Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
OPINION PIECE from the office of Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox There is no question that immigration into Australia is out of control. The government’s numbers are too high, and standards are too low. A sustainable migration program must consider our capacity to provide housing, healthcare, infrastructure and the essential services everyone relies on, and Australians must come first. But Labor’s decision to target Working Holiday Makers Visa holders is not the answer. These people filling vital gaps in our workforce are not the cause of Australia’s housing crisis. In many cases, they are living in accommodation provided by the very businesses that employ them. The National Farmers’ Federation has made the point that Working Holiday Makers generally stay in hostels, caravan parks or purpose-built on-farm accommodation. Resorts usually have on-site staff quarters. They are not the source of Australia’s housing shortage. So why is Labor making it harder for them to come here, when these workers fill genuine jobs that regional Australia holds? Working Holiday Makers fill approximately one in seven farm jobs nationally and are particularly important during peak agricultural periods, which for Dawson, it is right now! Farmers rely on these workers to plant, pick, pack and harvest the produce that ends up on Australian supermarket shelves. Having run one of Australia’s largest tomato farms, at times Working Holiday Makers made up more than 50 per cent of my workforce. Without them, much of our crop simply would not have been picked in time and rotted in the paddock. Some may say, why not employ the Australians who don’t have a job and are on “the dole”? Can I say, this does not work. Most farmers will employ Aussies over travelling backpackers, but many either don’t want to do the work or don’t turn up after the first day. Who picks the fruit or veggies then? Farmers are already warning that visa delays are leaving them without workers. The NFF says approvals that once took days are now facing processing times of up to three months, and this time frame can be the difference between harvesting a crop or losing it. That should concern every Australian already feeling the pressure at the supermarket checkout. The same problem is playing out in tourism. Across Dawson, Working Holiday Makers are an important part of the workforce supporting tourism and hospitality, particularly in the Whitsundays. They help fill shifts, work in hotels and restaurants, support tour operators and keep businesses running through their busiest periods. They also contribute to the local economy. They spend money on food, fuel, attractions and tours, supporting the small businesses that depend on a strong visitor economy. That is why tourism and business leaders across North Queensland are raising the alarm. They understand what happens when a regional business cannot get enough staff: opening hours are reduced, and services are cut, creating a downward spiral. We do need to reduce migration to sustainable levels. We need stronger integrity measures, and we need to crack down on rorts. But responsible migration policy means understanding which parts of the system are creating pressure and which parts are helping Australia function. Working Holiday Makers are not the problem. They are part of the workforce solution for regional. Australia. People have had a gutful of watching their standard of living go backwards. Groceries, fuel, housing and everyday expenses are already putting enormous pressure on families. The last thing Australians need is another reckless policy that makes it harder to produce food, harder to run regional businesses and harder for tourism operators to find the workers they need.
Read the full storySomeone sold a house in Sydney last week for $9 million less than they bought it for four or five years ago. The sellers had bought the property in Sydney’s eastern suburbs for $29 million and sold it for $20 million in a sale forced by their bank. I imagine the sellers are a little disappointed by the government’s decisions on negative gearing and capital gains tax and feeling pretty hurt by the increased interest rates. Australia’s interest rates are on the rise and are now sitting at levels not seen since 2011. Increased cost of living is hurting people around the country and interest rates are playing into that. But the impact of interest rates is not felt evenly around the country. The far-higher property prices mean people in the major cities suffer much more than regional areas with the rates increase. That is certainly not to say people in Mackay are unaffected by the cost of living; it’s just that the impact of interest rates increase on a $400,000 mortgage is much less than the impact on a $1m mortgage. There are other Mackay-specific factors that are in play when discussing the current housing market. The big factor is the role of coal in our economy. Most of the coal extracted and exported from our region is coking coal, which is used to make steel. The price of coking coal is around $280 a tonne, which is about 50 per cent up. Good activity in the coal market translates to good news for the Mackay economy, as it is an economic engine that other cities and regions just don’t have. Good activity in Bowen Basin flows throughout the Mackay economy; Paget workshops, transport, suppliers and related businesses all benefit. But so do other, non-mining-related businesses as they benefit from the general confidence and spending that goes on. The strong mining activity also means mines need to keep their staff levels up and that means more people moving to Mackay. Of course, Mackay is much more than a coal mining town but if the coal sector is going well those other areas definitely benefit. It is a confidence boost for Mackay people looking to get into the housing market and those wanting to upgrade or downsize. It also means continuing strong demand from people wanting to rent a property and it will be interesting to see what sort of activity that creates from investors. Investors have walked away from the big-city markets because they can no longer use negative gearing on established properties that do not have a sufficient yield to be positively geared. Negative gearing has never been a big thing in Mackay because our prices are lower and rental returns continue to be strong so many investors have a positively geared property. Around the country everyone is nervous about the state of play and the probability of more interest rate rises. But strong coal prices and an economy that is performing well mean Mackay might just be presenting an opportunity for buyers and sellers that doesn’t exist in other parts. I remember when national confidence was flying high and Mackay prices were going up significantly that many buyers were saying “I wish we had bought a while ago when the market wasn’t so hot”. I’m not armed with a crystal ball so I’m not here to tell you what is going to happen but I suspect there is a very good buying window right now for those looking for an opportunity.
