Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Most body corporate committee members didn’t sign up to become property experts. They’re volunteers. They have jobs, families and their own responsibilities, yet they find themselves helping make decisions that affect their neighbours, their community and often millions of dollars’ worth of property. These are the types of issues the team at BCS Strata Mackay works through every day with body corporate committees across the region. After more than 15 years in the strata industry, BCS Strata Mackay strata manager Rachel Blaxland says the challenges may vary from building to building, but the same issues come across her desk time and again. Insurance costs are high on the list. Rising premiums continue to put pressure on committee budgets, leaving owners questioning why costs keep increasing. Rachel says helping owners understand where those costs come from is often just as important as finding ways to manage them. Maintenance planning is another common challenge. ‘Too often, maintenance is addressed after an issue arises rather than through a planned, preventative approach,’ Rachel said. She believes too many communities are forced into reactive maintenance when earlier planning could have saved both money and stress. Then there’s contractor management. Committees are regularly asked to choose between repairs, upgrades and replacement works, often with competing advice and quotes on the table. ‘Sometimes a repair quote looks attractive because it’s cheaper, but it’s important to understand whether it’s actually the best long-term solution,’ she said. Budget pressure continues to be a balancing act. Committees are trying to keep levies affordable while also ensuring enough money is being set aside for future works. Putting off difficult decisions might provide short-term relief, but it can create bigger financial challenges later. The fifth issue is one Rachel believes can make or break a community: communication. Owners are more likely to support decisions when they understand what’s happening and why. ‘Even if we’re still working through the details, it’s better to let people know something is coming,’ she said. ’Keeping owners informed helps everyone make better decisions.’ While none of these challenges are new, Rachel says the most successful committees she works with through BCS Strata Mackay share one thing in common. They don’t wait for problems to become crises. ‘Most problems don’t appear overnight. Usually, there are early warning signs that can be addressed before they become expensive.’ For Mackay’s volunteer committee members, that may be the best advice of all. The earlier an issue is tackled, the easier it is for everyone to sleep at night.
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For whatever sins I have committed in this or a previous life, I find myself a Sydney Swans fan. Many people will have noticed that their performance on the field this year has attracted far less attention than the alleged performance of a handful of players off the field, specifically at the Pullman Hotel in East Melbourne in the early hours of a recent Monday morning. Five players from the club have been banned for the remainder of the year because of alleged activities involving alcohol, drugs and female entertainers in a room at the hotel. Three of the banned players are among the top five players at the club and up there with the best AFL players in the country. I make no suggestion of guilt or innocence of any player but simply point out that the club felt their behaviour was sufficiently poor to ban them for the remainder of the year. There is also a police investigation going on regarding an allegation of sexual assault in the hotel room and, again, I make no suggestion of guilt or innocence on the part of anyone as that is a matter for the police to investigate. Putting aside the legal details of the matter, the banning of the five players, particularly Isaac Heeney, Chad Warner and Nick Blakey, left a massive hole in the side as they approached the finals. There was pretty much a consensus in media and football circles that the club was finished for the year and had no chance of progressing through the finals because of the loss of three such important players and due to the psychological and emotional impact that the incident and its aftermath must have had on the rest of the team. Swans fans, understandably, are devastated by the allegations and many have walked away from the club. Others, while appalled at the allegations, feel that it is not the fault of the players that remain and they have continued to support the club. The team won their next game against lowly North Melbourne and then it was the qualifying final last week against reigning premiers the Brisbane Lions. No one gave them a chance because three of their best players were out and the spirit of the club surely had been broken. The Swans then came out and executed a desperate, passionate, clinical, disciplined thrashing of the Lions. Players not known for leadership assumed leadership roles. Formerly fringe players asserted themselves and dominated their opponents. Players who I thought were past it returned to the team and played key roles that stifled the Lions talent. After the game, excited champion small forward Tom Papley said he was not surprised by the victory because the team’s ethos and success did not revolve around talent, it was about process. What he meant was that the success of the team didn’t require superstars, it was all about systems and processes and everyone in the team understanding the responsibilities of their role. Discipline, focus and doing the hard work that gets results. Not talent, focusing on the work that gets results. There is a lesson from this for real estate agents dealing with a changing market. It’s about the work, not profile and status. Sellers need to know that the agent is digging in, making the follow-up phone calls after inspections and open homes. Working with other agents in their agency to identify potential buyers. Contacting them, working with them, ensuring they are aware of the attributes of a particular property. Getting the flyers out. Re-working the write-up if necessary. Working for sellers and giving their property every chance of attracting the buyer who wants their property the most. Obviously an agent hast to have the skills to do the job but when the going gets tough, it’s about discipline and focus and doing everything you can to get the best result. Go Swans!
