Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
A single-vehicle bus crash has sadly claimed the life of one passenger at Gumlu, north of Bowen overnight. According to initial police investigations, at approximately 4pm on Thursday 14th May, a bus with 29 people on board was travelling south along the Bruce Highway from Cairns to Airlie Beach, when it left the roadway and rolled onto its side. Several other passengers were injured and transported to Townsville, Ayr, and Bowen Hospitals. The bus driver, a 70-year-old Mackay man, was transported to Bowen Hospital with minor injuries. As of Friday morning, three patients are confirmed to be in a life-threatening condition with one assessed on the scene and two airlifted to Townsville University Hospital. Multiple people were injured and transported to Ayr Hospital before being airlifted to Townsville University Hospital by Royal Flying Doctor’s Service. There are eight stable patients in Townsville whilst one remains in a stable condition at Ayr. The Bruce Highway has reopened at Gumlu. This tragic accident comes less than two years after a fatal bus crash on the same stretch of the Bruce Highway, which claimed the lives of three women in on June 3rd, 2024. On this occasion, a Greyhound bus with 33 people on board was travelling north along the Bruce Highway, also near Gumlu, when it crossed over to the wrong side of the road and into oncoming traffic. The bus struck a Land Cruiser station wagon travelling in the opposite direction. A 56 year old Townsville woman and two German women aged 21 and 33 passed away as a result of the incident. The 52-year-old bus driver from North Ward was charged with five counts of dangerous operation of a vehicle causing death or grievous bodily harm, but was subsequently found not guilty. Anyone with relevant dash cam vision of incident last night is urged to contact police. Investigations are continuing
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So, what’s going on with the property market? The thing about the property market is that it doesn’t stand alone in its own little world untouched by the drama going on around it. And there is a fair bit of drama at the moment. Let’s get all the dramas to form a conga line and point them out one at a time. First there’s inflation, an annoying factor that adds to the cost of living and affects people’s ability to buy real estate. Right behind inflation, and I mean very close, is its brother in arms/partner in crime/long-time bedfellow, interest rates. Interest rates have been particularly pesky lately as the Reserve Bank pushes them up in an attempt to bring inflation down. The idea is to make housing less affordable so you can make housing more affordable. Then there’s a war in the Middle East. War is very good for business if you are a weapons producer and part of the military-industrial complex but it’s not very good for everyone else. It certainly isn’t good for confidence and housing markets are pretty big on the old confidence factor. So, not good. This particular war has the additional benefit of taking place in the Persian Gulf, where a fair portion of the world’s oil is transported from Middle East oil producers to the rest of the world. The war has created a traffic jam in the Strait of Hormuz, which is restricting the supply of oil, meaning that in a world of demand and supply the price of fuel at the petrol bowser has gone up significantly. Which means our old friends inflation and interest rates give us another wave from the conga line and remind us of another impact on the property market. The conga line of dramas was joined this week by the Federal Budget and its changes to negative gearing, up until now a key driver in property investment and the supply of rental properties. Nothing changes for people who had negatively geared properties up until Budget night. My Pommy colleague Andy Collins, the Sales Manager at Gardian real estate, pointed out after the Budget that there was no way the changes would include investors’ existing properties because too many politicians own investment properties and the pollies wouldn’t do anything to hurt themselves. It’s up to you whether you think Andy is a sniping little Pommy whinger or an astute judge of human nature. Or can he be both? What Andy correctly pointed out is that from now on investors will be looking for properties that provide such good rental returns that they are positively geared, removing the need for negative gearing. That’s where Mackay’s strong rental returns come into it. Investors from southern markets have been active in the Mackay market because of those rental returns. When they can get returns like $750 a week on properties they have bought for $650,000, those southern investors realise Mackay offers better opportunities than the high-priced, low-rent options in their own cities. Andy was suggesting that it is possible that the budget changes will spur even more investment activity in Mackay because the removal of negative gearing makes investments in other markets unviable. I will delve further into the status of the Mackay market in upcoming columns but there are a few initial points to make. There is no doubt that, like every other market, the conga line of dramas has had an impact and given buyers pause for thought. But we are still seeing strong buyer activity and properties selling. As always, the buoyancy of our coal market and the jobs and business it provides will continue to be a driver of our economy and a key factor in the property market. Will the budget changes create an additional spur to our market and bring more investors in or is that conga line going to have a bigger impact? Stay tuned over the coming months.
