Photo source: BMA CQ Rescue  

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A community fundraising effort has delivered a generous boost to BMA CQ Rescue, with Baltic Group raising $23,500 through its annual Charity Golf Day.

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The event brought together supporters, including current and former BMA CQ Rescue Board Members, to help support the region’s vital aeromedical rescue service and its ongoing work keeping Central Queensland communities safe.

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A representative from BMA CQ Rescue said the organisation was incredibly grateful for Baltic Group’s continued support, describing the golf day as “one of our favourite days on the calendar”.

“It’s wonderful to see the community come together for such a great cause,” BMA CQ Rescue said.

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The funds will help BMA CQ Rescue remain mission-ready, ensuring it can continue responding to people in need across the region.

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The organisation also thanked the Baltic Group team and everyone who contributed to making the fundraising day a success, with the ongoing generosity providing valuable support for its lifesaving work.

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Left to right: Liam Shields (ERT Training), Andrew Cox (Seaforth RSL Sub Branch President), Ross Daily (Seaforth RFS Captain).  Photo supplied 

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Advanced first aid kits, oxygen equipment and a team of trained local volunteers will now be part of Seaforth's growing emergency response network, designed to help residents when floodwaters leave them cut off from medical assistance.

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With the wet season approaching, Seaforth RSL Sub Branch is taking community safety into its own hands, recruiting eight volunteers across flood-prone areas to provide initial medical assistance when ambulances and emergency services cannot get through.

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Backed by a recent $5,000 grant, the initiative draws on the military, paramedic and mine rescue experience already within the community, turning a wealth of skills into a practical lifeline for neighbours who may otherwise face hours waiting for help.

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Seaforth RSL Takes A New Role In Community Safety

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When floodwaters rise and roads become impassable, getting medical help in Seaforth can become a waiting game, with local residents potentially left isolated for hours.

So, members of Seaforth RSL Sub Branch are working to strengthen the community's ability to respond when emergency services cannot get through, using their own experience and newly acquired equipment to provide early assistance to those in need.

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The Sub Branch has received a $5,000 grant through the Foundation for Rural Resilience's Isolated Community Aid & Response Equipment (ICARE) program, supporting a trial initiative designed to help residents in flood-prone parts of the area.

Seaforth Sub Branch President Andrew Cox said the need for a local support network was critical, particularly given the area's ageing population and distance from emergency services.

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"We're often cut off. We're outside of town, and we don't have quick access to an ambulance which can be quite worrying in times of need," he said.

Andrew said residents had previously faced lengthy waits for an ambulance, including people suffering broken bones and other injuries.

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With the nearest ambulance service based in Calen, or otherwise coming from Mackay, the Sub Branch recognised the importance of having people equipped to provide initial assistance while help was on its way.

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The idea also came from recognising the experience already within the local RSL community, including an ex-paramedic, Andrew's own background as an ex-patrol medic in the Army, and other members with mine rescue qualifications.

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“There's a few of us in Seaforth that have got ex-paramedic experience, myself as an ex-patrol medic in the Army, and a couple of other guys with mine rescue qualifications.

“That’s when we raised the question - 'Well, why can't we help ourselves?,' and that’s why we applied for the grant.”

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Through the trial program, the community has been divided into isolated flood-prone sectors, with two people being recruited from each area to help ensure residents have someone nearby if roads become inaccessible.

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Eight participants are undertaking training, with online learning completed and practical assessments planned this year, ahead of the wet season.

The grant has funded three advanced first aid kits, two oxygen kits, pneumatic splints, headlamps, casualty cards and vital signs assessment instruments, with equipment allocated across the identified flood-prone areas.

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Andrew said the intention was to have participants collect their kits from the fire station before returning to their respective areas when severe weather threatened.

"If we do get a cyclone or find ourselves in the midst of a natural disaster, two people from each area will come into the fire station, grab their kits, go back home, and then in the event that something does happen and we can't access them, they've at least got someone there, with the proper equipment to help themselves and their communities nearby."

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A select number of Sub Branch members also hope to undertake further pain management training next year, subject to Queensland Health approval.

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Andrew said the skills gained through Defence flows into their daily lives now, with their hearts still focused on service to their community in an event where it’s needed.

"Without the community, we're nothing."

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"We absolutely need their support and vice versa.”

