
Queensland Government Extends Support for Greater Whitsunday Regional workforce collaboration Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) has welcomed the Queensland Government’s announcement of continued funding for the Greater Whitsunday Regional Jobs Committee (RJC), securing the program through to 2027. This extension confirms GW3 as the host organisation for the Regional Jobs Committee program until 2027 and reinforces the vital role the committee plays in aligning local industry needs, training pathways, and regional workforce development. The program is designed by locals, for locals, providing a coordinated approach to identifying unique skilling challenges and strengthening connections between industry, government, training providers and community organisations. The Greater Whitsunday RJC forms part of a statewide network of 12 Regional Jobs Committees operating from Cairns to the Gold Coast. Together, these committees deliver region-specific skilling and workforce solutions that respond directly to local needs and support long-term economic growth. Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) Chief Executive Officer, Ms Kylie Porter, said the commitment demonstrates the importance of proactive workforce planning as local industries continue to evolve. “We are delighted the Queensland Government is continuing to invest in regional workforce development through the RJC program. “This extension ensures we can keep driving a coordinated, industry-led approach to skills, training, and workforce attraction across Mackay, Isaac, and Whitsunday. Greater Whitsunday Regional Jobs Committee Chair, Ms Carissa Mansfield, said sustained funding provides important certainty for industry and partners. “Workforce remains one of the biggest challenges facing our region. The continuation of the RJC program means we can keep bringing local voices together to address barriers to training, participation, and business growth.” Member for Mackay, Mr Nigel Dalton, said the Queensland Government is committed to supporting strong regional jobs and skills development. “The Greater Whitsunday RJC is delivering real impact by strengthening local training pathways and helping businesses connect with the support they need. Extending this program through to 2027 ensures continued investment in regional jobs, industry alignment, and sustainable economic growth.” “This funding reflects our commitment to ensuring local people have access to local opportunities, and that regional communities are supported to thrive.” The Greater Whitsunday Regional Jobs Committee is proudly supported and funded by the Queensland Government.
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Mackay residents are being encouraged to put their hand up to help shape the future of the Bruce Highway, with Expressions of Interest now open for regional representatives to join the Bruce Highway Advisory Council. The State Government has opened applications for the next round of regional representatives, including one position for the Mackay Whitsunday region, as part of its commitment to improving safety, reliability and long-term planning along Queensland’s major north–south transport corridor. The Bruce Highway Advisory Council brings together regional representatives and industry experts to help inform priorities for investment and upgrades, including the $9 billion Bruce Highway Targeted Safety Program and the development of a statewide Fatigue Management Strategy. Chaired by the Minister for Transport and Main Roads, the Council includes stakeholders from Pine River to Far North Queensland and plays a key role in identifying local issues and directing where funding should be prioritised. The six regional representatives will join five peak industry bodies on the Council, including the Royal Automobile Club of Queensland, Queensland Trucking Association, Queensland Farmers' Federation, Queensland Tourism Industry Council and the Local Government Association of Queensland. Regional representatives are appointed on a voluntary basis for a 12-month term and may reapply if they wish to continue. The government said the process ensured a diverse mix of local experience and industry expertise was brought to the table. Expressions of Interest are open for representatives from six regions, including Far North Queensland, North Queensland, Mackay Whitsunday, Fitzroy, Wide Bay Burnett and North Coast. Applications for the Bruce Highway Advisory Council close on the 23rd of January.
