Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
A notorious Bruce Highway intersection long considered one of the region’s most dangerous blackspots is set for a major safety overhaul, with Premier David Crisafulli announcing plans to upgrade the Habana Road junction. The project forms part of the joint State and Federal Government’s $9 billion Bruce Highway upgrade program and will include a reconfigured intersection and road widening to improve safety and heavy vehicle access. Notorious intersection to be upgraded as part of Bruce Highway upgrades Premier David Crisafulli has announced a major safety upgrade to the notorious Bruce Highway intersection blackspot at Habana Road. The Premier visited the site on the morning of June 9th to share plans for the project, which will be funded by the $9 billion Bruce Highway upgrade program jointly delivered by the state and federal Governments. The intersection will be reconfigured to improve safety and boost capacity, with the road widened to improve safe heavy vehicle access. The site is a known crash hotspot, with four hospitalisations following serious incidents in the past decade, and many more accidents reported. Planning and design will now commence for the upgrade, with construction expected to commence in 2027. “We are delivering the safer Bruce Highway that regional Queensland has demanded and waited too long for,” Premier Crisafulli said. “This is about getting Queenslanders home sooner and safer, starting with the worst blackspots to boost safety on the Bruce.” According to Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm: “The Bruce Highway and Farleigh Habana Road intersection is notoriously dangerous, and these overdue upgrades for our community will deliver a major boost to safety,” “In addition to saving lives, this investment is ensuring we have the regional connectivity to support our tourism, mining and agricultural industries.” Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said he was proud to be part of a government delivering for regional communities. “These upgrades to the Bruce Highway are something the community has been calling for and now thanks to the Government securing a $9 billion program, it’s getting the critical upgrades it needs,” Mr Dalton said.
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A Commemorative Ceremony marking the 83rd anniversary of Australia worst air disaster was conducted at the Bakers Creek memorial on Sunday 7th June. The B-17c Flying Fortress, a former bomber which had been converted to a transport aircraft, carrying 41 American military personnel back to ‘Maple’ (Port Morsby following their rest and relaxation leave in Mackay, crashed shortly after taking off from the Mackay airport before sunrise, at 6.02am, on the morning of 14th June 1943, in the area now occupied by the abattoir. There was only one survivor. The memorial which is located at the Bakers Creek Community Hall, less than a kilometre from the crash site, was unveiled and dedicated on 11th May 1992, and remembrance services have been conducted annually since that date. Following the arrival of special guests by WW2 Jeeps, American, Australian and 24 ‘Home State’ flags (representing the casualties) were marched on, with music provided by a band comprised of primary school students from several schools. A contingent of No.105 (City of Mackay) Squadron Australian Air Force Cadets (AAFC) followed the flags, and a guard of cadets was mounted at the corners of the memorial. The ceremony commenced with the Australian National Anthem and the American National Anthem, and an address by Mr. Greg Williamson, Mayor of Mackay Regional Council. An aerial tribute was provided by a Fly Past and ‘Dipping of Wings’ by a Tiger Moth aircraft from The Mackay Tiger Moth Museum. Piper Isaac Williamson, a member of the Mackay and District Pipe Band, played a lament as flowers of remembrance were being laid, and the last, representing the sole survivor by a staff member of the Dundula State Primary School. Taps and The Last Post were sounded by the Bugler, and the Ode to the Fallen recited following a minutes silence, after which Rouse was sounded. The ceremony concluded with a march past of the AAFC.
