Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
12th August 2026 For more than 8 years, World Wide Boat Brokers (WWBB) has been helping people buy, sell and enjoy boating across Australia. With eight locations nationwide, the team combines local knowledge with a global network and experience across both new and pre-owned vessels. Here in the Whitsundays, the team is led by locals Dan and Jennie Howcroft, who have called the region home for more than 20 years. Based at Port of Airlie, the Whitsundays office provides local expertise backed by the reach of the wider World Wide Boat Brokers team. World Wide Boat Brokers has recently expanded its offering, having been appointed Queensland Agent for the Hanse Group. The appointment brings an exciting selection of internationally recognised sailing and motor yacht brands to Queensland, giving local boat buyers greater choice when considering a new vessel. The range includes Excess performance catamarans, Southerly Yachts with their innovative swing keel, Hanse cruising yachts, Moody luxury true deck saloons, Dehler cruiser-racers, Fjord head-turning day boats and Sealine family motor yachts. With Airlie Beach as the gateway to some of Australia’s most spectacular cruising grounds, having access to the right boat can open up an entirely different way of exploring the region. Whether it’s sailing the Whitsunday Islands, relaxing at Whitehaven, heading offshore to the Great Barrier Reef, spending weekends with family or setting off on bluewater adventures, there is now a broader range of new boats to explore alongside WWBB’s extensive brokerage listings. Dan and Jennie have built a strong reputation as preferred Whitsunday brokers, going above and beyond for the local boating community. They also offer boat management and superyacht services, while WWBB provides brokerage services and expert advice on ownership options, including syndicates. The team’s presence across North Queensland is growing, with new broker Mike Adlard based in Townsville and servicing the wider region. Supporting this expansion is Alex Wenger, WWBB’s New Boat Sales & Liaison, dedicated to new boat sales across the entire range. As part of the new Hanse offering, WWBB Whitsundays will host a Hanse Open Yacht Day on Saturday 15 August, from 12pm–5pm, during the lay day of Airlie Beach and Hamilton Island Race Weeks. Visitors are invited to step aboard a Hanse 410 and meet the team. Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, explore ownership options or simply curious about what’s available, drop into the Whitsundays office at The Boathouse, Port of Airlie Marina. “Dan and Jennie are a real power duo and have been excelling in the Whitsundays. They are integral members of the team, playing a key role in our continued expansion. We couldn’t do it without them.” - Ant Kovacevic, WWBB Managing Director “We’re incredibly fortunate to live and work in the Whitsundays, and we see firsthand how much there is to enjoy on the water. We’re excited to offer locals more choice and help them find a boat that genuinely fits what they’re looking for.” - Dan Howcroft, WWBB Whitsundays With more brands, boats and local expertise on your doorstep, there has never been a better opportunity to find the right boat for you. worldwideboatbrokers.com.au
Read the full story
The Whitsunday rental market has tightened further, with the region recording one of Queensland’s biggest declines in rental availability during the June quarter. The latest Residential Vacancy Rate Report from the Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ) found the Whitsunday vacancy rate fell by 0.4 percentage points over the three months to June, dropping to just 0.9 per cent. The result places Whitsunday firmly within the REIQ’s classification of a ‘tight’ rental market, with any vacancy rate below 2.5 per cent considered tight. Whitsunday was among the regions experiencing the most significant tightening across Queensland, alongside Mount Isa, which recorded a 0.7 percentage point decline, and Townsville and Lockyer Valley, which each fell by 0.3 percentage points. The latest figures come as Queensland’s rental market remains constrained overall, despite more than half of the regions monitored by the REIQ recording an increase in vacancies during the quarter. Statewide, the vacancy rate edged up to 1.0 per cent, still well below the REIQ’s ‘healthy’ range of 2.6 to 3.5 per cent. Of the 50 regions tracked, 29 recorded vacancy rates of 1.0 per cent or less. REIQ CEO Antonia Mercorella said the market remained under pressure, with affordability influencing both tenants and property owners. “We’re seeing more regions relax than tighten, particularly across parts of regional Queensland, but we're still a long way from what anyone would call a healthy rental market,” Ms Mercorella said. She said increasing housing supply remained the most sustainable solution to Queensland’s rental and affordability pressures. For Whitsunday renters, however, the latest figures suggest finding a home remains a significant challenge, with fewer than one in every 100 rental properties estimated to be vacant. https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/panorama-airlie-beach-whitsunday-region-queensland-2280606283?trackingId=3818f298-24fe-43d6-892e-20c57f951ba7&listId=searchResults For Whitsunday renters, the latest figures suggest finding a home remains a significant challenge. Photo source: Shutterstock