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With more than three decades of experience and deep roots in the land, Royce Dunn brings unmatched insight to rural property across the Mackay region. Joining Blacks Real Estate in 1991, Royce is a licensed real estate agent and auctioneer, who has spent the past 25 years as Director leading the agency’s rural department. Over that time, he has built a strong reputation for his knowledge across all areas of property sales and marketing, from farmhouses and grazing land to residential subdivisions. Coming from a rural background and operating his own small farm, Royce understands the realities of life on the land, and the expectations that come with it. That lived experience allows him to connect with clients on a practical level, offering advice that is grounded, honest and tailored to the needs of farming families. Known for his straightforward approach and strong work ethic, Royce is committed to delivering results, working closely with clients to navigate the complexities of rural property transactions and achieve the best possible outcome.
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From wildlife caring, to country kitchens or supporting people with disability – a world of volunteering opportunities awaits at this year’s Volunteer Expo! This year’s event is set to be one of the biggest on record, with 55 community, support and other organisations have registered. The Volunteer Expo is being held at the Mackay Showgrounds on Sunday, May 17 from 9am until midday. Deputy Mayor Karen May said volunteering is at the heart of sustainable and supportive communities. “There are so many benefits to volunteering – from the people and organisations being supported, to those who so generously donate their time and skills. It increases community and individual wellbeing and drives positive change in the community,” Deputy Mayor May said. “What’s great about events like our Volunteers Expo is it gives people a one-stop shop to see what’s out there – and it could be something you’d never thought of,” she said. “Feedback from previous years shows how valuable this expo is to our community groups, with one organisation signing up more than a dozen volunteers on the day.” Data from Volunteering Queensland shows that for every $1 invested in volunteering, there’s a $4.70 return to the community. More than 110,000 jobs were created in 2024 through spending on volunteering – with the sector worth more than $117-billion to the state economy. Cr May said volunteering gives people to build on their passions while learning new skills and meeting new people. “It also opens up opportunities beyond the organisation a person volunteers with – it can help build new professional relationships and create new connections,” she said. “Data from Volunteering Queensland shows the overwhelming majority of people (64 percent) volunteer because they want to help others and the Volunteers Expo has dozens of options for people to help others. Entry to the Mackay Volunteer Expo is free. For more information, visit the event page on Facebook
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Mackay townhouse and apartment owners are being urged to understand strata law, as disputes over who pays for repairs and upgrades are leaving some with surprise bills in the tens of thousands. From roof repairs to storm damage, owners are finding that costs they assumed were covered by the body corporate can fall to them.
“Disputes over levies, unexpected bills, or delayed repairs are becoming more common in strata communities,” said Archers the Strata Professionals CEO, Nicky Lonergan.
“What looks like a simple water leak can escalate into tens of thousands of dollars and even dispute resolution with the Office of the Commissioner for Body Corporate and Community Management.”
Queensland has more than 52,000 registered strata schemes housing around 1.2 million residents. As buildings age and safety and sustainability expectations rise, conflicts over maintenance versus improvements are increasing.
Mrs Lonergan said confusion often arises from exceptions in the rules.
“Causation, incidental works, improvements, exclusive use, utility infrastructure, and building format plans can shift responsibility in ways owners don’t anticipate,” she explained.
Examples include: flexi hoses, bathroom membranes, incidental works, exclusive use areas, and storm damage – all of which can leave owners footing the bill.
