After facing near closure in 2024 due to funding challenges, the Great Barrier Reef Festival has been awarded funding as part of the government’s Destination 2045 strategy.

The initiative aims to secure Queensland as the events capital of the country, awarding nearly $2 million across 40 events spanning 12 destinations between June 2026 and June 2027. The fund is expected to deliver more than $213 million in economic benefit and more than 887,000 visitor nights.

Minister for Tourism Andrew Powell said  “Events draw visitors into our regions, fill hotels, boost local businesses and showcase everything that makes Queensland an unbeatable place to visit. Through this latest round of the Homegrown program, we are delivering real economic and social benefits for communities right across the state.”

Tourism and Events Queensland CEO Craig Davidson said Queensland’s events portfolio continued to grow in strength and diversity.   
“It’s great to see the variety of new events along with the return of some much-loved favourites in this latest round of funding. We welcome all travellers, whether they’re a sport or foodie fanatic, music fan or art lover, to immerse themselves in our culture and experience the very best events and experiences, right here in Queensland,” he said.

“Whether it’s the Birdsville Big Red Bash, the Abbey Medieval Festival in Brisbane or the Australian UFO Festival in the State’s north, we encourage everyone to get amongst it!” 

Chairperson of the Great Barrier Reef Festival, Margie Murphy, says the team are “very excited to be recognised as an event that draws tourists to the area”, and that the funds will go toward digital marketing to spread the word and bring more people to the festival.

With funding now secured from various sources for the 2026 festival, Margie is calling out for new people to get involved, whether that be by bringing new ideas to freshen up the programme or getting on board to volunteer. To get involved, visit: www.greatbarrierreeffestival.com.au

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The Great Barrier Reef Festival lives on. Photo supplied.

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Airlie Beach ‘Bi Bi’ Making Change in Tanzania 
BYLINE Suzanna Mcloughlin

Local legend Vari Galletly, known as ‘Bi Bi’, the Swahili word for Grandma, to the kids she cares for, has dedicated her life to making life better for less-fortunate children in Tanzania. 

Over ten years ago after volunteering for several charities in Africa, Vari founded her own orphanage, House of Happiness.

Based in Arusha, near Mt Kilamanjaro, and operating in association with Umoja, an education centre Vari previously taught for, House of Happiness has given a home and access to education to many underprivileged kids.

Vari launched the home after witnessing mistreatment of children in an alternate orphanage, vowing to offer them a better option. She soon had fourteen children under her wing.

Travelling to Tanzania at least once a year, the home has been a lifeline to vulnerable young people, helping them learn, grow, and establish careers.

Vari is now witnessing the children she took on when she launched the orphanage flourish into adulthood. The youngest now 16, the cohort includes a trainee tour guide, aspiring civil engineer and pharmacist-to be. Vari is currently fundraising to help one of the home’s inhabitants, Simon, become a pilot- a costly training course, but Vari insists she can do it.

By partnering with Umoja, and hiring a long-term ‘mama’ to look after the children, House of Happiness has ensured the children retain strong cultural identities whilst boosting their education and building them a home, from funds raised here in the Whitsundays.

It hasn’t always been easy, coming up against corruption and tight spots over the years, but Vari says it’s all worth it. The kids are so grateful and brilliant, Vari explains, and whatever you give goes far.

“If you can just spare a few dollars a month, 50 bucks a month, 100 bucks a month, you don't even miss it. But the feeling that you get from doing it is amazing.”

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Bi Bi Vari with Tajewo and Christoph. Photo supplied

Simon’s First Flight. Photo supplied

Scan here to make a tax-deductable contribution to House of Happiness.