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From long-time locals who have watched the region grow and change, to those discovering a new chapter in retirement, Mackay’s older residents hold something no service directory can provide – and that’s experience, stories, knowledge and a lifetime of connection to the community. Next Tuesday 15th September, seniors will take centre stage at the Mackay Seniors Expo, with The Big Shed at Mackay Showgrounds set to become a hub of conversation, discovery and connection. Running from 9am to 12pm, the annual expo is expected to welcome around 2,000 people and more than 80 exhibitors, making it one of the region’s biggest opportunities for seniors, families, friends and carers to find out what is happening across Mackay. And there is no need to arrive armed with a list of questions. Come for the coffee. Stay for the conversations. Wander the stalls, meet someone new, discover a service you didn’t know existed, or simply enjoy being among other members of the Mackay community. From health and wellbeing to advocacy, home care, legal services, recreation, employment, community groups and technology, the impressive line-up of exhibitors means there will be plenty to explore. Local organisations including Mackay Regional Council, Mackay Regional Council Libraries, Queensland Health, Services Australia, Legal Aid Queensland, PCYC Queensland, Mackay Community Gardens, The Salvation Army and many more will be among those connecting with the community. There will also be opportunities to learn about everything from dementia support and cancer screening to accessible recreation, transport, technology, home services and community participation. The Queensland Government’s Seniors Month celebrations are about encouraging positive attitudes towards older people, supporting participation and activity, and strengthening relationships between generations, which are values that are particularly important and upheld in a close-knit community like Mackay. Because being a senior does not mean life becomes smaller. In many ways, it can open the door to new interests, new friendships, new adventures and more time to do the things that matter. Whether you have lived in Mackay for decades or are relatively new to the region, Tuesday’s expo is an invitation to get involved, ask questions, have a chat and see what is out there. Bring your curiosity, bring a friend and, most importantly, bring yourself. There is a whole community waiting to connect with you! What: Mackay Seniors Expo When: Tuesday 15th September, 9am–12pm Where: The Big Shed, Mackay Showgrounds.
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For many people, independence means being able to keep doing the everyday things that matter, with the right support around them when they need it. For almost 40 years, Comlink Australia has supported older Australians to live with greater choice, confidence and independence. Our Support at Home Packages are designed to make everyday living easier. Whether it’s assistance with meals, cleaning or personal care, our friendly team is here to provide support in a way that feels right for you. Getting out and about is just as important, which is why our reliable, door-to-door Community Transport service can help participants attend medical appointments, run errands and get where they need to go. It offers a practical and affordable transport option designed to support independence and make everyday travel easier. Navigating aged care can sometimes feel complicated, particularly as needs change over time. In Mackay, dedicated Care Partner Bernadette Moloney brings 15 years of experience in aged care, providing education, guidance and assistance to help participants and their families understand their level of care, the services available to them and how their supports can work together. If you would like to learn more about Comlink Australia and the support available in Mackay, come and meet our team at the Mackay Seniors Expo on Tuesday, 15 September 2026, from 9:00am to 12:00pm at The Big Shed, Mackay Showgrounds. Whether you are beginning to explore aged care options, reviewing your current supports or simply want to understand what help may be available, our team is here to help. www.comlinkaustralia.com.au
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Photos supplied by the office of Glen Kelly, Member for Mirani MP
Sarina is set to gain 34 new beds, with work now underway to boost hospital capacity and support local patients.
Residents in Sarina may notice work underway on the newly announced modular unit at the Brewers Road hospital campus, with the project being delivered in conjunction with Health Infrastructure Queensland.
The new unit will provide 17 adult inpatient beds at the existing Sarina Hospital campus, forming part of the Queensland Government’s plan to ease hospital congestion and increase capacity for patients experiencing delayed discharge.
