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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Easter in Australia is more than just chocolate eggs and long weekends—it’s an opportunity to gather family and friends around the table and celebrate with memorable meals. From the sunny southern states to tropical Queensland, the holiday inspires a variety of seasonal dishes that reflect both tradition and local flavours.
No Easter table is complete without a show-stopping roast. Australians often opt for a juicy leg of lamb, seasoned with rosemary, garlic, and a hint of lemon, paired with roasted vegetables and golden potatoes. For those seeking lighter fare, fresh seafood, such as prawns and barramundi, offers a refreshing alternative, especially in warmer coastal regions.
Sweet treats also play a starring role. Hot cross buns, a symbol of Easter tradition, are enjoyed across the country, whether plain, spiced, or studded with chocolate chips. Modern twists include versions with tangy orange glaze or caramelised pecans. For dessert, pavlova adorned with fresh berries and passionfruit brings a distinctly Australian flair, combining crisp meringue with creamy topping and tropical fruits.
For families, DIY chocolate nests and carrot cakes remain popular, doubling as a fun activity and a delicious finale. Local ingredients—from macadamias to native wattleseed—add unique flavours that make Easter meals truly special.
Easter is a time to indulge, share, and experiment in the kitchen. These recipes are not just about sustenance—they are a celebration of community, seasonality, and Australian culinary creativity. Whether you stick to tradition or innovate with modern flavours, there’s no better time to make your Easter table unforgettable.
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Photo source: Shutterstock
Whitsunday Law is proud to be a Platinum Sponsor of this year’s Proserpine Show Ball, and even prouder to support an event that brings our local community together in true country style.
With this year’s theme “Pretty in the Paddock”, we’re looking forward to a night of boots, ball gowns, great company and celebrating everything that makes our region special.
And yes we've already got our tickets... the entire Whitsunday Law team will be there!
So if you see us frocked up (or attempting to be), please come and say hello. We love supporting local events, and we love catching up with familiar faces even more.
At Whitsunday Law, community matters. Whether we’re assisting with property, Wills and estates, business matters or life’s unexpected curveballs, we’re proud to stand alongside the people and organisations that make the Whitsundays what it is.
We can’t wait to celebrate with you.
See you at the Ball.
Whitsunday Law
Practical. Trusted. Local.
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Photo source: Facebook
The Garden Bar sits right on the edge of Coral Sea Marina, where island views, sea breezes and relaxed coastal elegance shape the way guests dine, drink and unwind.
At the heart of the experience is our team - warm, welcoming and passionate about bringing a little “island ease” to every plate. In the kitchen our trio of dedicated chefs from around the globe each bring their own heritage, techniques and love of fresh, honest cooking. Their diverse backgrounds bring depth, colour and creativity to every menu evolution.
This upcoming season, we’re excited to showcase a refreshed menu featuring both new favourites and elevated classics. Expect Tempura Vegetables with a crisp, delicate finish; a silky Deconstructed Cheesecake that’s light yet indulgent; a rotating Fish of the Daypaired with seasonal produce; and vibrant salad and vegetarian options crafted for warm Whitsunday days.
The venue itself offers a choice of beautiful spaces - each with its own charm. Our lush garden area is a favourite for long, relaxed lunches under the cassia tree; the undercover deck is ideal for warm afternoons and soft-lit evenings; and everywhere you sit, you’re surrounded by marina and island views that shift beautifully with every sunset.
Guests can also enjoy live acoustic music every Sunday from 1:30pm, creating the perfect soundtrack for an easy afternoon by the water. For celebrations, we offer a dedicated functions menu, including handcrafted function cocktails and specialty grazing platters designed to elevate any event.
Whether you’re joining us for a casual afternoon bite, sunset cocktails or a special celebration, you’ll find an inviting, effortless coastal atmosphere that keeps both locals and visitors returning.
Marigold, affectionately known as Mari, is an 11-year-old gentle soul who is ready to spend her golden years in comfort, safety and love.
