly increased both your lifestyle appeal and your property value.

Shade for comfort and style
Given our hot summers, shade is essential — not just for comfort, but for protecting outdoor furniture and reducing indoor heat. Pergolas draped in vines, retractable awnings, or stylish shade sails can provide relief while adding architectural interest. Many Mackay homeowners are embracing insulated patio roofing, which keeps areas cooler and reduces glare without blocking natural light.

Tropical planting that thrives
The Mackay climate is a gardener’s dream for lush, low‑maintenance tropical plants. Think frangipanis, heliconias, cordylines, and golden cane palms. These create a holiday‑at‑home vibe and are hardy enough to handle our wet season. Raised garden beds and mulched borders help keep maintenance to a minimum while still looking vibrant year‑round.

Pools with personality
Pools remain a sought‑after feature, but the trend is shifting towards designs that complement landscaping rather than dominate it. Smaller plunge pools, mineral pools, and natural‑style rock surrounds are growing in popularity. In Mackay, where the beach is always close, many homeowners opt for pools as a private retreat — pairing them with surrounding decks, feature lighting, and greenery for a resort‑like finish.

Alfresco kitchens for year‑round entertaining
Outdoor cooking spaces are evolving well beyond the humble barbecue. Today’s alfresco kitchens often include built‑in grills, pizza ovens, wine fridges, and weatherproof cabinetry. In our climate, these spaces are usable almost year‑round, especially when paired with overhead fans and integrated lighting.

Whether you’re selling or staying put, creating an inviting outdoor area isn’t just about adding features — it’s about designing spaces that work for the Mackay lifestyle. Blend function with a touch of the tropics, and your backyard can become the most loved “room” in your home.

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Local business leaders came together this week to celebrate the launch of the Whitsunday Business Awards 2025.

Sponsors and business champions joined the Whitsunday Regional Council, Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and Bowen Chamber of Commerce to officially kick off this year’s awards season.

The event will shine a spotlight on the incredible achievements, innovation, and resilience of businesses and business leaders right across the Whitsundays.

Nominations are now open, with the excitement building for the big Sundowner Awards Ceremony coming this November.

Celebrating Local Success
2025 Whitsunday Business Awards Launched

Whitsunday Regional Council is proud to announce its partnership with the Whitsunday and Bowen Chambers of Commerce to co-present the 2025 Whitsunday Business Awards – a celebration of innovation, leadership and community spirit across our business sector.

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said this year marks a new chapter in supporting local enterprise.

“We’re proud to be strengthening our partnership with our local chambers to recognise and celebrate the people behind our thriving businesses,” Mayor Collins said.

“Whitsunday businesses are the backbone of our economy. They create jobs, attract visitors, support community initiatives and shape our region’s future.

"These awards give us a chance to applaud the hard work, resilience and passion that comes with running a business.”

The 2025 awards feature 10 diverse categories, including Small Business Hero, Customer Service Champion, Eco Excellence, and Trailblazing Young Entrepreneur. These awards acknowledge businesses of all sizes and stages, from rising stars and young innovators to long-standing community champions and industry leaders.

Jo Shepherd, President of the Bowen Chamber of Commerce, said, “Whitsunday Business Awards are more than just recognition – they are a celebration of resilience, innovation, and community spirit."

“They offer our region a unique window into the journeys behind local success stories, shining a light on the determination, challenges, and growth that help shape our business community."

Alan Milostic, Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry President, said the “These Business Awards are an opportunity to recognise the businesses and individuals going above and beyond. We know that when we celebrate our businesses, we inspire others to grow, create jobs, and build a stronger regional economy for everyone.”

Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine has come on board as the Award’s Principal Partner, highlighting its commitment to building stronger communities through business support.

Mark Henry, Chair of Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine, said, “Local businesses are at the heart of our community — they support families, employ locals, and make the Whitsundays an even better place to live and work."

"We’re proud to partner with the 2025 Whitsunday Business Awards because celebrating business excellence is about celebrating the future of our region.”