Bowen hosted the Queensland Government’s third Regional Forum on 5 February, bringing together business, community, civic and government leaders to focus on unlocking the region’s future potential.
Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP said the forum reinforced the important role local voices play in shaping long-term outcomes for the region.
“The forum kicked off with students from Bowen State High School outlining what they want to see and how making the right decisions now will help future generations,” Mr Last said.
“Each and every student shared their passion and their dreams, and it definitely put attendees in the right frame of mind.”
Mr Last said the Regional Forums are designed to ensure people in regional Queensland have a genuine say in decisions that affect their future.
“Both the formal and informal parts of the forum gave attendees direct access to decision-makers and provided a great opportunity to form connections that will be invaluable moving forward,” he said.
While the focus of the forum was future growth, Mr Last acknowledged the current challenges facing Bowen, particularly housing availability.
“Right now, housing availability is one of the biggest challenges in Bowen and it’s a challenge that was raised during the forum,” he said.
“You can’t drive investment and create jobs if there is nowhere for people to live.”
Mr Last said the Queensland Government has invested more than $30 million in the Bowen area to help unlock housing opportunities, recognising both the challenges and the region’s strong potential.
“It’s the complete opposite of the last 10 years, where people have flown in, told the community what to do and then left without making a meaningful contribution,” he said.
“The best way to help regions grow and realise their potential is to listen and work cooperatively. That is exactly what we are doing through these forums and through our investment in the Bowen area.
“Unlocking potential is about providing benefits throughout the community, and that is exactly what we are focusing on.”
Hinchinbrook Mayor Ry Collins said the Regional Forums place regional voices at the centre of decision-making.
“We’re looking forward to hearing directly from the Bowen community about their priorities and aspirations, and to working closely with the State Government to turn those ideas into practical outcomes that support growth, jobs and long-term prosperity,” Mayor Collins said.
North Queensland Bulk Ports CEO Brendan Webb said the forum highlighted the importance of place-based development.
“The power of place is alive and well in Bowen, and North Queensland Bulk Ports is proud to be part of this region and this forum,” Mr Webb said.
“Our ports connect regional Queensland to global markets, turning place-based development into real jobs, investment and long-term prosperity for the region.”
Regional Development Australia Greater Whitsundays CEO Robert Cocco thanked the Queensland Government for hosting the forum, describing it as a valuable collaborative platform.
“Regional forums bring together local leaders and stakeholders to discuss priorities, influence policy and develop community-driven solutions,” Mr Cocco said.
“They provide an opportunity to connect, explore local opportunities and address challenges across all areas of regional development.
“We look forward to the Bowen forum and to discussing practical challenges and solutions to support the region’s future development.”
Bowen Gumlu Growers Association CEO Jenn Honnery said listening to local voices is essential to long-term regional success.
“Effective regional development starts with listening on the ground,” Ms Honnery said.
“Place-based conversations like the Bowen Regional Forum are invaluable for bringing local voices together, strengthening partnerships and shaping practical solutions that support long-term regional economic development.”

Contributed with thanks to David Cooper.

Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP, reinforced the importance of genuine consultation.
Director-General of Transport and Main Roads, Sally Stannard explained the next steps for Bowen’s transport links.
Over 150 business, community and government representatives participated in the Regional Forum.

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As wet weather continues across the region, businesses are reminded to stay alert to potential disruptions and the flow-on impacts to operations, staff, supply chains, and customers. 
We know how quickly conditions can change, which makes now a good time to review business recovery and continuity plans — from insurance and data backups to staffing arrangements, communications, and cashflow. 
Preparation won’t stop disruption, but it can significantly reduce its impact. Support is available, and the Chamber continues to advocate for affected businesses and connect members with practical assistance. 
These moments also reinforce why having a strong business voice matters — especially when decisions about leadership, governance, and preparedness shape how well our region responds to change. 
At the Chamber, advocacy is simply about making sure the voice of our business community is heard. It means speaking up on the issues that matter, having input into decisions, and helping shape the future of our region. When businesses engage, advocacy is stronger and outcomes are better for all.  
Effective leadership. Better decision making processes. 
One of the key focus areas to come out of our Vision for the Whitsundays project is the need for strong, effective political leadership. Clear, decisive leadership from Whitsunday Regional Council is critical as our region navigates growing complexity and competing priorities. 
Council is currently seeking feedback on future electoral arrangements ahead of the 2028 local government election. This consultation will help determine whether the region remains divided into six geographic divisions, each represented by a Councillor, or moves to an undivided model where Councillors are elected to represent the region as a whole. 
This is a great opportunity for businesses to have their say. I encourage you to complete Council’s online survey by 22 February 
To keep the conversation going, the Chamber will also host an interactive discussion as part of our Business Breakfast Briefing at 7:30am on Thursday 19 February, giving members a chance to share views and ask questions. 
Contributed with thanks to the Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry

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Stormwater drains can pose serious healthrisks. During rainfall, stormwater picks up pollutants from streetsand properties, creating contaminated water that may contain rawsewage, harmful bacteria, and parasites. Contact with this water canlead to illnesses, infections, and skin or eye problems. To protectyour health and the safety of your family, Council advises alwaysstaying clear of stormwater drains and flooded waterways. For moreinformation, visit Council’s website.

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Cleo is a beautiful 15-year-old senior tabby who is looking for a calm, loving home to spend her golden years. Gentle and affectionate in a quiet, undemanding way, Cleo enjoys being close to her people—sharing peaceful moments, warm naps, and soft companionship.
She has settled well into routine and feels safest when near her humans, often sleeping on the bed. Cleo is low-energy, independent but fond of cuddles, and happiest in a serene environment. She’s the perfect couch companion for someone who values calm company over constant activity.
About Cleo
   • Female, 15 years old
   • Domestic Short Hair (tabby)
   • Calm, gentle, affectionate
   • Low energy; enjoys quiet cuddles
   • Very food-motivated
   • Litter trained
   • Indoor-only
Ideal Home
   • Quiet, low-traffic household
   • No young children
   • Someone seeking a gentle companion rather than a playful cat
Health & Vet Care
   • Desexed
   • Vaccinated
   • Flea and worming up to date
   • No known ongoing medical issues
Adoption Fee
   • $100 (reduced senior adoption fee)
Senior cats like Cleo are often overlooked, yet they offer deep companionship and gratitude. Cleo needs only warmth, routine, and love—and in return, she brings comfort, loyalty, and a sense of home.
Please message us to learn more or apply to adopt Cleo. Sharing helps this lovely senior find the peaceful home she deserves.

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Captain Kev by the site of the rescue Photo Supplied

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By Suzanna Mcloughlin

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Last weekend, local boaties banded together to rescue Kevin Ditton’s yacht, Freight Train, after it became one of 22 displaced by Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji.

The ex-racing yacht had been swept away from its mooring outside Coral Sea Marina, and shipwrecked on the rocks of Pigeon Island, during the early hours of 11th  January.

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When news broke of the upcoming cyclone due to make landfall two hours north of the region, Kevin had hurried to make arrangements to move Freight Train to a safer spot. But the motor wouldn’t start, and he couldn’t find assistance, so he had no choice but to leave the boat where it was.

Being a 25-ton boat on a 50-ton mooring, so far south of the cyclone’s centre, it seemed likely the boat would withstand the weather – and for a while, it did. On the morning of the 11th, however, Kevin got a call to say Freight Train had gone for a wander – and when he headed down to Cannonvale beach, there she was, in the distance, strewn across the rocks on Pigeon Island.

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This, it turned out, was relatively lucky. The island was protecting Freight Train from the swell, and her position, tipped on her topside, stopped her from being pounded on the rocks. A carefully-engineered Freires design and aluminium body also helped protect the boat from further destruction.

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Built in 1983, Freight Train was originally made for yacht racing, between Sydney and Hobart. After retirement, she was brought north to the Whitsundays, where she carried backpackers and holidaymakers out to the islands for more than 30 years.

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Although most of Kevin’s old crew now run their own vessels, they were the first to appear at his side, ferrying him out to Pigeon Island to assess the damage.
When the tide went out, the boat was left high and dry on the island, so the damage was easy to see. There were two holes under the water level that needed patching, and a lot of smaller holes, dents and cracks higher up on the body.

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Over the next few days, Kevin and his old crew mates got cracking, patching and sealing the damage, sourcing equipment including pumps and a generator. There had been a brand new generator on Freight Train, but sadly that was now broken and unusable.