Read the full story
$88,000 is set to boost one of Bowen’s oldest sporting institutions, with the Bowen Turf Club securing funding that’ll help keep horses and riders safe for years to come. The grant comes as part of the Racing Queensland’s Country Club Asset Funding program, which was gifted $450,000 by the government as a means of infrastructure upgrades. The commitment to broader industry, as part of the The Next Lap: A Plan for the Future of Queensland Racing initiative. Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP welcomed the funding, with the Burdekin Race Club receiving $365,000 and the Bowen Turf Club receiving $88,000. “Both the Burdekin Growers Race Day and the Bowen Cup have cemented themselves into the North’s social calendar drawing thousands of visitors to our regions and boosting local economies,” Mr Last said. “Racing Queensland’s Country Club Asset Funding program provides support towards infrastructure repairs, maintenance and asset replacement to ensure our country race clubs can continue to host the race days that become calendar highlights each year.” "By supporting the investment into new jockey and stewards rooms at the Burdekin Race Club we provide opportunities to host more of our favourite race days right here at Home Hill." For the Bowen Turf Club, the funding gives the volunteer-run organisation that has been working in the region for more than 160 years, a chance for a much needed upgrade. The money will go towards replacing the ageing running rail around the club’s training track with a new poly running rail, helping keep horses and riders safe at a facility that continues to be regularly used for training. “It’s huge because for a club to pull that sort of money out of the bank, that’s enough to wreck clubs,” said Steven Daly, President of the Bowen Turf Club. “It’s critical infrastructure, especially when you’ve got horses trained at the track, for the safety of the horse and the rider.” This money comes at a great time, with upcoming events like the Ben Bolt Cup this weekend and the heavily anticipated Bowen Cup in October. These events draw thousands of people to Bowen, with the Ben Bolt Cup bringing in around 800 to 1,000 people and the Bowen Cup pulling crowds of more than 3,000. For those trackside, Steven said the new rail would also give the facility a cleaner, more professional look, helping keep the club attracting these crowds for years to come. “The new stuff looks professional to the punter, but it’s critical for the horses and riders,” Steven said. “We’ve got to maintain what we’ve got and keep upgrading.”
Read the full story
By Chelsea Ravizza Growing community opposition has emerged over the Queensland Department of Primary Industries' (DPI) trials of tunnel nets in the Whitsundays, with residents, tourism operators and recreational fishers voicing concerns about the potential environmental and economic impacts of the proposed alternative to gill net fishing. In May, more than 120 members of the Whitsundays community attended an information evening about the DPI’s trials of tunnel nets of up to 1.6 kilometres long, as part of research into alternative commercial fishing methods following the phase-out of inshore gillnets, with trials conducted in North Airlie, Double Bay, Shute Harbour, Bowen, Edgecumbe Bay and Sinclair Bay. During the meeting, organisers from the Inshore Flats Project said trial data showed the nets captured more than 30,000 fish across 17 trial deployments and raised concerns about the potential impact on fish stocks, juvenile fish habitats, dugong protection areas and popular recreational and tourism sites. Coincidingly, the Inshore Flats Project also used the meeting to launch an online petition, available via www.change.org/p/stop-a-new-tunnel-net-fishery-in-the-great-barrier-reef-world-heritage-area, opposing the introduction of a tunnel net fishery, which has since attracted more than 10,500 signatures. “A new tunnel net fishery means deploying huge nets up to 1.6 km long, which lack capture selectivity, onto our beaches, bays and foreshores, to harvest high volumes of lower-value seafood. These sites include fish nursery and protected species habitats in a World Heritage Area,” said a spokesperson of the Inshore Flats Project. “This risks depleting local fish stocks, damaging coastal ecosystems, and harming local businesses that depend on recreational fishing and tourism. Accordingly, we have asked the QLD Government to permanently cease all tunnel net trials and divert the allocated public funds toward supporting the seafood industry in better ways.” Concerns raised at the meeting also prompted questions about the level of community consultation surrounding the trials, with opponents arguing the large nets could affect popular recreational fishing areas and tourism activities, including boating, kayaking and wildlife viewing. Among those in attendance was local resident Sammantha Wood, who said she had been unaware of the proposal until the presentation and believed many others were in the same position. “I genuinely hadn’t heard about the proposal before attending the presentation, and many people I spoke to afterwards hadn’t either,” said