Her island home of Lindeman

Thora was born in Sarina on April 18 1917, one of five children. She grew up on the family sugar cane property near Sarina. She was a bright student with an aptitude for numbers and upon completing high school, worked in the office of Frendeley Motors in Mackay. During this time, she learned to drive but on a weekend jaunt to Eimeo, drove a truck up a coconut tree, and never took the wheel again.

On a holiday on Lindeman Island in 1936, Thora met future husband, Lachlan DeSalis Nicolson, whose family owned the resort there. They married on September 18, 1947 in Mackay after Lach’s discharge from service in the Australian Navy during World War Two. She moved to Lindeman where Lach built her a house above the resort. They had two children – Roy and Niels.

Thora applied boundless, characteristic energy, balancing family and business commitments – raising and home schooling the children until of boarding school age, fulfilling her role as company director and secretary, managing the island boutique and souvenir shop, ensuring guests’ needs were met and travelling on promotional tours with Lach.

A skilled seamstress, Thora sewed curtains and soft furnishing for the resort suites and made her own island-style wardrobe. She spent considerable hours creating and designing for the Coral Queen Festival when islands competed for the coveted Coral Queen Crown.

A highlight for Thora and Lach was the 1959 visit by Princess Alexandra of Kent.  A special Royal Suite was made up for her. In gratitude for their hospitality, the couple was invited to her wedding at Westminster Abbey London, on April 24 1963.

In 1979, Lach and Thora, the last of the Nicolson family involved in the business, retired but continued to live in their home (under a life estate agreement). Finally, there was time to spend with their sons; time to relax and go boating. There were many visitors – former staff, guests, skippers and boating crew who remembered their generosity.  

Sadly, on October 4 1980, when returning from an award ceremony in Brisbane where Lach was invested an Officer of the Order of Australia for services to tourism, a car accident took his life. He was sixty-five. Thora was badly injured, but on recovering returned to Lindeman Island staying in her home until 1998, when ill health required her to move to Sydney with son, Roy.

Following the tragic event, Thora wrote two volumes of poetry about love and loss, Lindeman Island and its natural beauty. One of these volumes, ‘Island Verses’ is on sale at the museum.  

In 1986, she supported several successful protests against a Queensland Government move to rescind the island’s national park status and open it up to private freehold development, including a large airport.  To Thora, this would have been a disaster, completely destroying her natural treasure.

Thora refused to leave midst major refurbishment and expansion of the resort during the 1990s which necessitated its closure and limited transport to the mainland. In her front room, looking across the idyllic waters and islands, Thora made sure new owners, the Adelstein family and later Club Med, consulted her on their plans.

As an amateur historian and writer, Thora preserved a trove of historical documents which she shared with those researching local history such as Ray Blackwood, writer of “The Whitsunday Islands – An Historical Dictionary”.

The resort always employed First Nations Islander people and Thora looked out for the welfare of the women. In 2002, these women honoured her by forming a guard of honour at her funeral as her coffin was carried from the church.

Thora Point on the northern side of Lindeman is named after Thora. It is a special place where she often retreated with family to escape the pressures of the resort but also testament to the way others held her in high regard for her services to tourism.

Story and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum and the Nicolson family.

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The region is currently experiencing an influx of jellyfish stings. Individuals have taken to Facebook to explain their experiences with jellyfish and the importance of remaining protected if choosing to swim in stinger season.
Box Jellyfish, considered to be the deadliest jellyfish in the world are the most common sting being reported, with 3 incidents occurring in the last 2 weeks.
The Council has issued a warning on Facebook, reminding people to wear a stinger suit while swimming during stinger season.
The post also mentions that vinegar stations are inspected three times a week. For safer swimming, the Council provides free access to regional aquatic facilities year-round, including the Airlie Beach Lagoon, Proserpine, Bowen, and Collinsville Swimming Pools & Water Parks.