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A couple weeks later, with the boat patched up, the time came to move it. A couple of cruising yachties, strangers at the time, approached Kevin and offered their help, which he gratefully accepted, having been struggling to hire assistance himself. Rescue attempts started on Saturday, with large tides working in their favour. The weekend was unsuccessful however, with a broken pump delaying their work. When Monday came, it brought extra helpers.

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Kevin and his volunteers finally had the boat standing upright, when a new helper in a catamaran arrived, and then a third boat turned up, too. The helpers, including Mahesha Goleby, the crew of Drumbeat and Robin & Annie Cooke of the Joshua C, towed Freight Train carefully, inching her back into the water, and freeing her from the rocks.

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The help was invaluable, Kevin said: “All too often nowadays, people don't want to get involved, but this lot turned up with a can-do attitude, making it happen, and that's what Australia is built on- helping a mate.”

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“I said to one guy; mate, can I go get some diesel for you, something, whatever?” Kevin relays, “And he said, no. Just say thank you.”

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For Kevin, that’s what community is all about. “Knowing that you’ve helped someone who really appreciated it, that's worth more than money, isn't it?”

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The storm had come at a difficult time for Kevin, coinciding with his brother passing away over in the USA. He was planning to travel to join his nephew when the cyclone waylaid his plans. Amidst a tough time, it was affirming for Kevin to feel the community show up for him – whether by giving him a call, or turning up to ask how they could help. He found that kindness refreshing, comparing helpers to those who instead chose to grumble and speculate about his situation on Facebook.

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He hopes his experience serves as inspiration to the community, urging them to stop when they see someone struggling, and simply ask – Can I help?

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Freight Train was patched up on Pigeon Island. Photo supplied.

Stuck on the rocks. Photo supplied.

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Improvements at St. Caths. 
Students now have a covered play area to give shade and weather protection. A new school bus has also been purchased and the school has also entered the computer age with $6000 spent on computers, keyboards and printers. 
$1,888,000 for Bruce Highway. 
This was the total cost of upgrading the Highway between Bowen and Proserpine announced by local member Geoff Muntz including reconstruction from Myrtle Creek to past North Gregory. 
Pindar Variety Suffers. 
A violent windstorm destroyed 1000 tonnes of Pindar variety cane but this proved the value of other varieties that showed little or no damage under the same conditions.
Bridge. 
There was extremely good attendance for Monday’s 7 table competition which resulted in a win for Gail and Harry Walsh with Kath Kelly and Sybil McDowall in 2nd place. 
Island Camping Encouraged. 
18 beachfront camping sites in the Whitsundays have been opened from Gloucester down to Repulse Bay for both regular tour operators and private sailors. The sites have been zoned in the north down to Grimston Point, then between Hook and Henning, and South from Shaw to South Repulse.
Lions Donate To Hospital.
Secretary Wally Hinschen presented the money which will be used for the purchase of a defibrillator. 
Videos of ‘Nasties’ Upset Tourism Trade. 
Queensland Surf Lifesaving Association’s plans to show videos of sharks and stingers on incoming international flights to warn visitors of the dangers has been criticised by Tourism operators who fear they would frighten of tourists. 
Airlie Bloods A.F.L.
Pre Season. 20 people attended the meeting where Doug Murray was appointed as coach for the third season. Entering A and B Grade teams in the Mackay Competition was discussed. 
Stock Horse Society AGM. 
Whitsunday Branch elected Reg Gillen as president with Rose Gough and Jenny Searle as secretary and treasurer. 
Cannonballs. 
Proserpine Historical Society was investigating the origin 4 and a half cannonballs each weighing 36 pounds found on Long Island long ago. Several ships that had been wrecked in the area dating from the 19th century were listed as possible sources. 
Solar Power. 
Much interest was being shown in the display of solar equipment set up by Whitsunday Solar Services in Bowen. Rain and cloudy skies did not interfere with a bore pump which pumped water with power from 2 solar panels. 

