Mackay teenager Asher Hobbs has begun chemotherapy in Brisbane after being diagnosed with a rare form of bone cancer. Photo source: FAME Talent School

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The Mackay community is rallying around 14-year-old dancer Asher Hobbs after she was diagnosed with a rare form of bone cancer earlier this year.

What began as a sore shoulder and a small lump quickly turned into a life-changing diagnosis, forcing Asher and her family to relocate to Brisbane for treatment.

Asher, a dedicated student at Fame Talent School and a familiar face in the local dance community, recently began chemotherapy at the Royal Children's Hospital.

Her diagnosis came as a shock to those closest to her.

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“She said her shoulder was sore, and she said there’s a lump there. I touched it, and it was very hard, but it never occurred to me that it could be something like bone cancer,” said Nicole Batzloff, Asher’s boss at Laffos Bar & Pizzeria, in an interview with 7 News.

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“My kids always say to me that Asher’s your favourite child, because she’s just so beautiful, honestly.”

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The teenager's absence has left a noticeable gap at school, work and within the dance community. Asher had been set to perform a lead role in Fame Talent School's recent production of Madagascar, with fellow dancers finding special ways to honour her. One parent created bracelets featuring the letter "A", which performers wore in support during the production.

“She’s [Asher] going to be there in spirit with us,” said FAME Talent School dance teacher Dolly Louw.

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In response to the diagnosis, FAME Talent School has launched a community raffle featuring more than $5,000 worth of prizes, with all proceeds going towards creating special experiences for Asher during treatment. When she is feeling well enough, funds will help provide outings to the movies, musical theatre performances, shopping trips and other activities designed to bring joy during a difficult time.

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“It’ll [monetary donations] go directly to Asher to help because the whole family has had to relocate to Brisbane for a whole year so she can get treatment,” Ms Louw said.

In a social media post, FAME Talent School described Asher as “pure joy, light and hope”.

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“Anyone who knows Asher knows she is pure joy, light and hope. She has the kindest heart, the brightest smile and a spirit that shines so bright – in true FAMESTAR style,” the post read.

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“Even in the face of something so frightening, our girl is already showing incredible courage and strength.”

Asher’s mother, Renee Coscarella Hobbs, said the family had been overwhelmed by the support received from friends, family and the wider community.

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“Thank you. We are so so grateful for all the amazing support and love we are receiving from everyone back home and here. This all makes each day a little easier. We love you all,” she said.

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Asher now faces a long road ahead, but those who know her best say her strength, determination and positive spirit will continue to shine throughout her treatment journey. For those wishing to support Asher and her family during this difficult time, donations can be made through fundraising initiatives organised by FAME Talent School.

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After years of planning from a dedicated team, the Chances Night Bus is in operation. Photo supplied.

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Safe Sleep Mackay, together with operating partner Chances House, has announced a major milestone for the region, with the first Safe Sleeps successfully delivered on last Friday night.

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Two guests were welcomed aboard the Chances Night Bus, marking the beginning of a new chapter in providing dignity, safety and support for people experiencing homelessness in Mackay.

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After a three-and-a-half-year journey of planning, fundraising and community collaboration, the service has officially become a reality—an achievement organisers say belongs to the entire Mackay community.

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Safe Sleep Mackay spokesperson Lisa Jamieson said the first night highlighted the importance of the service and the impact it can have on those in need.

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“The look on our guests’ faces the next morning said everything. It made every challenge, every delay, and every bit of hard work over the past three and a half years completely worth it.”

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Safe Sleep Mackay extended its heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to bringing the project to life.

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“We were only a handful of volunteers steering this project over the last three and half years but we felt the support of the Mackay community every step of the way. Through community donations, small business services offering in-kind support, and the contributions from community members, it kept us going and this is an achievement that belongs to the whole community,” Ms Jamieson said.

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The Safe Sleep Bus, operated by Chances House as its Night Bus service, will return to operation on Friday, 12th June, with plans to establish a regular service. Initial operations will focus on volunteer training and refining procedures, with the goal of expanding to weekly Friday night services as more volunteers come on board.

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Chances House CEO Kayleigh Brewster said the organisation was proud to be delivering a service that responds to growing community need.