Ms Wood. “Regardless of where people stand on the issue, I believe the community deserves to know what’s being proposed so they can educate themselves, ask questions and be involved in the conversation before any long-term decisions are made.” A Department of Primary Industries spokesperson said the trials form part of research into alternative low-impact fishing methods following the removal of gillnets, with the department highlighting the research would help build the evidence base to inform future fisheries management decisions. “The Queensland Government is committed to working with industry to identify sustainable, practical and evidence-based solutions that support the long-term future of Queensland’s inshore fishing industry as it transitions away from large mesh gillnets,” said a spokesperson for DPI. “The Department of Primary Industries is working with commercial fishers, researchers and other stakeholders to assess a range of alternative fishing gears that could support a sustainable and commercially viable fishing industry. The purpose of the trials is to collect scientific and operational information to inform future fisheries management decisions.” Ms Wood said the strong turnout at the information evening showed there was significant community interest in the proposal, with many attendees wanting more information about the potential impacts on the region. “While people have different opinions, there seems to be a common feeling that the community wants to be informed and have a voice, and the majority of people I’ve spoken to feel that this is not the right area for them.” Ms Wood said her concerns centred on protecting the region’s marine environment and ensuring any future decisions were supported by scientific evidence and meaningful community consultation. “We [the Whitsundays region] rely heavily on healthy marine ecosystems, recreational fishing and tourism, and I think it’s important that any decisions are based on robust science, transparency and genuine community consultation,” she said. “If there’s any risk of significant impacts on sensitive inshore habitats or species, I believe those risks should be carefully assessed before permanent changes are made.” Tourism Whitsundays Public Relations and Social Media Manager Rosanagh Gallivan said the organisation had not been formally consulted on the trials but was actively monitoring the issue after concerns were raised by tourism operators and intended to write to Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell to outline those concerns. “The Whitsundays is the leading destination on the Great Barrier Reef, and our pristine marine environment is at the heart of the visitor experience - it's vital that any decisions affecting it are carefully considered,” Ms Gallivan said. “Tourism operators have raised concerns with us about the proposed tunnel net trials, and while Tourism Whitsundays has not been formally consulted, we are actively monitoring the issue and will be raising those concerns with the State Government to ensure the tourism industry's perspective is heard.” Several members of the Inshore Flats Project from across the Mackay and Hinchinbrook regions have also voiced concerns about the tunnel net trials, with charter guides and recreational fishers expressing fears about the potential impact on the region's marine environment and tourism industry. North Queensland flats charter guide Clint Isaac said he could not understand why the proposal was being considered. “It blows my mind that the Queensland Government is even considering the introduction of 1.6 kilometre-long nets into the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area,” Mr Isaac said. Retired North Queensland flats charter guide John Haenke, who witnessed one of last year's tunnel net trials at Bowen, said the experience reinforced his concerns about the proposed fishing method. “What I saw at Bowen was completely unsustainable – trapped turtles and rays, plus thousands of stressed fish jammed together in a small mesh chamber, including dead and injured fish,” Mr Haenke said. DPI said the FishLIGHT program would continue evaluating a range of alternative fishing methods and technologies to better understand their operational performance, environmental outcomes and suitability for Queensland fisheries, with data collected through the trials continuing to be analysed ahead of the statewide phase-out of inshore gillnets in June 2027. “No decisions have been made about any future fisheries management arrangements,” said a spokesperson for DPI. "Any future consideration of changes would be informed by the available scientific evidence and be subject to the appropriate regulatory processes and stakeholder consultation.” CAPTIONS: Thousands of fish were photographed crowded together in the tunnel net sock during one of the trials conducted in Bowen in 2025. Photo credit: John Haenke A turtle interacting with one of the tunnel net wings during a FishLIGHT trial in Bowen. Photo credit: John Haenke
Read the full story
After the crash. Photos supplied by Rogin Taylor
After 61 years in the cockpit, experienced Whitsunday pilot Rogin Taylor has walked away uninjured from another frightening incident after his aircraft collided with an airport utility vehicle on the runway at Whitsunday Coast Airport.