The project is in addition to the transformation of the former Sarina Hospital at 1 Hospital Street, which will provide a further 17-bed transitional care facility. Together, the two projects will increase capacity in Sarina by 34 beds, with the former hospital redevelopment expected to be completed by late 2027.
Member for Mirani Glen Kelly MP recently met with Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) Chief Executive Sean Birgan and hospital representatives to announce the additional beds.
Stage Two works at the former hospital will include internal refurbishment to provide single, double, triple and quad ensuite inpatient rooms, consultation rooms, a rehabilitation gym, lounge and dining room, and a cultural family space. The campus will also undergo driveway and foundation works to improve access to the facility.
Mr Kelly said the new beds in Sarina would complement the Queensland Government’s masterplan for Mackay Base Hospital, which includes 128 new beds, expanded services including birthing, and more than 1,000 car spaces by 2030.
“Sarina is a growing community, and it is important that our health infrastructure keeps up with the needs of the Sarina,” Mr Kelly said.
“These two projects will deliver 34 new beds in Sarina and provide more appropriate care options for patients who don’t need to remain in an acute hospital bed but still require support.
“Importantly, freeing up acute hospital beds also means greater capacity across our health service for emergency admissions and elective surgery.”
Mr Birgan said the 17-bed adult inpatient unit at Brewers Road would form another element of the Mackay Hospital Expansion Project.
“This is another element of the Mackay Hospital Expansion Project and it’s all about increasing our capacity to provide patients with the right care in the right place,” Mr Birgan said.
“The reality is that the demand for those long-stay patient beds is continuing to increase. These are patients who are not in need of intensive hospital care but do need support with daily living.
“Late last year we had an average of 30 to 35 patients in this cohort and this week we have about 90 patients.
“Our numbers have essentially tripled.”
The modular unit will be relocated from a hospital site in northern New South Wales, with commissioning expected in the first quarter of 2027.
Mr Birgan said the two Sarina projects would help improve care delivery across the wider region.
“This approach addresses two key priorities for us in that we can provide more beds for those long-stay patients, which in turn gives us the beds we need to perform more elective surgery,” he said.
“The hospital setting is not always the best environment for those who don’t need acute care but do need support with daily living.”
The latest Queensland Health point-in-time census identified 54 patients experiencing delayed discharge across Mackay Isaac region hospitals, including 43 older aged care patients and 11 younger NDIS patients.
Mr Kelly said the additional capacity represented an important investment in local health infrastructure.
“It is absolutely shocking that 54 people in hospitals across our region are clinically fit for discharge but remain there because the appropriate beds, services and Commonwealth supports simply aren’t available,” Mr Kelly said.
“For Sarina, this is a significant investment in our local health infrastructure and another important step towards ensuring our health services grow alongside our community.”
A record $200,000 raised at the Isaac Mayor’s Charity Ball will support BMA CQ Rescue and local tertiary education, with each receiving $100,000. Photo supplied by Isaac Regional Council
A record-breaking $200,000 has been raised to support tertiary education and lifesaving aeromedical services across the Isaac region following the 2026 Mayor’s Charity Ball.
A sold-out crowd of 280 people attended the event, with the Isaac Regional Charity Fund splitting the proceeds between two vital regional services. BMA CQ Rescue and Country Universities Centre Isaac each received $100,000, with the cheques officially presented in Moranbah on Monday 7th September.
Isaac Mayor and Charity Fund Chair Kelly Vea Vea said the result demonstrated what could be achieved when the region rallied behind a common cause.
“In regional communities like ours, access is everything. Access to education, access to emergency services and access to opportunity,” Mayor Vea Vea said.
“Country Universities Centre Isaac helps local students pursue tertiary education close to home, while BMA CQ Rescue provides lifesaving support when it matters most.”
The funding comes during a particularly busy year for BMA CQ Rescue, which recorded 182 tasks and more than 326 flight hours between April and June alone. Crews responded to incidents across Central Queensland, including Moranbah, Dysart, Clermont and Nebo.
BMA CQ Rescue CEO Tim Healee said record tasking numbers demonstrated just how important the aeromedical service remained for regional communities.
“Every mission represents someone in our community who needs urgent medical care, often in a remote location where time is critical,” Mr Healee said.
He said the $100,000 contribution would help maintain the skilled crews, specialist medical capabilities and aviation resources needed to respond to emergencies. The other half of the record fundraising total will support Country Universities Centre Isaac, which provides local study facilities and face-to-face assistance to students in Moranbah and Clermont.