The Box Jellyfish stings on the 14-year-old girl's leg. Photo Sourced: Rebecca Scott Facebook.
Box Jellyfish

Rise In Box Jellyfish Stings Causes Alarm

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The Whitsunday region has experienced a significant rise in box jellyfish stings over the past week, with three individuals sharing their alarming experiences on Facebook.
While the summer months are often dubbed "stinger season" and locals are advised to avoid swimming without protective stinger suits, many, including tourists who may not be fully aware of the dangers, continue to take their chances.
Box jellyfish are particularly dangerous, with tentacles covered in nematocysts, tiny venomous darts that can deliver a fatal sting in under five minutes. The venom from these jellyfish is considered one of the deadliest in the world, and since records began in 1883 there have been 70 fatal stings in Australia.
The first incident to happen in the Whitsundays was reported by Rebecca Scott, a mother who cautioned the community after her 14-year-old daughter was stung by a box jellyfish while walking in the shallows at New Beach in Airlie.
Despite being in the water for less than a minute and only going up to her knees, the sting was severe, underscoring the immediate danger that Box Jellyfish pose, even in seemingly safe conditions.
Rebecca explained how grateful she was that the vinegar stations were filled:
“Thank God the vinegar stations were filled up as quite often these are empty...the quick actions of her friends getting the vinegar on straight away and calling an ambulance literally saved her life.”
Nadine Little reported the second incident on the Facebook group, ‘The Whitsundays Noticeboard.’ Nadine explained how only days after the first incident with the 14-year-old daughter, another man was stung by a box jellyfish on Airlie Foreshore near where the markets take place.
Again, the man was reportedly only walking in the water, not attempting to swim as he was in shorts and a t-shirt. Only two minutes later the man was stung. Nadine sent her son across to Airlie Beach Hotel to find some vinegar as there was none at that end of the beach, and fortunately the ambulance arrived a short time later.
Nadine warned individuals to be careful when near the sea:
“Please be careful and don't even walk along or put your feet in.”
Similarly, just on Tuesday this week another woman was stung by a jellyfish and had to be transported to hospital. The increase in incidents just showcases the importance of staying protected if swimming.
Children are at greater risk of a severe, life-threatening reaction because of their smaller body mass; therefore, it is important to ensure your young ones are safe and protected during stinger season.
What was evident in all cases is that vinegar plays a crucial role in alleviating the pain of stings. As such, it's important to ensure vinegar is easily accessible at popular or tourist beaches. Alternatively, if you plan to visit the sea, bringing your own supply is wise.
Council have also issued a warning on Facebook and remind people to wear a stinger suit while swimming during stinger season.
The post states that vinegar stations are checked three times a week. For safer swimming, Council offers free access to regional aquatic facilities: Airlie Beach Lagoon, Proserpine, Bowen, and Collinsville Swimming Pools & Water Parks year-round.
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Fact Box (Jellyfish):
Scientific Name: Cubozoa
Type: Invertebrates
Diet: Carnivore
Group Name: Fluther, smack
Average Life Span In The Wild: Up to 1 years
Size: 10 feet long; 10 inches across (size relative to a 6ft man)
Weight: Up to 4.4 pounds
VENOM: Seen to be most deadly in the world containing toxins that attack the heart, nervous system, and skin cells.
IMMEDIATE REMEDIES: Add vinegar to the skin for 30 seconds.

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Stinger signs around Airlie

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Local couple Kadi Hamers and Sam Reynolds have welcomed their second child into the family with a surprise early arrival that made local history this year. Little Hazel was born at the Proserpine Hospital in early the early hours of January 1, to the happy couple who were not expecting their new bundle of joy for another few days.
Hazel was due on the 6th of January but in the early hours of 2025 she decided it was her time to come into the world. At a healthy 7lb 2oz, she was born at 1.22am which beats last year's record set by Timothée Jean Fuzier by a whopping 12 hours and 37 minutes.
While some were enjoying the New Year’s parties or asleep after fun and fireworks, Kadi and Sam were racing to the hospital. Katie told the hospital staff that “Contractions started about 9pm, we got to the hospital about 10.30pm and Hazel was born at 1.22am.” She noted that the birth of her little girl went really well stating “... it was a lot quicker than my first birth,” and Hazel is now the little sister to two-and-a-half-year-old Joey.
Her parents Kadi and Sam, made the huge move from Northern NSW to Proserpine two years ago and they have loved living in the place where they had frequently holidayed in the past. The family are loving the supportive community they have joined here, and we all congratulate them on the birth of little Hazel and wish her and her family a great year ahead.