At 5pm on Saturday 8th August, Whitsunday Sports Aviators Club president and Proserpine Aero Club vice-president Rogin Taylor was bringing his Atec Zephyr into Whitsunday Coast Airport, where he planned to leave the aircraft ahead of a four-day flying safari around North Queensland with four mates.
After touching down on Runway 11, Rogin said he spotted an airport utility vehicle stationary about 100 metres ahead.
With the aircraft already committed to the landing, he veered right in an attempt to avoid a head-on collision, but the left wing struck the vehicle, snapping off and spinning the plane around completely.
“It was distressing, actually a little bit frightening,” said Rogin.
Despite the impact and damage to the aircraft, Rogin escaped the collision without injury, although he said damage to the cockpit controls made it difficult to climb out.
Rogin said he expected the vehicle to move clear of the runway before his aircraft reached it, believing the driver had seen him in time. He claimed the driver later told him he had been unable to see the approaching plane due to the setting sun.
The incident also disrupted operations at Whitsunday Coast Airport, with a departing Jetstar service delayed while the aircraft’s debris remained on the runway.
Whitsunday Regional Council acknowledged the incident in a statement following the collision.
“The safety of passengers, airport personnel and all airport users remains Council’s highest priority,” Council said.
“The incident has been reported to the relevant aviation authorities and is currently under investigation.”
“As the matter is under investigation, Council will not comment further on the circumstances of the incident at this time.”
This isn’t the first time the seasoned pilot has survived a frightening incident, having previously watched one of his aircraft burst into flames and, in 2022, survived a crash into the Proserpine River.
That crash left his aircraft completely submerged, with the pressure luckily freeing both Rogin and his passenger from the plane before they spent around 40 minutes swimming to shore through the most densely crocodile-populated river in Queensland.
Despite all this, Rogin is unwavering in his love for flying, and even has plans of getting back in the plane sooner than you’d believe.
“I just put it all behind me,” Rogin said.
“I also have another airplane which I'll probably fly later this week.”
Amanda Camm MP, Premier David Crisafulli, students from Proserpine state high school and St Catherines Catholic College cutting the ribbon and officially opening the new office. All photo credit: Zach Houtenville.
Amanda Camm MP has officially cut the ribbon unveiling the new Whitsunday Electorate office in Proserpine, drawing in all types of community members, alongside a surprise appearance from Premier David Crisafulli.
The new office marks a fresh chapter for the Whitsunday electorate, with Ms Camm welcoming and thanking guests through the doors to celebrate the opening alongside her staff, community representatives, students and volunteers.
The Premier was among those in attendance, making a surprise trip to Proserpine to help officially open the office, cut the ceremonial ribbon and chat with attendees, while sharing his optimism for the future of the community.
“There is a future, let me tell you there is a future, and you're living it and you're feeling it at the moment,” Mr Crisafulli said in a speech at the opening.
“[Amanda Camm] loves the community, she’s served it across two levels of government, she believes in you and she fights hard for you.”
Ms Camm used the gathering as an opportunity to recognise several standouts within the community who have gone above and beyond through their time and commitment.
Among those recognised was Lyn Burke, who received a special acknowledgement for her contribution to the community, alongside Val and Michael Kimpton for their efforts in delivering the recent Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival, and Shane from Fierce Signage in Mackay for his quick work installing the new signage in time for the grand opening.
She also recognised members of her electorate team, thanking them for the work they do behind the scenes to support her and the wider Whitsunday community.
“There are so many people here who contribute so much, but really go above and beyond with their time and their commitment,” Ms Camm said.