Read the full story
A local Mackay and Sarina based model has created a dress out of newspapers, including Mackay Life, for her upcoming pageant, representing her region and hometown on the runway as she vies for Miss Diamond International in Brisbane. Zoe Place will be competing this weekend in the three-day event, beginning this Friday 2nd October and ending on Sunday 4th October. The young model spent around a month creating her eco-fashion outfit, using old newspapers as the main material and transforming them into a bodice, skirt and flowers. Red elements were also incorporated into the design to give the dress a bold and glamorous pageant feel. Zoe said, “The entire concept was really about taking something that would normally be thrown away and turning it into something beautiful and meaningful.” Her eco-fashion creation will form part of a busy weekend in Brisbane, with the Miss Diamond International event including photo shoots, interviews, an eco-fashion show and the final pageant. Zoe has been preparing for the event by practising her strut and walking, preparing for interviews and getting comfortable in the different outfits she will wear throughout the weekend. Alongside her love of modelling, pageantry has also provided Zoe with a platform to raise awareness about causes close to her heart, including mental health, while fundraising for Beyond Blue. “Pageantry has given me more of a platform to combine my love for modelling with something that is really important to me.” “When I first started, I was more nervous about putting myself out there and worried about what others would think about me – but I’ve changed a lot through my journey in pageantry.” “Pageantry has also taught me that it’s not about how you look on stage. It’s about the person you are when you step off it.” “Every woman has their own unique journey and that journey is something we should all be really proud of.” “To me, it represents confidence, empowerment, kindness, and using your voice to make a difference.” Zoe said she was looking forward to meeting the other contestants, making new connections and creating memories. “I’m definitely looking forward to meeting all the new contestants and making new connections and creating memories that I will carry with me for a lifetime.” While Zoe hopes to eventually move to the city, her sights are set even further afield, with a dream of one day walking in New York Fashion Week. Mackay and Sarina local Zoe Place has created an eco-fashion dress from recycled newspapers, including Mackay Life, ahead of her Miss Diamond International pageant in Brisbane. Photos supplied
Read the full story
Trends, reels and the endless cycle of always wanting more has quietly bombarded the minds of countless social media users of all ages, but one former Mackay local has made it her mission to help others understand the effects of social media and find practical ways to break free from online addiction. Alexis Zahner is in Mackay over the next week to teach upcoming generations about social media and the effects it can have on the mind, particularly on identity, self-discovery, as well as the marketing strategies that get viewers hooked and influence their decisions. It is something Alexis knows first-hand can be a useful tool, but also a great disruption to authenticity and the world as we see and experience it. Alexis will hold a free meet and greet and book launch today, Friday 2nd October, at 5.30pm at the Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club, where she will give a talk and answer questions relating to her debut book, Real: Reconnecting to Yourself in a World of Likes and Lies. A former Mackay girl, Alexis spent the past 15 years working across business psychology, marketing and media, with her interest in social media influence beginning during her university studies at James Cook University in Townsville. Her own experience as a social media user, travel blogger and influencer eventually led her to question how much of her identity, decisions and values were being shaped by what she saw online. “The tipping point came for me about 3 years ago when I had this feeling that I couldn't separate influence from my own personal decision making,” she said. “I couldn't separate my own likes, dislikes, values, relationships from what I was being exposed to and being influenced by online.” “I found that I needed to take some time away from social media to recalibrate what was important to me and sort of reconnect and come back to myself.” Alexis said she understood the feeling of questioning who you are outside of social media. “I know what it feels like to live a life under the influence of social media and have that existential crisis of thinking to yourself, who am I? What do I like? What's the kind of life I want to live? and struggling to separate myself from influence.” Alexis is particularly passionate about reaching teenagers, who she says are in an important stage of identity development, and will share this message with Mackay high school students during her upcoming school talks. “Teenagers are really easily influenced by social media. So it's a really important age where we start educating them – not just on the mental health repercussions of things like social media and how it shortens their attention span, but how it actually influences who they become.” “If you're asking yourself these questions, it's not your fault. Social media is actually geared to create this impact on you.” Alexis encourages people of all ages to “start expanding beyond what you see on the platform.” “Dare to indulge in the things that you've always been curious about or things you used to love,” she said. “Don't be afraid to put the phone down to let yourself be curious and have fun.” What: Alexis Zahner's 'Real' Book launch When: 5.30pm Friday 2nd October 2026 Where: Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club Former Mackay local and author Alexis Zahner is returning home to share her experiences with social media and her debut book, Real. Photo supplied
Read the full story
BMA CQ Rescue has released its 2026 Community Report, revealing 2025 as the busiest year in the lifesaving service’s history, with crews responding to hundreds of missions across the Whitsundays and wider Central and North Queensland.