Here’s a fascinating piece of Great Barrier Reef trivia. Have you ever wondered how long marine animals actually live? From turtles and whales to jellyfish and corals, Reef residents span an extraordinary range of lifespans — from just weeks to thousands of years.
Some creatures live fast and disappear quickly, while others quietly persist through centuries of environmental change. Let’s explore the ages of some of the Reef’s most iconic inhabitants.
Sea turtles
Sea turtles are among the Reef’s longest-lived animals, generally surviving for 50 to 100 years. Of the six species found on the Great Barrier Reef, green turtles and leatherbacks may live up to 80–100 years, while loggerhead, olive ridley, hawksbill and flatback turtles typically average 50–60 years. Their slow growth and late maturity make them especially vulnerable to human impacts.
Saltwater crocodiles
Saltwater crocodiles are remarkable for their longevity and resilience. They exhibit negligible senescence, meaning they show few typical signs of ageing such as declining fertility or physical weakness. These apex predators can live for 60 to over 100 years and may continue growing throughout their lives. They can also survive months without food.
Humphead Māori wrasse
The Humphead Māori wrasse (Cheilinus undulatus), one of the Reef’s largest bony fish, typically lives for at least 30 years, with some individuals estimated to reach 50 years. Females may live longer than males, and their slow growth makes populations vulnerable to overfishing.
Humpback whales
Humpback whales generally live for around 50 years, but scientific studies—using earwax analysis—suggest some individuals may live over 90 years. They reach sexual maturity between 5 and 10 years and may migrate, mate and calve for decades. Older whales are thought to play an important role in guiding younger animals during migration.
Coral colonies
Coral colonies are among the longest-living animals on Earth. While individual coral polyps live only 2–3 years, the colonies they form can survive for thousands of years. Some deep-sea corals exceed 4,000 years in age. A black coral (Leiopathes) specimen was estimated to be around 4,270 years old, dating back to the time of Ancient Egypt.
Gobies
Gobies are small Reef fish with short lives, typically 1 to 4 years, although lifespan varies by species. The pygmy goby (Eviota sigillata) holds the record as the shortest-lived vertebrate known, surviving just 59 days. Larger species, such as engineer gobies, may live for over 10 years.
Dolphins
Dolphins usually live 20 to 40 years, though bottlenose dolphins can reach 60 years or more. Many wild individuals regularly live into their forties, with females often outliving males.
Jellyfish
Most jellyfish live for 3 to 12 months, and some species survive only weeks. The notorious box jellyfish typically lives for less than one year, with its adult stage lasting 3–12 months.
From tiny gobies to ancient corals, the Great Barrier Reef is home to animals living on vastly different timescales. Protecting the Reef means protecting not just species, but lifetimes — some stretching far beyond our own.
Contributed with thanks to Tony Fontes

Green Sea Turtle

Photo source: Tony Fontes

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The Government is getting on with their plan for Queensland’s future.

A new master plan for the Bowen State Boat Harbour will set a clear long-term vision to guide future investment, support economic growth and ensure the harbour once again works for the community. 

Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg said the Government was focused on delivery, not delay. 

“After a decade of neglect and drift under Labor, we’re getting on with the job of rebuilding Bowen State Boat Harbour and backing the region’s future,” Minister Mickelberg said. 

“This master plan, to be delivered by Arup, is about restoring Bowen State Boat Harbour as a strong economic and maritime hub that supports jobs, investment and the local community. We are backing Bowen with a clear plan for the future and a government that is prepared to do the work to deliver it.” 

Member for Burdekin Dale Last said Bowen State Boat Harbour was a critical asset for the community and local economy.

“A key focus is making sure the harbour plan aligns with Whitsunday Regional Council’s foreshore master plan, so everything works together for the benefit of the community. Locals have been clear they want a vision that supports the town, local businesses and the wider region.” 

The community will be invited to have their say when consultation gets underway later this year. Feedback will help shape a final master plan. 

Contributed with thanks to Beth Colvin.

Bowen State Boat Harbour. Photo supplied.