To help, Archers, in partnership with Smart Strata, held a free community education seminar in Mackay on Wednesday, October 15. Using real-world case studies such as balcony leaks, shade sails, and roof replacements, the sessions clarified owner and committee responsibilities and helped prevent costly misunderstandings. Seminars were also held across the Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast, Brisbane, and Cairns.
Nicky Lonergan, CEO of Archers the Strata Professionals. Photo supplied
I’m sure there are lots of positives about being a medical doctor, whether that’s a general practitioner or a specialist of some sort.
There’s the thing about helping people, guiding them on their health journey as they attempt to overcome all the disturbing and confronting difficulties that ageing, Western diets, stress and gluttonous modern indulgences tend to create.
It’s important work and the community rightly values doctors and the crucial role they play in diagnosing health issues, prescribing solutions, easing pain and extending the life expectancy of their appreciative patients.
I imagine that, for doctors, the downside of their profession is the fairly constant need to deliver bad news, often to poor souls who have done nothing wrong and do their best to lead healthy lives.
Apart from that annual check-up people have, patients tend to go and see their doctor because there’s a problem.
When doctors have sweet dreams it’s probably about an imaginary day at work when there is a constant flow of people who are either in sparkling health and need no treatment and those previously ill people who are dramatically improving and on their way to a full and permanent recovery.
Those times when health scenarios improve and doctors get to deliver good news to patients do happen, of course, but wouldn’t it be good if it happened all the time?
“Yes Bob, the test results are in. Full recovery. No worries, happy to help … next.”
“Hi Sarah, so the pain has stopped has it? Yes, well the scans show the problem has disappeared so everything couldn’t look better. See you in a year for a routine check-up! Next. …”
Unfortunately, the reality is that the nature of their work means that doctors, dentists and other medical professionals do have to diagnose problems and deliver bad news.
Which brings me to real estate agents and the difference that currently exists between them and medical professionals.
Okay, apart from years of gruelling study, a broad yet deep understanding of the scientific complexities of their area of focus, a professional standing that puts them at the top (rather than the bottom) of the ladder of community regard and a level of trust that means people willingly put their lives in a medical professional’s hands … there is another difference.
It's the good news diagnosis. That’s what real estate agents are currently able to deliver to people wanting to sell their property in Mackay.
“You bought your house in 2004 and you want to sell? Well, the good news is your place is worth a lot more now.”
“You bought your house in 2016? Well, the good news is your property has more than doubled in value.”
“You bought your house four years ago? Well, it’s worth about $250,000 more today.”
It is a great part of my job to be able to do an appraisal on someone’s house and tell them how much more their property is worth now than it was when they bought it. And it is particularly enjoyable when I sold the house to that person.
I sold a cheap, basic property to a young tradesman about two years ago. He did a few simple renovations without spending too much and got me to sell it for him recently. He made nearly $200,000 and has been able to step up the real estate ladder.
I’ve been selling real estate in Mackay since 2011 so there are other terrific examples of people coming back to me to sell their properties. There are other young blokes and women who now have partners and kids and I get to sell the property they bought from me for a huge profit and help them take significant financial strides on their property journey.
I do remember the dark days of a real estate downturn when the diagnosis wasn’t so positive. Hopefully the current status quo continues. But we know it can’t forever. Next.
The Whitsunday Wealth Enchanted Garden Event, hosted by Life Publishing Group at Elementa, was a breathtaking celebration of elegance, community, and generosity. More than 250 guests stepped into a magical garden setting, complete with stunning floral installations, twinkling lights, and the soft glow of a Whitsunday sunset.
The evening featured exquisite canapés, flowing champagne, and captivating entertainment by Mo Swagger, culminating in a vibrant dancefloor finale. With live and silent auctions, Enchanted Key prizes, and heartfelt support from sponsors, the inaugural event raised over $50,000 for seven regional charities — making a remarkable difference across the community.
Life Publishing Group hosted its inaugural charity fundraiser — the Whitsunday Wealth Enchanted Garden Event — on Saturday evening at Elementa, marking a spectacular debut on the region’s social calendar.