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“We are extremely proud to be operating this service for our community as every day we see an increase in people in need,” she said.

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“This type of service has never operated in Mackay before, so we have proceeded cautiously making sure we have the correct procedures in place to ensure the safety of our guests, our volunteers, and the community. The service will start operating weekly every Friday night and if demand is there and more volunteers come on board, we will look at increasing the number of nights of operation.”

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Community members are encouraged to continue supporting the initiative through volunteering, donations or by helping raise awareness. More information about volunteering is available at www.chancesmackay.org/ssm.

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“Although it has taken us three and a half years to reach this point, this really is just the beginning. Together, we are creating safer nights and brighter mornings for those doing it tough in our community,” Ms Jamieson said.

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Eimeo Local, Michael Fordyce has been recognized for handing out jewellery and spreading joy in the community. Photo source: Facebook

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A local photographer was reduced to tears last week after an unexpected interaction during a routine photoshoot

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Nicole Alexzandra, owner and director of Meadow and Mist Media, was in the middle of a family shoot near the end of Mango Av in Eimeo when an older gentleman with a walker approached her.

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“(He) stopped and said hello…

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“But THEN, he handed me a beautiful necklace that he made himself,” she recalled in a Facebook post.

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“Yes, I bawled my eyes out and will never ever take it off! It truly made my day.”

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Nicole took to Facebook later that night to track down the samaritan and return the favour with a free shoot. Facebook user Paul Fordyce left a comment on the post within hours, identifying the man as his uncle, Eimeo local Michael Fordyce.

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“He is a ripper bloke,” Paul said.

“He has a lot of talents, one is making jewellery.”

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Michael Fordyce, 92, is well known in the local community. He often jokes he’s the “oldest resident in Eimeo,” and made headlines in 2017 when he and his wife famously decorated palm trees on their property with lost thongs.

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When Nicole asked how she could get in touch with him, Paul told her to simply “walk into his house.”

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“Have a cup of tea and a yarn—Uncle Mick and Aunty Judy will be the best company you have had,” he said.

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He warned, however, that they might not want their photo taken.

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A beloved Proserpine salon has earned statewide recognition after being named one of Queensland's top hair and beauty businesses in the 2026 Queensland Day All The Best Awards.

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Deb's Hair and Beauty secured second place in the Hairdresser/Barber category, placing the Proserpine business among the best in the state following a record-breaking public vote.

Deb's Hair and Beauty finished second only to Sarge's Barber on the Gold Coast, while Charlie Parrella Hairdresser in Brisbane rounded out the top three.

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The result shines a spotlight on the quality of small businesses operating across the Whitsundays and reflects the strong support Deb's Hair and Beauty has built within the local community.

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For Proserpine, the recognition places one of the town's longstanding local businesses firmly on the Queensland map.

The result comes as communities across the state celebrate Queensland Day and the people and businesses that help make the Sunshine State unique.

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Premier Crisafulli congratulated all winners and finalists, saying their success reflected the pride Queenslanders have in supporting local businesses.

"Congratulations to every winner and to the thousands of Queenslanders who got behind them to take the crown in their category."

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Photos sourced: Facebook

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The Whitsundays community has grown a little larger and more diverse, with 65 people officially becoming Australian citizens at a record-breaking citizenship ceremony held at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre on Tuesday.

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Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins said welcoming new Australians was one of the most rewarding aspects of his role, describing the ceremony as a celebration of the many journeys that lead people to call Australia home.

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"One of the very best parts of being Mayor is welcoming new Australians to our community," Mayor Collins said.

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"What I love about these ceremonies is the diversity of stories they represent. Some of our newest citizens have only recently arrived in Australia, while others have been part of the fabric of our community for decades."

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Among those taking the pledge were two residents who had lived in Australia for 60 years and 44 years respectively before becoming citizens.

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Mayor Collins said it was particularly special to see familiar faces among the group, including a neighbour and members of the Whitsunday Regional Council family.

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"We are proud to have you as part of our community and proud to call you fellow Australians," he said.