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Parents Kadi and Sam welcome new baby Hazel to their family. Photo Sourced: Mackay Hospital and Health Services Facebook

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Queensland has experienced its deadliest year on the roads in 15 years, with 302 lives lost in 2024. This marks a tragic 25-person increase over 2023 and a 33-person rise compared to the five-year average. The state’s worst road toll since 2009 has prompted calls for drivers to be more vigilant, especially as the summer holiday period brings increased traffic.

Minister for Transport and Main Roads, The Honourable Brent Mickelberg, emphasised the need for caution.

“At this time of year, we know people typically spend more time on the road than usual,” Mr Mickelberg said.

“There is still no excuse to speed, lose focus, not wear a seat belt properly, or drive when you’re affected by drugs or alcohol – it’s just not worth the risk.”

The major contributing factors to road fatalities remain the Fatal Five: speeding, fatigue, distraction (including mobile phone use), incorrect seatbelt use, and drink and drug driving. Speeding continues to rise as a key factor, particularly among motorcyclists, who made up 77 of the fatalities, a 25.5% increase from the five-year average.

Young drivers aged 16 to 24, who make up 13% of the state’s licence holders, were involved in almost 30% of fatal crashes, while senior drivers accounted for 98 deaths, a 32% increase from previous years.

Regional Queensland, particularly the Southern region and North Coast, saw the highest number of fatalities, with more than 60% of the state’s fatal crashes occurring outside urban areas.

Minister Mickelberg also highlighted ongoing efforts to improve road safety, including advocating for increased federal funding to upgrade the Bruce Highway.

To access more information on road safety, visit https://streetsmarts.initiatives.qld.gov.au/.

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The community is set to significantly benefit from the announcement this week that two transformative projects for the region will receive a total of almost $60M funding that has been awarded under the Federal Governments Growing Regions Program.
The first project will be the Cannonvale Community Hub which received $29.7M for construction of a cutting-edge 1,882m² facility designed to address the needs of the Whitsunday region’s growing population of over 15,000 residents.
The project is said to support 121 full-time equivalent jobs during construction and contribute $1.1 million annually to the local economy once operational.
The Community Hub will consist of a modern library equipped to serve up to 20,000 people with technology spaces, study zones, and flexible event areas, meeting rooms for community and social initiatives, business and education spaces. It will also support digital inclusion and professional growth and disaster resilience infrastructure to ensure the region is prepared for emergency events.
The second project announced this week is a $30 million Whitsunday Regional Sports Precinct which will create an additional premier sports and recreation destination in the Whitsundays, designed to foster community health and wellness.
Features of the precinct include multi-purpose sports fields and courts to cater to a wide range of activities, facilities designed for local sports clubs, schools, and community events and spaces to promote active living and recreational opportunities for residents of all ages.
Mayor Collins, who has a strong focus on advocacy and creating partnership with all tiers of government, said the funding will not only enhance the region’s social and cultural infrastructure but also deliver significant economic benefits.
In addition, the investment will strengthen the region’s capacity to host sporting events, provide modern facilities for local teams, and encourage participation in active lifestyles.
This investment aims to strengthen the region’s capacity to host sporting events, provide modern facilities for local teams, and encourage participation in active lifestyles.
“In the lead-up to the 2032 Brisbane Olympics the sports precinct will also create opportunities for economic growth through sports tourism and community engagement,” Mayor Collins said.
“This investment under the Growing Regions Program is a game-changer for our Whitsunday region and our community.
“The Cannonvale Community Hub and the Whitsunday Regional Sports Precinct will not only provide much-needed infrastructure but also create lasting social, economic, and cultural benefits for our community.
 “I thank the Federal Government for recognising the importance of these projects and supporting our vision for a vibrant and resilient Whitsunday region.”

“Council will begin planning and consultation phases for both projects immediately to ensure they meet the needs and aspirations of the community.
“We are keen to take the community on the journey and updates will be shared as milestones are achieved and I encourage residents to stay engaged throughout the development process.”