Mari is shy when first meeting new people and can be sensitive to loud noises. However, once she feels safe, her calm and affectionate nature begins to shine. Mari is happiest in a low stress environment.
A domestic medium hair with a soft presence, Mari has low to medium energy. She is independent yet affectionate, litter trained and suited to an indoor only lifestyle.
Her ideal home would be a quiet, low traffic household. She would do well with a single person, a couple, or a calm family without young children.
Marigold has been desexed, microchipped and vaccinated. She has no known ongoing medical issues. Her adoption fee is $100.
Mari deserves warmth, comfort and a home where her gentle spirit will be cherished. Those interested in learning more or applying to adopt Marigold are encouraged to contact Bowen and Collinsville Pet Rescue. Sharing her story may help this sweet senior girl find the quiet home she so richly deserves.
Contact bcpri.adoptions@gmail.com.
Tonya Dunne, owner and personal trainer at A FIT LIFE by Tonya, has spent the last decade transforming lives through fitness. Her journey began as a full-time mother of two, where exercise became her anchor amidst the chaos of motherhood, promoting both physical and mental well-being.
After six years as a client of the fitness classes she now offers, Tonya was inspired to become a personal trainer. In 2016, she gained her certification and took over a business started by a close friend. Her mission was simple: to provide others with the same life-changing fitness opportunities she had experienced.
Over the past ten years, A FIT LIFE by Tonya has flourished, with loyal clients returning year after year. Tonya’s greatest joy is seeing her clients—especially the women—grow stronger, more confident, and prioritize their health. With expertise in personal training, weight management, and menopause coaching, Tonya offers a comprehensive approach to fitness that helps clients achieve their physical, emotional, and mental goals.
Tonya's approach is built on honesty, reliability, and a commitment to empowering others. She has created a supportive, educational environment with smaller class sizes, fostering a sense of community. Clients feel safe knowing they have a coach who genuinely cares about their success.
Looking ahead, Tonya plans to continue growing her business while staying true to the values that have made it successful. She is committed to furthering her education and helping clients through all stages of their fitness journeys. “I plan on staying right where I am,” Tonya says, “continuing to support women (and men) through all stages of their fitness lives.”
Her advice to aspiring businesswomen: “Believe in yourself, your talents are unique. Compare only with yourself to do better each day.” Tonya’s story proves that consistency, persistence, and self-belief can lead to success.
When she’s not working, Tonya enjoys hiking, boating with her family, and camping with friends. Annual trips to Perth to visit family provide a much-needed recharge.
With ten years of experience and a clear vision for the future, Tonya continues to inspire those around her, proving that with dedication and a positive mindset, anything is possible.
This International Women’s Day, Tassal is proud to shine a light on the women helping shape the future of aquaculture across our business Australia-wide. One of them is Holly, a dedicated Hatchery and Prawn Health Technician at our Proserpine Prawn Farm in the stunning Whitsundays.
The farm is home to premium tiger prawn production, with a strong focus on sustainable farming, local employment and community partnerships across the region. Holly Dubois said Tassal has become the perfect place to build a hands-on career in an industry she loves.
Holly started as a casual Hatchery Technician, but her enthusiasm and capability meant she became full-time very quickly. Today, she splits her year between the farm and the hatchery. During Summer and Autumn, she works outdoors as part of the Prawn Health team, monitoring prawns, stocking ponds and supporting harvest preparations. In Winter and Spring, she moves into the hatchery, helping to breed and grow the next generation of prawns. Her work includes feeding post larvae, managing water quality, treating tanks and producing algae cultures.
Holly says Tassal appealed to her because it offered a safe workplace, opportunities to develop her skills and a supportive team culture.
“The people make the biggest difference,” she said.
“And being only 30 minutes from Airlie Beach is a bonus.”
The Proserpine farm plays an important role in the region, not only producing high-quality prawns but also supporting local schools, sporting groups, conservation efforts and community events. Holly said she is proud to be part of that impact both in her work and in the community she calls home.