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After its busiest year on record and more than 300 missions already completed in 2026, BMA CQ Rescue is calling on Mackay and surrounding communities to help ensure the region's rescue helicopter service remains ready for the next emergency. The community-funded organisation this week launched its 2026 Annual Appeal, aiming to raise $280,000 to help offset rising operational costs and maintain its around-the-clock rescue capability. Based in Mackay, BMA CQ Rescue provides critical aeromedical, search and rescue, and emergency response services across the Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday regions, operating 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Demand for the service continues to grow. In 2025, crews responded to a record 778 missions and flew more than 339,000 kilometres across Central and North Queensland. So far this year, they have already completed more than 300 lifesaving flights. Chief Executive Officer Tim Healee said every mission represented a family facing one of the most challenging moments of their lives. “For 30 years, our crews have answered the call without hesitation, no matter the time, weather, or how remote the location,” Mr Healee said. “But every mission relies on the strength of our community. There will always be another accident, another medical emergency, another family needing help fast. And when that call comes, we must be ready.” While government funding supports part of the service, BMA CQ Rescue must still raise almost $7 million from the community each year to continue operating. The 2026 appeal centres on the story of 13-year-old Tallis Anderson, who suffered critical injuries in a serious motorbike accident near Moranbah. When the emergency call came through, BMA CQ Rescue crews responded rapidly, providing urgent medical care before transporting Tallis to Mackay for specialist treatment. For his family, the helicopter's arrival was a moment they will never forget. “You don't realise how precious they are until something like that happens,” Tallis' father Ryan said. Today, Tallis continues his recovery surrounded by family, something his parents believe may not have been possible without the quick response of the rescue crew. Mr Healee said Tallis' story highlighted why community support remains so important. “The people who need us tomorrow don't know it yet, but when that moment comes, our communities support means we can be there,” he said. This year's appeal also marks 30 years of service for the rescue organisation, which has become a vital lifeline for regional communities where distance can often mean the difference between life and death. Operating 365 days a year, the service now flies further and faster than ever before, thanks to its fleet of AW139 rescue helicopters. However, officials say continued community support remains essential to ensuring crews can respond whenever the next call for help comes. Community members can support the appeal by donating through the BMA CQ Rescue website via www.cqrescue.org.au. CAPTION: To help keep this vital service in the sky, residents are encouraged to support the 2026 Annual Appeal. Every dollar counts and could be the difference in someone’s life. Photo source: BMA CQ Rescue
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Russell Taylor is making his mark in Mackay’s property market as a Sales Associate with RE/MAX Select Mackay, bringing a driven approach and strong sales background to the industry. With previous experience in both display homes and vehicle sales, Russell joined the RE/MAX Select team in 2025 and has quickly built a reputation for his communication, responsiveness and market knowledge. Over the past 12 months, he has helped secure strong results for clients across the region, earning consistent five-star reviews from buyers and sellers alike. Russell said he is passionate about helping locals achieve their property goals while delivering a professional and personable experience throughout the sales process. Russell Taylor can be contacted on 0418 842 872. CAPTION: Russell Taylor, Sales Associate at RE/MAX Select Mackay. Photo source: RE/MAX Select Mackay
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Few Australian soldiers fought in Europe in World War 2 however the RAAF, including thousands of Australians who were posted to RAF squadrons, made a significant contribution to the bombing of Germany and patrolling of allied shipping in the Atlantic. The air war in the European theatre claimed the lives of 5488 RAAF airmen.
One of those who was fortunate to return home was Flying Officer Cecil Graham Mazlin 018007 (434989) whose flying logbook was recently loaned to the Proserpine Museum. Cec Mazlin served in the Royal Australian Air Force undertaking 50 combat missions in the skies over Europe in World War 2.
Born in Proserpine on July 24, 1924, to parents, Cecil Evelyn Mazlin and Kathleen Doris nee Ledlie, Cec, as he was known, attended Proserpine State School and completed his education at Brisbane Boys’ College and Thornborough College. Upon leaving school, he worked as a clerk for CC Wakefield Oil Company in the Valley in Brisbane.
After about a year with the company, Cec left to join the RAAF enlisting on February 25 1943 as Air Crew V with the rank ACII. His initial training was in Kingaroy after which he went to Wireless and Gunnery School in Maryborough and Bomb and Gunnery School in Evans Head. Cec graduated in November 1943 as a Sergeant Wireless Operator Air Gunner.
In Sydney, in December 1943, Cec boarded the steamer “Willard A Holbrook” bound for San Francisco. After crossing the USA by train and eventually embarking on the “Queen Elizabeth”, the troops arrived in Glasgow then travelled by train to Brighton for conversion courses on Ansons, Wellingtons, Halifaxes and Lancasters. In March 1944, he was reclassified to Wireless Operator (Air).
In October 1944, Flight Sergeant Cec Mazlin was posted to 100 SQN RAF (a subsidiary of 460 SQN – Australian) at Waltham, outside Grimsby. This was a British Squadron into which RAAF crews were seconded to boost numbers. There were three major operational commands in the RAF – Bomber Command; Fighter Command and Transport Command. Cec and his crew flew 35 successful combat missions operating Lancaster bombers over Germany - a significant achievement considering that for RAAF members in RAF Bomber Command, more than one in three were killed. (Source: Australian War Memorial)
Cec and his crew were then posted for instructional duties however the men did not like this, so they volunteered for Pathfinders (PFF) and were posted to the south of England. After a couple of trips, someone discovered that their skipper did not have adequate eyesight for a pilot!