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Mackay To Become Specialist Cancer Service Hub The Queensland Government has confirmed major progress on its fully funded Hospital Rescue Plan, unveiling clear timelines for hospital upgrades and new facilities across the state — with Mackay set to benefit as part of a strengthened regional health network. The plan has reached a significant milestone, with masterplans finalised for key hospital projects including Townsville University Hospital, Toowoomba Hospital, Coomera Hospital, Redcliffe Hospital and Bundaberg Hospital, alongside confirmed planning details for major upgrades at hospitals across Queensland. The Government said the plan was introduced after inheriting what it described as a failed and under-funded health infrastructure program, which resulted in major delays, missing services and $7 billion in cost blowouts. Under the Hospital Rescue Plan, the government is delivering a coordinated and fully costed approach to hospital construction and upgrades, aimed at restoring health services and delivering urgently needed hospital beds across Queensland. While Mackay is not listed for a major hospital expansion under the current tranche of projects, the region is expected to benefit directly through the Queensland Cancer Plan, which will establish Mackay as one of several specialist cancer service hubs across the state. The network will support regional hospitals and improve access to cancer care for communities outside Brisbane. As part of the statewide plan, specialist cancer hubs will be established in Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, Wide Bay, Darling Downs, Brisbane and the Gold Coast, helping reduce the need for patients to travel long distances for treatment. Across Queensland, the Hospital Rescue Plan will deliver at least 2,600 additional hospital beds through new hospitals, expansions and upgrades, representing the largest hospital infrastructure investment in the state’s history. Major hospital projects are already moving forward, including expansions at Townsville University Hospital, which will deliver at least 165 new beds by 2028, and Bundaberg Hospital, which is set to receive more than 200 new beds along with an expanded emergency department and improved maternity services by 2031. Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Tim Nicholls said the government was focused on delivering hospital beds and services when Queenslanders need them most. "Our fully-funded Hospital Rescue Plan is delivering new and expanded hospitals, 2,600 new hospital beds and health services when Queenslanders need them most," Minister Nicholls said. "After Labor’s decade of decline that left the system in crisis and without a credible path to building the hospital beds needed, Queenslanders are starting to see the results of getting our hospital build back on track with masterplans, designs and construction moving forward. "We’ve put to bed the poor planning, delays and cost blowouts we inherited and we’re now delivering the hospital beds Queensland needs now and into the future." Queensland Health Implementation Lead Sam Sangster said extensive planning was underway to ensure hospital projects met the needs of local communities across the state. “These masterplans mark an exciting first step in the process where Queenslanders will begin to see work intensifying on sites across the state,” Mr Sangster said. “It’s important to take the time to properly plan these major projects to ensure we leave a lasting legacy through sustainable infrastructure that caters for staff, clinicians, patients and their families.” The Queensland Government said the Hospital Rescue Plan marked a turning point for health infrastructure delivery, providing certainty for communities like Mackay through improved access to specialist services and a stronger statewide hospital network.
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In celebration of 20 years, Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank has introduced an additional higher education scholarship as part of its Community Engagement Program, allowing more students to receive a share of $39,000. For eligible degrees and apprenticeships at CQUniversity in 2026, the program includes three $9000 scholarships for undergraduate degrees and two $6000 scholarships for apprenticeships, providing not only financial assistance but also opportunities for professional development and growth. Community Bank Sarina Board Deputy Chair Maree Franettovich highlighted Community Bank Sarina’s commitment to supporting local talent, describing the scholarships as “an ongoing investment in the personal growth and skills development of young people in our region, marking two decades of community impact." “Scholarships show students that their community is behind them, allowing them to stay close to family, friends and support networks while pursuing their studies and careers,” Ms Franettovich said. “This initiative creates opportunities for networking, mentoring and connection with local businesses - key elements in building a strong foundation for their future.” Higher education scholarships are available for a range of fields for those commencing their studies in 2026, including accounting, agriculture/agribusiness, business, digital media, environmental science, health, information technology, law, nursing, science and teaching. In addition, scholarships are offered for first-year apprentices in automotive engineering and technology, building and construction, electrical, manufacturing engineering and technology, hairdressing, horticulture, hospitality and mechanical trades. 2026 Community Bank Sarina CQUniversity Scholarship applications close 28 February. To find out more information and request an application pack, email executive@sarinacommunity.com.au.
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It’s no secret that life on the water underpins the fundamentals of the Airlie Beach community in more ways than geographical, and this July, the Coral Sea Marina will host a memorable celebration for those who love the Airlie Beach lifestyle!
The Better Boating Expo will be held on Friday, the 11th of July, from 10am through to 2pm at the marina to promote better boating practices, including sustainability, the protection of the Great Barrier Reef and the local marine environment, and basic safety whilst on the water.
Aligning with the winter school holiday period, the event hopes to provide families with an enjoyable opportunity to learn and celebrate all things water and boating.
“The goal of the expo is to provide a family-friendly community event, with interactive demonstrations and educational content designed to promote better boating practices, not only to boat owners but to any visitor to the region looking to get out and explore on the water,” explained Coral Sea Marina’s Brand Experience Manager, Roxanne Bowden.