This International Women’s Day, Tassal celebrates Holly and all the women driving innovation, growth and sustainability in aquaculture across the Whitsundays and beyond.
CAPTION: This International Women’s Day, Tassal is proud to shine a light on Holly, a Hatchery and Prawn Health Technician at our Proserpine Prawn Farm. Photo supplied
What if success wasn’t about doing more — but about living better?
For Mental Health Clinician and Founder of Personal Transitions, Sharon Ashman, her professional motto says it all: “Turn life into living.” It’s a simple phrase, but it carries depth especially for women balancing ambition, family, responsibility, and self-care.
With proud Irish heritage and a grounded outlook, Sharon believes lasting success begins with inner strength. Passion matters. So does integrity. But just as important are patience and steady determination. “We are our business,” she says, particularly in health and wellbeing. If we are exhausted, disconnected, or running on empty, it shows — not only in our work, but in our homes.
Sharon’s journey is a reminder that careers don’t need to follow a straight line to be meaningful. Her first professional highlight was working as a chef with Hilton International in Europe, a role that demanded discipline, teamwork, and resilience. From there, she moved into teaching, natural medicine, and eventually completed a Master’s in Mental Health Nursing. Each chapter added another layer of understanding about people, pressure, and perseverance.
Today, her work with children, adolescents, and families, particularly in ADHD and Autism, centres on building emotional regulation and self-belief. When a young person learns to manage overwhelming feelings, or an adult rediscovers confidence, that is success. Those quiet victories matter more than numbers on a balance sheet.
Inspired by Viktor Frankl and his book Man's Search for Meaning, Sharon believes purpose mixed with passion is what carries us through hard seasons. She also embraces the Japanese philosophy of Ikigai, suggesting the meeting point between what you love, what you’re good at, what the world needs, and what can sustain you. When those elements come together, work no longer feels like survival.
For every woman reading this: your path may twist and turn. There may be pauses, pivots, and brave new beginnings. But if you stay connected to your values and care for your inner world, you won’t just build a career.
You’ll turn life into living.
personaltransitions.com.au
Lisa Dunn has mastered the art of balancing business and family.
Alongside her husband Sean, Lisa plays an integral role across three local businesses: Irrigear Whitsundays, Dunnrite Plumbing Services, and The Organised Life Whitsundays. Add two young children into the mix, and life is rarely quiet!
The Dunns’ business journey began with Dunnrite Plumbing Services, launched in 2020. Sean drove the business strategy, while Lisa’s focus naturally centred on people, relationships, and culture.
“When people feel valued, supported and cared for, everything else follows,” Lisa says.
In 2022, Lisa co-founded The Organised Life Whitsundays with her close friend Alia, inspired by her own experience of how overwhelming modern life can feel. The goal was simple — to help others regain a sense of calm and control in their homes and schedules.
Taking over Irrigear Whitsundays in 2025 marked the next bold step for the Dunns. Lisa refers to this as a career highlight, expressing her gratitude to the experienced and capable team who took the transition in their stride.
“Honestly, they make my job easier,” Lisa laughs, “some days they make me look far more organised than I actually am.”
Lisa’s resilience and adaptability was shaped long before she entered the business world. Born in Zimbabwe, she later lived in the UK before eventually settling in Australia to be close to family here. The presence of old friends drew Lisa to the Whitsundays, but the laidback lifestyle, strong community and family feel, caused her to stay.
Now, sharing her home with Sean’s sister and her children, two dogs, a cat, a guinea pig named Cinnamon, and a few fish, the house is basically organised chaos.
“It’s busy both at home and in business,” Lisa explains, “fuelled by lots and lots of coffee — but it’s also full of love and laughter.”
“At the end of the day, I’m just doing my best to juggle motherhood, business, and life, and I’m incredibly grateful to be surrounded by people who make that possible.”
1- Lisa Dunn, matriarch at the helm of three family businesses. Photo credit: R Jean Photography
The Whitsundays has long been a sought-after place to tie the knot – but this year, we’re inviting couples to fall head over heels all over again.