The centre has supported more than 120 students, with almost 55 per cent the first in their family to attend university. Students are currently studying across 42 courses through 34 education providers, with 60 per cent training in teaching or health-related fields.
CUC Isaac Chair Melissa Westcott said the contribution would help the centre continue giving regional students opportunities to pursue tertiary education without leaving their communities.
The Isaac Regional Charity Fund is now looking ahead to the 2027 Mayor’s Charity Ball, with sponsorship opportunities available for next year’s event.
Photo supplied: Queensland Police Service – Mackay District
Recognition was given to the service and bravery of those who have dedicated their careers to protecting the community last Wednesday 2nd September, as 73 Queensland Police Service members from across the Mackay Whitsunday District received medals, certificates and awards during a special ceremony.
With more than 100 individual honours presented throughout the event, the awards recognised a broad range of service and achievements. Awards included the National Police Service Medal, National Medal and Clasps, National Emergency Medal, Queensland Police Exemplary Conduct Medal, Queensland Police Valour Medal, Queensland Police Emergency Response Medal, Commissioner and Assistant Commissioner Certificates, and District Officer Certificates.
Among those recognised was Northern Beaches Officer in Charge Senior Sergeant Mitch Benson, who received a Queensland Police Valour Medal for an act of exceptional bravery performed during the devastating Scenic Rim bushfires in 2019.
On 6th September 2019, then-Senior Constable Benson and fellow officers volunteered to evacuate residents as raging fires rapidly spread throughout the region.
Working through thick smoke and falling embers, the officers faced significant difficulties breathing and communicating, while visibility was severely reduced. Flames behind properties reached approximately one metre in height and intensified with each gust of wind.
As the emergency continued into the early hours of 7th September, officers were again tasked with driving through affected estates and broadcasting warnings about the rapidly approaching fire, with winds predicted to reach up to 90 kilometres per hour. As homes began to ignite, officers continued clearing the estates, running from door to door to ensure residents were safely evacuated.
Their actions ensured all residents were safely accounted for despite the life-threatening conditions.
Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton, himself a former police officer, attended the ceremony and said it was a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with former colleagues and reflect on the stories behind the medals.
He particularly acknowledged Senior Sergeant Benson’s courage and ongoing community engagement.
“His bravery was helping people out of their houses, who had basically been reluctant to leave their house until the flames were almost at their back door,” Mr Dalton said.
“He went way beyond what he could safely do, but he did it to get those people out, because he loved the community.”
Mr Dalton also highlighted the recognition of Dan Goldberg, who established an innovative learner driver program designed to help young drivers better understand how to interact with police and remain safe on the roads.
The initiative provides learner drivers with practical advice and guidance, with Mr Dalton describing it as “a really good program” and noting hopes for it to eventually expand further afield.
Mackay Whitsunday District Officer Superintendent Dean Cavanagh commended every recipient recognised on the day of the ceremony.
“Everyone awarded today should be proud of their hard work, sacrifice and dedication they deliver each and every day,” said Superintendent Cavanagh.
“Their integrity and professionalism has a profound and lasting impact on the communities they serve.”
“I am pleased to recognise and honour both officers and civilians for their significant contributions to the Queensland Police Service.”
The ceremony provided a moment to pause and recognise the people behind the uniform, celebrating exceptional service alongside acts of courage that have helped protect communities both locally and across Queensland.
Mackay’s industry leaders came together for a night of celebrating, connecting and plenty of well-earned recognition. Photo source: Resource Industry Network
The region’s resources and METS sector came together to celebrate at the 2026 Resource Industry Network Awards, recognising the businesses and individuals making a difference across the industry.
The special evening also marked RIN’s 25th anniversary. Jennmar Australia was a standout on the night, taking home two awards, while Mick Crowe and Tim Magoffin jointly received the Tony Britton Award. From manufacturing and safety to workplace culture and community involvement, the awards celebrated the hard work, innovation and people helping drive the region’s resources sector forward.
The region’s resources and METS sector took centre stage on Friday evening as businesses, industry representatives and guests gathered to celebrate the 2026 Resource Industry Network (RIN) Awards.
The evening marked a major milestone for the organisation, with RIN celebrating 25 years.