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Tuesday’s bowls saw some great contests across the greens. Bron Tolcher, Isobel Wheeler and Marg Wilson claimed victory over Lindy Suann, Deb Retchless and Linda Scells, while Gordon Querro, Jocelyn DeFranciscis and Laurie Land defeated Stumpy Adams, Shirley Jones and Cliff Querro. The jackpot was not claimed and will carry over to the next round.
With several of our players away competing in the BBC Classic, Sunday afternoon saw two triples matches played. Fred Quod, Jim Quod and Bouff Querro secured a win against A. Beaumont, Alby Vigar and Pat Tracey. In the other match, Toni Bowen, Lindy Suann and Deb Retchless were successful against Bill Myers, Sue Shearing and Skin Querro. Once again, the jackpot did not go off.
A special congratulations goes to Penny Warren, who travelled to Townsville on Sunday to receive the North Queensland Ladies Bowler of the Year for 2025 award. The trophy was presented by Patron Wilma Berryman at the District Annual General Meeting, in front of the Management Committee and District Club members.
This prestigious award is determined by the total points accumulated throughout the season in both club competitions and District Championships, making it a well-deserved recognition of Penny’s consistent performance and dedication to the sport.

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Penny Warren - North Queensland District Ladies Bowler of the Year.

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Andrew Willcox Federal Member for Dawson

Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, has welcomed the decision to re-form the Coalition between the Liberal and National parties, describing it as a vital step in providing Australia with the strong, credible opposition it deserves.

The re-formation of the Coalition follows a period of principled stand-taking by the National Party after the Albanese Government attempted to rush the complex Combatting Antisemitism, Hate and Extremism Bill 2026 through Parliament with limited scrutiny.

"I have always stood by my convictions, and my priority has never wavered: I am here to do what is best for the people of Dawson," Mr Willcox said.

"This wasn’t an easy period, but it was a necessary one.”

Mr Willcox said the deal to re-form the Coalition wasn’t just a handshake, but a fundamental reset of how the Coalition functions.

“We have replaced unwritten conventions with a formal, written agreement that enshrines the primacy of the Joint Party Room, ensuring regional concerns are addressed before a final Coalition position is reached.

"By taking this stand, the National Party has secured a more transparent and accountable partnership, built on codified rules and mutual respect for our separate party rooms.
“We are returning to this partnership stronger, more united, and more determined than ever."

Mr Willcox said the Coalition’s reunion was a clear win for regional Australians who have been hit hardest by Labor’s economic failures.

"While the media was focused on the split, I remained focused on the families, growers, workers, retirees and students struggling under rising inflation and a reckless ‘renewables-only’ energy agenda that is driving up the cost of living."

As part of the reformed Coalition arrangements, Mr Willcox will return to his role as Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability on 1 March 2026.
"I am eager to get back to work in this portfolio," he said.

“Our manufacturing sector is the backbone of our sovereign self-reliance, yet it is battling soaring energy costs and red tape. I will continue to be a fierce advocate for making things in Australia and ensuring industries have the affordable, reliable power they need to compete globally."

Mr Willcox said he remains committed to standing up for the people of Dawson and holding the Albanese Labor Government to account.

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Whitsunday Regional Council has approved a 40-unit short-term accommodation development at the Jubilee Tavern site, increasing the number of accommodation options available in the Airlie Beach and Jubilee Pocket area.

The approval comes as the Whitsundays continues to experience growth in visitor numbers, along with an increase in workers and people choosing to live in the region.

Short-term accommodation developments such as this are intended to contribute to overall accommodation supply, particularly in established tourism areas like Airlie Beach and surrounding suburbs.

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said the shire is the fastest-growing regional local government area in Queensland, and approvals like this reflect the need to plan for that growth in a balanced and considered way.

“Expanding accommodation options helps support tourism, local employment and the ongoing vitality of the Airlie Beach area,” said Mayor Collins.

The development was assessed against Council’s planning controls, with conditions in place to manage impacts and ensure it integrates appropriately with the surrounding community.