Weddings Whitsundays – powered by the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry – is delighted to unveil the first-ever Whitsundays Wedding Trail, taking place on Sunday 14 June 2026.
It promises to be a match made in paradise.
We’re saying goodbye to the traditional, one-room bridal expo and hello to something far more swoon-worthy.
The Wedding Trail will be an immersive, region-wide event designed to showcase the Whitsundays in all its glory. Instead of walking through a crowded function room, engaged couples will embark on a curated journey through eight of the region's breathtaking venues.
Each venue will be styled to perfection and transformed into a “mini-expo,” featuring a hand-picked selection of the region’s most talented suppliers — from florists and stylists to celebrants, caterers, photographers, entertainers and more.
Couples won’t just collect business cards; they’ll experience each space as it could look on their own big day, meet vendors face-to-face, and start building connections that feel like the real deal.
Calling All Suppliers: EOIs Now Open!
If you’re in the wedding business, this is your moment to shine before the bouquet is thrown.
The Wedding Trail offers an unparalleled opportunity to showcase your services to highly motivated couples, supported by a targeted marketing campaign reaching Queensland, New South Wales, and Victoria.
Expressions of Interest are now officially open.
Whether you are a videographer, hair and makeup artist, or entertainer, we want to see your talent on the trail. Member and non-member pricing tiers are available.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this landmark event.
Email Weddings Whitsundays on hello@weddingswhitsundays.com for more information and help us showcase why there is no better place to say "I do" than the Whitsundays.
Contributed with thanks to the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce & Industry
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Mr and Mrs Patton
Photo supplied
The team at the Bowen Visitor Information Centre have been busy this week, gaining their accreditation status for another year.
Accredited Visitor Information Centres need to meet a high standard in service, local knowledge and visitor support.
All accredited centres have a yellow and blue “I” meaning the accredited centres are recognisable for travellers.
As part of the accreditation process, the team must provide evidence of local knowledge and documentation relating to such things as policies and processes, insurance and opening hours.
All accredited Visitor Information Centres must open for a minimum of 42 hours per week, including opening on weekends.
Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said the team of staff and volunteers were very proud to provide excellent customer service to more than 50,000 visitors per year.
“We are proud to operate an accredited centre, showing our commitment to excellent visitor services and industry-leading standards.”
The on-site audit this week was carried out by The Tourism Group’s Business Development Manager, Jeremy Miller.
“It was a pleasure to visit the Bowen VIC,” he said.
“It is a stand-out centre, beautifully presented, meeting the highest of standards and with a great team of staff and volunteers.”
There are about 100 accredited centres in Queensland.
Bowen is currently the only accredited Visitor Information Centre in the Whitsundays.
Contributed with thanks to Bowen Tourism and Business
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Bowen Tourism and Business team members, Glenn Womal, Leanne Abernethy and Cindy Tonks with Business Development Manager for the Tourism Group, Jeremy Miller.
The Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network hosted their first BBQ brekky of 2026 on Friday 27th February in Cannonvale. Many gathered to show their support for a cause that is incredibly important to the region. There were great chats and laughter as many enjoyed the sausages, hashbrowns, bacon and other breakfast foods supplied thanks to Food From the Heart Airlie Beach and Master Butchers Whitsunday & MBW On the Barbie. The network were grateful to have the event sponsored by Pacific Coast Scaffold.
Ash Telford from Red Cat Adventures and SeaLink Whitsundays was the guest speaker and spoke of his own struggles with mental health, encouraging people to be vulnerable and support each other when times get tough. He stated that it was of the upmost importance to reach out and provide safe spaces for people so that they can get the help they need.
Mental health continues to be an ongoing problem across the region. The Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network remain dedicated to helping as many people as possible, providing community spaces so that everyone is aware of the support that is available.
These events are crucial to show support to many who struggle in the region and proves that they do not have to go through it alone. A great thanks to the Whitsunday Suicide Prevention for hosting the event – they have a great deal of events planned for 2026 and will continue to support those in need. It is a reminder that you do not have to go through hard times alone. There is a wealth of community support and people to reach out to.
Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi
A significant boost for local agriculture has arrived, with 26,800 megalitres of water now unlocked for the Whitsunday region.
The additional allocation - equivalent to more than 10,000 Olympic swimming pools - will be made available through new water licences under the Whitsunday Water Plan, giving local farmers and industry greater opportunity to expand and strengthen production.
For a region built on agriculture, water security remains critical.
Minister for Local Government and Water Ann Leahy said the additional water would help drive economic development and job creation across the region.
“We’re making more water available to help local agriculture businesses grow, and that means more local employment opportunities on farms and a stronger regional economy,” Minister Leahy said.
“The focus is on unlocking water where it is needed and ensuring it delivers sustainable, long-term benefits for local communities.”
Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm said the allocation would provide a significant boost for the region’s agricultural sector.
“The equivalent of more than 10,000 Olympic swimming pools of water is now being made available to our region,” Ms Camm said.
“That means greater accessibility and productivity for local growers and industries.”
Canegrowers Proserpine Manager Brendon Nothard welcomed the announcement, describing it as an important step forward for irrigated agriculture.
“After many years, local growers are grateful to finally have access to unallocated water under the Whitsunday Water Plan,” Mr Nothard said.
“At a time of low sugar prices, access to additional irrigation water will help maintain production levels, particularly during periods of low rainfall.”
Applications close at 5pm on 29 May 2026 via the Business Queensland website.
Contributed with thanks to the Whitsunday Electorate Office
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Canegrowers Proserpine
Photo supplied
On March 4th Alinta Energy hosted a pop-up office at Proserpine community centre to conduct dialogue with local community surrounding the proposed Mt Challenger Wind Farm.
The proposal involves two separate project locations at Mt Challenger and Crystal Brook/Kelsey Creek with plans for up to 30 industrial wind turbines, each reaching approximately 240 metres in height.
Several of the proposed turbine locations are close to existing rural homes and properties, with some situated within 1.5 kilometres of residences and less than 9 kilometres from Proserpine.
Alinta Energy held the session to share information and hear concerns and opinions from the community.
“We’re committed to making a positive impact in communities to create social, economic, employment, educational, and environmental opportunities and outcomes.” The company states.
“Our benefit sharing approach is all about listening to the community to meet local needs. This could include grants, sponsorships, or opportunities for education and skills development. The project is expected to bring a range of benefits, including jobs across construction, operations, and decommissioning phases; upgrades to essential services like roads and emergency response; and contributions to initiatives led by the community itself.”
Resources provided highlighted proposals to erect a temporary ‘met mast’, a steel structure up to 160m high that would monitor wind and gather data to help determine whether the project is viable.
Locals aired their concerns surrounding the wind farm’s proximity to the town and its theoretical impact on wildlife, also raising worries about bore water and recycling the turbines once their lifecycles are complete. Alinta representatives listened and took detailed notes.
The visit follows recent discussions between protest group, the Whitsunday Wind Farm Action Group, and Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox, last week.
“I was pleased to meet with the Whitsunday Wind Farm Action Group earlier this week at Kelsey Creek near Proserpine regarding the proposed Mt. Challenger Wind Farm.” Andrew Willcox said.
“This project includes two turbine locations of prime agricultural land and rural communities at Mt Challenger and Kelsey Creek. The community hall was filled with emotion and genuine concern. This meeting provided a vital opportunity to hear directly from retirees, farmers, small business owners, and families who feel their voices are being ignored.
“Our regional communities are being asked to carry the risk for these projects while the proponents often dismiss the local impact. The message from the room was clear: the current consultation process feels like a box-ticking exercise, and the community has had enough.
“I’ve got a comprehensive list of the key questions and concerns raised during our Q&A session, which I will be taking directly to Alinta when I meet with them in Canberra next week.
Our region deserves transparency, fairness, and respect. I will continue to fight to ensure that regional Queensland is no longer the sacrificial lamb for city-centric energy policies.”