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The Bruce Highway at Goorganga Plains remains under scrutiny as residents push for resurfacing works and long-term upgrades to improve safety and flood resilience. Photo source: Courier Mail

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By Chelsea Ravizza

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More than 700 people have signed a petition spearheaded by Proserpine resident Denise Hadley calling for urgent improvements to the Bruce Highway through Goorganga Plains between Proserpine and Bloomsbury.

Ms Hadley first raised concerns in May 2025, speaking publicly about the deteriorating condition of the road and the safety risks it posed to motorists, and exactly a year later, she launched a formal petition, urging the community to support her calls for action.

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“We need action from local authorities to rectify the condition of Goorganga Plains [and] together, we can make our voices heard and ensure safe roads for everyone,” she said.

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Over the past 13 months, Ms Hadley has continued to advocate for upgrades and liaise directly with the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR), describing the section of highway as dangerous and increasingly difficult to navigate. As part of her petition, she has called for the road surface to be resurfaced and for ongoing maintenance to ensure the highway remains safe for all users.

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“It’s still a work in progress. I think we have achieved a lot of good stuff, [but] time will tell. We’ll fight the fight, and I will be the squeaky wheel until somebody listens to me.”

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Initially announced in June 2024, the $470 million Goorganga Floodplain Upgrade is designed to improve flood resilience along the Bruce Highway between O'Connell River and Proserpine, while also delivering overtaking lanes to enhance safety and traffic flow. However, two years later, many motorists, like Ms Hadley, continue to raise concerns about the condition of the existing road surface.

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TMR said it’s aware of community concerns regarding recent maintenance works at Goorganga Plains and reaffirmed its commitment to improving the condition of the Bruce Highway.

“Recent resurfacing works were impacted by unexpected rainfall, causing damage to part of the new surface,” a TMR spokesperson said.

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“Priority repairs were completed under reduced speed limits to maintain safety and keep the highway operational, with final microsurfacing works scheduled for early June. The Australian and Queensland governments have committed funding to upgrade and improve flood immunity across the Goorganga floodplain, with planning underway for the Bruce Highway (Mackay-Proserpine) O’Connell River to Proserpine (Goorganga Floodplain) upgrade project.”

TMR said crews were applying two layers of micro-asphalt to improve ride quality, while overtaking lane upgrades would be delivered over coming months. Identified potholes have also been referred for priority maintenance. As part of longer-term plans for the Bruce Highway, a new section of road will be constructed adjacent to the existing alignment. The upgraded route will be built at a higher elevation and designed with flood immunity as a priority, improving reliability and safety during major weather events. TMR expects the project will be completed by 2032.

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Whitsunday Regional Council welcomed planning for the jointly funded Goorganga Floodplain Upgrade and proposed overtaking lanes, describing them as important long-term projects aimed at improving safety, flood resilience and reliability along this critical section of the Bruce Highway.  

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A Whitsunday Regional Council spokesperson said council regularly received feedback regarding transport and road safety issues and recognised the importance of the Bruce Highway to residents, businesses and visitors.

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“Whitsunday Regional Council is aware there has been ongoing community feedback and public discussion regarding conditions through sections of the Goorganga Plains area of the Bruce Highway, including concerns relating to ride quality, temporary line markings, traffic management and flood impacts following recent resurfacing works and weather events,” the spokesperson said.

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Council assured it will continue advocating for infrastructure investment that improves connectivity, resilience and safety across the region.

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Ms Hadley's campaign has also attracted the attention of Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox, who said he had received a “steady stream of correspondence from deeply frustrated motorists regarding the state of Goorganga Plains” in recent months.

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“Immediate, practical action is absolutely required to keep motorists safe while the major upgrade is finalised,” he said.

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Mr Willcox said his advocacy for improvements at Goorganga Plains dated back to his time as Whitsunday Regional Council mayor and that he understood residents' concerns.

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“The Bruce Highway is the absolute economic and social spine of North Queensland,” he said.  

“Every single time the Goorganga Plain floods, the Whitsundays is completely cut off from Mackay, stalling freight, strangling tourism, and leaving regional families stranded without a safe diversion route. It isolates the north from the south, delaying critical shipments across the Queensland coast, costing millions of dollars in lost productivity.