“In doing so, it really showcases our community as well.”
A 60 year old sea turtle has been returned home after rehabilitation. Photo source: Eco Barge Clean Seas
A mature green sea turtle believed to be approximately 60 years old has returned to the sea after months of rehabilitation at the Whitsunday Turtle Rescue Centre, operated by Eco Barge Clean Seas.
Regina has been released back into Whitsunday waters at Hayman Island following her recovery from a serious boat-strike injury and buoyancy syndrome, near the area she was discovered.
Resort staff had been closely monitoring her condition over several months when it became clear that intervention was needed.
The Centre’s dedicated volunteer turtle carers provided daily treatment, monitoring and nutritional support. Her wound gradually healed, her buoyancy improved and she regained the strength needed to return to the wild.
“Regina’s recovery is a wonderful example of what can be achieved when the community comes together to protect our marine wildlife,” said Libby Edge, Founder and CEO of Eco Barge Clean Seas.
“To see her regain her strength and return to the wild is incredibly rewarding for everyone involved in her rescue and rehabilitation.”
The rescue has reminded local boaties to slow down in areas where turtles are known to occur and maintain a careful lookout for marine wildlife, and sparked deep gratitude for the hardworking volunteers dedicating their time to looking after our beautiful reef.
Whether you're arriving for a tropical holiday, heading out to explore the islands or travelling to and from the region, Whitsunday Transit is helping locals and visitors stay connected every step of the way.
As the Whitsundays' leading transport provider, Whitsunday Transit operates a fleet of modern, air-conditioned buses and coaches, meeting all incoming and departing flights at Whitsunday Coast Airport in Proserpine. Guests are then transported to a variety of destinations and accommodation providers throughout Airlie Beach and the surrounding area.
The service also caters to passengers travelling by rail, with vehicles meeting all arriving and departing Queensland Rail services at Proserpine.
For those eager to experience some of the region's most iconic attractions, Whitsunday Transit provides convenient connections to the Whitsunday Islands, the Great Barrier Reef and the world-famous Whitehaven Beach, with regular services stopping at the Cruise Whitsundays Maritime Terminal at the Port of Airlie.
In addition to tourism services, the company offers school transfers and charter services, with a range of vehicles available to accommodate groups of all sizes.
Recognised as a Queensland Good to Go business, Whitsunday Transit continues to play an important role in helping people discover everything the region has to offer.
From the moment visitors arrive to the time they head home, the team is ready to welcome passengers aboard and connect them with the beauty of the Whitsundays.
For more information, visit whitsundaytransit.com.au
Some places are too good to stay secret, even if the locals wish they could.
Just 45 minutes north of Airlie Beach, at the end of one of the Whitsundays' most scenic coastal drives, sits Dingo Beach Hotel – the kind of old-school Queensland pub that reminds you why the best discoveries are often found off the beaten track.
With absolute beachfront views, an easy-going atmosphere and genuine North Queensland hospitality, it's the sort of place where lunch has a habit of turning into an afternoon, and an afternoon can easily become a weekend away.
Since new owners took the reins in March 2025, the much-loved local icon has undergone a thoughtful refresh, with improvements designed to make the venue even more comfortable and welcoming while preserving everything that makes it special. It's still the relaxed coastal pub locals love – just better than ever.
Whether you're chasing a hearty pub meal, a cold beer overlooking the Coral Sea or simply somewhere to slow down for a while, Dingo Beach Hotel delivers the kind of authentic Queensland experience that'sbecoming harder to find. It's pet-friendly, offers comfortable motel-style accommodation if you decide to stay the night, and even has a Thirsty Camel bottle shop on site, making it a handy stop for travellers and boaties stocking up for their next adventure.
If you're visiting the Whitsundays and want to experience more than the usual tourist trail, this hidden gem is well worth the detour. Enjoy live music every Saturday and Sunday, and keep an eye on the Dingo Beach Hotel Facebook page for upcoming gigs, events and what's happening next.
To plan your visit, head to dingobeachhotel.com.au
The Stonka Fishing Challenge is only made possible by the support of some Amazing Sponsors.
