Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
With nearly two decades at Blacks Real Estate, Peter Francis has built a reputation across Mackay for honest service, strong negotiation skills and consistent results. Joining the agency in 2008, Peter now serves as Director and Sales Consultant, helping vendors and buyers navigate the property market with a focus on professionalism and clear communication. Originally trained as a surveyor at the University of South Australia, Peter later transitioned into real estate, where he went on to achieve national and international recognition, including National Top 20 rankings on seven occasions and a Hall of Fame award during a previous role. Since moving to Mackay in 2004 with his wife Kylie and their family, Peter has become deeply involved in the local community, balancing a busy career with raising five children and contributing to school communities and the Mackay Chamber of Commerce. Known for his calm approach and ability to mediate between buyers and sellers, Peter said building trust with clients has always been central to his work. His long list of repeat clients and referrals reflects the strong relationships he has developed across the region over the years. Blacks Real Estate continues to operate from Wood Street in Mackay and Dysart Garden Plaza, servicing residential, commercial and rural clients across the region. CAPTION: Peter Francis, Director and Sales Consultant at Blacks Real Estate. Photo supplied
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We need to talk about something that happens far too often – black kittens are usually the last to be chosen. Yet they are often the very best companions. These kittens are not just “another kitten”. They are the ones who follow you from room to room like your shadow. Who climb into your lap and stay there. Who greet you at the door like a dog and want to be involved in everything you do. They don’t just live in your home – they become part of your everyday life. Our black kittens are incredibly affectionate – true lap cats who crave human connection. They are confident and curious, often the first to explore and investigate. Playful and cheeky, they are full of personality and mischief. They are also highly social. They will chat to you, respond to you and connect with you. Once they choose you, they are yours completely. And in real life, they are absolutely stunning – with glossy coats, striking eyes, and an elegant, sleek presence that photos simply don’t capture. If you have ever wanted a cat that truly bonds with you, that seeks you out and becomes your constant little companion, come and meet our black kittens. Because once you meet them, you will understand. To register your expression of interest, please contact foster carer Janet on 0423 768 805. Contributed by Mackay Pet Rescue Inc
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There’s a type of exhaustion many women carry that doesn’t disappear with a good night’s sleep. It’s not just physical tiredness. It’s the constant mental juggling. Remembering school events, organising appointments, replying to messages, planning meals, checking homework, thinking ahead, caring for ageing parents, supporting friends, managing work deadlines, and somehow trying to look after yourself somewhere in between. Even during moments of “rest,” many women describe feeling like their brain never truly switches off. This invisible load is something women carry every day, and over time, the body often carries it too. As a women’s and pelvic health physiotherapist, I often see women who come in with symptoms like pelvic pain, bladder urgency, tension, leaking, headaches, jaw clenching, shallow breathing, or a feeling that their body is constantly tight or “on edge.” Many are surprised to learn that stress and nervous system overload can play a significant role in how the body feels and functions. When we’re stressed for long periods, the body naturally shifts into a protective state. Muscles tighten, breathing becomes shallow, sleep can be disrupted, and the nervous system stays on high alert. It’s a helpful response in short bursts, but when the body stays in that heightened state for weeks, months, or years, symptoms can begin to appear. And the pelvic floor is particularly influenced by this. Many people think the pelvic floor only matters during pregnancy or after birth, but these muscles respond closely to stress, posture, breathing, and tension patterns throughout the entire body. Some women unknowingly hold tension through their pelvic floor all day long, almost like clenching their jaw without realising. Over time, this can contribute to discomfort, urgency, constipation, pain, or difficulty fully relaxing the muscles. What’s important to understand is that this does not mean the body is “broken.” Often, it’s a body that has been coping, adapting, and carrying a great deal for a long time. And while exercise and movement are incredibly important, healing isn’t always about pushing harder. Sometimes it’s about creating moments where the body feels safe enough to soften and let go. That might look like slowing your breathing for a few minutes while sitting in the car before school pick-up. Going for a walk without turning it into another task to complete. Stretching before bed. Asking for help. Resting without guilt. Learning how to relax your pelvic floor, not just strengthen it. Small moments matter. Women are often exceptionally good at caring for everyone else while quietly ignoring their own symptoms. But tension, fatigue, and overwhelm are not simply things to “push through” forever. The body has a way of asking for attention eventually. If your body feels tight, tired, or not quite like itself, it may be worth listening with curiosity rather than criticism. Support can make a meaningful difference, whether that’s through movement, stress management, pelvic health physiotherapy, or simply giving yourself permission to slow down occasionally. Because women were never meant to carry everything alone, and the body shouldn’t have to either.