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“Building true flood resilience and safety into this corridor is one of the things I am most passionate about. It is the core driving force behind my longstanding Back the Bruce campaign, and it remains an unwavering priority for my time in government."

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Mr Willcox also praised Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm for her advocacy on Bruce Highway upgrades, including the Goorganga Plains overtaking lanes project.

“I have been in contact with Ms Camm to ensure that TMR addresses these immediate safety issues through the area,” he said.

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“I will continue to use my platform in Canberra to fight for our Back the Bruce campaign, ensuring that when the Coalition forms government federally, we deliver the significant cash injection needed to get real investment for Dawson’s sections of the Bruce Highway.”

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Ms Camm said she had also received feedback from residents and had sought an update from TMR.

“I am aware of the concerns being raised by local residents,” she said.

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“The proposed Goorganga Plains Floodplain Upgrade remains an important project for the Whitsundays, and the Crisafulli Government remains committed to improving and upgrading the Bruce Highway for regional Queensland.”

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Ms Hadley’s e-petition can be accessed via www.change.org/p/fix-goorganga-pains, and additional information regarding the Goorganga Floodplain Upgrade Project can be found via www.tmr.qld.gov.au.

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Police are asking for information surrounding a fire that burnt two vehicles on Border Drive on June 4^th. Photo source: Facebook

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Police are investigating a suspicious vehicle fire at Cannonvale on 4^th June.

Around 4.50am, police and emergency services were called to a Border Drive unit complex following reports of a vehicle on fire in a car park beneath the building.

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Two vehicles were destroyed by the fire and were extinguished a short time later.

Two units sustained smoke damage.

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All ten occupants of the units were evacuated and no one was physically injured.

Police are appealing to anyone with relevant information or vision to come forward.

A crime scene was declared at 6.25am, and investigations into the cause of the fire are ongoing.

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If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting.

Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.

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Quote this reference number: QP2601064871

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Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins has raised concerns about proposed changes to national disaster recovery funding, warning reduced support could impact the region's ability to recover from future natural disasters. Photo supplied

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Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins has joined growing calls for the Federal Government to reconsider proposed changes to Australia's Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA), warning the reforms could leave regional communities more vulnerable following natural disasters.

The proposed overhaul would reportedly reduce the Federal Government's contribution to disaster recovery costs from 75 per cent to a 50-50 funding split with state governments, while introducing standardised funding packages across the country.

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Mayor Collins said while there were aspects of the reforms he supported, including efforts to streamline funding processes and reduce red tape, any reduction in support for disaster-affected communities should be approached carefully.

"I don't often comment on Federal or state policy decisions, but the Federal Government's proposed changes to disaster recovery funding arrangements have the potential to be a significant blow to communities across regional Queensland, including the Whitsundays," he said.

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The Mayor pointed to the region's recent experience with Tropical Cyclone Koji, as well as previous flooding events and Cyclone Debbie, as examples of why disaster recovery funding remains critical.

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"Recovery doesn't happen overnight and in some cases continues for many years," he said.

Mayor Collins argued disaster recovery funding should be viewed as an investment rather than a cost, highlighting the significant economic contribution made by regional Queensland.

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"The Greater Whitsunday region is one of Australia's most productive regional economies, generating over $140,000 in GRP per person each year — almost double the national average," he said.

"When disaster strikes, recovery funding isn't charity. It is an investment in restoring the productive capacity of regions that help drive the Australian economy."

Queensland Premier David Crisafulli has also criticised the proposed changes, expressing concern about the potential impact on regional communities and local governments.

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"The Federal Government's decision to overhaul disaster recovery funding sends a clear message they couldn't care less about North Queenslanders," Premier Crisafulli said.

"Nowhere in Australia is more disaster prone than here in the North, and we need and deserve support to recover from the inevitable natural disasters that will come our way."

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The Premier said the changes had raised concerns councils could face significant financial pressure when rebuilding following major events.

Mayor Collins said regional communities already contend with higher costs, ageing infrastructure and long distances, and urged the Federal Government to reconsider any reforms that could reduce support.

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"I respectfully ask the Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and the Federal Government to carefully reconsider any changes that would reduce funding support for disaster-impacted communities and ensure regions like ours are not left uncertain and wondering to what level they will recover when the next major event occurs," he said.