Cec then applied for a transfer back to 100 SQN where he joined a Canadian crew and completed 15 more combat missions before war’s end. Just prior to the end of the war, he was promoted to Warrant Officer. Cec and his crew then flew to Europe where they participated in the Berlin airlift operation to help repatriate ex-POWs to the UK. In September 1945, he was commissioned as an Officer with the rank of Pilot Officer while on a posting to Headquarters in Brighton where he spent five months.
Pilot Officer Cecil Graham Mazlin embarked for return to Australia in November 1945 and was demobbed in February 1946. After his return to Australia, he was promoted to Flying Officer. He was awarded the 1939-1945 Star, France and Germany Star, Defence Medal, War Medal 1939-1945, and the Returned from Active Service Badge.
Back in Australia, Cec returned to Wakefields. In 1949, he married Ailsa Johnson, and they moved to Proserpine where he worked as a clerk for Briggs and Mazlin before buying into part of the firm then branching out on his own. Cec and Ailsa had three children – Joanne, Graham and Warren.
Cecil Graham Mazlin passed away on November 8, 1991. He is buried in the Proserpine Cemetery.
LEST WE FORGET
Story and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum and Cec Mazlin’s son, Warren Mazlin. Information also sourced from “The Proserpine News 1939 – 1945 WWII” by Lyn Burke and Lloyd Fox
Cec Mazlin. Photo supplied.
The Brisbane Broncos started their Trophy Tour this week, starting in Brisbane, travelling up to Cainrs, down the coast and throughout Queensland.
On Thursday 13th November the team will stop in Bowen, ex local and now Broncos player Corey Jensen will be dropping in to town.
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins took to Facebook to announce the news, he is under the impression the Brisbane Broncos will be dropping in to a handful of local schools, and will be stopping at Bowen Seagulls Rugby League club, Corey's old Bowen team.
They will be stopping at Queens Beach State School and Bowen State Primary School before rounding out the day with a visit to Jensen's junior Club, the Bowen Seagulls.
The Future Trophy Champions Visit will be held at Bowen Seagulls Junior Rugby League Club at 3:30-4:30pm, with Corey Jensen, Alex Glenn and Petero Civoniceva making an appearance.
Making the Trophy Tour even more impressive, the women's Brisbane Broncos will be in town also showing off their tropuhy after taking the NRLW 2025 title.
Brisbane Broncos Captain, Adam Reynolds said he is looking forward to continuing the tour.
“Bringing our double Premiership trophies to fans, schools, and communities across Queensland is an amazing way to thank them and inspire the next generation of Broncos supporters and future players,” he said.
Brisbane Broncos CEO Dave Donaghy said, “This Trophy Tour is about pride and gratitude, thanking the people of Brisbane and Queensland for standing behind us, and sparking belief in the next generation who’ll carry the Broncos spirit, and hopefully more Premierships, forward.”
Don't miss the Brisbane Broncos Trophy Tour in Bowen. Photo sourced: Brisbane Broncos
Founded in early 2024, Compass Realty Whitsundays is a boutique real estate agency dedicated to providing a personalised, transparent, and grounded approach to property sales, appraisals, and auctions. Owner and operator Kath Barker brings nearly two decades of experience in business, construction, property, and real estate.
Kath launched Compass Realty to fill a gap in the market for a more human-centred service — one that supports clients through life-changing property decisions with care and confidence.
Based in the Whitsundays, Compass Realty specialises in residential properties and prides itself on deep local knowledge combined with innovative marketing strategies, including storytelling and social media. The agency stands apart by building genuine, long-term relationships, ensuring every client feels heard and empowered.
Recent trends show a rapidly evolving industry where buyers and sellers expect transparency, digital fluency, and expert guidance. Lifestyle choices continue to drive demand in the region, with many seeking coastal living and flexible work options. Compass Realty also actively educates clients on important legislative changes, such as the upcoming Form 2 Seller Disclosure requirements, providing clients with clarity and confidence.