Finalists and their stories were showcased throughout the evening before businesses and individuals were recognised across categories celebrating manufacturing excellence, safety, expansion, workplace culture, community connection and individual achievement.
The awards provided an opportunity to celebrate the capability, innovation, people and community spirit found throughout the region’s resources and METS sector, while guests also enjoyed conversations and new connections throughout the evening.
Jennmar Australia was among the standout recipients, receiving two awards on the night, while the Tony Britton Award was jointly awarded to Mick Crowe and Tim Magoffin.
RIN also acknowledged its Major Partner, Ausgroup Industrial Services QLD Pty Ltd, and Silver Partner, Mackay Regional Council, for their support in helping deliver the milestone celebration.
The organisation extended its thanks to every finalist, winner, partner, sponsor and guest who attended and contributed to the occasion.
Celebrating 25 years, the evening reflected on the people and businesses helping shape the region’s resources and METS sector, while also looking towards what lies ahead.
The Whitsundays Writers Festival has officially sold out, but there is still a chance for the whole community to join the final chapter.
Book lovers will gather in Cannonvale this Sunday for the sold-out 2026 Whitsundays Writers Festival, celebrating a full day of stories, ideas and local creativity.
But those without a ticket have not missed out entirely. From 3pm, the festival will open its free waterfront finale, Stories by the Sea, at the Whitsunday Marine Club.
With more than 20 regional authors, live readings, music, children’s activities, book swaps and artists creating works before the crowd, there will be something for readers and families alike.
Photo source: Mater Private Hospital Mackay
A newlywed couple shared a little piece of their wedding-day with patients at Mater Private Hospital Mackay when they donated the leftover flowers following their celebrations.
The flowers offered an unexpected spark of joy for patients spending time in hospital, giving the wedding blooms a second life rather than letting them go to waste.
According to the hospital, the gesture was warmly received by patients, who were grateful to have something beautiful to brighten their stay.
“Small gestures like this make such a big difference. Patients were filled with gratitude to receive a little extra during their stay,” the representative said.
While a wedding is traditionally a day centred on celebrating the happy couple, this local pair extended that joy to others in the community.
It is a simple gesture, but one that demonstrates how small acts of kindness can bring comfort and connection during others’ difficult or uncertain times.
Contributed with thanks by the office of Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox
The Coalition will move to stop taxpayer money being used to help investment funds acquire Australian agricultural land for carbon projects, and scrap Labor’s Net Zero laws.
The move would prohibit the Clean Energy Finance Corporation from providing funding or financial assistance to entities acquiring agricultural land for the purpose of establishing tree plantations to generate carbon offsets.
The Coalition will also introduce legislation to abolish Labor’s Net Zero, Labor’s toxic carbon taxes and end the Government’s more than $80 billion Net Zero spending spree.
The announcement follows the controversial sale of Tasmania’s 21,745-hectare Rushy Lagoon property to UK investment firm Gresham House. The Clean Energy Finance Corporation is investing $69 million in the project, with around 9,000 hectares planned for pine plantations.
Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, said the Federal Government should be backing Australian farmers and protecting productive land, rather than using taxpayer money to compete with them.
“We have farmers across Dawson working incredibly hard to put food on Australian tables, yet Labor is prepared to help foreign investment funds acquire Australian land for carbon projects.
“The question for regional Australians is simple, what comes next?”
Mr Willcox said the Government’s approach to agriculture was also at odds with its own ambitions for Australia’s biofuels industry.
“Labor is now telling us that sugar and other agricultural products can provide the feedstocks for a new Australian bioenergy industry, but you cannot build a biofuels industry without the farmers who grow the feedstock.
“You cannot tell a cane farmer to produce more, while making it harder to use the land needed to grow the crop.
“If we want a future in biofuels, we need a future for Australian agriculture first.”
Mr Willcox said recent changes to agricultural land-clearing rules had added to uncertainty for Queensland farmers.
“Australia has some of the best farmers in the world. We should be giving them every opportunity to produce more, invest more and pass their farms on to the next generation.
“The Coalition will stand with our farmers, protect our food security and make sure Australian land is working for Australian families, Australian agriculture and Australia’s future.”
Living with anxiety can often feel exhausting. The mind may become focused on potential problems, while the body remains in a state of constant alertness. Recovery involves more than simply reducing symptoms; it involves building resilience, confidence, and the ability to navigate life’s challenges. Experiencing the feeling of being “comfortably uncomfortable” rather than in a state of alertness.