1- Andrew Willcox meets with wind farm protesters to hear their thoughts. Photo credit: Facebook
2 – Proserpine local Cathryn Radclyffe came along to air her concerns and provide feedback to the energy company. Photo credit: Suzanna Mcloughlin
Abandoned and homeless pets across the Whitsundays have received a much-needed helping hand following a significant donation to the pet rescue charity servicing the region.
Life Publishing Group met with Bowen & Collinsville Pet Rescue at Foxtail Boarding Kennels in Ayr last week, where Editor-in-Chief Rachael Smith presented a cheque for $8,000 to the charity.
The moment marked a significant milestone for Life Publishing Group, the independently owned umbrella company of Life Newspapers, including our local Whitsunday Life Newspaper.
Ms Smith explained that the money was raised through kind donations from local businesses and individuals who attended the company’s inaugural charity event, held in October last year.
The Enchanted Garden event raised an impressive $56,000 for seven regional charities — Trudy Crowley Foundation, My Hospital Foundation (formerly known as Mackay Hospital Foundation), Orange Sky, Mackay Pet Rescue Inc, Fauna Rescue Whitsundays and the Townsville Spinal Unit.
“At Life Publishing Group, we are here to serve the community in every way we can. For almost 15 years, this has been through our free publications, both magazines and newspapers, and we hope they have brought joy to many,” Ms Smith said.
“Raising this money for these worthwhile charities represents a significant moment for us, a moment where we use the platform we have built over the years to give back to those who need it most.
“It has been an incredible few weeks with our team delivering cheques to the different charities, and the gratitude from all the recipients has been wonderful to witness.
“A huge thank you to all the local businesses and individuals who donated on the night, and to everyone in our team who contributed to the success of our first charity event.”
Stephanie Thomas from Bowen & Collinsville Pet Rescue expressed her gratitude to the local businesses and individuals who donated at the charity event.
“Thank you to everyone who donated,” she said.
“Every cent helps us work towards our main goal of getting animals out of the pound and into loving homes, giving them a second chance at life.”
Ms Thomas added that the funds will directly support the charity’s private foster carers, who look after the animals while they wait for permanent homes.
“The money goes towards buying food for the animals, vet care, vaccinations, microchipping and desexing,” she said.
Ms Thomas also provided insight into the adoption process, explaining that it is much simpler than many people realise.
The process includes an initial phone call, a short adoption questionnaire, an adoption contract and payment of an adoption fee, and then you can welcome your new pet home.
Alternatively, community members can become a foster carer, with full details available on the Bowen & Collinsville Pet Rescue Facebook page.
Imagine the joy of seeing a scared, lonely animal transform into a happy, healthy companion all because you offered a temporary place in your home and heart.
Why Foster?
• Save Lives: The charity does not have a physical shelter and relies entirely on foster carers. Your home can be the safe haven a pet needs to thrive.
• Comprehensive Support: Foster carers receive all necessary supplies, veterinary care and guidance from the team.
• Make a Difference: Experience the joy of helping a pet find its forever home.
Caption: Stephanie Thomas from Bowen and Collinsville Pet Rescue with Editor in Chief for Life Publishing Group, Rachael Smith at the Foxtail Boarding Kennels last week. Photo credit: Trish Jandt
Keep an eye out next time you’re strolling through the Whitsundays: there’s a new squad in town, and they’re on two wheels! Last week, the Whitsunday Police launched their Bike Squad, bringing a fresh and friendly presence to pedestrian areas and local hotspots.
These officers aren’t just riding around, they’re rolling right into places police cars can’t reach, ready to respond quickly to any incidents and keep the Safe Night Precinct safe for everyone. And don’t be shy—give them a wave or a high-five if you spot them out on patrol!
The Bike Squad isn’t just about policing—it’s about being part of the community. Their visible, approachable presence shows that keeping our streets safe can be both effective and fun. It’s a small change that makes a big difference, proving that sometimes, the best way to do a good deed is on two wheels.
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