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A concept graphic of the $29.7M Community Hub which is now funded along with the $30M Whitsunday Regional Sports Precinct. Image supplied: Whitsunday Regional Council

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A beautiful native bird, the Curlew, loves to linger around public places with their eerie, wailing calls at night easy to discern. Despite their loud shrieks, these birds can be quite meek and especially at this time of year when the local curlews are out and about and taking care of their little ones.
To protect their babies from danger the parents will put on a big, defensive feather display but often times this will not be enough to defend from your cars. Due to nesting in built-up areas it, these chicks are at risk of being runover and killed, or badly wounded by vehicles. Please keep an eye out for these little birds as they blend into the road with their feather patterns and are not as fast as their long-legged parents.
One local social media commentator, Alexandra Brewster, took to a chat site last week to raise awareness for these vulnerable feathered friends, stating it is important we share the green spaces and respect the birds, do not go near their chicks. Curlews are travelling large distances at the moment to feed their babies and this involves crossing our busy roads.
Fast Facts About Our Feathery Friends
Curlews are nocturnal, ground nesting birds.
Their call is an eerie, long wail and a common sound in the Australian bush.
Both parents share the duties of incubating the eggs and raising the chicks.
Curlews don’t build a nest, instead they choose a general nesting site and will relocate their eggs if they are disturbed.
If threatened, curlews will freeze and try to intimidate their enemies. They can also raise their wings and tail feathers out in a defensive display, and hiss to scare of predators.
Male and female curlews look the same, and juveniles are slightly paler than the adults.
Though ground nesting, these birds are great flyers with a wingspan that can reach up to 1 metre across.
The Bush Stone Curlew, the bird featured in this article, is unique and no other Australian birds resemble it.

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Alexandra Brewster, Facebook.
Be careful when driving as Curlew chicks are often camouflaged with the road
Defensive display of Curlew parent protecting their chick

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On Saturday, November 23, Bowen Meals on Wheels marked a significant milestone, half a century of dedicated service to the community at a special celebration held at McKenna Hall.
The event was attended by clients, staff, volunteers, and guests, all coming together to commemorate 50 years of nourishing those in need. The celebration was made possible by funding generously provided by Hand, Heart, Pocket, the charitable donations arm of the Masonic Lodge Queensland.
Bowen Meals on Wheels began its humble journey on December 2, 1974, when its first delivery was made from the local Country Women’s Association (CWA) kitchen. On that inaugural day, just 20 meals were delivered, each priced at a modest 50 cents. This modest beginning, however, set the stage for what would become a vital community service.
In the early years, Bowen Meals on Wheels relied heavily on the support of various local organisations and individuals. Over the next five years, fundraising efforts gathered momentum, with contributions from the Lions Club, Rotary, local churches, the Pensioners’ League, and many other community groups. Their collective efforts enabled the completion of a dedicated Meals on Wheels building in 1979, located on land generously donated by the local council. This new facility allowed the service to expand and streamline its operations, ensuring that meals could be delivered more efficiently to those in need.
The first meals from the new Bowen Meals on Wheels building went out on July 16, 1979. By 1981, meal prices had risen slightly to $1.00. On September 25, 1986, Bowen Meals on Wheels Inc. was officially incorporated.
Today, Bowen Meals on Wheels Inc. continues to provide an essential service, delivering an average of 100 nutritious meals each week. The meals cater to a diverse range of recipients, including seniors, individuals recovering from hospital stays or major illnesses, people with disabilities, and those facing other special circumstances.
Despite challenges like Cyclone Debbie in 2017, the organisation has remained unwavering in its commitment to delivering meals, even in the face of natural disasters.
The anniversary event was a joyful occasion, with long-standing clients, volunteers, and staff celebrating the achievements of Bowen Meals on Wheels. One of the highlights of the day was the ceremonial cutting of the birthday cake by Bill Barty, a cherished long-time client. Bill was assisted by Peter Goodman, the Vice-President of Bowen Meals on Wheels, as they shared the special moment with the gathered crowd.
Bowen Meals on Wheels looks forward to many more years of making a meaningful impact on the lives of the people of Bowen.