BROUGHT TO YOU BY:
AND HELD AT THE:
PLATINUM SPONSORS:
GOLD SPONSORS:
SILVER SPONSORS:
BRONZE SPONSORS:
Images supplied by Mackay Pet Rescue Inc
While kittens often capture the spotlight, older cats have just as much love to give and are often overlooked when it comes to finding a forever home.
Mackay Pet Rescue is encouraging locals to consider adopting a mature feline, highlighting the many benefits that come with welcoming an older cat into the family. Unlike kittens, senior cats have already developed their personalities, making it easier for adopters to find a companion that suits their lifestyle. They are often calmer, well-socialised and happy to settle into a comfortable routine.
Among the rescue's current residents looking for loving homes are Elodie, Violet and Aggie, three beautiful older cats with plenty of affection to share.
The rescue team also attended the Together for Shelter Expo at Queens Park this Thursday from 10am to 1pm. Following the success of last year's event, Mackay Pet Rescue once again offered free items to visitors, while a veterinarian was on site providing health checks and vaccinations.
A representative from Zoetis was also in attendance, contributing giveaways and information, while support from the Mackay Community Foundation helped make the day possible through a community grant and donated supplies from local businesses.
For these deserving older cats, a second chance could make all the difference.
Contact Mackay Pet Rescue Inc for more information
If you find yourself in the mood for some bad news, if you really want a solid dose of negativity, if you think things are humming along a bit too nicely and you want to suck the life out of it and sink into a state of overwhelming negativity … the easiest thing to do is turn on the TV news.
The bad news could be any number of things; crime is a good one, particularly violent crime against innocent people. Let it get in your head and your depressed mood is set up for the day.
The cost of living is another beauty. Electricity costs, petrol, interest rates, inflation … turn on the morning news and you can hear all about it and set yourself up for the day.
The bad news for home owners has all been about how the property market is collapsing. It’s a national story and there is no doubt that some cities are being smashed with low clearance rates at auction and falling prices. Sydney is suffering the most.
It is definitely true that since the Federal Government’s decision to ban negative gearing on housing other than brand new builds and to increase capital gains tax, there has been a change to property markets around the country.
Investors are running for the hills in Sydney and showing a serious lack of interest in Melbourne and Brisbane.
The Government’s idea was to make property more affordable for first home buyers but in those big cities the first home buyers seem to be holding off as the prices fall. Meanwhile, home owners in those cities are stressed as they see the value of their properties fall. Strangely, most people don’t want the value of their home to fall.
But the national news coverage doesn’t tell you anything about Mackay. What are buyers doing here?
One good way of assessing that is to look at the number of loan applications and submissions from mortgage brokers to banks for those loans.
Gardian CEO Ben Phillips was until recently in charge of Gardian Finance’s Mortgage Choice franchise and in his new CEO role he obviously continues to have his finger on that pulse.
He spoke with Gardian real estate’s sales team the other day to tell us that whatever we might be hearing about the real estate situation around the country, it is a different story here.
The big indicator is the number of people in Mackay who are applying for loans to buy properties here.
The Gardian Finance/Mortgage Choice franchise is one of the most successful in the country and the number of loan applications in a particular month or quarter gives a good indication of the number of buyers in our market.
Gardian Finance’s Mortgage Choice franchise is 14th in the country for the dollar value of settlements (we are competing against much higher prices in southern cities) and is fourth in Australia for the number of submissions for loan approvals.
So current loan applications through Gardian finance tell us something about the number of buyers out there.
Ben said that in the month of July, we had the fourth-highest number of loan submissions in 26 years of business. That’s not bad in a supposed property downturn.
“We are incredibly busy with loan applications from Mackay buyers,” Ben told me.
“It shows that you can listen to the national news but Mackay seems to run differently to the capital cities and the settlement and loan submission numbers show that Mackay is getting on with it and people want to buy properties
“This is the best year we have had in terms of loan submissions and July was one of our strongest months ever.”
“Ninety-two per cent of the loan submissions are for owner-occupiers who want to put down roots in Mackay, people who love this place and feel confident about its future.”
You won’t hear about that on the national news but it’s worth knowing.