Anxiety is not simply “being worried”; it is the body’s threat detection system (amygdala) becoming activated, sometimes when there is no immediate danger. The brain has evolved to protect us by rapidly identifying potential threats and preparing the body to respond through the fight, flight, freeze, or fawn response. This response helps in genuine danger, but when the alarm system becomes overly sensitive from frequent stimulation, everyday situations, uncertainty, or physical sensations can start to feel threatening.
This is how it works: when the brain perceives danger, the amygdala activates the body’s stress response. The sympathetic nervous system increases heart rate, speeds up breathing, tightens muscles, and redirects energy toward survival. Stress hormones, including adrenaline and cortisol, are released, increasing alertness and readiness to act. Prolonged activation heightens amygdala sensitivity and can leave the body in a state of ongoing stress. Individuals may experience racing thoughts, muscle tension, sleep disruption, irritability, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and increased awareness of physical sensations.
Psychotherapy, particularly approaches such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), can help individuals understand the connection between their thoughts, emotions, physical sensations, and behaviours. Therapy can provide strategies to recogniseunhelpful thinking patterns, gradually face fear-related situations, and develop more effective ways to respond to stress and uncertainty.
Exercise can complement psychotherapy by supporting both physical and psychological wellbeing. Physical activity naturally increases heart rate and breathing, creating sensations that can be similar to those experienced during anxiety. Experiencing these sensations in a safe and controlled environment may help individuals learn that an increased heart rate, sweating, or faster breathing does not necessarily mean something is wrong. This is similar to exposure therapy. As you are exposed to the physical symptoms of a perceived threat, but your mind lets you know you are in a safe space, the threat system sensitivity becomes less responsive and therefore reduces the feelings of anxiety. Exercise can also create opportunities to feel a sense of achievement, build confidence, improve sleep, and establish a routine and sense of control.
Importantly, resilience does not mean never feeling anxious or stressed. Resilience is the ability to recognise difficult emotions, respond effectively, and keep moving forward- that is, feeling “comfortably uncomfortable”. Combining psychological strategies with regular physical activity can give people more than one pathway to manage stress and strengthen their capacity to cope.
Recovery is therefore not about eliminating every uncomfortable thought or physical sensation. It is about learning that these experiences can be managed, understood, and tolerated. With the right support, individuals can move beyond simply coping with anxiety towards developing greater confidence, resilience, and participation in the things that matter to them.
If you’d like more support in managing ADHD for yourself or your family, visit my website Personal Transitions or give Cristie 0488667264 or me 0418708214.
Proserpine’s Club Championship Triples team travelled to Sarina at the weekend to contest the Champion of Champions.
Mark Holmes, Shane Kinnear and Michael Kinnear opened their campaign with a strong 26-18 victory over Sarina before falling 32-15 to Airlie Beach in the second round.
Airlie Beach then defeated Mackay Club 23-18 to advance to the final against Souths Suburban. Souths reached the decider after wins over Northern Beaches, Mackay City and Pioneer Valley, before defeating Airlie Beach 31-16 to claim the title.
Attention now turns to this weekend’s Pratt Cup, with Saturday’s games hosted by Seaforth, Mackay City, Marian and Pioneer Valley.
Proserpine will play at Mackay City, beginning with a morning match against Pioneer Valley. The winner will advance to face either North Mackay or Souths Suburban.
Representing Proserpine will be Michael Kinnear in the Singles; Shane Kinnear and Andrew Bell in the Pairs; and Gavin Noonan, Dale Haack, David Ling and Barry Saroglia in the Fours.
We wish the team good bowls for the weekend.
In Wednesday’s social bowls, Alen Sanderson, Barry Zillmann and Philip Brown defeated Alen Sanderson, Sandy Daffara and Graham Thropp 13-9.
Alen Sanderson, Graham Thropp and Barry Zillmann then drew 7-all with Alen Sanderson, Philip Brown and Sandy Daffara.
There were no social bowls on Sunday, with Philip and Heather both succumbing to colds they decided were better not shared around the club.
Lions out to support Nepal this weekend. Photo credit: Zach Houtenville
Across a busy week of fundraising, the Whitsunday Lions Club has raised about $8,100 for communities affected by devastating flash flooding in Nepal.