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Tourism: Balancing Visitors and Community
 
Tourism is a defining part of life in the Whitsundays. It brings energy, jobs and opportunity and during peak season, it brings pressure too.
When our population swells over holiday periods, Council services are tested. Roads are busier, waste volumes increase, public amenities work harder, and community spaces see far more use than usual. Managing that balance is one of Council’s biggest operational challenges.
Tourism keeps the region moving. It supports local businesses, sustains jobs and underpins much of our local economy particularly in places like Airlie Beach, Cannonvale, Proserpine and Bowen. But it’s also important that locals feel their needs aren’t lost during the busiest times of the year.
Council’s job is to manage that pressure as fairly as possible. That means planning ahead, increasing servicing where needed, and supporting the frontline workers who keep things running, from waste and water crews to parks staff, cleaners, rangers and customer service teams.
These workers often step up during times when most people are on holidays themselves. Their efforts ensure public spaces remain safe, clean and welcoming for locals and visitors alike.
It’s also about setting realistic expectations. Tourism peaks are intense, but temporary. Council focuses on maintaining standards, responding quickly when issues arise, and learning from each season to improve the next.
I want locals to know their patience is recognised, and visitors to understand that the Whitsundays is a living community, not just a destination. Respect goes both ways.
Tourism will always be part of who we are but so is community. Council’s role is to support both, without losing sight of what makes this region such a great place to live.
Thank you for following this six-week series. I look forward to continuing these conversations throughout the year as we deliver key projects, manage growth, listen carefully and support the people who keep the Whitsundays moving.

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For Whitsundays locals, paradise is often something we sell, promoteor point visitors towards, turquoise water, white sand, reef-fringedislands, all part of daily life, yet rarely paused for. The relaunchof the Whitsundays Locals Offer at InterContinental Hayman Islandquietly asks an interesting question: when was the last time localsexperienced their own backyard like a guest?

Thisnewly relaunched offer isn’t about novelty. It’s aboutperspective. Hayman Island, sitting at the northern edge of theWhitsunday archipelago and closest to the outer reef, has long beenpositioned as an international luxury destination. For decades, it’shosted jetsetters, honeymooners and once-in-a-lifetime celebrations.Yet for many locals, it remains something glimpsed from afar, asilhouette on the horizon, a name attached to postcards and tourismcampaigns.

TheWhitsundays Locals Offer reframes that relationship. With exclusiveresident-only accommodation rates, discounted return boat transfersand daily breakfast overlooking the Coral Sea, the offer inviteslocals to step inside a destination they’ve always lived beside.It’s not a holiday that requires flights or passports, just a shortjourney that leads to a complete shift in pace.

Availablefor stays between 1 February and 19 March 2026, the offer comes at atime when the Whitsundays naturally slows. The wet season softens thelandscape, the crowds thin, and the region returns to a more intimaterhythm. For locals, this window offers something rare: access toluxury without the peak-season rush, and the chance to see familiarwaters from a quieter, more reflective vantage point.

There’ssomething quietly powerful about experiencing Hayman Island as alocal. The history, from Reginald Ansett’s early vision in the late1940s to the resort’s $135 million redevelopment unveiled in 2019,is deeply entwined with the region’s own story. So too is itsfuture. Sustainability now sits at the heart of the resort’soperations, a recognition that proximity to one of the world’snatural wonders carries responsibility as much as privilege.

Beyondaccommodation, the timing of the relaunch aligns with a calendar ofcurated experiences, from Valentine’s Day dining under the stars toLunar New Year celebrations and immersive cultural events. Thesemoments aren’t just for visitors flying in from afar; they’re nowwithin reach for the community that calls the Whitsundays home.

Atits core, the Whitsundays Locals Offer isn’t about selling a stay.It’s about reintroducing locals to the extraordinary on theirdoorstep. It’s an invitation to slow down in a place defined bymovement, to reconnect with the reef, the island and the sense ofwonder that first drew so many people here.

Becausesometimes, the most meaningful escapes aren’t about leaving home,they’re about seeing it differently.

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