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Word of mouth is some of the most powerful marketing your business can get. It’s trusted, it’s personal + in regional areas especially, it carries a LOT of weight. Most businesses will proudly say, “Most of our work comes from word of mouth”. Which is awesome – but then they treat it like something that just magically happens. The truth is – the businesses getting the most word of mouth are usually doing a few things really well. People need a reason to talk about your business in the first place. And no, “good service” on its own usually isn’t enough anymore – that’s the baseline expectation from people! The businesses people tend to recommend are the ones that are memorable in some way. Maybe they communicate really well, make life easier, solve a specific problem, have a strong personality, do something unexpectedly fast or simply make people feel looked after. Another big one? Visibility. People are far more likely to recommend businesses they remember (I know – what a shocker lol). If someone hasn’t seen or heard from you in two years, you’re probably not top of mind when a friend asks for a recommendation. This is where consistent marketing does a lot of heavy lifting. Social media, email marketing, networking, community involvement, even signage – all of it helps reinforce who you are, what you do + why someone should choose you. Clarity matters too. If people can’t easily explain what your business does, who you help or what makes you different, referrals get weaker. The easier you are to describe, the easier you are to recommend!! One of the simplest things businesses can do is also be more specific when talking about the work they want. Instead of “let us know if you hear of anyone”, try “we’re looking for more commercial fitout work” or “we’d love more bookkeeping clients in construction”. Specific prompts help people connect the dots faster. People can’t recommend a business they forgot existed. Word of mouth doesn’t just come from doing good work – it comes from being remembered when someone needs what you do. Photo credit: Coffee + Hops
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Just ten days after her seventeenth birthday, on April 10th 1995 Linda Elliott officially joined the Navy.
Growing up between Mackay and Moranbah, Linda was drawn to the idea of seeing the world beyond regional Queensland. Her introduction to naval life began through a cadet program, where she developed an early understanding of the structure and expectations of military life.
“I was a Navy cadet beforehand… so I had a bit of a background and I knew people that had already served.”
Her early role placed her in close proximity to officers, working in a steward capacity where she supported their daily needs and operations during deployments.
“I was a steward, so my main job was to look after the officers.”
But life at sea rarely meant doing just one job. Sailors were expected to step into multiple responsibilities depending on operational demands.
Linda took part in boarding parties, emergency response training, medical assistance teams and firefighting drills, while also completing chemical warfare training.
“When you’re at sea, you’ve got more than one job.”
Her time in uniform was marked by contrast. Some days followed routine and structure, while others demanded resilience and quick thinking.
“Some days were really good… but other days could be really bad, so you just had to take each day as it came.”
Life onboard ship also created strong bonds between those who served. Living in tight quarters, often sharing bunk beds and limited personal space, meant crew members relied heavily on one another.
“It turns into a family.”
Linda says many of those friendships have endured to this day.
“We still stay in touch.”
“You might not see them for months or years, but as soon as you see them, it’s like we’re family again.”
Completing the demanding twelve weeks of recruit training stands out as one of her proudest milestones, and the discipline developed during those years continues to shape her life today.
Linda also hopes to broaden public understanding of who veterans are.
“People think of a veteran and they think of an elderly man or a Vietnam vet… but there are younger women out there that have served as well.”
Today, she balances life as a mother of three while remaining connected to the Walkerston-Pleystowe RSL Sub-Branch.
One of her daughters has recently decided to join the Navy, following in her footsteps, while her young son has begun taking an interest in the stories of her service.
She encourages younger generations considering military service to approach it with confidence.
“Just believe in yourself.”
“You’ve got to believe that you can do it.”
And just as importantly, she hopes fellow veterans know support is available.
Linda now hopes to be that source of support for others. After navigating her own recovery through rehabilitation and a veteran’s program she speaks highly of, she is committed to giving back to a cause that remains close to her heart.
“Like many other veterans, it’s taken a lot of years for me to be able to speak about things I’ve seen, and what’s happened.”