More than 250 guests attended the elegant affair, which embraced an Enchanted Garden theme complete with eye-catching, larger-than-life floral installations and whimsical butterflies throughout.
As the magical Whitsunday sunset faded, the venue transformed into a twinkling wonderland, with delicately lit floral displays creating the feeling of being immersed in an enthralling natural paradise.
Guests were treated to a five-hour inclusive drinks package, flowing bubbles, and a selection of delicious roaming canapés served throughout the evening.
Beyond the glamour, the night carried heartfelt purpose, supporting seven regional charities. Guests had the chance to purchase an Enchanted Key, bid on 30 silent auction items, and participate in a lively Live Auction expertly hosted by Brad Sobott of Taylors Property Specialists.
Entertainment was on point, with Sunshine Coast sensation Mo Swagger captivating the crowd and ending the night with a packed dancefloor.
With final tallies still being confirmed, the event has already raised over $50,000, with proceeds set to make a meaningful impact across regional causes. Benefiting charities include the Townsville Spinal Ward, Orange Sky, The Trudy Crowley Foundation, Mackay Hospital Foundation, Bowen & Collinsville Pet Rescue, Mackay Pet Rescue Inc, and Fauna Rescue Whitsundays.
Life Publishing Group extends heartfelt thanks to all sponsors for their generosity and support — most notably Naming Rights Sponsor Whitsunday Wealth, Gold Sponsor Barefoot Medicine, and Silver Sponsor Epoca Property.
Additional appreciation goes to Bronze Sponsors: Eclipse Financial Planning, Plants Whitsunday, Connole Carlisle Chartered Accountants, Amanda Camm, Jacquie Camilleri, Starcut Flowers Wedding Events, Fierce Signage, Fergus Builders, Poppy’s Pizza Place, Lucinda Hotel, White Picket Real Estate, and Whisper Gin Bar and Restaurant.
Mini Sponsors included Absolute Waste, Raw Metal Corp, Rebel Nation, Dingo Beach Hotel, Move It Chiropractic, GB Industries, and Bravus.
In-kind Sponsors: Taste Whitsundays, Reef Security Services, Taylors Property Specialists, Soundzgood, Triple M, and Whitsunday Transit.
Special thanks also to Jay & Dave from Triple M for emceeing the evening, Element Events by Ramona for the incredible styling and Elementa for hosting the evening.
The event was a shining success — a perfect blend of elegance, community spirit, and generosity, all in support of causes that make a difference across the region.
Hi Everyone,
I’ve attended many wonderful events this year, but Saturday night was the first time we’ve had the privilege of hosting our own here in the Whitsundays.
The Whitsunday Wealth Enchanted Garden Event was an ambitious project spearheaded by our Mackay Sales Manager Jessica Clark, who brought together clients, business associates, and community members to raise funds for seven regional charities.
Before long, our entire team was involved in bringing the event to life, and a big thank you also goes to our Whitsunday Sales Manager Trish Jandt for working closely alongside Jess on sponsorships, auction items, and the many behind-the-scenes details that ensured the night’s success.
In the weeks leading up to the event, it was a true flurry of collaboration and creativity. Our talented graphic designers produced stunning event booklets, auction forms, presentation videos, and more — and a special thank you to Danny from Graphic House for generously contributing toward some of the printing costs.
Our Office Coordinator Trisha Coetzee managed the complex transport logistics, including bus timetables, and the whole team rallied on Friday afternoon to finalise every last detail.
On the night, each team member stepped up as hosts and fundraisers, and it truly warmed my heart to see everyone working together so seamlessly to make our very first event such a success. Every staff member generously gave up their Saturday night to volunteer, and their collective effort played a vital role in helping raise funds for the seven regional charities.
Making the evening even more special, Life Publishing Group owner Bec Douthwaite flew in from the UK to attend, sharing in what was a magical moment for our entire team.
A heartfelt thank you also to Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox, Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins, Burdekin Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort, and Whitsunday Councillor Gary Simpson for joining us on the night.