Over the past 12 months, BMA CQ Rescue flew more than 339,000 kilometres, responded to 778 missions and provided urgent aeromedical care to 834 patients. The missions ranged from inter-hospital transfers to primary response and search and rescue operations across some of the region’s most remote and challenging terrain.
Chief Executive Officer Tim Healee said the figures highlight both increasing demand and the vital role community support plays in keeping the service operational.
“Behind every one of those 778 missions is a person facing one of the hardest days of their life. A family waiting. A community counting on help to arrive in time,” Mr Healee said.
“2025 was our busiest year yet, but it was also a year of extraordinary progress. With two state-of-the-art AW139 helicopters and our own Air Operator Certificate, BMA CQ Rescue has become one of the most capable and independent aeromedical providers in regional Australia.”
The report also marks a milestone year as the service celebrates 30 years of operation, including the arrival of its second AW139 helicopter in June 2025 and continued investment in crew training and community engagement.
General Manager Lisa Martin said the report focuses on the human impact behind the statistics.
“This report is about more than numbers. It is about lives saved, families reunited, and communities supported,” Ms Martin said.
“When floodwaters isolated North Queensland communities last year, our crew stepped forward without hesitation. When our community needs help, we will always be there to deliver lifesaving support when every second counts.”
Operating 24 hours a day, BMA CQ Rescue services the Mackay, Whitsunday and Isaac regions, remaining free for patients thanks to the ongoing support of local donors, businesses and volunteers.
CAPTION: Bowen, Dysart, Moranbah, Proserpine, Townsville, Clermont,
Collinsville, Hamilton Island, and Nebo were among BMA CQ Rescue’s top serviced locations in 2025. Photo supplied
When most people think about Council’s Budget, they think about June — that’s when it’s adopted and when headlines tend to appear.
But what many don’t see is that the real work starts months earlier.
Councillors have now formally begun work on the 2026/2027 Budget, and I want to reassure our community that this is a careful, staged and considered process. Budgets are not put together overnight, and they’re certainly not decisions made on a whim.
This year we are holding a series of Special Budget Meetings, allowing Councillors to work progressively through the draft Budget in detail. Each session focuses on different areas — revenue, operational costs, capital works, service levels and long-term financial impacts. It is methodical, deliberate work.
At the adoption of last year’s Budget, I was upfront in acknowledging that our General Fund had developed a structural deficit over previous terms of government— a position that is not sustainable over the long term. Since then, we have been working to reset Council’s financial settings so we can restore balance in a measured and responsible way.
As Mayor, I believe we have a responsibility to address that rather than doing nothing and passing the pressure to future councils and future generations.
In practice this means examining expenditure, challenging assumptions and testing long-term impacts to ensure Council lives within its means. That doesn’t mean cutting for the sake of cutting, but it does mean being disciplined and responsible with public funds. That work will inevitably involve making choices about priorities, timing and how services are delivered so they remain sustainable into the future.
We also understand that many households and businesses across the Whitsundays are feeling cost-of-living pressures. That reality reinforces the importance of Council operating efficiently and ensuring every dollar delivers value to the community.
Our goal is to deliver a responsible and sustainable Budget that maintains essential services, provides value for money and strengthens Council’s long-term financial position.
The final Budget will be adopted in June, but the foundation is being laid now. This is deliberate work aimed at strengthening Council’s financial position while maintaining the services our community relies on.
As Mayor, I can assure the community that we are approaching this task with care, transparency and a clear focus on long-term financial sustainability.