“So many of our veterans go without help… but it doesn’t have to be like that.”
“I just want people to know that there is help out there for veterans… please just reach out.”
Former Navy sailor Linda Elliott, who enlisted at 17, reflects on a life shaped by resilience, service at sea and motherhood, while encouraging veterans and young women to believe in themselves and seek support. Photos supplied
Whitsunday Anglican School launches Medical Pathways research partnership with MHHS. L-R: Dr Matthew Hiskens, Mackay HHS Principal Research Fellow, Senara Wasalthilaka, Student, Soham Rana, Student, Andrew Wheaton, Principal, and Dr Ashwita Venkatesh, Director of Medical Pathways. Photo supplied
Whitsunday Anglican School is proud to announce an exciting new partnership with Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) which will offer students a unique opportunity to experience real-world medical research.
As part of the school’s expanding Medical Pathways programme, two students each term will have the opportunity to undertake a research placement with the Mackay Institute of Research and Innovation (MIRI) which is the research arm of Mackay HHS. The placements will occur during school holidays and run for over three to four days, providing students with valuable insight into clinical research and innovation.
During the placement, students will work alongside research fellows, research translation staff and innovation teams, gaining experience in research planning, protocol design, project management, data analysis and writing for publication. They will also have the opportunity toassist with processing clinical samples, contribute to research communication through poster design with the communications team, attend Friday Hospital Grand Rounds, and engage in discussions with principal investigators of clinical trials.
While students will not have direct patient contact, the experience is carefully designed to ensure confidentiality and uphold the highest ethical standards.
This initiative will provide a broader cohort of students with exposure to research environments, career pathways, and the diverse roles within health and medical innovation.
Director of Medical Pathways at Whitsunday Anglican School, Dr Ashwita Venkatesh, said the programme will provide students with an authentic and meaningful introduction to translational research.
“Experiences such as attending Grand Rounds and contributing to research communication will help them better understand the connection between scientific discovery and patient outcomes,” Dr Venkatesh said.
“We are particularly pleased to be working collaboratively on the ethics component of the programme. Introducing students to key principles such as professionalism, non-maleficence, autonomy and confidentiality will provide a strong foundation for any future pathway in medicine or health research.”
Principal of Whitsunday Anglican School, Mr Andrew Wheaton, said the partnership reflects the school’s commitment to providing meaningful, future-focused learning opportunities.
“We are delighted to be working alongside MHHS to bring these opportunities to life,” Mr Wheaton said.
Mackay HHS Principal Research Fellow, Dr Matthew Hiskens said it’s important for students planning their career path to have knowledge of local opportunities available.
“It’s great to highlight opportunities for the next generation of the medical workforce, and to show students that rewarding careers in health and research can happen right here in the Mackay region,”
“After high school, what drew me to research was the chance to explore unknown questions, and I hope this experience gives the students an insight into research career paths.” Dr Hiskens said.
Photo source: Mackay Hospital and Health Service
A smoking ceremony, Welcome to Country and Torres Strait Islander prayer marked a significant beginning for the newly appointed Mackay Hospital and Health Board, as it convened for its first official meeting at Mackay Base Hospital.
Yuwi Elder Philip Kemp conducted the Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony, while Seba Kaigey delivered the Torres Strait Islander prayer.
Following the cultural protocols, Board members, Mackay Hospital and Health Service Executive Leadership Team Chief Executive Sean Birgan, staff and attendees were invited to walk through the smoke or waft it over themselves, symbolising cleansing of spirit and body.
The ceremonies established the tone for the board’s work moving forward, reflecting a commitment to partnership with community, cultural respect and holistic approaches to care. The moment also served to connect the hospital’s physical environment with broader principles of healing and wellbeing for the community it serves.
The newly appointed Board is led by reappointed Chair Monica McKendry and includes five new members: Deputy Chair David Nebauer, Ron Nightingale, Dr Peter Malouf, Alana Moller and Lynn Smart. Reappointed members Associate Professor Luke Lawton and Andrea Ranson continue in their current terms.
Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, says the Coalition’s plan to more than double our national fuel reserves is about one thing: ensuring that when global shocks hit, our farmers, transport operators, and families are not left running on empty. Photo supplied
The Coalition will more than double Australia’s minimum fuel reserves to 60 days and deliver at least 1 billion litres of new storage through an $800 million Australian Fuel Security Facility, building long-term resilience against future supply shocks in Dawson.