Like many small businesses, Compass Realty balances growth with maintaining personalised service. This has been achieved through streamlining systems, improving time management, and collaborating with a trusted local professional network. Staying abreast of industry changes as a proud REIQ member allows the business to confidently navigate the evolving real estate landscape.
Top tips from Kath for other business owners are:
As a new member of the Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce, Compass Realty is eager to engage with local business owners, contribute to a supportive community, and continue growing alongside the region they love.
Contact Kath Barker today on 0401 809 697 or email kathbarker@atrealty.com.au
Photo credit: R Jean Photography
The Hinchinbrook Festival of Events is entering week 3 of the event calendar, and the organisers are extremely pleased with the attendance and participation at the many events and celebrations delivered to date.
The overwhelming and ongoing support from the local and visitor community has exceeded the organisers' expectations. Data recorded to date from each event indicates the majority of the ticketed events have been sell-outs, with the “free to enter” events exceeding previous attendance numbers.
As the calendar continues to roll around, the next major event within the “Hinchinbrook Festival of Events” calendar is the NQIB Country Cups Challenge Qualifier - Hinchinbrook Cup Race Day on the 15th November at the Ingham Race Course!
This event promises a full day of horse racing, fashion, and socialising that will not disappoint! Being a family-friendly event, a day of exciting trackside entertainment for the whole family is assured.
Gates open at 11:00am on Saturday morning, with five local races. Local and southern bookmakers and Sky Racing are onsite for those who want to have a flutter. Live music and a DJ will entertain the crowd, with a bar and canteen open to keep the revellers fed and thirst-quenched.
The spectacular “Fashions on the Field” is always a highly contested event and children’s amusements provide entertainment for the younger audience. This year, there is a new fashion category - “Living the Hinchinbrook Way – 4850” - which will add another interesting aspect to the fashions. So get ready to enjoy a day at the races, Hinchinbrook style!
Pre-purchase Adult Entry Tickets ($15 each) and Tables ($60 per table – seats 10) online. With kids 0-14 years being free, and teens 14-17 years only available at the gate on race day.
For more information, or to purchase Entry Tickets and/or Tables, visit https://hinchinbrookchamber.com.au/hinchinbrook-cup-race-day-family-event/
Fashions on the Field, dressed to impress.
Five races will hit the track on Hinchinbrook Cup Race Day
Photos supplied
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Building Our Whitsunday Legacy
The Whitsundays continues to make its mark on the State stage, with myself and CEO Warren Bunker front and centre at the Community Cabinet meeting in Mackay last Sunday where we presented our region’s priorities directly to the Premier, Deputy Premier and key Ministers.
We’re a region on the move, and I’m proud to see the Whitsundays recognised as one of Queensland’s fastest-growing and most forward-thinking communities. We’re not waiting for the future, we’re getting on with building it.
Council is delivering major projects that are reshaping how people live, work and move across our region. We’ve secured almost $30 million in Federal funding for two cornerstone projects — the Cannonvale Community Hub and the Whitsunday Regional Sports Park — designed to anchor our growing communities, create local jobs, and provide spaces for people to connect.
Through the State Government’s Residential Activation Fund, more than $50 million will help unlock trunk infrastructure for around 3,000 new homes over the next decade. That’s a major step in addressing housing supply and making sure growth happens in a planned, sustainable way.
I want to acknowledge the efforts of our local State Members, Amanda Camm and Dale Last, who continue to be strong advocates for the Whitsundays. They know our region, they listen, and they work alongside Council to get results. Whether it’s housing, infrastructure, or community projects, Amanda and Dale roll up their sleeves and back the projects that make a real difference for local people.
At the Community Cabinet we also used the opportunity to highlight the next wave of transformational projects from Olympic and Paralympic Sailing infrastructure in Airlie Beach and Bowen, to the Bowen Foreshore Revitalisation and the delivery of legacy community sport and tourism facilities that will set our region up for the 2032 Games and beyond.
These projects aren’t just about construction, they’re about building a stronger, more liveable Whitsunday community. They’re about keeping our young people here, attracting new families, and creating opportunities that flow through every town.
As I told the Premier, we don’t mind hard work up here, but we just want a fair go on the big infrastructure that keeps Queensland moving.
The Whitsundays are charging toward the Olympic decade with optimism, pride and purpose and together with the Crisafulli Government we’re ready to deliver a legacy that makes our community proud.