Reef Side Buyers Agents is an independent property buying service based in the Whitsundays, dedicated to helping people purchase homes and investment properties with confidence. Working exclusively for buyers, the team provides end-to-end support from property search through to settlement, ensuring clients feel informed and supported at every stage.
The business was founded after more than 20 years in the building and housing industry, alongside extensive personal experience as long-term property investors.
After relocating to the Whitsundays with their young family, founders Rachael and Tyson experienced first-hand how challenging it can be to navigate the local market — particularly for interstate buyers and first-home purchasers without on-the-ground support. Reef Side Buyers Agents was created to help bridge that gap.
Services range from full search-to-settlement support for clients seeking a completely hands-off experience, to targeted assistance with property research, negotiation, and auction representation. The focus is always on honest advice, strong local market knowledge, and personalised service aligned with each client’s lifestyle and financial goals.
The Whitsundays continues to attract strong interest from interstate families relocating for lifestyle reasons, as well as investors seeking long-term growth. In a competitive market, buyers are increasingly looking for trusted local guidance rather than relying solely on online listings. Access to off-market opportunities has also become increasingly valuable.
As a newer local business, building relationships with agents, developers, and industry professionals has been a key priority over the past year. By actively engaging in the community and delivering consistent results, Reef Side Buyers Agents has quickly established strong local insight.
Their advice to fellow business owners is simple: be present in your community, listen closely to your clients, and prioritise long-term relationships over short-term gains.
As Chamber members, they value the opportunity to connect, collaborate, and contribute to the region’s continued growth.
Contributed with thanks to the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry
Rachael and Tyson Griffiths
Photo supplied
One of Queensland’s most destructive pest animals are being targeted under a new management action plan and more boots on the ground with Member for Burdekin Dale Last welcoming news that Whitsunday farmers and landholders will also benefit.
Mr Last said the release of the draft Queensland Feral Pig Management Action Plan 2026 –2031 was a chance for landholders, stakeholders and industry to have their say on the state’s coordinated approach to tackling feral pigs.
“In the space of one year it was estimated feral pigs caused $95 million in production losses and direct control costs including over $4 Million in the Whitsunday’s horticulture crop alone,” Mr Last said.
“The damage these animals do and risk to human health cannot be understated which is why it is crucial we have a feral pig management plan that recognises the individual needs of each region, including Bowen.”
“Feral pigs do not just damage crops, they have been known to degrade waterways, carry infectious diseases and kill young stock and native fauna.”
Mr Last said the draft plan had been developed through regional workshops, consultation and stakeholder input but now was the chance for local landholders and industry groups to also have their say.
“Having a management plan is about delivering real solutions with the funding needed to take meaningful action on the population of feral pigs across Queensland and in Bowen,” Mr Last said.
“Already the Crisafulli Government is delivering an additional 100 biosecurity officers added to the front line and investing in innovative techniques and control tools within six priority regions.”
“The better the engagement now, the better the outcome for everyone so it’s important every stakeholder takes the time to have their say. By working with landholders, regional groups and industry we ensure this plan actually works effectively on the ground.”
Contributed with thanks to Burdekin Electorate Office.
The Bowen Turf Club is excited to announce it has been allocated an additional race day for 2026. This now means there will be a total of seven race days for the 2026 calendar. This is incredibly exciting news for all involved. The dates are listed below:
Sat 11th April - April Race Day
The first race day of the 2026 season - family friendly, free entry, Filby's vehicle display, kid's activities, bar, jumping castle, face painting + more!!
Sunday 10th May - Mother's Day Race Day
A TAB race day, celebrating all the mothers in the Whitsunday region!!
Sat 30th May - Whitsunday Cup Race Day
Join the club in celebrating the iconic region for the annual "winter" race day!!
Sunday 21st June- Sunday Race Day
Saturday 15th August - Ben Bolt Cup
Celebrating the track namesake, and the local horticulture industry with additional human races (melon and tomato) plus kids events alongside country thoroughbred races.
Tues 15th September - TAB mid-week Race Day
Sat 10th October - Filby's Motors Bowen Cup 2026
Aka - "The Race That Stops Whitsundays", packed with racing action, marquees, Fashions on the Field and more!!
The Bowen Turf Club are looking forward to another fantastic season of country racing in the Whitsundays and hope to see you trackside!!
The Bowen Visitor Information Centre, next to the Big Mango, is continually expanding the range of merchandise and souvenirs available – and have now added “Spotto” Books to the range.