“Some of the skills that we bring back out of Defence can be repurposed, and it’s something majority of us carry with us – we like to give back to our communities where we can."

The emergency response trial is one of several community-focused projects undertaken by the Seaforth RSL Sub Branch, which continues to support both veterans and the wider community.

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The Sub Branch, and wider Seaforth community is also working towards completing their bronze Afghanistan veteran statue along the esplanade as part of a larger memorial project that is said to be the only cenotaph of it’s kind in Australia.

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To find out more, or to donate, contact

secretary@seaforth.rslqld.net.au

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Beau-Lea Miller brings more than 25 years of real estate experience to Taylors Property Specialists, with a career spanning property management, residential sales, agency ownership, business operations, technology and team leadership.

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Starting her real estate career at 17, Beau-Lea developed an early passion for property management and the important role an agency plays in protecting its clients’ investments. She later worked in the real estate technology sector, training agencies, helping establish property management departments and supporting teams to improve their systems and service delivery.

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Beau-Lea went on to establish and lead her own successful independent agency, Beautique Realty, giving her firsthand experience across property management, sales, business development, compliance, customer service and team leadership.

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More recently, she worked across Queensland and the Northern Territory in a state real estate operations role with Elders Real Estate. She is also recognised for helping real estate businesses strengthen their systems, improve team performance and adopt technology and artificial intelligence in practical and responsible ways.

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At Taylors Property Specialists, Beau-Lea is focused on driving operational excellence and sustainable growth across the business. Her role is centred on strengthening systems, developing people, improving service delivery and creating a high-performing business that consistently rewards its clients through stronger outcomes, greater efficiency and long-term value.

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Her approach combines honesty, accountability, communication and personal service with strong systems, clear processes and modern innovation.  

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For Beau-Lea, successful real estate is about building a business that performs well, supports its people and gives clients confidence that their property and investment goals are in capable hands.

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Contributed with thanks by Whitsundays Counselling and Support.

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Calling all passionate locals looking to make a difference!  

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Fresh off the back of being named the Community Champion at the 2026 Whitsunday Business Awards, Whitsunday Counselling and Support (WCS) is turning its attention to the future and wants the community to help shape it.   

The organisation will hold its Annual General Meeting on Wednesday, 18 November at the WCS office in Cannonvale and is calling for local people to join the Management Committee.   

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Backed by more than three decades of supporting vulnerable members of the community, WCS is committed to continuing its meaningful work, empowering people and advocating for a region where everyone feels safe, respected and free from violence. What began as a single refuge opened in Cannonvale in 1990 by a group of local women is now the only free service funded to respond to domestic, family and sexual violence across almost 24,000 square kilometres, from Collinsville to Hamilton Island.   

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Chief Executive Officer Kirsty Gillett says the organisation is stepping into an exciting new chapter.   

“We’ve been part of this community for more than 35 years and we’re proud of what that has meant for the people we support. Now we’re building on those foundations so we can keep showing up for the people who need us,” says Kirsty.   

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That new chapter has been taking shape behind the scenes throughout the past year with staff from all three sites coming together to help build the 2026-2030 Strategic Plan around five clear pillars. Those priorities are investing in itspeople and strengthening the foundations as one united team, to be known and trusted across the region and reach more of the people who need it.  

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Alongside the Strategic Plan comes a new organisational structure and a refreshed brand, with a confident new look, centred on empowerment, advocacy and hope.  

“When someone reaches out on the hardest day of their life, they need to know exactly who we are and that they can trust us. That’s what this rebrand is about,” says Kirsty.   

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With a clear plan in place, WCS is now looking for fresh, committed Management Committee members. The organisation is looking for people who bring a diversity of knowledge to the table and a genuine social conscience.   

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WCS is particularly keen to hear from people with experience or expertise in governance and strategic leadership, data analysis and outcome measurement, finance or accounting, human resources, domestic and family violence advocacy, First Nations leadership, influence and perspectives, and government relations and influence at a local, state, or federal level.  

“Our committee plays a vital role in steering the organisation and we are looking for skilled individuals with a genuine care for this community,” says Kirsty.  

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Serving on the committee is a chance to help steer a respected organisation that supports some of the most vulnerable people in our region. The AGM is also an opportunity to reflect on the year’s achievements, receive the audited financial statements, and elect the Management Committee for the year ahead. All members and supporters are welcome to attend.   