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Volunteers are being sought to help bring Between the Tides to life at Airlie Beach this July, with locals invited to support the festival while enjoying a night of live music and cultural experiences.

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Music lovers are being encouraged to get involved in one of the Whitsundays’ most exciting live music events, with volunteers now being sought for Between the Tides in Airlie Beach this July.

Presented as part of the QLD Music Trails: The Reef series, the one-day festival-style experience will transform the Airlie Beach Foreshore into a vibrant celebration of music, culture, art and community on Saturday, 4th July.

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Set against the stunning backdrop of the Whitsunday coastline on Ngaro Country, the event will feature a stellar line-up of Australian artists including Boy & Bear, Jem Cassar-Daley, Mid Drift, Tjaka and Kaylee West.

Organisers are calling for volunteers to help make the event a success, offering locals the chance to be part of the action while supporting a major cultural event in the region.

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Volunteer roles include greeting patrons, scanning tickets, handing out wristbands and assisting with merchandise sales throughout the afternoon and evening.

There are two volunteer shift options available, and once volunteers complete their shift, they’ll receive a GA18+ wristband allowing them to enjoy the live performances and festival atmosphere afterwards.

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More than just a concert, Between the Tides promises a rich cultural experience featuring workshops, sand art, cultural performances and knowledge-sharing opportunities, alongside locally crafted food, drinks and art installations.

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Organisers say volunteering is a great opportunity to meet new people, support live music and experience the event from behind the scenes.

Anyone interested in volunteering can complete the application form online at qldmusictrails.com/volunteer. For further information, email ticketing@qldmusictrails.com or call 07 3010 6600.

WHAT:  Between the Tides
WHERE: Airlie Beach Foreshore, Ngaro Country

WHEN:  Saturday 4th July, 2pm-10pm

Zonta Club of the Whitsundays members continue their quiet, hands-on work supporting women and girls through community care, education and advocacy initiatives. Photo supplied

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Behind the scenes across the Whitsundays, a dedicated group of local women continues to quietly support, uplift and advocate for women and girls throughout the community.

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For Zonta Club of the Whitsundays, community service is not only about fundraising events and awareness campaigns — it is about practical support, meaningful connection and creating opportunities for women and girls to thrive.

From assembling pamper packs for women in refuge accommodation and sewing cushions and blankets for local hospitals, to supporting young women through education bursaries and leadership initiatives, the club’s work spans generations and reaches many corners of the community.

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President Marlene Reiffel said some of the most rewarding moments for members come from seeing how much small acts of kindness can mean to someone experiencing hardship or uncertainty.

“In regional communities, people often support one another quietly,” Marlene said.

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“Sometimes it is simply letting someone know they are seen, valued and supported that can make a real difference.”

The club also continues to support domestic and family violence awareness initiatives locally, while working alongside schools, community organisations and health services to strengthen support for women and girls across the region.

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Like many volunteer organisations, Zonta has seen volunteering evolve significantly in recent years, particularly as women balance careers, caregiving responsibilities and increasing cost-of-living pressures.

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Despite this, the Whitsundays community continues to show remarkable generosity and community spirit.

“Women still want to contribute and give back to their communities, even if life looks busier than it once did,” Marlene said.

“We are seeing more people volunteer in flexible ways, and every contribution matters.”

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For regional communities like the Whitsundays, Marlene believes local connection remains one of the most powerful forms of support.

Initiatives focused on wellbeing, education, safety, leadership and community awareness continue to create lasting impact, particularly for women and girls who may feel isolated or unsupported.

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The organisation also hopes younger women in the region see the value of community involvement and the importance of women supporting women.

“We want young women and girls to feel confident in themselves and their ability to make a difference,” Marlene said.

“There is incredible strength in community connection and in lifting each other up.”

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While the Whitsundays is often celebrated for its beauty and lifestyle, Marlene acknowledged regional communities still face very real challenges including housing stress, mental health concerns, financial hardship and domestic and family violence.

“These issues absolutely exist locally, even if they are not always highly visible,” she said.

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“Regional women can also face additional barriers when it comes to accessing support services, which is why strong local community networks remain so important.”