An extension of the game “I Spy” or “Spotto”, often played in the car on long trips to eliminate boredom, the newly released Spotto Books have taken the joy of the classic pass time and transformed it into an educational and fun activity for the whole family!
There are several books in the series including the Classic edition but also Coastal, Queensland, Australia and “Big Things”.
Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy, said the Big Mango was featured in the Big Things edition, so the team decided it was a great idea to stock them at our very own iconic big thing.
“We have only just added them to our range of merchandise, and they are already proving popular,” she said.
The creator of the books, Jess, is an experienced tour guide who originally created them for her own kids as she wanted them to relax on long road trips, so she could relax.
According to the Spotto Books website, Jess was frustrated that her kids weren’t looking out the window at the beautiful landscape and unique animals.
The website states that she created a Spotto Book filled with animals, plants, vehicles, iconic locations and Big Things to spot and tick off. When she saw how well they worked at entertaining her kids, and how excited they became when they spotted something in the book, she decided to create them for everyone.
The business won two NSW Tourism Awards last year.
Call in to the Big Mango and grab some books for the kids – and check out all the other merchandise and local produce while you are there.
Contributed with thanks to Bowen Tourism and Business.
Bowen Tourism and Business team member Julieanne Firmin with the Spotto books now available at the Big Mango. Photo supplied
As regional communities continue to navigate workforce shortages and rising living costs, access to a driver’s licence remains one of the most significant barriers facing young people. In Bowen, one local program is working to remove that barrier, but it urgently needs more volunteers to keep the wheels turning.
The PCYC Queensland initiative, Braking the Cycle (BTC), is currently seeking volunteer mentors in Bowen to support young learner drivers who are unable to complete the mandatory 100 hours of supervised driving required to gain a Queensland licence.
Delivered locally through PCYC Bowen, Braking the Cycle is designed to assist young people facing barriers such as financial hardship, limited access to a suitable vehicle, or a lack of a licensed supervisor. Without support, many of these young people remain unable to obtain their licence, limiting their access to employment, training and education opportunities.
The program matches learner drivers with trained volunteer mentors and provides a safe, fully insured vehicle for lessons. Mentors play a practical role in helping participants develop safe driving skills and positive road safety behaviours, while also offering encouragement and a supportive community connection.
The benefits of the program extend beyond the individual learner. Research consistently links supervised mentoring programs with improved safe driving behaviours, reduced crash risk and stronger community engagement. Locally and statewide, Braking the Cycle reports that around 70 per cent of graduates move into employment or further education within three to six months of obtaining their licence.
However, the program’s continued success relies heavily on volunteer support. BTC Bowen is currently running critically low on mentors, placing pressure on its ability to meet demand from young people eager to complete their driving hours.
For those with time to give, even a few hours a week can make a measurable difference. In regional communities where public transport options are limited, a driver’s licence is often the key to independence, employment and connection.
As demand for the program continues, BTC Bowen’s call for volunteers highlights a broader truth: community-based initiatives rely on community participation. Without additional mentors stepping forward, some young people may face longer waits to access the support they need.
Residents interested in attending the morning tea or learning more about volunteering with Braking the Cycle are encouraged to contact PCYC Bowen for further information.
Photos supplied
The start of the new year offers a unique opportunity to reset the energy, focus and engagement of your team. After the Christmas break, people return with a mix of emotions — refreshed, distracted, pumped!, or still carrying the mental load of last year. Try to avoid jumping straight back into deadlines and deliverables and focus on reconnecting your people to purpose, priorities and each other. Why? Because research shows investing time in connecting your team increases productivity, job satisfaction, and staff retention. All the things a small business needs!
Regardless of how small your team is - start your year with an honest conversation about highlights, challenges and lessons from the previous year. It helps teams draw the line on one ‘era’ before starting the next. People are more engaged when we validate their experiences and align it to how they make a difference. Then shift the focus forward. Be clear about what success looks like in the months ahead, what will be different, and what the real priorities are.
Then focus on connection. Team cohesion dips after a break so use this discussion to re-establish best ways of working, communication preferences, reinforce shared values and behaviours and give feedback as to how they made a difference last year.
February is also the time to be intentional about leadership development. Rather than relying on ad hoc, reactive training, step back and plan for the challenges ahead — managing change, difficult conversations, creating a better workplace culture, managing time (and let’s be honest there is always simple fixes to gain more time) or building resilience. Map your needs early and show your team they’re supported with the training (and real-world application) they need to succeed. When leadership growth is planned, visible and ongoing, it sends a strong message to your team – you care!