“This would include safety at sea, responsible reef practices, ways to minimise the environmental impact of tourism or boating activities, and to consciously connect more people to the environment.”
Passionate Great Barrier Reef experts will also be in attendance at the expo, leading discussions and workshops focusing on topics like tips and tricks for sustainability, life raft and safety flare demonstrations, knot tying and splicing, Whales of the Whitsundays, and fire equipment training.
Additional information stands and presentations include Queensland Parks and Wildlife, Volunteer Marine Rescue Whitsundays, Maritime Safety Queensland, Tangaroa Blue, Whales of the Whitsundays, Whitsunday Maritime Training Centre, Water Police, Airlie Beach Swim School, plus many more!
With so many opportunities to learn, the expo will also host a kids’ colouring competition, and a delicious ice cream van and face painting station will be operating throughout the day, serving up plenty of fun and smiles right into the afternoon! Save the date!
WHAT: Better Boating Expo
WHERE: Coral Sea Marina
WHEN: Friday 11th July
The Better Boating Expo is on next Friday at the Coral Sea Marina. Photo supplied

Set high above the Coral Sea on Mount Whitsunday, Elementa Whitsundays, together with its on-site artisan gin and vodka maker 74 Islands Distillery, is transforming how locals and visitors experience dining, connection, and celebration in Airlie Beach.
Now open to the public for walk-in evenings and exclusive daytime events, Elementa offers something rare: a venue that fuses world-class culinary experiences with panoramic views, small-batch spirits, and the effortless luxury of the tropics.
From daytime distillery lunches to twilight cocktails under the stars, every gathering at Elementa is designed to feel special and unmistakably local.
TASTE OF 74 LUNCH
Cruise Ship Days (Open to All) | 12-2pm
Created for guests short on time but big on flavour, Taste of 74 is a curated two-hour experience that blends regional produce, local distilling, and coastal elegance into one unforgettable lunch.
Hosted on cruise ship days and open to everyone, guests are transported via return transfers from Airlie Beach Lagoon. On arrival, you’re welcomed with cocktails and canapés on the rooftop, followed by a guided tasting comparing spirits made with ultra-pure Whitsundays rainwater versus reverse osmosis - an experience that never fails to spark conversation.
Lunch features a selection of woodfired pizzas highlighting local produce, ending on a sweet note with house-made dessert and limoncello handcrafted onsite.
74 ISLANDS COCKTAIL CLUB
Fridays | 5pm-late
Fridays at Elementa are designed to surprise and delight.
The 74 Islands Cocktail Club is a weekly ritual for the curious, the intrepid, and the lovers of something a little different. Each week features a signature cocktail revealed only on the night, a rotating showstopper pizza (think hot-smoked crocodile with pickled torch ginger from the Elementa garden), and live entertainment curated by Total Entertainment.
With seasonal ingredients from trusted local providers Fish D’vine, Master Butcher Whitsundays, and Prickly Pineapple, the menu changes weekly - so no two nights are ever the same.
Bookings for Taste of 74 & the 74 Islands Cocktail Club are essential via Airlie Events.
74 ISLANDS CELLAR DOOR
Every Thursday | 4–8pm
Thursdays are your invitation to drop in, slow down, and savour something special.
At the 74 Islands Cellar Door, guests enjoy complimentary tastings of handcrafted gin and vodka, wood-fired pizzas for sale, and access to exclusive bottle pricing - 20% off all spirits.
For the perfect after-work ritual, the Sundowner Pack includes two wood-fired pizzas, your choice of 74 Islands gin or vodka, and two premium mixers - for just $99. Dine in with a view or take it to go.
COMING SOON:
THE 'ART OF THE CRAFT' MASTERCLASSES
Monthly ticketed gin blending workshops are on the horizon - where guests will learn the secrets of distillation and craft their own bespoke spirit to take home.
Every Dish. Every Drop. Every Detail - Local.
Elementa Whitsundays and 74 Islands Distillery aren’t just about food and drink - they’re about celebrating place, craft, and community. Whether you’re dropping in for a casual pizza, toasting something special, or discovering the art of gin, one thing is certain: you’ll leave with a taste of the Whitsundays that lingers.