The highlight of the awards season will be the prestigious Sundowner Awards Ceremony in November, where finalists and winners will gather with hundreds of regional leaders to celebrate excellence in business.

All local businesses, including not-for-profits, are encouraged to nominate themselves or others who have demonstrated exceptional performance, leadership, or contribution to the Whitsunday economy and community.

Mayor Collins said he encourages every business, big or small, to consider applying.

The awards have officially launched with applications closing Sunday 7 September at 11:59pm. For award guides, category details and to apply visit: https://bit.ly/whitsundayba

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Dr Julia Evans (Whitsundays Chamber), Brendon Nothard (Canegrowers Proserpine), Amanda Anderson (Bendigo Community Bank), Asher Telford (SeaLink), Jo Shepherd  (President, Bowen Chamber of Commerce), Emma Murphy (nbn Co) and Anthony Nobilia (Airlie Beach Executive Services) Front row: Mark Henry (Bendigo Community Bank), Julia Wheway (TAFE Queensland), Mayor Ry Collins, Jannah Baker (Scallywag Fabrications) and Allan Milostic (President, Whitsundays Chamber). Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

Jo Shepherd  (President, Bowen Chamber of Commerce), Mayor Ry Colins, and Allan Milostic (President, Whitsundays Chamber). Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Hello everyone.

I hope you all had a wonderful week.

Last weekend, I had the joy of covering one of the brightest highlights on our calendar - the Great Barrier Reef Festival. It all began on Friday evening with a truly memorable experience aboard the Camira, camera in hand and raincoat at the ready. Even with heavy rain draping the horizon, the fireworks lit up the sky in spectacular fashion. I also got to meet some great people on board and share some really nice conversations.

Saturday was a feast for the senses, with the main street closed to traffic for the Revvin’ the Reef event and the Street Parade. Strolling down the centre of town felt almost nostalgic, it transported me back to my Adelaide hometown during Fringe season, when the streets buzz, the air is warm, and the whole community comes alive to celebrate.

Sunday delivered another gem, the Recyclable Regatta. Having missed it last year, I can now see exactly why it’s such a crowd favourite. From the creative watercraft to the laughter of spectators, it was pure fun from start to finish.

Right now, it feels like the Whitsundays is in full swing, with one incredible event rolling into the next. This weekend, it’s Airlie Beach Race Week, and I’m counting down the days until I’m out on the media boat, lens trained on the sails, capturing yet another slice of paradise in motion.

Quote of the Week
"Sometimes you are aware when your great moments are happening, and sometimes they rise from the past. Perhaps it's the same with people." - James Salter, Burning the Days

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A major review of water planning is underway in the Whitsundays, with the Queensland Government launching public consultation to help shape a new regional water plan.

The review aims to strengthen water security across the region by incorporating updated science and regional feedback, particularly from the Don, northern Proserpine and southern O’Connell basins—areas not currently covered by an existing plan.

The Whitsunday water plan will address climate resilience, cultural values, regional growth, and unallocated water, ensuring it meets the future needs of agriculture, industry and communities.

The updated plan will align with broader regional efforts such as the Burdekin Regional Water Assessment, which supports long-term water security and economic development across North Queensland.

Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm emphasised the importance of local engagement and strong planning for the region’s future.

“Water is the lifeblood of our region’s agricultural sector and getting this plan right means we will give our growers the confidence they need to invest and grow,” Ms Camm said.

“Public input is essential to getting this right and we want to hear from local communities, industry and cane growers about how water is used, what’s working, and what could be improved.”

Minister for Local Government and Water Ann Leahy said the Government was delivering on a key election promise by reviewing outdated water plans and expanding coverage across the Whitsundays.

“Labor left billions of litres of water tied up in bureaucracy, but the Crisafulli Government knows how important it is to unlock water to drive economic growth, more jobs, or stronger regional communities,” Minister Leahy said.

“Our Government knows the importance of water security across the Whitsunday region, and this is one of the steps we are taking to help deliver it long term.

“The proposal includes expanding the current plan area to create a new water plan, which would bring three coastal basins into Queensland’s water-planning framework for the first time.”