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QLD Meals on Wheels representative, Kath Neilsen travelled from Brisbane to attend and presented Peter with a trophy which acknowledged the milestone. Photo supplied
Treasurer, Chris Storrie, took the opportunity to thank the many community groups and individuals who have given so much support throughout those 50 years. Sponsors who attended were presented with a Bowen MOW bag, calendar and appreciation certificate. Photo supplied

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Originally from South Africa, Kerry’s journey has taken her across the globe. After spending a decade in the UK and four years in Ireland, she made the move to Australia, and since June of last year, has been calling the Whitsundays home.
While this is Kerry’s first role in sales, her natural people skills were evident long before she joined the team. Inspired by her brother, who runs his own recruitment business, Kerry was encouraged to explore sales as a career. When she saw the position with Whitsunday Life Newspaper, her passion for print media and community-driven work made it an easy choice.
“I love that the paper is so community-focused,” Kerry says.
“The community in the Whitsundays is so different to anywhere I have lived before.
"Especially coming from bigger businesses, which can be less personal, I like that you get that human connection here and the stuff you do really matters.”
Outside of work, Kerry is an outdoor enthusiast who loves exploring new places, camping, fishing, and visiting the region’s stunning beaches. “I’m definitely a bit of a Dora the Explorer,” she explained.
The team at Whitsunday Life is excited to have Kerry onboard and looks forward to seeing her thrive in her new role.
“I love meeting people and getting stuck in,” Kerry explained.
“I’m excited to get involved with the community.”

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Whitsunday Life’s New Salesperson, Kerry Eastwood

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Airlie Beach Pool services is currently the highest rated pool service in the Whitsunday area and they want to offer their exceptional skills and services to you. Jesse, the owner has been working in the local industry for 15 years and started his own business two years ago and they've been going strong since.
As a family run business, Airlie Beach Pool Services focuses on customer service and satisfaction which is why they are rated so highly as you can see in reviews like this one from Loise Norris “Jesse was extremely helpful arriving quickly to fix my very green pool and having it sparkling within 12 hours. He sorted all the issues and explained the process in full. His follow up and advice is greatly appreciated and I highly recommend his services.”
This testament to Jesse’s skills in pool care and restoration comes from just one of the many happy clients he works with. Many local pool owners have switched their pool service providers over to Airlie Beach Pool Services. From the big island resorts to the local homeowner, a broad diversity of clients appreciate his tenacity to do the best job for them. Operating with commercial-grade equipment means Jesse will have your pool up and running the way you like it, no matter the season or condition of the pool.
With a growing family himself, Jesse recognises the importance of a family pool-day and making sure your pool waters are clean so everybody stays healthy. Managing multiple children and a happy work-life balance, Jesse knows about the common challenges facing pools that get daily use and maintains a professional and humorous standing throughout.
So, whether your next pool project is residential or commercial consider Airlie Beach Pool Services for premium pool care for swim-tastic sparkling water rivalling that of the Whitsundays waters themselves.
Call or fill out the form on their website for a free quote today!

Jesse Thane and Kellie Hignett with their children Amaya Thane, Paityn Price, Isla Thane and Zindi Thane. Photo Credit: Ruth Puddefoot

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The team at Bowen Tourism and Business is looking forward to continuing to promote the town and the greater Whitsundays region in 2025.

The team of staff and dedicated volunteers welcomed more than 50,000 at the Bowen Visitor Information Centre in 2024 – another record year.

Behind the scenes, the team promotes the region in various ways through mainstream and social media channels.

For the past three years, the Manager of the organisation, Leanne Abernethy has been the Whitsundays correspondent on ABC Tropical North, speaking to Breakfast presenter Meech Philpott every week about what is happening around our region.

Meech finished in that role in December after many years of early mornings.

ABC Tropical North has now welcomed Rob Kidd as the new Breakfast presenter in 2025.

Leanne will continue to be the Whitsundays correspondent, having a chat on radio every Thursday.
She took the opportunity over the Christmas and New Year period to catch up with the ABC team in Mackay and is looking forward to working with them again in 2025.