Elementa Whitsundays, the home of 74 Islands Distillery
24-26 Mount Whitsunday Drive, Airlie Beach
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The Whitsundays is now the fastest growing local government area in regional Queensland, a reflection of our region’s economic strength, lifestyle appeal, and the confidence people have in our future.
But with growth comes challenge, and one of the most pressing is housing. Vacancy rates have remained under 2 per cent since 2020, and in some towns, they’ve hit 0 per cent during peak times. That puts real pressure on local families, limits job opportunities, and makes it harder for new workers to settle here.
Council is tackling this head-on through our Local Housing Action Plan, and I’m proud to say we’re making real progress. This year we’ve seen a strong increase in development activity and we’re currently progressing amendments to our planning scheme to better manage short-term accommodation.
We’ve supported new community housing projects in both Bowen and Proserpine, advocated for funding for 160 additional social homes, and delivered a capital works budget for 2025–26 that will invest $114 million in critical infrastructure.
That includes $14 million for a new landfill cell in Bowen, $24 million in water and sewerage upgrades, and $36 million in road improvements and recovery works.
We’re also pushing hard for major external funding through the Queensland Government’s new Residential Activation Fund. Our $50 million ‘Build Whitsundays’ pitch includes three priority projects, Bowen South, Cannon Valley and Proserpine, that would fast-track water and sewerage infrastructure to unlock over 4,000 future homes. If successful, we expect more than 570 of those homes to be built by 2028.
Of course, housing is about more than just construction, it’s about building complete, connected communities. That’s why we’ve continued to advance major precinct planning across the region this year, including the Collinsville Community Hub, Bowen Foreshore, and Airlie Beach town centre.
And at our June Ordinary Council meeting we formally adopted Whitsunday 2030, our new Economic Development Strategy. It sets a clear vision for how we support industry, attract investment, and ensure that the Whitsundays remains a great place to live, work and grow.
There’s more work to do, but our direction is clear—and we’re building a stronger, smarter Whitsundays for the future.

After four years of early mornings and unpredictable weather of Saturday markets, Shorelines Collection has found a new home.
The local candle making business is now open at their new address, Shop 4, 1 Carlo Drive, and has been quietly operating from the delightful space for six months now.
The new studio is a tranquil, coastal-inspired retail and production space where hand-pour soy candles and diffusers which are made on-site using Australian fragrance oils and natural soy waxes. The store also features unique gift ideas, many of which are unavailable elsewhere in town. Upon entry to the new studio, shoppers are met with an uplifting aroma that inspires the senses and refreshes the soul.
The business was founded by two young sisters who, during COVID-19, decided to try something creative and productive. The girl's mother, Susan Butler, soon got involved and the trio enjoyed many happy times making candles together. This experience inspired Susan to reconnect with her own creative passions and the broader business blossomed from there. They began small, selling at the Lions Airlie Beach Community Markets and building a loyal customer base who kept coming back for their clean-burning candles and signature scents.
Susan has taken over the business as her daughters have taken a step back and she absolutely loves it.
Today, the studio's signature scents include Coconut & Lemongrass, Sea Salt & Driftwood, Kakadu Plum, and Pear & Guava, but there are so much more and they are even open to requests.
Each candle is thoughtfully presented, with embellishments such as shells or flowers to match the fragrance and reflect the coastal aesthetic or the earthy notes.
Shorelines Collection's main focus is on sustainability.
“We can refill most of our vessels, and if people prefer not to, pretty much everything we offer can be reused or repurposed as we primarily use homewares rather than traditional candle jars,” said Susan.
“Instead, we try to use planters, food grade bowls, or other decorative pieces.
“Because of this, most of our products are limited edition too.”
Most eye-catching and notable in the store are the Coco Husk Candles in Coconut & Lemongrass, or Citronella & Lemongrass scents. The Shorelines Collection team gather coconuts from the local area, cut them in half and let their chickens and bush turkeys eat out the flesh. Once they are cleaned and sealed, these husks make unique, lightweight candles, perfect for your own home or as gifts for loved ones.
Coming up next Shorelines Collection are working on introducing candle-making workshops.