It’s incredible to think that more than $50,000 was raised, which will be shared equally between our seven selected regional charities. I look forward to announcing the final total in next week’s paper.
We’re already planning next year’s event, so if you’d like to be involved as a sponsor or nominate as a beneficiary, please reach out to our office — we’d love to hear from you.
Thank you again to everyone who helped make this inaugural event such a beautiful success. It was truly a night where community, generosity, and celebration bloomed together.
Rach
Quote of the Week: "It takes real planning to organise this kind of chaos" (Mel Odom)
The Whitsundays is built on community - people who care deeply about where we live and the future we’re shaping together.
When something touches our lifestyle, our environment, or our region’s identity, our community speaks up - thoughtfully, respectfully, and with heart.
Over recent weeks, many locals have reached out to share their thoughts on the proposed Mt Challenger Wind Farm near Proserpine. From farmers and families to small-business owners, your voices have been strong and consistent - our community wants transparency, honesty, and genuine consultation.
This isn’t just about one project - it’s also about how decisions are made for our region.
I’ve listened, and I’ve acted. I’ve spoken directly with the project proponents to raise your concerns and requested detailed information about the proposal and how they intend to engage with our community moving forward.
Renewable energy will play an important role in Queensland’s future - but it must be pursued with care, consideration, and respect for the people and landscapes it touches.
The Crisafulli Government has strong guidelines in place for all wind-farm proposals, and I will continue to put our community first, keeping you informed every step of the way.
I encourage everyone to have your say. Visit the sites below to share your thoughts and learn more. Together, we can ensure the voices of The Whitsundays are heard loud and clear.
🗳 Have your say: www.amandacamm.com.au/mt-challenger-wind-farm
📄 Planning info: www.planning.qld.gov.au/planning-issues-and-interests/wind-farms
🌿 Project details: www.mtchallengerwindfarm.com
Contributed with thanks to Amanda Camm MP, Member for Whitsunday
Around 50 people in the community took part in the global Reclaim the Night movement last Saturday.
Hosted by Whitsunday Counselling and Support this first-ever local march to raise awareness about sexual violence and the right for everyone to feel safe at night.
The walk began at Coral Sea Marina and ended at the Airlie Beach foreshore stage, where participants gathered to share food and conversation.
Manager of Whitsunday Counselling and Support Sharon Parker said the inaugural turnout of around 50 people was encouraging. “
It went really well, and we’re hoping to grow it each year,” she said.
The event was held as part of Sexual Violence Awareness Month and received strong community support. Local police joined the walk, along with representatives from Zonta and staff from MP Amanda Camm’s office.
Reclaim the Night is an international campaign that began in the UK during the 1970s as a protest against violence towards women and restrictions placed on their freedom of movement after dark. The movement challenges the notion that women should modify their behaviour to stay safe, instead calling for accountability from perpetrators and a cultural shift towards shared community responsibility.
Sharon said she hopes the Reclaim the Night walk will become an annual event in the Whitsundays. “It’s a message that deserves to keep growing,” she said.
Members of Whitsunday Counselling and Support at the start of the march
Whitsunday Police Station attended the march
Photos supplied
Airlie Beach’s first-ever Big Freeze proved a huge success, raising around $13,000 for FightMND over the weekend.
Event organiser and local FightMND representative Katrina Duggan said the day exceeded expectations, drawing strong community support and plenty of fun.
“It was an absolutely fantastic day, and we’ve had such great feedback,” she said.
About $13,000 was raised on the day through merchandise sales, raffle tickets, donations, and a sausage sizzle, with local businesses donating 42 raffle prizes to help boost the total.
The event was part of the national FightMND campaign, which raises awareness and funds for research into Motor Neurone Disease.
“It was incredible to see how many people and businesses got behind it,” Katrina said.
“We’re going to be back bigger and better next year."
Next year’s Big Freeze Airlie is set for October 24, 2026, with organisers hoping for an even larger turnout.
Full catalogue of event photos are available on the Club Whitsunday Facebook page.