“It was great to catch up with the team as we usually only chat by phone,” Leanne said.
The segment is on Thursday mornings at 9.10am for about six minutes and mentions news and events from Bowen, Collinsville, Airlie Beach and Proserpine.

You can tune in to ABC Tropical North at 101.1 FM or listen in on the ABC App.

Contributed with thanks to Leanne Abernethy Manager of Bowen Tourism.

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New ABC Tropical North Breakfast Presenter Rob Kidd with Manage of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy. Photo supplied

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Happy New Year to the Whitsundays business community!
Seeing in a new year is a great time to think about what your business resolution might look like.  
Business resolutions are commitments businesses make to improve their strategy, operations, or processes. Like personal New Year’s resolutions business resolutions can help prioritise goals or activities that may have got swept aside in 2024 or provide some inspiration or renewed interest in improving some aspect of your business.   
A wise business partner passed on some thoughts I would like to share when considering business aspirations for the new year. 
Are you counting the minutes you work … or the impact of those minutes?
Are your business metrics reflecting and measuring genuine progress … or just numbers to make you feel good? 
Is your business success measured in the steps you take … or the destinations those steps take you?
We all often count the wrong things. Long hours don’t always mean productivity. Having lots of meetings is not as effective or productive as fewer well-structured meetings. Counting short-term gains can sacrifice the seeds of future growth — sustainable success is a marathon, not a sprint. Counting and slavishly following KPIs can lead to tunnel vision and neglect of qualitative factors like customer experience, employee well-being, and the bigger picture. 
Quality over quantity. Work smarter not harder. Good advice for us all. 
Let’s make 2025 a great year for us all!
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Contributed With Thanks to President of Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Allan Milostic.

Contributed By Mayor Ry Collins
Opinion Piece

The Whitsundays is known for its 74 wonderful islands but during the Christmas period our whole region was an island with our national highway cut to the south at Goorganga Plains and further to the north of Bowen.

Which is why this week’s announcement by PM Anthony Albanese that the Bruce Highway will get a $7.2 billion investment in upgrades and repairs is so exciting for our Whitsunday community. Even better is that the Federal Government have committed to work starting on priority projects this year.

I welcome this investment with open arms. From my first week in the Mayoral role, I have been very proactive in advocating for improvements to this essential route, which serves not only as a key economic corridor but also as a critical connector for families, businesses, and tourists.

For too long, Queenslanders have borne the brunt of inadequate infrastructure funding. The Bruce Highway’s deadly reputation is a stark reminder of what happens when safety is sidelined.

But with this $7.2 billion investment, we’re turning the page on a history of neglect. Safer roads mean fewer tragedies, and fewer tragedies mean stronger, more resilient communities.

This funding will enable critical upgrades such as widening narrow stretches, improving intersections, installing safety barriers, and enhancing flood resilience. These measures are not just about reducing accidents; they’re about ensuring that people get home to their loved ones safely.

It’s also an investment in our economy. A safer, more efficient Bruce Highway will enhance the flow of goods, reduce travel times, and boost tourism. It’s a win-win for both lives and livelihoods.

The federal government has also agreed to reinstate an 80:20 funding split for the national highway and the LNP Opposition leader Peter Dutton has also committed to the 80/20 funding agreement.

I will be following up my recent conversations with Infrastructure and Transport Minster Catherine King to dig deeper and ensure the “priority projects” are within our Whitsunday region.

I also have a meeting next week with the Brent Mickelberg MP, Minister for Transport and Main Roads to ensure that the State step up and play their role in the new 8—20 funding split.

Finally, I want to express my gratitude to our incredible Council roads and drainage crews.

Their swift and tireless efforts ensured that flooded roads were reopened as quickly as possible, providing a lifeline for stranded travellers in the lead-up to Christmas.

Our dedicated teams from Proserpine and Bowen worked around the clock to manage and reopen the Bruce Highway. These staff and Collinsville crews undertake the important work of patching countless potholes, clearing silt from causeways, and repairing minor scours at culverts and crossings.

Also stepping up to the plate when needed during the flooding event was our Whitsunday Coast Airport team which went above and beyond to assist stranded passengers impacted by flight cancellations due to the extreme weather.