This review is part of the State’s wider Watertight initiative, which includes seven new or upgraded weirs and the overhaul of 23 existing water plans.

The goal is clear: deliver long-term water security to regions like the Whitsundays that are ready for growth.

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An afternoon of kayaking near Whitsunday Island took a serious and unexpected turn on Monday 4 August, when a woman began suffering from severe chest pain, prompting an urgent call to BMA CQ Rescue.

The rescue helicopter was tasked just before 2.30pm and launched immediately to the woman’s last known location. The mission required precise coordination as time was critical and the woman’s location was remote.

Upon arrival, the rescue crew faced an additional challenge. The area was surrounded by dense bushland and had very limited beach frontage, making it impossible for the helicopter to land. With no safe place to set down, the crew resorted to a winch rescue.

While the aircraft hovered above, a highly trained medical team was winched down through the trees to reach the patient on the ground.

With the helicopter hovering above, the medical team was able to treat the woman on the scene. Once they stabilised the woman, the patient and crew were winched back up to the BMA CQ Rescue Helicopter.

BMA CQ Rescue General Manager Lisa Martin said, “Missions like this are tough on the
crew and the medical team, but this is what they train for. Our patients are our first
priority, so if we have to winch to get to them, we will.”

She was taken to Mackay in a stable condition.

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The Bowen Volunteer Marine Rescue (VMR) has officially changed their names to the Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ) Bowen after their celebration last weekend.

The event saw around 40 people in attendance, including Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP and the Chief Officer of the Queensland Police Water Unit. All crew members were issued citations recognising their role as part of the inaugural MRQ Bowen team.

Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP said the now MRQ Bowen has been helping keep people safe on our waters, attending to call-outs from breakdowns, to supplying fuel, to grounded vessels to search and rescues for the last 60 years.

“Congratulations to all members and volunteers, and a massive thank you, for everything you do for our community and keeping our boaties safe,” he added.

Most rescues for MRQ Bowen involve breakdowns at sea, often in remote locations. The team navigates reefs carefully. The team recently completed a job towing a 40-tonne boat.

MRQ Bowen cover the stretch of coastline from George Point to Cape Upstart, MRQ Bowen performs a wide variety of rescues from mechanical breakdowns and medical evacuations to search-and-rescue missions and even spaceport support.

Unit Commander Gary Howes said they are always seeking more volunteers and uniform and full nationally recognised training, both free of charge.

For those interested, more information is available on the MRQ Bowen Facebook page.

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Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Wilcox MP and the MRQ Bowen crew. Photo sourced: Facebook

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With President Allan Milostic

A huge congratulations and thank you to the Reef Festival committee and volunteers – the event creates a great vibe and family friendly atmosphere in Airlie Beach that 1000’s of people enjoyed.

Fantastic fireworks, stunning cars and parade in the main street created something special for the region – bigger and better than ever. Well done!

Have Your Say on the Airlie Beach Masterplan

Whitsunday Regional Council has released the draft Airlie Beach Masterplan, outlining a long-term vision for the precinct with proposed upgrades to public spaces, infrastructure, and catalyst projects in the lead-up to the 2032 Olympics.

The draft responds to earlier community feedback and aims to enhance pedestrian comfort, shade, parking, market and event infrastructure, foreshore activation, and the amenity of Airlie Creek.

Local businesses will play a vital role in shaping and ultimately benefiting from these plans. Your input matters.

From the feedback the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry has already received, there’s strong support for completing the Airlie Hill lookout and improving pedestrian links, alongside calls for practical parking solutions, a more central transport hub, improved taxi/ride share ranks, better accessibility for people with mobility challenges, and stronger safety measures for the night-time economy. Businesses have also highlighted the need for upgraded cruise ship facilities and shaded rest areas.

The Chamber will soon be seeking further member feedback to inform a unified submission on behalf of the Whitsundays business community.

We encourage all the community to review the draft and contribute to the consultation before Monday 17 August. Together, we can ensure the Masterplan delivers long-term benefits for businesses, residents, and visitors as we build toward a vibrant future for Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays.

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