As the club looks toward the future, growing membership and welcoming more local women into the organisation is a key focus.

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Women across the region who are passionate about community, connection and supporting women and girls are encouraged to become involved with Zonta Club of the Whitsundays.

“You do not need special experience to join,” Marlene said.

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“Just a genuine desire to give back, connect with like-minded women and make a positive difference in the community.”

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Zonta Club of the Whitsundays extends a warm invitation to any women interested in learning more about to the organisation to reach out via emailing zontaclub7@hotmail.com.

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Contributed with thanks to Nikki Firmin, Zonta Club of the Whitsundays Head of Community and Corporate Partnerships.

Leigh Skead founded the Proserpine Rock Wallaby Festival in 2025 to celebrate the region’s unique wildlife, local creativity and strong sense of community. Photo source: Proserpine Rock Wallaby Festival

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By Chelsea Ravizza

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When Leigh Skead realised that many locals were unaware of the existence of the Proserpine Rock Wallaby, she set out on the animals’ behalf, creating a festival that has since become a mark of community, conservation and local pride.

“The Proserpine Rock Wallaby is found nowhere else on earth. Nowhere,” Leigh said.

“Most people drive through Proserpine without knowing it exists, and that felt wrong to me. It felt like a story that needed telling — not just for the wallaby’s sake, but for ours.”

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Founded in 2025, the Proserpine Rock Wallaby Festival quickly captured the community’s imagination, earning Community Event of the Year at the 2026 Whitsundays Regional Council Australia Day Awards and establishing itself as a vibrant celebration of local wildlife, creativity and community spirit.

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Endemic to the Whitsundays, the Proserpine Rock Wallaby (Petrogale persephone) has inhabited the region’s rocky landscapes for thousands of years and has also been the focus of significant conservation efforts, including a Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service recovery program that saw more than 1,200 wallabies translocated from Hayman Island to mainland habitats between 2014 and 2017.  

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For Leigh, the festival’s impact extends far beyond a single weekend of celebrations – her aim is to spread awareness across the state to protect the native species.  

“You cannot protect what you do not know exists,” she said.

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Through initiatives such as the festival’s art exhibition and Proserpine Rock Wallaby Art Trail, visitors of all ages are encouraged to learn about the species, with families exploring the town’s wallaby sculptures and children gaining a deeper understanding of the animal’s significance to the region.

Leigh said conservation efforts in regional Queensland often rely on the dedication of a small number of wildlife officers, volunteers and community advocates, making public support and awareness crucial.

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“Every region has beautiful wildlife, but the Proserpine Rock Wallaby carries our name. It belongs to us in a way that nothing else does,” she said.

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“It was named for this place. It evolved here. It cannot be found anywhere else on the planet. That is an extraordinary thing to be the custodians of. A community that knows and celebrates what makes it unique is a stronger, more connected, more resilient community. The festival felt like the way to bring those two things together.”

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In the festival’s inaugural year, more than 1,200 people from across the Whitsundays and beyond attended, with many leaving with a newfound appreciation for Proserpine and its unique wildlife.

Leigh’s most memorable moments include watching residents from local aged care facilities enjoy the artworks and seeing children confidently explain the significance of the Proserpine Rock Wallaby to their families after learning about the species through the festival.

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“That’s the most rewarding part; watching people fall in love with Proserpine,” she reflected.

“Not the logistics or the grant applications or the planning, but those moments when the community recognises itself in what has been created.”

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With the festival continuing to grow, a permanent Art Trail established throughout the town and plans for an expanded event in 2026, Leigh hopes the Proserpine Rock Wallaby will become a symbol of the Whitsundays and inspire greater environmental awareness for years to come. She also hopes the festival encourages more people to become involved in shaping their community’s future, and invites anyone interested in supporting the event to reach out to her via emailing prwf2025@gmail.com.

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“The festival is built on community,” she said.

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“It needs more hands, more hearts, more people who love this place and want to invest their time in something that will outlast all of us.”

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Front - Left to Right: Brendon Nothard (Manager), Glenn Clarke (Chairman), Tony Large. Back - Left to Right: Bessie Orr, Justin Blair, Luke Valmadre,  William (Bill) Blair,  Lindsay Altmann.