Cannonvale is one step closer to gaining a new community heart, with plans now lodged for the highly anticipated Cannonvale Community Hub, a $29.8 million project supported by the Australian Government’s Growing Regions Program.
The major development will deliver a modern library, customer service centre and a range of flexible community meeting spaces, all set within landscaped parkland. Together, these facilities will anchor Galbraith Park as the social and civic green heart of Cannonvale.
A Whitsunday Regional Council spokesperson says the project forms a key part of its long-term planning for the region’s growth, providing a central civic space that supports Cannonvale’s expanding coastal population. Over the past decade, strong population growth across Cannonvale and Cannon Valley has driven demand for community facilities in a central, mixed-use environment combining business, recreation and civic life.
The Hub will be located on the southern boundary of Galbraith Park. The site was chosen to avoid impacts on revegetation areas and flood zones while acting as the central civic anchor for Cannonvale’s evolving CBD and future town centre.
Once open, the Hub will replace Council’s existing Library and Customer Service Centre in Whitsunday Plaza, offering a larger, purpose-built facility with enhanced technology and programming.
It’s designed to complement not duplicate services already provided by other organisations such as the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, ensuring a balanced offering across the region’s community network.
Construction timing is being finalised through the design and tender process. Based on the current delivery schedule, Council expects to advertise tenders in early 2026, with clearer timeframes to be shared once a contractor is appointed.
Council is also developing a Galbraith Park Masterplan to ensure the new facilities integrate seamlessly into their surroundings and support long-term growth. Public consultation will open soon, with residents able to have their say through the Your Say Whitsunday online engagement portal, community information stalls, and at customer service centres.
Further details on how to get involved will be announced in the coming weeks.
Big news for the Whitsundays, Mayor Ry Collins has been appointed to the Host Mayors Advisory Group for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
The advisory group plays a key role in shaping how the Games will benefit communities across Queensland, ensuring regional areas have a voice in planning and legacy outcomes. With the Whitsundays proudly set to host the Olympic sailing events, Mayor Collins’ appointment ensures the region is well represented as preparations for the world’s biggest sporting event continue to build momentum.
Mayor Collins said he was honoured to take on the role and to work alongside other Queensland mayors to help deliver meaningful, long-term benefits for communities outside the southeast corner.
“It was a great week of collaboration, innovation and inspiration, from shaping Olympic opportunities for the Whitsundays to championing local government issues that matter most to our communities,” Mayor Collins said.
Mayor Collins’ appointment was announced while he was on the Gold Coast attending the Annual Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) State Conference, alongside CEO Warren Bunker and Councillors Jan Clifford, Clay Bauman and John Finlay.
The conference provided an opportunity for councils across Queensland to debate key issues, share ideas, and strengthen local government collaboration across the state.
Mayor Collins said the event reinforced the importance of teamwork and innovation as councils prepare for the opportunities the Brisbane 2032 Games will bring to regions like the Whitsundays.
With storm season now upon us (November to April), residents are urged to stay alert and prepare for cyclones and severe storms, which can bring destructive winds over 200km/h, heavy rain, flooding, lightning, hail, and storm surges.
Preparation is key. Secure outdoor furniture, wheelie bins, and loose items that could become dangerous in high winds. If you have a pool, submerge plastic furniture to prevent it flying around. Park vehicles under shelter, unplug electrical appliances, and ensure your emergency kit includes a battery-powered radio, clean water, and essential supplies.
If a cyclone warning is issued, stay tuned to local updates, contact family and neighbours, and follow all instructions from authorities. Those living in storm tide evacuation zones should plan to stay with friends or family on higher ground. Cyclone shelters are available only as a last resort, with your local council announcing openings via ABC Radio and other media.
If you remain at home during a storm, shelter well clear of windows and doors, and if the structure begins to give way, take cover in the strongest part of your house, such as a hallway or internal room.
After the storm passes, remain cautious—fallen trees, powerlines, and floodwaters pose serious risks. Boil water until declared safe, and avoid sightseeing or driving through affected areas.