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“Our community has always stood behind us, and now this is an invitation to stand with us as we write the next chapter together,” says Kirsty.  

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Anyone interested in nominating, or wanting a copy of the AGM agenda, is encouraged to contact WCS before the meeting.   

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If you're in need of a playful, loving, and fun sidekick who will love you to bits, then look no further; Sammy is all you need.  

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Sammy is three months old and a mixed breed. He is full of energy and affection, constantly wiggling and cuddling his way around everyone. Sammy is super excited about new faces and new experiences, warming to dogs, people, and cats within minutes.  

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Sammy would love an active family, as his medium to high energy will put everyone on their feet. He gets the zoomies and needs plenty of play time and walking. But after the energy bursts, he settles beautifully.  

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Sammy will best suit a home with a big yard and a fence that is at least 4ft,  as he will grow into a big boy. This beautiful puppy will as well need a family who is willing to train him on the lead.  

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If Sammy sounds like your next adventure companion, message Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue with your name, phone number and “Sammy” to begin the adoption process.  

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WSPN’s October brekky attendees. Photo credit: Trish Jandt

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Around 85 locals gathered for WSPN’s monthly BBQ Breakfast, where a heartfelt talk from guest speaker “Keg” Alister Sawers got the crowd talking and listening to one another.

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A registered builder with many years in the industry, Keg has worked on remote stations and major construction projects across Australia, including resort construction on Hamilton Island.  

Drawing on that experience, he shared his approach to managing stress and navigating life’s challenges, encouraging those gathered to join the conversation.  

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“A huge thank you to our guest speaker Alister "Keg", whose talk was one of the best we've heard at the BBQs,” WSPN shared following the event.  

“Keg spoke from the heart, related to everyone in the crowd and kept the morning interactive.”

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The kindness continued after breakfast, when WSPN volunteers took the remaining catering to the beach to share with people sleeping rough.

Red Emperor Constructions sponsored the morning, with regular food supporters Food From the Heart Airlie Beach and The Prickly Pineapple helping keep everyone fed.

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April McEachern. Photo supplied: April McEachern

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April McEachern has rolled through a busy October, skating 102 kilometres around Bowen and surpassing her $500 fundraising goal to support mental health research.

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Taking part in the Black Dog Institute’s One Foot Forward challenge, April fitted skating around work and everyday commitments, clocking up kilometres at Queens Beach while encouraging people to start conversations about mental health.

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She raised $528 that will be divvied out by the institute among various mental health services, more than doubling last year’s total of $209.

Reaching the finish brought a sense of accomplishment after a month that required some careful juggling between her work and social life balance.

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“I did push it for time between work and life and everything in between,” April said.

But when asked whether the effort had been worth it, she had no hesitation.

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“Always, I’ll do it again next year too,” April said.

Even the weather made her work for those final kilometres, with rain setting in just two days before the challenge ended. April watched for a break and headed out when she could.

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“I literally had to pick a window because there's no rain right now, so I shot out the door,” April said.  

Her regular route at Queens Beach covered roughly 4.2 kilometres a lap, taking her slightly beyond the original 100-kilometre target.

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“I would have probably kept going had I had more time,” she said.

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By Sharon Ashman

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Understanding patterns and making lasting changes

Have you ever found yourself thinking, “Here we go again”? Perhaps you keep worrying about the same things, react strongly during disagreements, struggle to say no to others, or repeatedly doubt your decisions. Even when you want things to be different, you may find yourself returning to familiar ways of thinking and behaving.

These experiences are more common than we might realise. Often, the difficulty is not a lack of motivation or effort. Over time, we may develop patterns that shape how we interpret situations, respond emotionally, and interact with others.

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How do these patterns develop?

From an early age, we learn how to respond to the world around us. Family relationships, school experiences, friendships, and significant life events can shape our expectations of ourselves and others.

For example, someone who grew up feeling that mistakes were unacceptable may become highly self-critical as an adult. Another person who has experienced rejection may struggle to trust others or avoid situations where they feel vulnerable. These responses can develop for understandable reasons and may once have helped the person cope.

The difficulty arises when these familiar responses no longer serve us well. Avoiding uncomfortable situations may provide immediate relief, but it can also prevent us from developing confidence. Always putting others first may protect relationships in the short term, yet it can leave us feeling exhausted or resentful over time.

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Why is change sometimes difficult?