Under the plan, the threshold amount of fuel held by industry in Australia’s fuel reserves through the Minimum Stockholding Obligation would be lifted over time to increase stocks of gasoline, jet fuel and diesel. Currently, industry is required to hold around 30 days’ worth of reserves for each fuel type.
In addition to raising the threshold, a dedicated $800 million program will be established to invest in new large-scale fuel storage projects across the nation, significantly boosting the capacity of industry to hold more fuel onshore.
Leader of the Opposition Angus Taylor said Australians expect their country to keep running, but in a crisis the Prime Minister is always last to lead.
“This is a plan the Prime Minister should pick up today. No excuses, no delays,” Mr Taylor said.
“If fuel stops, Australia stops. It’s that simple. Trucks don’t move, supermarkets don’t stock, businesses shut their doors.”
“We are putting forward a practical plan to make sure that never happens. More fuel in reserve, more storage on the ground, and a country that can stand on its own two feet.”
Leader of The Nationals Matt Canavan said families and businesses needed confidence that fuel would be there when they needed it.
“This plan is just common sense. Keep more fuel here in Australia so we are not relying on overseas supply lines that can be cut overnight,” Senator Canavan said.
“We cannot keep hoping for the best. We need to be ready, and this plan gets us there.”
Shadow Minister for Energy and Emissions Reduction Dan Tehan said the Coalition’s plan delivered a clear pathway to stronger fuel security.
“The Coalition understands that fuel security is national security: in government, we legislated the Minimum Stockholding Obligation, funded new fuel storage, and backed our refineries,” Mr Tehan said.
“This stands in stark contrast to the Albanese Labor Government, which has cut funding for fuel storage projects over three federal budgets.”
Andrew Willcox, Federal Member for Dawson, said the national fuel crisis had exposed critical fuel storage gaps in our agricultural sector.
“This crisis has exposed Australia’s vulnerability to global supply shocks of critical liquid fuels, including in Dawson,” Mr Willcox said.
“The Coalition’s fuel security package will more than double our fuel reserves and deliver a new wave of vital storage projects – it's about locking in our long-term resilience so Australia can stand on its own two feet.
“We must protect our economic foundations by scrapping the Safeguard Mechanism costs on refineries and lifting the minimum stockholding obligation. This is the only way to ensure that during global disruptions, our tractors keep moving and our supermarket shelves stay stocked.
“I urge the federal government to back our plan and, importantly, commit to increasing our minimum fuel threshold on 1 January 2027 as a positive first step towards locking in our fuel security.”
Contributed with thanks to the office of Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox
A dry and hot winter has been forecast, with water scarcity and rising fuel loads at the front of mind in planning for the season ahead. Photo source: Pixabay
The upcoming 2026 El Niño has been forecast to be among the strongest on record, bringing hotter, drier weather in the coming weeks.
With already drier-than-average conditions recorded in early 2026, farmers are bracing for a challenging season as worsening soil moisture deficits and water scarcity raise concerns.
Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson said he’s not overly concerned about the forecast El Niño conditions, noting Council works closely with the Queensland Fire Department to proactively manage and mitigate risks ahead of the dry season.
“The Rural Fire Service is very active at the moment clearing roadside vegetation, maintaining fire breaks and undertaking fuel reduction operations in rural areas,” Mayor Williamson said.
“The main message we have for the community is to be prepared. Knowing your local bushfire risk helps you make informed decisions before the season starts. Every household should have a clear bushfire survival plan that suits their family and property. Simple steps like clearing gutters and managing vegetation can greatly reduce bushfire risk.”
Residents are being reminded that taking simple steps now could make a significant difference, rather than waiting until the dry season has taken effect.
Advice includes trimming trees, mowing grass, removing flammable materials around homes and clearing vegetation; particularly on properties bordering bushland.
Rural Fire Service Queensland said volunteers are already active in communities, supporting preparedness efforts and working alongside partner agencies to carry out hazard reduction burns where conditions permit, ahead of the higher-risk bushfire season.
Students across the Mackay region paid tribute to Australia’s servicemen and women this ANZAC season, including those at Bloomsbury State School who held a special service and participated in the Postcards of Honour program organised by RSL Queensland.