Next week is National Recycling Week (10-16 November), and we’re celebrating with some exciting events for our youngest recyclers!
Join us for a special recycling theme story time and a visit from the yellow recycling truck at the following locations:
Bowen Library: 10am, Tuesday 11 November 2025
Cannonvale Library: 10am, Thursday 13 November 2025
Bring your mini recyclers and join in as we learn about recycling in a fun, hands-on way! Thanks to JJ’s Waste and Recycling for helping to deliver these events.
For more information on recycling in the Whitsunday Region, visit www.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au/lets-get-sorted
Belle Property Whitsunday celebrated the grand opening of its new central office in Cannonvale over the weekend, marking an exciting new chapter for the real estate team.
The black-tie event was an exclusive affair, welcoming staff and valued clients to experience the brand-new, purpose-built premises for the first time. Guests enjoyed sunset drinks while exploring the stylish new office, which features a sleek, contemporary design that captures the professionalism and prestige of the Belle Property brand.
Principal and staff members were on hand to guide guests through the impressive new space, highlighting the layout designed to enhance collaboration and client service. The evening was filled with laughter, excitement, and anticipation for what’s ahead as Belle Property Whitsunday continues to expand its presence in the region.
The new Cannonvale office represents both growth and a renewed commitment to excellence in real estate.
Photo credit: Trish Jandt
The festive season has officially arrived at News Whitsunday, where owner Rich Bates and his team have once again transformed the store into a Christmas wonderland.
Now in their fourth year of returning Christmas memorabilia Rich said excitement continues to build as locals return each season to see what new decorations are on offer.
"We get a lot of custom made stuff for us, and we try and get different ones every year, just so the locals can get different ones," he said.
“This year we’ve got a tractor with working headlights, a fairy-tale carriage, a truck, and even an aeroplane, all designed just for the Whitsundays.”
Each piece is made from quality glass and metal and is battery and USB powered, many customers collect them annually or purchase them as gifts.
Alongside the collectable pieces, News Whitsunday is stocked with Christmas wrapping paper, cards, gift bags, and festive décor. After local stores sold out last year, Rich made sure to order extra stock to keep up with demand.
One of the biggest hits at Christmas time are the 'Scratchy trees', Christmas trees made entirely from instant lottery tickets, and Rich said Renee will be creating more for this year.
With Christmas fast approaching, locals are encouraged to get in early to secure their favourite festive treasures before they’re gone for another year.
Owner of News Whitsunday Rich Bates invites the whole community to come into the store and check out the Christmas memorabilia. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie
Tucked inside the Whitsunday Shopping Centre, Tranquil Breeze Massage has been helping locals and visitors unwind since new owners Angela and Grant opened their doors on September 17.
Angela says the business has quickly developed a roster of loyal customers, thanks to its convenient location and calming atmosphere.
“There’s lots of foot traffic going past, and it’s great to see people stop in to relax,” she said.
Originally from Taiwan, Angela and her family moved to Australia in 2019, drawn to the Whitsundays’ slower pace and friendly community.
“We wanted a smaller, more relaxed atmosphere than the cities,” she said. “It’s such a good lifestyle here for our kids.”
After more than two decades in the massage industry, Angela brings a wealth of experience and professionalism to her new venture. Tranquil Breeze Massage specialises in a range of treatments designed to suit different needs from deep tissue and remedial massage to relaxation and foot therapy, each delivered in a warm, welcoming space.
Angela says she’s passionate about helping people feel better, whether that’s easing sore muscles after a long day or simply providing a moment of calm in someone’s busy schedule.
“Everyone is different,” she said. “My favourite is feeling people relax, everyone is so different and every time I finish a massage people say that they love it. And that is a good feeling.”
Life in Taiwan, she explains, was convenient and safe, but the work culture was demanding. The move to Airlie Beach has allowed her family to find the balance they were searching for, trading the fast-paced city life for tropical serenity.
Now, with two daughters happily settled at school and a growing customer base, Angela says she’s grateful for the support of the community and looks forward to continuing to offer a tranquil retreat for locals and visitors alike.
Angela, an expert in massage, is now at Tranquil Breeze Massage in Cannonvale
ADHD can bring unique strengths to relationships such as creativity, energy, and spontaneity but it can also create challenges. Forgetfulness, distractibility, or impulsivity may sometimes cause tension with partners, friends, or family. The good news is that with awareness and strategies, relationships can thrive.