Recognising a pattern does not automatically mean we can change it. Our responses can become so familiar that they occur before we have had time to consider other options. Stress, fatigue and emotional pressure can make it even harder to respond differently.

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That is why simply telling ourselves to stop worrying, be more confident, or think positively isn't always effective. Lasting change often begins with understanding what is happening beneath the surface.

We can start by noticing when a particular response occurs, what triggers it, what we tell ourselves about the situation and what happens afterwards. This helps us identify the connection between our thoughts, feelings, and behaviours.

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Creating new possibilities

Once we understand a pattern, we can start considering alternatives. Someone who automatically agrees to every request might practise setting a small boundary. A person

who avoids difficult conversations might learn to express their concerns more directly. Someone who interprets a mistake as failure might begin to see it as a chance to learn.

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These changes take practice. Setbacks may occur, and familiar responses may return during stressful periods. Progress is not about getting everything right; it is about gradually developing greater awareness and flexibility in how we respond.

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Psychological therapy can help people explore recurring difficulties, understand the experiences and beliefs that contribute to them, and develop more helpful ways of managing everyday challenges.

We cannot always change what has happened to us, and we cannot control every situation we encounter. However, we can recognise patterns that no longer help us and develop different ways to move forward.

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Sometimes, the first step toward change isn't trying harder. It is understanding ourselves a little better.

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Personal Transitions supports individuals, children and families to understand difficulties, build psychological wellbeing and work towards meaningful change., Visit Personaltransitions.com.au or contact Cristie on 0488 667 264 or Sharon on 0418 708 214.

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Council has given Elementa Whitsundays the green light to build the Grand Marquee, a 350 guest capacity event space set to become the centrepiece of the venue.

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The Grand Marquee will be positioned in between the luxury villas and directly behind the  

venue's 74 Islands Distillery bar and rooftop area, completing the precinct as its crown jewel

with a wrap-around balcony offering guests uninterrupted views across Pioneer Bay and out  

to the islands.

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The new event space will open Elementa Whitsundays up to large scale weddings,  

conferences, gala dinners and private functions — events that previously the region has had  

limited capacity to host at this scale.

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Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said the new event space would add another  

option to Airlie Beach’s already strong visitor and events offering.

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“Fresh from Airlie Beach being named Australia’s Top Small Tourism Town, it’s great to see our  

visitor and events offering continuing to grow,” Mayor Collins said.

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“Airlie Beach is already a popular destination for weddings, events and celebrations, and  

having a diverse range of venues and experiences only adds to what we can offer.

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“It’s another positive addition for Airlie Beach and another reason for people to choose the  

Whitsundays for their next event or special occasion.”

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Elementa Whitsundays Director Glenn Hitch welcomed the approval.

"This is a significant milestone for Elementa and for the region," Mr Hitch said.  

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"The Grand Marquee has been a long-held vision for us, and to see it approved means we can now deliver an event space that genuinely matches the beauty of the location.

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"I'd like to sincerely thank Whitsunday Regional Council for their support throughout the  

application process. Their backing of projects like this is what allows local tourism operators  

to keep investing in the Whitsundays."

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The announcement of the successful application accompanies the appointment of a new  

dedicated Events Executive Caitlin Mcluskey who, with over 20 years experience in the events  

industry, brings a wealth of knowledge and a shared vision to bring new and exciting events to  

the venue. The Grand Marquee joins the venue's existing accommodation villas, 74 Islands Distillery and rooftop bar, further establishing Elementa Whitsundays as a destination for both visitors and the local community.

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For event and weddings enquiries please contact bookings@74islandsdistillery.com

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Major projects understandably attract most of the attention.

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New community hubs, major roadworks and infrastructure that unlocks housing are important investments in the future of the Whitsundays.

But good communities are also shaped by hundreds of smaller improvements that people use every day.

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At Dingo Beach, Council has rebuilt the swimming enclosure, renewed the foreshore playground and is adding an outdoor shower near the upgraded amenities.

Across Bowen, playgrounds and BBQ shelters are being renewed at Horseshoe Bay, Rose Bay, Hansen Park and the Front Beach, while exercise equipment at Queens Beach is also being upgraded.

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Rotary Park in Proserpine has received a playground refresh, and ageing playground assets are being renewed in Collinsville, Scottville and Mt Coolon.