The day at Bloomsbury was both reflective and educational, with students dressing as soldiers, nurses and farm workers to help them better understand the roles people played during times of war.
The school community gathered for a commemorative service before students took part in the Postcards of Honour activity, designing postcards to express their gratitude and respect for veterans.
The initiative connected schools with local RSL Sub Branches, allowing veterans to visit classrooms, share their experiences and help students learn about the significance of ANZAC Day. The postcards were then delivered to veterans as a gesture of appreciation.
Across Queensland this year, more than 23,000 students from 192 schools participated in the program, working alongside 52 RSL Sub Branches to create messages of thanks for those who have served the nation.
RSL Queensland State President Major General Stephen Day said it was encouraging to see strong engagement from schools across the state.
“The benefits of the Postcards of Honour initiative is twofold,” MAJGEN Day said.
“Not only is it a creative activity for students to learn about ANZAC Day firsthand from local veterans, but it’s also a meaningful experience for the veterans who receive a postcard.
“It may seem like a small gesture, but the postcards act as such meaningful keepsakes and are truly valued by those on the receiving end.”
The exchange of postcards also reflected a historical tradition dating back to the early 20th century. During World War I, soldiers serving overseas often sent postcards home to loved ones, sharing brief messages from the frontline.
“The students put so much thought and creativity into making their cards that each one is one-of-a-kind,” MAJGEN Day said.
The program highlighted how the ANZAC spirit continues to be passed from one generation to the next. More than 110 years on from the Gallipoli Campaign of 1915 - the first major military action fought by Australian and New Zealand forces during World War I - young Australians are still learning the importance of remembrance, respect and gratitude.
Through activities like Postcards of Honour, students across the Mackay region are helping ensure the stories, sacrifice and values of the ANZACs continue to be remembered.
Bloomsbury State School students commemorated ANZAC Day with a service and Postcards of Honour activity, dressing as soldiers, nurses and farm workers to honour the ANZAC’s. Photos supplied
A local community member has taken to social media to publicly commend a security officer at Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre, praising his calm professionalism during a confronting incident involving an individual behaving erratically under the influence of drugs.
The post described witnessing the situation unfold near the Coles entrance, noting the individual’s distressing behaviour and the swift response from centre security. The witness shared that the officer “handled himself outstandingly” and expressed genuine admiration for his composure under pressure.
“I honestly do not know how you stayed so calm,” the post read, “but whatever it is keeping you so calm in situations like that, keep it up. That looked very scary and dangerous.”
The community member also reflected on the sense of reassurance the intervention provided, stating they felt an immediate shift in safety once the situation was managed. “I had this overwhelmingly sense of safety,” they wrote, after seeing the officer step in to protect the area and prevent further disruption or property damage.
The post went on to acknowledge the lasting impact of the moment, sharing that it had changed their perception of visiting the centre after dark: “I purposely don’t go there at night because of this stuff, but after seeing how you handled him, I feel a lot safer.”
Although the officer’s name was not confirmed, the poster recalled it may have begun with a “J,” and closed with heartfelt gratitude: “Thank you, sir. You made my night. Take care, and thanks for your service at the centre.”
A powerful wave of remembrance swept across Mackay and surrounding regions this ANZAC Day, with crowds swelling beyond last year’s attendance as communities gathered in unity, reflection, and gratitude. From the pre-dawn silence of Finch Hatton at 4.28am to the dawn light breaking over Jubilee Park in Mackay, thousands stood shoulder to shoulder in solemn tribute to those who served and sacrificed.
Across the region, services were held at Calen, Eton, Farleigh, Gargett, Greenmount Homestead, Hay Point, Koumala, Kuttabul, Marian, Mirani, Northern Beaches, Sarina, Seaforth, Walkerston and beyond, with each location carrying its own weight of history and heart. Dawn parades formed through quiet streets, cenotaphs were encircled by wreaths, and voices rose in the Last Post.
In Mackay, crowds gathered in force at both the 5.00am dawn service and 9.30am morning service at Jubilee Park, marking one of the strongest turnouts in recent memory.
No matter what region we reside in, we will remember them.
Lest We Forget
At Blacks Real Estate, Sales Consultant Claudia Francis is quickly making her mark, bringing a blend of modern marketing expertise and deep-rooted industry knowledge to the team.