Efforts began on Thursday with a Father’s Day stall at Bunnings, before continuing at the weekly Saturday Lions’ markets and Sunday’s Colour Fun Run at Club Whitsunday.
“I’m not just proud of our club, I’m proud of Lions International and that we’re able to help Lions all over the world when there’s a crisis,” said Whitsunday Lions Club President Greg Smith.
Kathmandu Lions Club Past District Governor Ram Chhetri praised the support shown by the Whitsunday community.
"The Lions members in Nepal were overwhelmed by the support and compassion of Australians in their hour of need,” he said.
“The plan is for the Lions of Nepal to ensure that the funds get to where they are needed most and are spent wisely for the benefit of those in most need.
“To this point they have been supporting the rescue teams in their efforts to find survivors, however they are now looking at how to best support the thousands of displaced and homeless survivors.”
While the fundraising was organized and facilitated by the Lions club, they recognised this outstanding effort as a community-achieved goal.
“We really want to drive home that this was achieved by the community as a whole,” Greg said.
Sandra Argo and Mark Jordan with their award-winning creations. Photo credit: Zach Houtenville
What began as a what-if over a few drinks in 2018 has grown into an award-winning boutique distillery for siblings Sandra Argo and Mark Jordan, who recently took home two Gold Awards and a Silver at the 2026 Australian Distilled Spirit Awards in Melbourne.
The success story began at a family gathering in 2018, when the conversation turned to the need for a local distillery. After plenty of careful planning and a wet season spent perfecting the recipe for tropical gin, the pair’s idea was well on the way to becoming reality.
Today, the boutique distillery produces gin, rum, vodka and whisky using an assortment of kit including a family of nine Portuguese copper stills affectionately named Rhonda, Sophia, Bill, Ben, Dad and Dave.
Production begins with a stripping run, which separates the alcohol, water and selected flavours from the fermented wash. The spirit then undergoes a slower second distillation, with some runs lasting up to 16 hours. For the tropical gin fresh limes, lychees, bananas and mangoes are gently steamed inside the still, allowing their flavours to infuse without stewing the fruit.
The distillery also uses three mechanical stills for whisky production, helping to retain its rich flavour and distinctive character.
The Barrel-Aged Rum offers smooth, warming notes of caramel, vanilla and oak, while the lighter, refreshing Hibiscus Pink Gin balances delicate floral flavours with a gentle citrus finish and a flower plucked from the garden floating inside.
The flavours certainly impressed the judges, with the Single Malt Redgum Smoked Whisky and Barrel-Aged Rum each claiming gold at the Australian Distilled Spirits Awards, while the Hibiscus Pink Gin received silver.
For the duo, the medals are a proud reward for years spent producing distinctive spirits in paradise, while supporting local ingredients and businesses wherever possible.
Catch ABC distillery at the Saturday Airlie Beach markets, or give them a call on 0413171404 to arrange a tasting.
Ash may have had a rough start to life, but this sweet little survivor is ready for a much brighter chapter.
The 8-to-12-week-old Bull Arab cross Staffy arrived at Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue through the council after police recovered him from a stolen vehicle crash.
Despite everything he has been through, Ash is a healthy and affectionate puppy with plenty of love to pass around.
At his young age, he is still learning the ropes of puppy life and will need a patient family ready to guide him as he grows. With the right training, care and encouragement, Ash can become the wonderful companion his new family helps shape him to be.
If you think Ash could be the perfect addition to your home, contact Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue by direct messaging your name, phone number and “Ash” to begin the adoption process.
Jessica and Luke Volker, Lower Don Organics, Bowen have trialled different vegetable crops in their two shade houses funded by a QRIDA First Start Loan
Bowen growers Luke and Jessica Volker are taking Lower Don Organics to the next level after purchasing a larger property and moving into full-time horticulture production.
The couple bought the property in early 2025 with support from a Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority First Start Loan.
“We used the First Start Loan to buy a second, larger property that we could grow more produce on and hopefully make our business viable,” Jessica said.
The move has given them more farming land, a larger packing shed and room to grow watermelons, cherry tomatoes, eggplants, beans, capsicums and cucumbers.
“We knew that if we wanted to continue farming and make it a viable business, we needed more land,” Jessica said.