For more information on emergency kits, evacuation plans, and weather warnings, visit your local council’s website, www.getready.qld.gov.au/getting-ready/protect-your-home or www.qld.gov.au/emergency/dealing-disasters/disaster-types/cyclone-severe-storm.
January's rainfall saw floodwaters cut across the highway near Proserpine (Photo Credit: Mayor Ry Collins)
Last Thursday evening Bowen State High School celebrated their 65th Academic Awards Ceremony.
Held at McKenna Hall infront of a full audience students from the school were congratualted for thier remarkable achievements.
On the night Principal Rob Harris said although a select group of students were recognised for their outstanding achievements, it is imporatnt to also acknowledge the collective contributions of the entire school community.
"Each student and staff member has played a vital role in our success, growing, and learning together throughout the year," Principal Harris said.
"Our awards evening was not just a celebration of educational achievements; but it was an opportunity to acknowledge the hard work, determination, and sacrifices made throughout the year by students and staff."
Princiapl Rob Harris noted that Bowen State High School recorded a strong year of improvement, focusing on strengthening academic support, behaviour expectations, and social-emotional learning to boost student outcomes.
In 2025, overall attendance remained above the regional benchmark of 85%, with First Nations students exceeding state targets. Academic performance across the junior years was also above expectations, with more than half of students in Years 7 to 9 earning A or B grades in English and Mathematics. Over 90% of junior students achieved a C or higher in Mathematics, and 87% did so in English.
Senior students are continuing that success, with more than 85% achieving a C or higher in core subjects—again outperforming state averages. Among Year 12s, over 98% are on track to receive a Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE), Queensland Certificate of Individual Achievement (QCIA), or vocational qualification.
Whitsunday Coast Airport (WCA) continues to soar as Australia’s fastest-growing regional airport, with Jetstar introducing its new Airbus A321 aircraft on selected routes.
The upgraded aircraft started last Sunday and offers 230 seats, up from 186, and, combined with ten additional weekly services, will deliver a 30 per cent boost in total capacity for the Whitsundays. It creates an extra 117,000 seats annually, creating more opportunities for visitors to experience the region and supporting the growth of one of Australia’s fastest-growing tourism destinations.
Mayor Ry Collins said the investment reflects Jetstar’s strong confidence in the Whitsundays as a leading tourism and lifestyle destination.
“This is a fantastic vote of confidence in our region and a clear sign that demand for Whitsunday travel continues to grow,” Mayor Collins said.
“More seats mean more visitors, more opportunities for local businesses, and more reasons for Australians to choose the Whitsundays as their next getaway.”
Council’s Director of Commercial Businesses, Craig Turner, said the upgrade highlights both the strength of WCA’s core markets and the airport’s strategic focus on sustainable expansion.
“Jetstar’s decision to deploy the A321s to the Whitsundays demonstrates their long-term commitment to our destination,” he said.
“While the Whitsundays–Adelaide service will wind down early next year as part of Jetstar’s wider network optimisation, this capacity boost across Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne more than offsets that change.”
Mr Turner added that discussions are already underway with airlines for potential new domestic routes, with announcements expected in 2026.
With passenger numbers continuing to climb, the WCA now offers over half a million low-fare seats annually and is cementing its reputation as Australia’s fastest-growing regional airport by capacity.
Jetstar's new Airbus A321 aircraft started operations at the Whitsunday Coast Airport last Sunday. Stock image
The Proserpine PCYC was buzzing with activity over the weekend as more than 600 people turned out for this year’s Haunted House event.
Crowds lined up from start to finish to experience the spooky attraction, which featured a redesigned layout allowing visitors to queue in air-conditioned comfort.
Sergeant Billy Li from PCYC Whitsunday emphasized how great the event went, and can't wait for next year.
Alongside the Haunted House, an escape room run by St Catherine’s Catholic College students proved equally popular, with every session booked out. The students took part through the Duke of Edinburgh program, raising funds for their upcoming Adventurous Journey, while the event also supported PCYC programs including gymnastics.