Since joining the agency in 2021, Claudia has established herself as a fully accredited real estate agent with a strong passion for both property and people. Backed by a Bachelor of Business majoring in Marketing from Queensland University of Technology, she combines strategic thinking with a fresh, client-focused approach.
Real estate runs in the family for Claudia, a third-generation salesperson following in the footsteps of her grandparents and father, Peter Francis. That legacy is evident in her natural ability to connect with clients and confidently navigate the sales process.
Bringing energy, enthusiasm and a strong understanding of the local market, Claudia continues to impress both colleagues and clients alike, contributing to Blacks Real Estate’s reputation as a trusted name in Mackay’s property scene.
A new community event aimed at fostering connection, understanding and support for people impacted by dementia will be held in Mackay this month.
The Strengthening Connections event is set to take place on 26 May at Harrup Park, offering a welcoming space for people living with dementia, their families and carers to come together and share their experiences.
Hosted by Dementia Australia, the event will be led by Dementia Advocates Jenni and Patrick, who are both living with dementia and actively supporting others through shared lived experience.
The initiative is designed to create a relaxed, peer-to-peer environment where attendees can connect with others facing similar challenges, helping to reduce isolation and build a stronger sense of community.
Organisers say the event is an opportunity to highlight not only the realities of living with dementia, but also the resilience and strength of those navigating the condition every day.
Community members interested in attending are encouraged to come along, connect with others and be part of an open and supportive conversation. Attendees must RSVP to Kylie Johnson before 8 May via emailing kylie.johnson@dementia.org.au or calling 0482 183 169.
Hundreds of motorists engaged in robust conversation on social media over the weekend, reaching out to local MPs to express their frustration following hazardous road trips between Mackay and Proserpine.
The 7mm, recently poured stone had been loosened by heavy rainfall and Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm has since assured residents she has been in touch with Transport & Main Roads to address the issue.
Loose Surface On Bruce Highway Roadworks Leads To Vehicle Damage
Roadworks taking place on the Bruce Highway at Goorganga Plains are attracting complaints as loose stone causes damage to vehicles passing between Proserpine and Mackay.
State Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm has shared that action will soon be taken on the 7mm stone, which was loosened by heavy rainfall.
“TMR and the contractor are very aware of the situation and will be undertaking replacement works of some of the surface,” she shared.
“Please stay safe, drive to conditions, and we’ll have more updates on social media.”
After receiving messages highlighting the issue, Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox also took to Facebook, stating that MP Amanda Camm was taking good care of the issue.
Mr Willcox explained: the highway “is state controlled, with 80% of the funding coming from the federal government, hence why I contacted the state member who has done the right thing and gotten onto TMR straight away.”
Amid over 300 comments across the two posts were many reports of damage caused by the stone.
Tami S Harris stated she suffered two cracks in her windscreen within six minutes.
“I [was] following slow and far enough back - but one of the road work vehicles went past the opposite direction going faster,” she alleged, adding:
“Who do I send the bill to?”
Other community members suggested that the risk of damage was exacerbated by other road users not sticking to the temporary speed limits enforced on the impacted roads.
Kate Antonia shared: “If traffic actually travelled at the posted speed limit, damages would be a lot less. I did the speed limit through there four times in the past week and both times had traffic tailgate and dangerously overtake afterwards.”
Repairs are forecast to take place in the next week, but in the meantime, motorists are advised to slow down, think of others and take care to avoid further damage.
Chambered Nautilus
Our oceans may have changed dramatically since the age of the dinosaurs, yet one remarkable creature has endured the passage of deep time and continues to drift alongside modern marine life today — the chambered nautilus.
Often described as a “living fossil,” the nautilus has remained largely unchanged for around 500 million years. Fossil records reveal that its ancestors swam Earth’s oceans long before the first dinosaurs appeared, making it one of the planet’s most ancient surviving animal lineages.
Native to the tropical Pacific Ocean, including the Great Barrier Reef, the nautilus belongs to the class Cephalopoda, making it a distant cousin of octopuses, squid, and cuttlefish. Unlike its soft-bodied relatives, however, the nautilus lives inside a hard external shell divided into a series of chambers.