“We’ve had some great feedback and will likely launch those after the school holidays," shares Susan.
“People will get to take home something they’ve made and hopefully fall in love with the process.”
Open Monday to Friday from 11am to 3pm or by appointment, the Shorelines Collection is ready to welcome locals and visitors alike.
“So many people tell me they didn’t know we were here,” said Susan.
“Now that we’ve got our website and socials up, it’s time to spread the word and invite people in.”
Shorelines Collection now have a shop address at Shop 4, 1 Carlo Drive. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

After years of adventure and travel across Australia, Dr Mohammad Tafakorian is set to return to the Whitsundays this August, joining the team at Barefoot Medicine Whitsundays.
Dr Mohammad is no stranger to the region, having previously spent four years working and living in the Whitsundays before a stint in New South Wales. Now, he’s eager to return to the place he describes as his hometown.
“I feel like Airlie Beach is my hometown, I believe it’s my home, I feel safe and I was welcomed by most of the locals,” he said.
“They looked after me like a member of the society, people looked after me like they look after their families.”
His return marks not only a professional move but also a deeply personal one. He is looking forward to reconnecting with many of the patients he treated during his previous time in the area, some of whom he considers like family.
“I'm living the life of any single one of my patients”
“Whatever they go through I am with them.
“If they are happy, they make my days. If they are down, I do my best to bring them up.”
Dr Mohammad brings a wealth of experience with him. He is a GP specialist with advanced certificates in chronic disease management, women’s health, and skin cancer diagnosis and surgery.
In addition to his clinical work, he’s passionate about education. He is certified to supervise GP registrars and overseas-trained doctors, and is currently updating his qualifications to meet Queensland’s state-specific requirements.
But amongst his qualifications he said he has learned the most from his patients. Dr Mohammad was born in Iran and he said his patients have taught him how to live in Australia.
“I know how to go camping, I know how to go fishing, and I learned all of this from my patients,” said Dr Mohammad.
“They give me my experiences. They tell me wrong choices they’ve made and the good choices!
“Working as a GP is very rewarding from this point of view.”
Dr Mohammad returns to the Whitsundays in August 2025 at Barefoot Medicine Whitsundays. You can book appointments now through Hot Doc.
Barefoot Medicine Whitsundays
Unit 6/1 Carlo Drive, Cannonvale Qld 4802
Phone: 1300 086 857
Dr Mohammad Tafakorian is looking forward to his return to the Whitsundays at Barefoot Medicine.
He's arriving August 2nd.
Photos supplied

Tourism Whitsundays has confirmed that its accredited Visitor Information Centre in Proserpine will close at the beginning of the new financial year. The decision comes after a comprehensive review of visitor servicing strategies in response to evolving traveller habits and an increasingly digital tourism landscape.
In the 2022/23 financial year, the Proserpine Visitor Information Centre welcomed just under 6,000 visitors. However, visitation has declined by more than 20% this year, with only 3,900 people stopping by to date.
While the closure represents a shift in approach, Tourism Whitsundays is focused on new opportunities to connect with travellers.
A Tourism Whitsundays statement said that the organisation will continue to have a strong presence at key trade and consumer events, expand its successful volunteer cruise ambassador program, and work in close collaboration with Bowen Tourism and Business to maintain high-quality visitor experiences.
Visitors to the region will still have access to accredited in-person support, with Bowen’s Visitor Information Centre, at The Big Mango, playing a significant role.
This move is anticipated to boost traffic to Bowen and further establish it as the main hub for face-to-face visitor information services in the region.
Tim Booth, CEO, Tourism Whitsundays said the decision to close the Visitor Information Centre was not taken lightly, but it reflects the need to evolve how Tourism Whitsundays support and engage with visitors.
“As travel habits continue to shift, it’s essential we adapt to ensure our region remains competitive and welcoming,” said CEO Tim Booth.
“We’re excited to strengthen our partnership with Bowen Tourism and Business, and together our focus remains on delivering exceptional visitor experiences and exploring new, innovative ways to connect with visitors across all touchpoints."
The Visitor Information Centre in Proserpine
Dea Huvonen from Tourism Whitsundays was the friendly face who welcomed travellers at the Visitor Information Centre
Photos supplied

Tourism Whitsundays has welcomed a new Administration Assistant, Nicole Pascall. She brings a deep love for the region and a strong commitment to the local community.