Across the region, Council’s parks renewal program has addressed more than 75 ageing or weather-damaged assets across 23 parks.

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There is similar work happening across our road network, including the planned replacement of two ageing timber bridges on Kelsey Creek Road, an important connection for residents, agriculture and heavy vehicles.

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Individually, these projects may not make front-page news.

But a safer playground, better public amenities, a renewed park or a more reliable local road can make a very real difference to the people who use them every day.

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Building a better Whitsundays means delivering the major infrastructure our growing region needs while also continuing to improve the places and services that shape everyday life.

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Infront Security combines a locally managed North Queensland team with the resources of a larger Queensland operation, providing hands-on oversight and responsive service across the Whitsundays.

The business aims to challenge expectations of regional security, demonstrating that local clients can expect the same professionalism and accountability available anywhere else.

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Meeting changing needs

Security now involves much more than having an officer onsite. Infront is seeing growing demand for stronger compliance, better reporting and technology that helps contractors identify and manage risk.

Officers also need sound judgement and communication skills, with customer service and situational awareness increasingly important to the role.

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Workforce availability remains a regional challenge, making recruitment, training and local career pathways essential.

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Investing in people

Over the past two years, Infront has focused on becoming an employer of choice within the local security industry.

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Through improved retention, cross-training and development opportunities, the business has strengthened its ability to cover leave and illness while responding to new contracts and unexpected client needs.

That investment helps maintain consistent service, even when circumstances change at short notice.

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Lessons from business

Infront’s advice starts with looking after employees, who represent the business when its leaders are not there. Investing in staff and recognising their efforts helps build a reliable team.

Early, honest communication with employees and clients is equally important, particularly when problems arise.

The business also cautions against overpromising, with lasting relationships built by consistently delivering on commitments.

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The value of connection

Chamber membership has helped Infront build relationships across the Whitsunday business community and better understand local developments.

Events bring the team into contact with businesses they might otherwise never meet, opening conversations that can lead to partnerships.

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For Infront, those connections offer opportunities to learn from fellow business owners and support the region’s continued growth.

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Tourism Whitsundays Board at the 2026 Tourism Awards.  

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Contributed with thanks by Tourism Whitsundays.

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Tourism Whitsundays is pleased to welcome Kylie Forgione and Renae Trimble to our Board, bringing fresh perspectives and considerable industry experience to help guide the future of destination marketing for our region.  

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Kylie has called the Whitsundays home for more than 15 years and brings a strong understanding of our local community and the people who make our tourism industry what it is.  

As Work, Study + Play Program Leader with Flight Centre Travel Academy, she works closely with tourism and hospitality operators to connect emerging talent with education, employment and career pathways.  

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Her experience provides valuable insight into workforce development and the opportunities to build a skilled, engaged and sustainable tourism workforce for the future.  

“I’ve always believed the greatest strength of the Whitsundays is its people,” said Kylie.  

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“Joining the Tourism Whitsundays Board is an incredible opportunity to give back to the community and industry I’m so passionate about. I’m looking forward to bringing my experience, energy and perspective to the table, championing our tourism operators and working collaboratively to build a strong, sustainable future for the region we all love.”  

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Renae joins the Board representing the island seat, bringing more than 25 years of experience across hospitality, commercial strategy and customer engagement.  

As Chief Operating Officer at Hamilton Island, she oversees a diverse portfolio of operations, while her previous senior leadership roles with the National Rugby League and Accor have given her extensive experience in commercial growth, digital and marketing.  

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The Whitsundays is an incredible part of Australia, and I’m thrilled to be joining the Tourism Whitsundays board at such an exciting time,” said Renae.  

“I’m looking forward to working with my fellow board members, local operators and partners to build on the region’s strengths - from its extraordinary natural beauty to the experiences and hospitality that give visitors every reason to return.”  

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A strong and diverse Board brings valuable perspectives to the opportunities and challenges facing our industry and helps guide the strategic direction of Tourism Whitsundays.  

Kylie and Renae bring complementary experience across workforce development, commercial strategy and tourism operations, strengthening the expertise at the Board table as we work to grow the destination’s profile and support the long-term success of our regional tourism industry.  

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The Whitsundays is a naturally iconic destination, but its ongoing success depends on the people, businesses and partnerships behind it.  

Tourism Whitsundays look forward to working with both Kylie and Renae as we continue to build a resilient, sustainable tourism industry that delivers lasting benefits for our region.  