Finally, check the capacity of your team. The new year often starts with big ambitions, but the long year ahead requires realistic pacing. Discuss workloads, potential stresses and challenges early on and identify simple support strategies. And if you can’t really change anything, just be honest – at least they feel heard which always increases engagement and productivity.
Don’t avoid these discussions. Having honest, authentic team chats means you’re always informed of what’s really happening for your team and your business. It’s a risk assessment which also shouts, “we care”. Too many of us think because “we’re just a small team - everyone knows how I feel about them”. Not so! By scheduling time for this you’re sending a strong signal “I value you!” which results in a workplace culture or ‘vibe’ that no-one wants to leave.
Contributed with thanks to Judy Porter
Feb Month 9–Contract Reviews
Before you sign anything, send it our way.
Just because it’s "standard" doesn’t mean it’s safe. Whether it's a business contract, a private agreement, or anything with a signature box, it’s worth having us take a look. We’ll flag anything risky, explain your obligations in plain English, and make sure you’re protected.
Is Your Property Ready?
Queensland Sotheby’s International Realty is launching the Whitsundays’ most prestigious ever auction event, with campaigns commencing 30 March and culminating in live and online auctions on 10 May 2026.
A curated collection of prestige properties will be presented under one unified campaign, supported by national print placement, strategic public relations and access to our international buyer network. Sellers may choose between a live auction on Hamilton Island or a structured 30-day online auction, ensuring the most appropriate pathway for each property.
Participation in this inaugural event is limited, with campaign commitments closing 6 March.
If you are considering selling in 2026, we invite you to contact us to discuss whether your property is suited to Auction Week.
Donations raised at Life Publishing Group’s sold-out Enchanted Garden fundraiser in October 2025 are now being distributed, with a total of $56,000 shared among eight charities doing vital work across North Queensland.
In the first handover, a cheque for $8,000 was presented to Ailen Lord, President of Fauna Rescue Whitsundays.
The funds will go to vital medical equipment, food and provisions for native wildlife rescued from our region, as the non-profit organisation rehabilitates injured, orphaned and sick animals with a goal to send them back to the wild.
Ailen would like to thank the community for their kind donations that evening.
“At first I didn't believe it,” she said.
“I was like, No, it can't be $8,000… then I went and read the email. We were really overwhelmed and very thankful because we normally don't get that much money to help us, and mainly, people don't even know what we're doing... It's just so nice.
“So, thank you so much everyone. And I know you don't actually see the impact you put towards donating this money. But it's huge, so I'll try to share some photos so you guys can see where that money goes and how the wildlife gets back out there thanks to this. So thank you so much, everybody.”
With the charity currently spending $10,000 on vet bills alone, and another $10,000 a year on food, the donation will go far to help the volunteers sustain the amazing work they do.
With a baby pinky brush-tailed possum tucked into her shirt as she accepted the cheque, it’s clear that Ailen and the team care deeply for the wildlife that surrounds the Whitsundays, and will continue to put their all into the cause.
Other animals the organisation rescues and rehabilitates include rock wallabies, birds, reptiles and native frogs, with a specialised frog hospital located in Mackay.
Ailen said plans are underway to establish additional outdoor enclosures for recovering wallabies, which can be difficult to house in volunteer homes. With continued community support, the team hopes to expand its facilities and make an even greater impact in the year ahead.
1 – Ailen Lord accepts $8,000 raised by last year’s fundraiser, with Life Publishing’s Rachael Smith and Trish Jandt. Photo: Suzanna Mcloughlin.
2,3,4 – Some of the cuties saved by Fauna Rescue Whitsundays. Photos: Facebook.
Investment in skills and training is continuing to support local jobs and inclusive employment across the Whitsundays, with the Skilling Queensland for Work initiative helping community organisations deliver practical training and pathways into employment.
The program supports community-based organisations to provide training, mentoring and hands-on work experience for Queenslanders looking to enter or re-enter the workforce, while also delivering real benefits to local industries and communities.
Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm said the program was helping create meaningful opportunities across the region.
“Programs like Skilling Queensland for Work are creating real pathways for people in our community to gain skills, build confidence and move into meaningful employment,” Ms Camm said.
“In regional areas like the Whitsundays, investing in local training and workforce development is essential to supporting businesses and strengthening our economy.”
In Cannonvale, Endeavour Foundation continues to support people with disability through tailored training and employment programs that build independence and job-ready skills.