PCYC’s gymnastics program continues to grow, running five days a week and catering to everyone from toddlers in Kindy Gym through to teenagers.
The Haunted House provided a fun and safe Halloween activity for local families, while also helping to raise funds for youth programs across the community.
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In 2024, Beachfront Collaborative officially launched as the Whitsundays’ answer to flexible, high-quality workspaces. The idea was sparked by the team at PD Law, who often use the space themselves. Today, it offers a calm, professional environment designed for the wider community.
The coworking hub offers everything from hot desks and a WiFi lounge to a soundproof pod for private calls and a sophisticated boardroom perfect for training or presentations – all available to book by the hour, seven days a week.
The motivation was clear: locals, business travellers, and corporates needed an alternative to cafés, hotel lobbies, or makeshift home offices. Beachfront Collaborative is that solution, bringing professionalism and productivity together in a relaxed, lifestyle-driven setting.
Remote work culture, the rise of digital nomads, and the growing demand for flexible ‘on-the-go’ professional spaces are shaping the way we work — and industry trends are firmly on their side. To meet these needs, Beachfront Collaborative offers a seamless online booking system, open 6am–9pm daily, with no membership required, a rare innovation in regional Queensland.
Introducing coworking to the Whitsundays came with its own challenges. Often seen as something tied to big-city start-up hubs, the team shaped it to reflect calm Whitsunday vibes — professional yet relaxed. Clear signage, a two-minute booking process, and partnerships with local favourites like Fat Frog Café have made it simple and inviting for the community.
Their advice for other business owners?
Meet your clients where they are: Understand what they’re really struggling with, and design solutions that make life easier, not harder.
Keep it simple: From pricing to booking, make every touchpoint seamless. People appreciate clarity and ease.
Build local connections: Strong partnerships with local cafés, accommodation providers, and tourism organisations have been instrumental to our success.
For Beachfront Collaborative, Chamber membership has amplified opportunities, providing valuable connections, collaborations, and a platform to showcase how regional business can be both innovative and lifestyle-aligned. Now, they’re inviting locals and visitors alike to experience it first-hand. With hot desks starting from just $11 an hour, it’s the perfect way to discover a focused, calm workspace that blends productivity with Whitsunday lifestyle.
Learn more about Beachfront Collaborative: https://beachfrontcollaborative.com.au/
Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry
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It has been an exciting few weeks for our region, and I am honoured to represent the Whitsundays on the Host Mayors Advisory Group for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
With the Whitsundays confirmed as the host for Olympic sailing, this appointment gives our community a seat at the table as Queensland prepares to welcome the world. It means we can help shape the planning and delivery of an event that will bring long-term benefits for regional Queensland, not just for the southeast corner.
The Advisory Group is chaired by Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner and includes Mayors from across the state who will work together to make sure the Games deliver real value for our communities. It is about more than sport. It is about building stronger regional connections, creating economic opportunities, and leaving a legacy that will inspire future generations.
For the Whitsundays, the 2032 Games are a once-in-a-lifetime chance to showcase our region on the global stage. We will see investment in transport, tourism and community infrastructure, but just as importantly, it will highlight our incredible natural setting and the spirit of the people who live here.
Last week I also joined Councillors Jan Clifford, Clay Bauman and John Finlay, along with our CEO Warren Bunker, at the annual Local Government Association of Queensland Conference on the Gold Coast. It is always a valuable opportunity for councils to come together, share ideas and tackle the issues that affect us all.
We took part in discussions on service delivery, housing, technology, and the challenges of cost shifting from other levels of government. Councils also debated and voted on more than one hundred motions aimed at improving how we serve our communities.
Events like this remind me how much energy and innovation exists within local government. It is often said we are the level of government closest to the community, and that is true. Every decision we make has a direct impact on the people who live, work and raise families in our Whitsundays.
I left the conference confident that, together, we are helping to shape a bright future for the Whitsundays and for regional Queensland.
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