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For 100 years, CANEGROWERS have provided a professional and cohesive voice to growers across  Queensland’s sugarcane regions. The not-for-profit public company has dedicated a century to supporting the best possible outcomes for cane growing business and industry, providing advocacy and advice to individual growers, family businesses and corporate enterprise, whilst affecting larger policy change across the country.

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Locally Proserpine CANEGROWERS Co-operative will be celebrating the special occasion, commemorating its own unique past as a major tropical agricultural player, where cane growing is woven into the fabric of history, culture and lifestyle.  

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State-wide, CANEGROWERS have presented commemorative initiatives to celebrate the wonderful work that has been done over the past century. Legends of Cane Country celebrates the contributions of farmers throughout CANEGROWER’s history, inviting community nominations to recognise individuals whose leadership and commitment have made a real difference in their district.  

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The organisation has also produced ‘Voices of Cane Country’, a series of filmed conversations with long serving growers, as each share what a life in cane has meant to them with the first videos already available online.  

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Proserpine’s own rich history of sugar farming dates back to 1897, when the Proserpine Mill was constructed. In 1926 Queensland CANEGROWERS Council formed, marking the beginning of the CANEGROWERS organisation.  

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In 2004, Proserpine’s own independent CANEGROWERS Co-Operative formed. This move made all regional sugarcane farming offices independent, but every co-op will join together to celebrate the centennial, paying homage as a community to the incredible work that’s been done over the years by regional cane farmers.  

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As part of celebrations, Proserpine CANEGROWERS Co-Operative are putting on a special historical display at the 2026 Show Whitsunday. The display will feature an array of historical photos and machinery, demonstrating a timeline of evolving technology and dedicated hard work.  

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The celebrations will highlight the significance of local industry, and demonstrate that advancements made in Sugarcane farming here in Australia have always rippled outward, and had global influence.  

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“The big thing was harvesting,” explained Proserpine Manager Brendon Nothard.  

“The Australian sugarcane industry was the world leader when it came to mechanisation of harvesting. They came up with the designs for the first sugarcane harvesters.”

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Such advancements and adoption of technologies occurred in across Queensland, including Proserpine, where a fruitful sugarcane industry has endured despite challenging conditions.  

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“We have a highly variable weather system up here. This is one of the most variable climates in Australia and Australia is one of the most variable climates in the world.” Brendon shared, assuring that despite such challenges, Proserpine continues to work hard to produce sugarcane.  

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“We are a grower owned organisation. Run by growers and owned by growers. Everything we do here is informed by what growers need most.”  

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Looking forward, a big theme concerning sugarcane farming’s future is renewable energy.  

“The industry is currently focusing on the use of both ethanol and sustainable aviation fuel.” Brendon explained

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Ethanol is a renewable biofuel produced from biomass (corn, sugarcane, waste) which reduces greenhouse gas emissions by roughly 44-52% compared to gasoline.  

Sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) is an alternative fuel made from non-petroleum feedstocks that reduces air pollution from air transportation. It can be blended with other fuels. These sustainable fuels present huge potential for the industry, decreasing the reliance on externally imported oil.  

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From the past, looking into the future, CANEGROWERS exists for one simple reason: to give Queensland sugarcane growers a strong, united voice.  

canegrowers.com.au

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Council is introducing changes to parking across some of our busiest areas including Airlie Beach, Cannonvale Foreshore, Shingley Beach and Shute Harbour, and I want to explain why these changes matter.

As our region continues to grow, we need to make sure parking in our busiest precincts works better for everyone — improving access, supporting local businesses and making it easier for residents and visitors to move around our town centres.

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It’s about making parking fairer, easier and more practical for everyone who uses these areas. We want parking to work better for locals, visitors, workers and businesses as these areas continue to grow.

One of the biggest frustrations we hear is people driving around Airlie Beach or Cannonvale struggling to find a park while some vehicles sit in premium spots all day. That doesn’t help local businesses, it doesn’t help customers and it doesn’t help traffic flow.

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The reality is our region is growing rapidly and parking demand is increasing. Council has a responsibility to manage that growth properly and make sure our busiest precincts continue to function well into the future.