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Photo supplied: The Lott

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A missed call on Saturday morning led a Whitsundays woman to discover she had won $1 million, enough to pay off her family’s mortgage.

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The woman held Australia’s only division one winning entry in the Weekday Windfall draw on Friday 30th October. The following morning with her family, she spotted a text from The Lott and opened the app to check her ticket.

“I was very shocked,” the mystery millionaire told The Lott.  

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“I had my family with me and I was thinking, ‘Does that say what I think it does?’”

The family had already been thinking about moving, and the win gives them more room to decide where to go next.

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“It will mean we won’t have a mortgage anymore,” she said.

“It will take the pressure off.”  

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The woman apparently regularly entered the Monday, Wednesday and Friday Weekday Windfall draws, proving persistence does pay off.  

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Reclaim the Night 2026. Photo credit: Zach Houtenville

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Rain failed to dampen the community’s resolve as locals walked through Airlie Beach for the second annual Reclaim the Night march, calling for women to feel safe in their community after dark.

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Hosted by Whitsundays Counselling and Support, the walk from the Fairy Tree to Shingley Beach brought together residents of all ages, local police and Mayor Ry Collins in solidarity against sexual violence.

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Reclaim the Night began in the UK in the 1970s, with women taking to the streets to protest violence and demand the freedom to walk safely after dark.  

Held during Queensland’s Sexual Violence Awareness Month, the Airlie Beach march highlighted the same rights, which Whitsundays Counselling and support domestic and family violence coordinator Charlotte said women should not have to fight for.

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“We should feel comfortable and safe walking in the community,” she said.

Charlotte praised the turnout despite the wet weather. At the Fairy Tree speakers highlighted everyone’s right to feel safe, regardless of gender, before participants set off on 1.6-kilometre walk to Shingley beach.  

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The walk concluded with snacks and further speeches raising awareness of sexual violence.

With a Reclaim the Night march taking place in Bowen the previous evening, the event reflected a shared commitment to making the Whitsundays safer for everyone.

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Riley McAlister and Michelle Bravford

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Proserpine State High School Year 11 student Riley McAlister has flown a plane before driving a car on his own, completing his first solo flight in Townsville during the school holidays.

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“When they left me by myself in the plane for the first time, I did feel a little bit nervous, but I felt more free,” Riley said.

“When I first took off, it was, wow, I’m flying a plane by myself.  

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“Before I’ve even got my Ps.”

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The 16-year-old secured one of just eight places in a flying course through the Australian Air Force Cadets after applying for a second time late last year. The course combines aviation theory with practical flight training, preparing cadets to fly solo under the guidance of experienced instructors.  

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What began as an opportunity to try something new has grown into a passion for aviation, with Riley now hoping to become an Air Force pilot.

“I used to not have too much of an interest in aviation, but after this experience and once I got in, my knowledge and just willingness to learn more about it increased massively,” Riley said.

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Riley’s prep began in late July or early August, taking weekend trips to Mackay to train alongside an instructor.  

During the September school holidays, he travelled to Townsville for an intensive week of flying and independent study, working towards his first solo flight on the Friday.

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With around 17½ hours of flying experience recorded in total, Riley said the training helped him feel ready to take the controls alone.

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“By then, it was all in my head, and I knew what to do,” he said.

FLTLT (AAFC) Michelle Brayford, commanding officer of 110 Squadron and a senior teacher at Proserpine State High School, said she was “incredibly proud” of Riley’s first solo flight.

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Brayford, who teaches maths, agriculture and digital technologies, said Riley competed against about 600 cadets for the scholarship and completed his flight training in his own time while keeping up with school.

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“To do that, as well as juggle school and other external commitments that he has, it’s just such a credit to Riley and the committed person that he always is,” she said.

Riley joined the squadron at 12, just as he started high school. He, 4 years on, now helps Brayford run Friday night cadet sessions alongside another senior cadet.

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“One thing that I pride 110 Squadron on with regards to the Air Force cadets is their leadership ability,” she said.  

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“Riley’s done that impeccably.”  

Riley is saving to build up his flying hours locally and earn his pilot’s licence, with his years in cadets drawing him to the teamwork and shared sense of purpose he sees in the Air Force.

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“I’m wanting to become a pilot in the Air Force, so hopefully that works out,” Riley said.

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