Their professionalism and care ensured that travellers received timely updates, guidance, and support during an understandably stressful time. The airport team’s ability to manage this situation with efficiency and compassion deserves our highest praise.

Some of the damage to the Bruce Highway after the recent flooding event
A large b-double truck is caught in the flood waters and leaves the road
Photos supplied

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Meet Lentil, an incredibly affectionate dog who’s already won the hearts of her foster family. Known for her gentle nature, Lentil has quickly bonded with her new home and has learned to trust her humans. Despite her young age, she has taken on a nurturing role with the other dogs, often "mothering" them with care and kindness.
Lentil is the definition of selflessness; she gives all of herself and asks for little in return. Her greatest joy is cuddling up with her family, especially jumping onto the bed for some extra love and attention. Her easy-going and loving personality make her an ideal companion for anyone looking for a loyal friend.
Not only is Lentil great with people, but she’s also fantastic with other dogs, making her an excellent addition to any family with pets. Her sweet, affectionate nature will surely bring joy to any home lucky enough to welcome her.
To learn more about adopting Lentil, please contact:

Phone: 0459 757 455
Facebook: Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue
Email: bcpri.adoptions@gmail.com

Rehoming fee: $400
Age: 2 years
Sex: Male
Breed: Huntaway X Shepherd
Other dogs: Great with both big and small dogs

For a packed day of sails and sunshine, pop on down to North Queensland Cruising Yacht Club in Bowen (NQCYC) where you will find boats abound. On the 12th of January the Yacht Club will host a Blessing of the Fleet ceremony and all watercrafts are invited to participate. The NQCYC doesn't discriminate with the event’s motto: ‘If it floats, it's a boat’ so get out there on the water, dress up your boats and hoist your flags because it's time for some anointed fun in the sun!
Providing live, musical entertainment will be the wonderful Kimmy at 12.30pm before the boats set sail for their blessings. Then at 1.30pm the ceremony for the Blessing of the Boats will begin, followed by a cruise around the bay in the blessed watercrafts.
The Blessing of the Fleet is a tradition dating back centuries and is performed when launching new vessels as well as a regular, yearly ceremony to ensure the protection of a ship and its crew. At Bowen’s own North Queensland Cruising Yacht Club you will find this year's ceremony has a few extra ways for the community to get involved.
Like how about a sausage sizzle to whet your appetites? After the sailing around the bay comes to an end, the barbeque goes on and all are welcome to enjoy an afternoon at the harbour. With local cafes and bars open, it's a sea-breezy time suitable for all the family.
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WHAT: Blessing of the Boats Ceremony
WHERE: Yacht Club, 1 Starboard Drive, Bowen
WHEN: Sunday 12th 11:30am - 2pm

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North Queensland Cruising Yacht Club, locals sail into the harbour with flags raised. Photo supplied

Tourism Whitsundays is excited to be part of the launch of the Queensland Welcomes You initiative, with its suite of online welcome programs for each of Queensland’s tourism regions.

The Whitsundays Welcomes You Program has been developed to inspire everyone involved in welcoming guests to become proud hosts and deliver exceptional experiences so that our guests become passionate advocates for our region.

What you’ll learn
The Whitsunday Welcomes You program includes online training programs, and in-person workshops tailored for our region, with topics including hosting visitors, storytelling, accessibility, inclusion, sustainability and local experiences.

Who can participate?
The program is open to all businesses that play a role in welcoming and hosting guests in our region as well as passionate volunteers. Program participants may include those working in hotels, venues, transport, tours, events, attractions, retail, restaurants, cafes and bars, as well as volunteers across the visitor economy.

In-region workshops 
Next year, 2-hour workshops will be held which will be highly interactive, taking a deep dive into specific topics to help participants apply the learning in their guest interactions. 
 
The interactive workshop will cover the practical application of:
   • destination pride –unpacking what about our region makes us proud
   • guest mindset – what is it and the priorities for meeting guest expectations 
   • meeting guest needs - creating itineraries based on different guests needs
   • storytelling – best practice tips and how to create and tailor for different guests.

Contact us for further information: info@tourismwhitsundays.com.au
Contributed by Tourism Whitsundays
Queensland Welcomes You initiative

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