They have also added two shade houses, protecting their produce from Bowen’s summer heat while extending their growing season and helping them use water and fertiliser more efficiently.
Putting together the loan application encouraged Luke and Jessica to take a closer look at their day-to-day costs and build a stronger understanding of their business.
QRIDA Regional Area Manager Tegan McBride began working with the couple early in the process, helping them examine their production schedules, costs and plans for growth.
“Looking at the economies of scale on five acres, they were certain that the next step was a little bit bigger for them, trying to maximise their growing space and potential sales into bigger markets,” Tegan said.
Tegan said understanding the numbers helped the couple see how their plans could be scaled across a larger property.
For information about QRIDA First Start Loans, visit QRIDA’s website or call 1800 623 946.
One of the best parts of being Mayor is getting the chance to recognise people who quietly do great things for our community.
So I want to start this week by congratulating Whitsunday SES Local Controller Greg Yuskan, who has taken out the Suncorp Spirit of SES Award at the Queensland SES State Awards.
It’s a fantastic achievement and well-deserved recognition for Greg’s leadership, professionalism and commitment to our Whitsunday community.
But I reckon Greg would be the first to say that SES is very much a team effort.
Across the Whitsundays we are incredibly lucky to have people who put their hand up to help when things go wrong.
They’re SES volunteers, rural firies, marine rescue crews and the many other volunteers and emergency service personnel who turn up when our community needs them.
Most aren't doing it for awards or recognition. They do it because they care about their community and want to help.
As Chair of the Whitsunday Disaster Management Group, I get to see just how important these people are and how much work goes on behind the scenes before an emergency ever happens.
Training, planning and preparing doesn't attract much attention on a normal Tuesday afternoon.
But when a cyclone is approaching, roads are cut or somebody needs help, suddenly that preparation matters enormously.
Cyclone season officially starts on 1 November, so we're getting to that time of year when all of us should start thinking about our own preparations as well.
That doesn't mean panicking or filling the trolley with baked beans every time there's a cloud on the weather map.
It just means having a plan, knowing where you'll get reliable information, checking around the house and making sure you're ready before you need to be.
Because disaster preparedness isn't only something Council and emergency services do as we all have a part to play.
So congratulations again Greg, and thank you to every volunteer across the Whitsundays who gives their time to help keep the rest of us safe.
You probably don't hear it often enough, but our community is lucky to have you.
Whitsunday community groups and not-for-profits can now apply for grants of up to $5,000 through the new Whitsundays Chamber Community Fund.
Launched by the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Fund creates a new way for money generated through Chamber activities and local business support to be reinvested into projects benefiting the community.
The funding pool will include a share of stallholder fees from the Airlie Beach Cruise Ship Markets and Proserpine Community Markets, alongside donations, sponsorships and proceeds raised through Chamber events.
Chamber President Allan Milostic said the Fund recognised the important contribution made by volunteers, community groups and small organisations across the region.
“Some of the things that make the Whitsundays such a great place to live, work and visit aren’t run by business at all—they’re run by volunteers, community groups and small organisations working with tight budgets and a lot of goodwill,” Allan said.
“The Chamber’s role is to support business and strengthen our local economy, but a strong economy is only part of the picture.
“This Fund is about closing that loop—taking money generated locally and putting it back into local causes.”
Funding will be offered across three categories:
Applicants do not need to be Chamber members. Submissions will be assessed against published criteria, including community benefit, financial need, value for money, alignment with the Fund’s purpose and the organisation’s ability to deliver.
Chamber Portfolio Manager Cait Fleming said transparency would be central to the program, with applications independently scored by the Chamber Board.
“We want organisations to know there is a fair and transparent process, and businesses and market stallholders who contribute can have confidence their money is being put back into the community,” Cait said.
The Fund also provides local businesses with a straightforward way to support community causes through donations, sponsorships and fundraising.
“Many local businesses want to help but don’t necessarily have the capacity to identify organisations or manage grants,” Cait said.
“The Fund provides a simple way to contribute, while allowing community organisations to put forward the projects they know will make a difference.”
Round 1 opens Monday 13th September and closes at 11.59pm on Sunday 18th October, with outcomes announced by 30th November.
Applications can be submitted at www.whitsundaycoastchamber.com.au. Questions can be directed to portfolios@whitsundaycoastchamber.com.au.
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