Having first fallen in love with the Whitsundays back in 2012, she and her family made the move back in 2022 to raise their children in the laidback lifestyle and welcoming atmosphere that the region is known for.
In her new role, Nicole is most excited about learning new skills, gaining valuable experience, expanding her knowledge in the tourism sector and working alongside a passionate team that shares her enthusiasm for the Whitsundays.
Nicole has thoroughly enjoyed her time with Tourism Whitsundays so far and her story is a reminder of the unique charm the Whitsundays holds not just for visitors, but for those lucky enough to call it home.
Contributed with thanks to Nicole Pascall, Administration Assistant, Tourism Whitsundays

It’s been one year since JP Afflick and Adam Zakharoff breathed new life into what was the very first Hog's Breath Café in Australia, right here in the Whitsundays.
Located in the heart of Airlie Beach, the business duo say they are proud of what they have achieved this year and are ready to celebrate.
On Friday 4 July 5-8pm everybody is invited to join a relaxed night with the usual laid-back atmosphere, familiar faces, and a chance to raise a glass.
Celebrate with JP and Adam as they proudly look at all they've achieved for the business over the last year.
JP owned Byron Bay Hog's Breath Café from 1997 to 2001 and when he was offered the opportunity to revamp Hog’s Breath’s first ever restaurant, he couldn't resist.
Since JP and Adam’s arrival they have returned to hospitality to basics - highlighting quality, casual dining and friendly service.
“Hospitality’s gone full circle. People want to relax, have some good service, eat well, and enjoy themselves,” JP said.
“We’re just running it like we did in 2000.”
Since taking over the Hog's Breath, the new owners have been met with praise but JP says this evening is about saying thank you to all the locals and customers who have visited in the last year.
The evening will feature live music, free nibbles, drink specials, and plenty of laughs. It also coincides with Hogs Breath Café’s 35th birthday, doubling the celebration.
Whether you’re a longtime supporter or a first-time visitor, the party is the perfect excuse to kick back, soak up some good vibes, and raise a glass to a successful year.
Australia's Original Hog's Breath is celebrating its one year under new ownership this Friday 4 July at 5pm. Photo sourced: Facebook
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In a heartfelt continuation of local legacy, Ocean Rafting is proud to announce its acquisition of Hamilton Island Water Sports, bringing together two well-loved, family-owned businesses in the Whitsundays.
This exciting new chapter sees the transition of ownership from one passionate local family to another, with both businesses sharing deep roots in the region and a commitment to delivering world-class, water-based experiences while supporting the local community and environment.
“It’s an honour to take the reins from another family who has poured so much heart into this business,” said Peter Claxton - Owner at Ocean Rafting. “We share the same values—local knowledge, personalised service, and unforgettable adventures. This move allows us to continue their great work while enhancing our offerings in the Whitsundays.”
Hamilton Island Watersports has long been a favourite for visitors to the island, offering day tours around the Whitsunday islands, fishing charters, jet boating, and more. The acquisition will allow Ocean Rafting to expand its product range and footprint in the region while maintaining the fun, friendly, and safety-focused Ocean Rafting is known for.
“After arriving on Hamilton Island in 1986 aboard a yacht following three years sailing the South Pacific, our family established Hamilton Island Watersports,” said Andrew Harvey, former owner.
“Over the past 38 years, we’ve had the privilege of sharing the stunning Whitsundays with thousands of visitors through our Reef Ryder tours, jet boat adventures, fishing charters and watersports.
“It’s now time to pass the wheel to the Claxton family, and we couldn’t be more delighted. Their passion for tourism mirrors our own, and we’re confident they will continue delivering unforgettable experiences to guests for years to come.”
“Hamilton Island Water Sports has long been a much-loved part of the island experience, and we extend our sincere thanks to the Harvey family for their passion and commitment over the years,” said David Boyd, General Manager of Retail, Activities and Marina at Hamilton Island.
“It’s fitting to see the business pass to another local family-owned operator in Ocean Rafting, whose reputation for delivering safe, sustainable and memorable adventures is second to none. We’re confident they’ll honour that legacy while bringing fresh ideas and new opportunities for guests to experience Australia’s beautiful Whitsundays and the heart of the Reef."