“Endeavour Foundation does incredible work supporting people with disability to develop confidence and practical workplace skills,” Ms Camm said.
“These programs help ensure everyone has the opportunity to participate in the workforce and be part of our community.”
Local industry groups, including Canegrowers, are also benefiting from workforce initiatives aimed at supporting the future of Queensland’s agriculture sector, helping build a pipeline of skilled workers for the region.
Ms Camm said continued investment in skills and training would deliver long-term benefits for the Whitsundays.
“By supporting local organisations and industry to deliver training and employment pathways, we are creating opportunities for individuals and building a stronger future for our region,” she said.
Amanda Camm with the Endeavour Foundation in Cannonvale
Photo supplied
Renewable Energy Partners have withdrawn their proposal for the Proserpine Wind Farm, a 166-turbine project put forward in 2022. The project had reached final stages of planning before being dropped this month.
Renewable Energy Partners had pitched that the farm would generate enough renewable energy to power roughly 640,000 houses a year, whilst creating 250 jobs.
Their plans, however, created controversy amongst some locals who raised concerns about the impact of the farm on the environment, health, and the area’s liveability.
Protesters from the Whitsunday Wind Farm Action Group stated: “Today’s news that the Proserpine Wind Farm is not proceeding has understandably lifted spirits across the community.”
However, they highlighted, other ongoing wind projects remain on their radar – namely the Mt Challenger Wind Farm, a turbine development proposed by Alinta Energy.
This 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 calls the project “a powerful opportunity for the region”, which is “committed to making a positive impact in communities.”
According to their website: “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.”
At time of publication, a petition against the Alinta Energy development has garnered 4,493 signatures.
“This conversation isn’t over,” Whitsunday Wind Farm Action states.
“We ask: If a project in a more suitably located area has been deemed unviable, and the region is already described as “chock-full” of wind proposals, why does a proposal situated closer to homes, scenic corridors and established rural communities continue to move forward?”
Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, met with the group this week to hear community concerns.
“We are grateful to Andrew and his team for standing with us, for acknowledging our concerns, and for committing to continue advocating on our behalf,” the group published.
“This community is resilient, informed, and united — and we will continue to stand up for our homes and our future.”
Photo Source: Whitsunday Wind Farm Action Group
Controlled water releases were underway over the weekend at Kinchant Dam as authorities responded to ongoing and forecast heavy rainfall across the dam’s catchment.
In the early hours of Wednesday, 18 February, Sunwater confirmed release rates would increase from approximately 648 megalitres per day to around 1,250 megalitres per day in preparation for further weather impacts.
Sunwater warned the increased flows may contribute to localised flooding downstream, with reports of minor impacts already circulating since Tuesday, 17 February. Residents in affected areas were urged to remain vigilant as conditions continued to evolve.
Excess water releases commenced at 8:45am on Wednesday after the dam reached its maximum operating level of 87 per cent. Earlier advice issued on Tuesday morning indicated the dam was likely to reach this threshold later that day, with flows expected into Sandy Creek.
At that time, residents downstream of the dam — including those near Sandy Creek, Mirani and Eton — were advised to stay informed and monitor conditions closely. Water flows were expected to impact Antoneys Crossing and Curran’s Crossing, with increased flows forecast within six to 12 hours.
Catchment levels have been rising steadily throughout February. On the morning of Wednesday, 4 February, Sunwater reported the dam peaked at 56.69 metres, reaching 80.30 per cent capacity. By that afternoon, levels had increased to 82.26 per cent.
The most significant rise was recorded on Monday, 16 February, when levels jumped from 83.92 per cent to 87.10 per cent in just 24 hours.
As of Wednesday, 25 February, the catchment was sitting at 84.68 per cent capacity, holding 61,169 megalitres of water at a height of 57.03 metres - just 1.18 metres below the dam’s spillway level.
On Sunday, 22 February, after almost five days of releasing excess water, Sunwater confirmed Kinchant Dam had now returned to regular operating conditions, and releases have now ceased after the catchment recorded a capacity of approximately 84 per cent.
“Sunwater’s thoughts are with any communities in Queensland who may be experiencing flooding due to extreme weather,” said a Sunwater spokesperson.
“Due to recent rainfall across North and Central Queensland, several Sunwater dams are spilling or close to capacity, and minor releases from Kinchant Dam ceased on Sunday 22 February.”
Earlier this week, on Wednesday, 25 February, Peter Faust Dam reached a capacity of 96.72 per cent, 16.81 per cent below the historical high recorded in late March, 2011 of 113.53 per cent.