This shell is far more than a protective home — it is a buoyancy control device. By adjusting gas and fluid within its chambers, the nautilus can rise or sink in the water column much like a submarine.
During daylight hours, nautiluses avoid predators by remaining along deep reef slopes, sometimes descending to depths of 700 metres. For extra protection, they can seal themselves inside their shells using a specialised hood that functions like a trap door. Under cover of darkness, they migrate upward to shallower waters — around 70 metres — to feed and reproduce.
The nautilus boasts more than 90 tentacles — more than any other cephalopod. Unlike the suckered arms of octopuses and squid, these tentacles have ridges and grooves coated in sticky secretions that help grip prey. Food such as crabs, shrimp, fish, and carrion is passed to a sharp, beak-like mouth, then shredded further by a radula — a ribbon-like structure lined with tiny teeth.
Its eyesight is primitive, limited to detecting light and dark through pinhole-type eyes. However, the nautilus compensates with an acute sense of smell and an ability to detect water depth, current direction, and speed — essential skills for survival in deep environments.
In contrast to most cephalopods, which live short, fast-paced lives, the nautilus is slow-growing and long-lived. It may survive more than 20 years and does not reach maturity until 12 to 15 years of age. Females lay only 10 to 18 eggs annually, each taking about 12 months to hatch — a slow reproductive cycle that makes populations vulnerable to decline.
Movement is achieved through jet propulsion. By expelling water through a siphon near its head, the nautilus can manoeuvre forward, backward, or sideways with surprising agility.
Its most iconic feature remains its shell — a stunning spiral displaying the mathematically precise Fibonacci pattern. This natural geometric beauty has fascinated scientists, artists, and collectors alike.
Contributed with thanks to the Whitsunday Conservation Council
MRQ Whitsunday volunteers jumped to the rescue for a late night Medivac to Hamilton Island
At 10:30pm I got the call for a medivac out of Hamilton Island.
I jumped out of bed and made my way down to the marina where Rodney and Mark were already into prestart checks. I got stuck into the paperwork to get us moving and not long after, Ron arrived with the paramedic assisting carrying all the necessary equipment.
We got underway at a steady pace. It wasn’t a lights and sirens job, but someone still needed us... and that’s what matters. There was a bit of chop out there with a 23-knot easterly, just enough to keep things interesting. So, we skirted up between Daydream and Shute Harbour over to Hammo.
Once we got into Hamilton Island, the usual emergency drop off point was full, so we had to switch plans and come alongside a long arm berth instead. Credit to the crew, quick thinking and smooth execution, we had it sorted in no time. The patient was handed over to the paramedics, and we were straight back on the water heading home.
On the run back between South Molle and Shute Harbour, everything went smoothly. Back into the marina, patient and paramedic disembarked, and Mark gave a hand carrying equipment.
While backing around towards the fuel dock, we spotted something floating. Turned out to be an old tender in pretty rough shape, we couldn’t just leave it there. Ron and Rodney quickly grabbed a boat hook and we gently towed it over to the public jetty and tied it off, so it wasn’t a hazard to anyone else.
After that it was fuel, wash down, and back into the pen. Tied up around 2am.
Big thanks to the crew for making it a smooth operation.
Crew: Ron M, Rodney S & Mark W,
Skipper: Nat R.
A new world-class hiking experience has landed on Whitsunday Island, as the first walkers try out the 32-kilometre Ngaro Track.
The track will be welcoming independent hikers with three-day, two-night hikes set to start in mid-May.
Set in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area, the trail aims to reinforce Queensland’s status as the Home of the Holiday and a world leader in sustainable tourism.
The Ngaro Track spans Whitsunday Island, connecting Whitehaven Beach with the iconic sands of Hill Inlet, inviting visitors to walk in the footsteps of one of the world’s oldest living cultures, with artworks and signage revealing the rich history of the Ngaro people.
Purposebuilt ecocampsites, capped daily walker numbers at 15 per section per day and flexible guided or catered options ensure a lowimpact, immersive experience accessible to everyone from seasoned hikers to firsttime walkers.
The landmark project is part of the government’s Destination 45 commitment to deliver 45 outstanding Queensland ecotourism experiences by 2045.
Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said the Ngaro Track was a gamechanging addition to Queensland’s ecotourism offering.