"We’re delighted to welcome Ocean Rafting to our island community."
Guests can expect business as usual for now, with the same friendly faces and high-quality experiences, as Ocean Rafting gradually integrates new and signature offerings and upgrades to enhance the adventure.
Ocean Rafting is a multi-award-winning tourism operator, recognised as a Best of Queensland Experience and a Quality Tourism Accredited Business. With 28 years of accolades and 25 years of Advanced Ecotourism Certification, it’s also a Hall of Fame Ecotourism Australia member and Green Travel Leader. Ocean Rafting is the only Whitsundays operator with six Master Reef Guides, alongside marine biologists and eco hosts. Offering two thrilling day tours—Northern Exposure and Southern Lights—plus Fly Raft packages, charters, and education programs, guests enjoy an exhilarating ride on semi-rigid inflatable vessels with small group sizes for a truly personal Whitsundays adventure.
Claxtons and Harveys on Reef Ryder. Photo supplied

Almost 140 people attended the Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network’s (WSPN) Legends Night and over $25,000 was raised.
President of WSPN Matt Stokes said the event was a huge success, not just because of the money raised, but the response he has had from the community.
He said many people have come to him to express that they had a wonderful time at the event.
On the night, WSPN invited several inspiring speakers to address the audience.
Ray Thompson ex NRL Cowboys player talked about his personal challenges during and after his rugby career, but he also talked about practising gratitude and empathy. He then explained that practising these two will eventually lead to inner joy, feeling happier and being more optimistic.
Jay Shipston from Triple M talked candidly about his own experience with suicide, about what he was going through but ultimately about how suicide impacts friends, family and the community around you.
Bowen community member Lisa Cocker inspired the room with her passionate story telling, as she spoke about her sister who sadly took her own life. Her broader message highlighted the power in kindness and how we can all share love.
Nick Farr-Jones former Wallaby captain and World Cup winner spoke about a broad range of things including an eye-opening statistic that in Australia one person every eight minutes attempts suicide.
More positively he spoke about his time volunteering. If he feels down, he volunteers to help other people, and it lifts him up.
WSPN’s mission is to end the stigma around mental health and Matt Stokes says the worst thing to do is to say nothing.
“We all choose to say nothing and pretend it doesn't happen, whereas we all need to be encouraged to speak and talk to people,” said Matt
“If you are someone who's struggling to put your hand up and talk that's the thing we are trying to get broken down.
“Mental health is not exclusive to any age, demographic or person. You might be at the lowest of the low or the highest of the high, we're all very much exposed to mental health problems.”
Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network with founder Ron Petterson. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

Hi everyone,
I’m jumping into the editors column for this week.
I’ve been with Life Publishing Group for almost a year and a half now and I can say that I am still thoroughly enjoying my time here. Every day I am meeting even more new people and I love attending our local events - if you see me out and about - come and say hi!
Last Friday I attended Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network’s Legends Night at the Reef Gateway Hotel. I was the night's official photographer, but I also got to enjoy the great guest speakers and a delicious dinner.
I found the speakers incredibly inspiring, and I noticed that they all had something in common.
Being kind, practising gratitude, and being optimistic were the key points that I took away from the evening.
After going through a tough time myself recently, I was able to take on board what they said and I have already started to implement these practises into my life. Almost instantly, I am starting to feel more settled again and I’m feeling great.
Amongst practising gratitude, being kind and being more optimistic, I am also exercising more. I find exercising a positive outlet, and the feeling after a run, swim or bike ride is something I’m starting to seek more and more often.
Although exercise is great for mental health, I am not training in all those sports for no reason! I am pleased to announce that I am training for the sprint distance in the Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival in August. My friend, Sam from Adelaide, will be visiting the Whitsundays for the first time to compete, and I can’t wait to beat him! And of course also show him our amazing region.
Quote of the week
"Happiness equals reality minus expectations"

Creative Connections Whitsundays is looking at transforming the former Proserpine Information Centre, located next to the Proserpine Museum, into a vibrant community art gallery through their ‘Frame Our Future’ campaign.