Open communication is key. Letting loved ones know how ADHD affects you builds understanding. Equally important is listening to their experiences, so everyone feels heard and valued. Try to find one thing.
Practical adjustments also help. Shared calendars or reminder apps can reduce missed plans. Agreeing on small routines, like setting aside ten minutes each evening to reconnect without devices, strengthens bonds.
Patience matters, too. ADHD brains work differently—sometimes that means bursts of enthusiasm, other times it means being easily distracted. When both people approach challenges with empathy, relationships become more resilient.
Most importantly, remember that support is available. Counselling, coaching, and skill-building strategies can make a significant difference.
Strong, supportive relationships are possible with ADHD—and they can become a source of joy and stability.
"If you’d like more support in managing ADHD for yourself or your family, visit my website https://www.personaltransitions.com.au/ or give me a call 0418708214."
Now in its 21st year, one of the Whitsundays’ most beloved charitable events, Camp and sCare, once again brought families together for a frightfully fun weekend — all in support of a vital local cause.
Held at BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort, the sell-out event raised an impressive $14,036.69 for Whitsunday Suicide Prevention, with 100% of proceeds from Friday night campsite bookings and activity donations going directly toward local mental health awareness and support initiatives.
Guests embraced the Halloween spirit in full force, transforming campsites and cabins into eerie masterpieces and dressing to impress for the spookiest campsite, cabin, family, and individual costume competitions. The festive atmosphere rivalled any Halloween celebration, with creativity and community spirit on full display.
BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort CEO, Phil Casey, said the event continues to be a cornerstone of the resort’s community fundraising efforts.
“Camp and sCare is more than just a fun Halloween weekend — it’s a chance for families to come together and support causes that make a real difference in our community, and we thank our guests for their generosity. We’d also like to thank the many local businesses who donated prizes and helped make this year’s event another huge success,” said Mr Casey.
On Monday morning, the team at BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort team presented Gis Marven, Committee Member for Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network (WSPN), with a charity cheque for $14,036.69. WSPN is a community led network driven to reduce suicide and its impact in the Whitsunday region.
Ms Marven said the donation would make a real difference to the network’s ongoing community support initiatives.
Meet Max, a big, beautiful boy with a gentle heart who’s waiting for a second chance at happiness. This large mixed-breed dog is currently in the care of Bowen & Collinsville Pet Rescue Inc. (BCPRI) and is searching for a dedicated foster carer to help him rebuild trust and find his forever home.
Despite his impressive size, Max is known for his soft, loving nature. He’s well-behaved, good around other dogs, and eager to please — especially when treats are involved! Max thrives on companionship and gentle encouragement, making him the perfect match for someone patient, kind, and familiar with handling larger breeds.
What Max Needs:
BCPRI is a no-kill, volunteer-run rescue that relies entirely on foster homes to care for dogs like Max. The organisation doesn’t have a physical shelter — instead, every dog is placed in a loving home environment where they can receive the care, structure, and rehabilitation they need before adoption.
All essential costs, including vet care and food, are covered by donations from the community. Fostering not only gives a dog a safe space to heal but also frees up room for the rescue to save more lives from local pounds.
If you’d like to foster or adopt Max, or any of BCPRI’s other dogs, please email the rescue directly at bcpri.adoptions@gmail.com. To learn more or apply to foster, visit BCPRI's socials.
Hi everyone,
I hope you’re all enjoying our new Great Barrier Reef–inspired rebrand, which so many of our team helped bring to life!
I don’t know about you, but this heat has me wanting to stay indoors. While we’re keeping cool, things are heating up underwater as coral spawning season begins. Enjoy reading about the wonders of coral in this edition.
We’ve also included a great octopus story from the fantastic Whitsunday Conservation Council.
Happy reading,
Ruth
A few nights after the full moon, something begins to spawn...and no, we don’t mean werewolves! It’s coral spawning season. This weekend, corals across the Great Barrier Reef will release their reproductive bundles into the water column in a spectacular, synchronised event. For the Reef Catchments team, it’s one of the busiest and most exciting times of the year.
As a partner in the Boats4Corals project, Reef Catchments works alongside the Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS), local tourism operators, and Traditional Owners to collect coral spawn and release the larvae into reef areas that receive less natural larval inflow and are slower to recover from impacts.