Sunwater assured they do not expect Peter Faust Dam to spill based on current forecasts, however warned conditions could change rapidly and are urging residents to prepare for potential flooding.
“Sunwater is closely monitoring conditions across dam catchments and liaising with Local Disaster Management Groups as necessary. We will continue to provide updates regarding individual dams as per Emergency Action Plan requirements,” the spokesperson said.
“We would urge the community to remain vigilant near rising water courses and listen to advice from councils and emergency services - and if it’s flooded, forget it.”
Residents are encouraged to stay informed by monitoring Kinchant Dam storage levels, tuning in to ABC Tropical North on 101.1 FM, and checking local updates, road closures and evacuation information through Mackay Regional Council’s Disaster Dashboard. River and rainfall conditions can also be monitored via the Bureau of Meteorology.
In an emergency, residents should call Triple Zero (000). For flood assistance, contact the State Emergency Service on 132 500 or through the SES Assistance QLD app.
Local mum, business owner and soccer lover, Sonya Quod, is swimming 32 kilometres at Proserpine Pool this February to raise money for Starlight, a charity dedicated to bringing moments of joy to hospitalised children.
When we spoke to Sonya on Monday, she had just five days left of the challenge and was feeling the fatigue – but not letting it get in her way.
By committing to swim 22 lengths of the 50m pool every day for 28 days, Sonya has raised a whopping $5,534 for Starlight, a cause that is close to her heart.
Sonya’s then 11-year-old daughter, Arista, became gravely ill after contracting mycoplasma pneumonia with a secondary mucositis infection.
She initially spent some time in Proserpine Hospital before being moved to Mackay, and eventually was airlifted by the Royal Flying Doctor Service to Brisbane for life-saving treatment.
Arista’s hospital stay went on several months, and for a time she wasn’t allowed visitors. When this changed the Starlight Volunteers began visiting her, bringing much-needed brightness to an otherwise difficult time.
“They would come around to the rooms and do entertainment, they’d sing and dance, telling jokes and doing magic tricks,” Sonya explains.
“And they also had a Starlight Room where you could go with your kids to get a break from the hospital. It’s amazing. It’s so bright and bubbly, and there’s music… They’re just amazing at what they do. Everyone walked out of there with a smile on their face, no matter how sick they were.”
When Sonya saw Starlight’s Super Swim campaign on Facebook, she knew she wanted to get involved.
“I've always been a water baby,” she says.
“That's why I thought I could do this challenge, even being busy as a mom and running the business. I thought, I can just do some laps, and that's my way of giving back.”
Alongside raising money for Starlight, Sonya says the challenge has been great training leading up to soccer season. With the pool also providing great exercise for Arista’s lungs following her sickness, Sonya’s spending even more time there, now working for Aquatic Rush, teaching little ones to swim.
Sonya is proud to be one of over 13,600 swimmers supporting the cause, and has even found herself in the Top 15 on the fundraiser leaderboard.
“I’d like to say a huge thank you to my family and friends for their support throughout the challenge,” Sonya says.
“Some days I needed a little support crew to get me through. Also, thank you for the amazing donations – it has blown me away. It will go to the children and families doing it tough.”
To donate, and find more information about how you can support the cause, scan the QR code below.
1- Sonya Quod, super mum swimming for Starlight. Photo: Suzanna Mcloughlin
2 – Arista with the starlight entertainers bringing joy to Queensland Children’s Hospital. Photo supplied.
3 – Volunteers visit children in need of a smile. Photo supplied.
4 – Starlight arrives with a song, joke, or magic trick to make the hospital a brighter place. Photo supplied.
5 – Scan here to donate
Publishers Indemnity. Any individual or entity that places advertising, supplies copy material, or submits editorial content to Core Life Publishing agrees and undertakes to ensure that all such material:- Does not infringe upon any copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property rights;- Is free from any content that could be considered defamatory, libelous, or slanderous;- Does not infringe upon any rights related to privacy or breach of confidence;- Contains no obscene, indecent, or otherwise unlawful material;- Complies fully with the Trade Practices Act and all other applicable laws, regulations, or statutes.Furthermore, by submitting or placing such material, these individuals or entities agree to indemnify and hold harmless the publisher, Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd, and/or its agents from and against any and all investigations, claims, demands, liabilities, damages, costs, or judgments arising out of or in connection with the material provided. All material is believed to be accurate at the time of printing and remains the copyright of Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd.
© 2026 Mackay and Whitsunday Life Pty Ltd.