This space will be more than just a gallery; it will be a dynamic hub for local artists to exhibit their work, a venue for creative workshops, and a welcoming place for people to gather, learn, and connect.
Creative Connections Whitsundays say the building has great potential but it needs some work. They want to enclose the veranda, add soundproofing, fit out the space with flooring, lighting, furniture, and materials for workshops. It’s a big project but they say it will make a meaningful impact.
Once complete, the gallery will be a valuable asset for the entire community. It will boost local tourism, support small businesses, and help establish Proserpine as a cultural destination. Most importantly, it will provide locals with a space to create, share, and connect.
Creative Connections is currently seeking donations to allow them to bring this dream to life.
Creative Connections is a local group whose focus is to highlight the region's local artists and the art gallery could be a great addition to support their mission.
The old Information Centre is set to become an Arts Centre. Photo supplied

The Whitsunday Regional Council's new 'Let's Get It Sorted' initiative is focused on improving the region’s recycling habits by getting back to basics. The campaign is designed to help residents understand what goes into each bin and how their choices at home can lead to real improvements in waste reduction.
The Waste team at Council have one objective and that is to reduce total waste to landfill.
"One of the main ways to do this is to increase the total of materials that can be reprocessed or recycled, and this can be done by increasing public knowledge on general waste disposal practices and waste separation prior to disposal," said a council spokesperson.
At the heart of the campaign is a clear message, small changes in everyday waste disposal can lead to big results for the environment. By reinforcing simple 'do’s and don’ts' of recycling, the Council hopes to make waste management more accessible and achievable for everyone in the community.
The campaign has already started to gain traction, with strong interest from residents keen to do their part.
“There has been positive feedback so far through requests for fridge magnet or sticker noting handy recycling tips, as well comments and participation in increased school presentations and information stalls at community events such as the recent Qld Day stalls at Proserpine,” Council said.
While it’s still early days, with the campaign running through until October, a number of measures are in place to monitor its effectiveness.
These include a kerbside bin audit scheduled for September, which will examine contamination rates in recycling bins and the amount of recyclable material being placed in general waste.
This data will be compared with the results of a similar audit conducted in 2023.
For those wanting to do more Council say you can share your own journey and spread messages of positive recycling practices and methods to spread the word and increase knowledge around the community.

Sports Day in 1984
Sports Carnival in 2025
A newsletter in the 1980’s
A newsletter in 2024
The Year 5 Last Supper performance in 1985
The Year 1 Last Supper performance in 2025
Rugby League in the 1980’s
Rugby League in 2025

As the proud principal of St Catherine’s Catholic College, I would like to extend a welcome to community members to learn more about our College, and to join us for the 100 year celebration.
In 1925, the Sisters of Mercy founded St Catherine’s School in Marathon Street. Many of our current students have parents and grandparents who attended the school and who have fond memories of their schooling. Catholic schools were originally founded to provide for those who might not otherwise gain an adequate education. Clearly, this has changed over the years, but many other things have remained the same.
The nuns who taught early students certainly demonstrated the Faith, Hope and Love that form the theme of Catholic Education Week 2025 - the week in which our celebrations will happen. The early nuns had faith that they were supported by God and faith that a good education would lead to a productive future for their students. That faith continues to drive us forward. Their hope that the school would make a difference to the lives of those who passed through their doors remains our hope today. The world has changed but the intention of Catholic education has not. The love - or charity - shown by those founders who often endured great challenges to achieve their goals, remains fundamental to the way we work, with productive relationships prioritised in the College. So, while we have moved to bright, modern and extensive grounds in Proserpine, our Catholic foundation remains unchanged.
It is my hope that generations of St Catherine’s students will recognise clearly the spirit of St Catherine’s in what we do, and how we do it, year after year. We are proud of the learning environment that our students access. This encompasses not only excellent facilities and grounds, a breadth of academic options, caring and dedicated teaching and support staff, but also guidance within the Gospel values of Compassion, Justice, Community and Excellence.
So many people I have met in the Whitsundays tell me of their association with the school - past students and others. Please join us for the celebrations, particularly at the Centenary Community Picnic. We hope the day will allow for some nostalgia; the rekindling of connections with others in the community; and a chance to look around our beautiful College. I look forward to seeing you there.