The new strategy keeps free short-term parking in place while improving parking availability in high-demand areas so more people can access local businesses and services throughout the day.

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There will also continue to be free long-term parking available at Waterson Way, only a short walk from Main Street, along with affordable permit options for workers and regular users.

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Importantly, parking infringement costs are being reduced under the new approach, and during the transition period Council will issue warning notices first to help educate the community before full implementation begins.

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We’re also improving parking technology through smarter monitoring and easier payment options like the EasyPark app, making the system simpler and more convenient for users.

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At the end of the day, this is about improving access, supporting local business customer turnover and planning properly for the future growth of the Whitsundays.

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Smarter Parking. Better Access.

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Businesses across the Whitsundays are being encouraged to join the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry as part of the launch of the Chamber’s new 2026–27 membership program.

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New members who join by 30^th June will automatically go into the draw to win a two-week advertising package on the Airlie Hill Billboard, providing valuable exposure for their business in one of the region’s busiest locations.

The Chamber’s updated membership structure has been designed to better support the diverse needs of the Whitsundays business community, with tailored membership options now available for businesses, associations, wedding industry operators, and market vendors.

Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Allan Milostic said the Chamber continued to strengthen its role as the leading voice and connector for local business.

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“The Chamber exists to support local businesses through advocacy, networking, promotion, education, and collaboration,” Mr Milostic said.

“We want businesses of every size and stage to feel part of a strong and connected business community, whether they are a start-up, market vendor, tourism operator, professional service, or established employer.”

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The 2026–27 membership program includes:

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Core Chamber Memberships

Business Advanced ($799)*
For businesses seeking greater visibility, stronger networks, and a more active role in Chamber initiatives, with priority access to services and opportunities.

Business Basics ($299)*
Ideal for businesses wanting to stay connected, access resources, and participate in Chamber programs.

Association Partner ($299)*
Designed for member-based organisations and industry bodies, offering benefits for executive teams and discounts for their own members.

Subscriber ($99)*
Suitable for individuals or businesses wanting to stay informed and occasionally attend events.

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Weddings Whitsundays Memberships

Tailored for businesses operating within the wedding sector, with enhanced promotional support to help reach domestic and international markets.

Essential Tier ($299)*
The foundation membership for Whitsunday wedding professionals.

Elevate Tier ($549)*
Designed for vendors looking to refine their brand and increase their market reach.

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New Market Vendor Membership

Market Vendor Chamber Subscription ($99)*
A new membership category designed to bridge the gap between casual stallholders and established local businesses, combining the credibility, connections, and advocacy of the Chamber with exclusive benefits linked to Chamber-managed Markets.

Mr Milostic said the introduction of the new Market Vendor membership category recognised the important role local markets play in supporting entrepreneurship, tourism, and small business growth across the region.

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“Markets are often where great businesses begin, and we want those operators to feel connected, supported, and represented within the broader business community,” he said.

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Businesses interested in joining the Chamber and entering the Airlie Hill Billboard giveaway are encouraged to sign up before 30^th June.

For more information or to become a member, visit https://www.whitsundaycoastchamber.com.au/join/

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Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce & Industry.

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Photo source: Facebook

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A frightening moment on Shute Harbour Road has ended in relief and gratitude after a small dog narrowly avoided tragedy and was safely returned home thanks to the kindness of several local residents.

The dog, affectionately known as Waffles, was spotted darting dangerously near traffic close to the Pet Resort area, with motorists forced to brake suddenly to avoid hitting the adventurous pup.

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Local resident Neri Tyson stopped to help after Waffles was found wandering near the busy roadway. Witnesses later described the terrifying moment the dog ran in front of traffic, with one motorist saying they believed the dog had gone underneath a coach travelling along the road.

Fortunately, the bus driver slowed to check on the animal, and in an incredible stroke of luck, Waffles emerged unharmed.

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Following efforts by Ms Tyson, and concerned community members online, Waffles was soon reunited safely with his grateful family.

Many locals joked the tiny escape artist may have earned himself a new nickname — “Lucky” — after surviving such a close call.

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The happy ending has once again highlighted that Whitsunday neighbours are always willing to step in and help when it matters most.

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