The preparation for this year’s spawning has already begun. Last week, the Boats4Corals team inspected 12 sites around the Whitsundays for their readiness to spawn, referred to as gravid coral checks.
During gravid coral checks, teams assess several factors to determine whether a site is suitable for coral spawn slick collections. Key considerations include the extent and diversity of hard coral coverage, the presence and development stage of coral eggs, and whether the area is protected or has any environmental or physical barriers that might inhibit slick formation. These elements help the team evaluate the site's potential for successful collection and monitoring.
To answer these last two questions, the team take small samples of coral and look at the skeleton*. Egg bundles are visible as tiny spheres, often in groups, and the developmental stage of the eggs can be inferred by their colour. Generally, eggs start out as white and become pink as they mature.
The team sampled 370 hard coral colonies over two days, approximately two thirds of which had eggs. They have used the data to narrow down their target sites for spawn collection in a fortnight, having identified a subset of sites which are expected to be productive.
Ultimately the amount of spawn the team are able to collect is very strongly influenced by the weather on the night. However, Reef Catchments state that the extensive presence of developed eggs throughout the Whitsunday islands is a promising sign for this year’s fieldwork!
*Please note it is illegal to sample corals without a permit.
Pictured: Lisa McMullen – Daydream Island Living Reef, credit Reef Catchments
What has three hearts, a big brain, and blue blood?
The octopus, of course!
These bizarre yet brilliant creatures have been around for hundreds of millions of years. For humans, they’ve inspired emotions ranging from curiosity to admiration — and even fear, thanks to their starring roles in Hollywood monster flicks.
Belonging to the class Cephalopoda, octopuses are easily recognised by their soft, flexible bodies, large heads, and eight long tentacles lined with powerful suckers. They are common residents of the Great Barrier Reef, though not often seen — their remarkable camouflage allows them to blend almost perfectly into the reef around them.
Let’s dive into some of the amazing facts that make octopuses such extraordinary animals.
Masters of Disguise
Octopuses are true masters of camouflage. They can change both colour and texture in the blink of an eye using specialised skin cells called chromatophores. These tiny pigment sacs expand or contract to create patterns that mimic rocks, sand, coral, or even other animals. Combined with fine control of their skin texture, they can virtually disappear from sight.
Three Hearts and Blue Blood
Octopuses literally have three hearts. Two of them pump blood through the gills, where it picks up oxygen, while the third heart circulates that oxygen-rich blood to the rest of the body. Interestingly, the main heart stops beating when the octopus swims, which is why these animals prefer crawling over gliding — swimming tires them out quickly!
Their blood is blue, thanks to a copper-based molecule called hemocyanin that carries oxygen more efficiently in cold, low-oxygen environments. However, this adaptation makes octopuses highly sensitive to changes in ocean acidity — a growing concern as climate change continues to alter marine chemistry.
Brainy and Bold
Octopuses are among the most intelligent invertebrates on Earth. With large brains and a complex nervous system, they can solve puzzles, open jars, navigate mazes, and even remember solutions for future use. They also have distinct personalities — some are shy, others curious or mischievous.
A fascinating fact: two-thirds of their neurons are in their arms, not their heads. This allows each arm to operate semi-independently — one might be prying open a shell while another explores a crevice for food. Even detached arms can respond to touch, a remarkable sign of their distributed intelligence.
Inky Defence
When threatened, an octopus releases a dark cloud of ink — but it’s more than just a smokescreen. The ink contains tyrosinase, a compound that irritates predators’ eyes and confuses their sense of smell and taste. This clever chemical weapon gives the octopus precious seconds to vanish.
A Short but Devoted Life
Octopuses live fast and die young. After mating, the male soon dies, and the female devotes herself entirely to her eggs — sometimes up to 400,000 of them. She guards and cleans them constantly, refusing to eat until they hatch. By the time her young are ready to face the world, she is near death. It’s a sad but noble end for such an intelligent and devoted parent.
A True Ocean Genius
The octopus is one of the most fascinating creatures on our planet — an animal of intelligence, adaptability, and mystery. From its three hearts to its shape-shifting skin and problem-solving mind, the octopus truly reigns as a master of its domain.
Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Conservation Council.
Octopus. Photo supplied.
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