“The Ngaro Track delivers exactly what Destination 2045 is about - worldclass, sustainable experiences that showcase Queensland as the Home of the Holiday,” Minister Powell said.
“This is a truly immersive ecotourism experience, blending ancient culture, pristine wilderness and lowimpact design to create something found nowhere else in the world.
“The opening of the Ngaro Track marks an exciting new chapter for adventure tourism in the Whitsundays after a decade of decline under Labor and delivers on our commitment to build 45 outstanding ecotourism experiences across the state by 2045.”
Member for Whitsundays Amanda Camm said the Ngaro Track was an investment the whole community could be proud of.
“This track reflects what locals have always known, that the Whitsundays is a truly special place and sharing it carefully helps protect it for generations to come,” Ms Camm said.
“The Ngaro Track will support local jobs and familyrun tourism businesses while strengthening the Whitsundays as a mustvisit naturebased destination.”
A spokesperson for the Gia / Ngaro Traditional owners said the opening of track brought an opportunity for visitors to connect with place of significance.
“As people journey along the track, they can expect to experience the natural beauty of our saltwater Country - shaded woodlands, ancient rock formations, sweeping views across the sea, and the sounds of birds and wind moving through the trees,” they said.
“Visitors are encouraged to walk the Ngaro Track with respect, learning from and caring for Country and the enduring connection of the Ngaro people to Gallae/Galay.”
Visitors planning their journey can expect a challenging yet rewarding journey through diverse ecosystems, that allows them to experience Whitsunday Island in its most natural state.
Bookings can be made at ngarotrack.com.au
Hikers arrive by boat at the southern end of Whitehaven Beach, with an option to visit the Whitehaven Beach lookout. They continue along the shared track to Chance Bay to the begin the Ngaro track. The trailhead is located 100m beyond the Chance Bay camping area. Along the way you will pass Theos point and Bari dhili (Rock eye) viewpoints offering photo opportunities and Ngaro family art installation posts.
The day finishes at Bowarri yamba (Moon camp), perched atop an imposing ridgeline overlooking picturesque Silica Bay.
Day 2 begins from Bowarri yamba (Moon Camp), with the trail climbing steadily toward Whitsunday Craig, reaching 353 metres above sea level. Ladders and stairs guide hikers to the summit, where sweeping views over isolated island bluffs and headlands make the effort worthwhile. Hikers can pause at Lower Craig and Crayfish Bay for photo-worthy lookouts and to reflect on Ngaro family art installations that share cultural storylines.
The day ends at Dhula yamba (Tree Camp), nestled in the peaceful beach surrounds of Torres Herald Bay.
Day 3 sets off from Dhula yamba (Tree Camp), beginning with a walk through the Whitsundays’ only mangrove boardwalk and past the tranquil Gumi (Ponds) wetland. Along the way are views from Murmuri bari (Round Rock) and Upper Inlet, both home to cultural art installations.
Hikers will eventually reach the Ngaro track photo post, and the spectacular Hill Inlet lookouts, where the swirling sands of Whitehaven Beach unfold below. The journey ends with a boat departure from Tongue Bay.
The Ngaro Track is a 32km hike over 3 days and two nights traversing Whitsunday Island.
Hannah Kimber is bringing fresh energy and a global perspective to the Whitsundays property market, combining her passion for people with a deep appreciation for the region she now proudly calls home.
Originally from England, Hannah made the move to Airlie Beach three years ago and quickly fell in love with the area’s natural beauty, relaxed lifestyle, and strong sense of community. What began as a personal adventure soon evolved into a professional calling, as she immersed herself in the local property market and developed a genuine understanding of what makes the Whitsundays such a special place to live.
Now working as a Property Specialist, Hannah is known for her approachable nature and commitment to building meaningful relationships with her clients. She believes that every property journey—whether buying, selling, or investing—is a significant life moment, and she is dedicated to making each experience as smooth and rewarding as possible.
With a strong focus on honest communication, attention to detail, and personalised service, Hannah works closely with her clients to understand their goals and deliver results. Her international background, combined with her local insight, allows her to offer a well-rounded perspective and tailored guidance.
Enthusiastic and results-driven, Hannah is passionate about helping others achieve their property dreams. For those considering a move in the Whitsundays, she offers both expertise and a genuine commitment to making every step of the journey a positive one.
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