Roy Brunke has joined Blacks Real Estate as a Sales Consultant. Photo source: Blacks Real Estate
Roy Brunke has joined Blacks Real Estate as a Sales Consultant, bringing decades of experience in commercial print and marketing to the Mackay property industry.
Roy recently commenced his new role with the agency and is set to assist clients across the region with the sale of residential and commercial properties.
His background in print and marketing is expected to provide valuable insight for vendors looking to effectively present and promote their properties in a competitive market.
Blacks Real Estate said Roy’s extensive experience working with businesses and clients throughout his career would be an asset to the team and future clients alike.
Operating from offices in Mackay and Dysart, Blacks Real Estate services residential, commercial, rural and industrial clients across the wider region.
(L-R) Previous Community Bank Sarina scholarship recipients and Sarina State High School students Wyatt, Makayli and Makylha attend a Community Bank Sarina hosted business networking event at Sarina Art Gallery. Photo supplied
Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank is calling on current Year 10 students at Sarina State High School (SSHS) to apply for the 2027 Senior Schooling Scholarships, an opportunity that has already supported many local students to pursue their career goals.
From future teachers to an aspiring nurse and tradesperson, previous recipients are utilising their scholarships to support their education, develop new skills and build connections within their community.
2026 scholarship recipients and current Grade 11 students Makayli Moyle and Makylha Bourke are both working towards careers in education.
Makayli said the scholarship has helped her stay focused on her studies and has reduced financial pressure.
“After finishing school, I plan to attend university and study a Bachelor of Education to become a primary school teacher. I hope to build a career where I can make a positive difference in children's lives by helping them learn, grow, and enjoy school,” Ms Moyle said.
Fellow recipient Makylha Bourke said the scholarship had supported both her studies and her connection with the wider community, as she works towards becoming a Physical Education Teacher. She is currently studying a Bachelor of Education (Primary) through the CQUniversity SUN (Start Uni Now) Program.
“This scholarship has helped me over the past year with financial assistance for my extra school curricula, as well as helping me get to know the wider Sarina community,” Ms Bourke said.
2025 recipient Wyatt McKewen has utilised his scholarship to obtain a drone licence, purchase tools for his trade and undertake Certificate II Engineering Pathways studies, while also securing multiple apprenticeship interviews and joining the Sarina Rural Skills Centre Committee.
Fellow 2025 scholarship recipient Katie Stevenson is preparing for a career in nursing, having attended the James Cook University Heroes in Health program, where students gain insight into what it’s like to work across multiple health care disciplines.
Applications are now open for two $2,000 scholarships, available for SSHS students entering Year 11 in 2027.
These scholarships are supported through the Community Bank Sarina Community Engagement Program under the youth and education pillar, helping improve youth connectedness, enhance educational opportunities and build community leadership skills.
Community Bank Sarina Deputy Chair Maree Franettovich said the scholarships are an investment in the next generation of local leaders.
"We’ve partnered with SSHS since 2017 to support more than 20 students with scholarships, encouraging them to work towards their careers and to develop the confidence and skills that will support them beyond school."
Ms Franettovich said seeing past recipients thrive demonstrated the lasting impact of the scholarship program.
"We're proud of what our scholarship recipients are achieving and encourage Year 10 SSHS students to apply. You don't need to have the highest grades, we're looking for well rounded young people who are committed to their education and their community."
Applications for the 2027 Community Bank Sarina SSHS Senior Scholarships close on 31 August 2026. To request an application pack, email executive@sarinacommunity.com.au.
Students at Cummins South Pacific (in Paget) as part of their heavy mechanical experience. Photo source: Mackay Engineering College
The wheels are already turning for a group of Sarina State High School students, who have been getting a taste of the engineering industry through the Try Trade program at Mackay Engineering College.
Students recently visited Cummins and Autocorner, where they gained valuable hands-on experience in the automotive and mechanical sectors.
A representative from Sarina State High School praised the students' enthusiasm, strong work ethic and willingness to learn, while thanking the teams at Cummins and Autocorner for supporting the valuable industry experience.
“Opportunities like these help students explore future career pathways and develop practical skills that will benefit them well beyond the classroom,” the school stated.
“A huge thank you to the teams at Cummins and Autocorner for supporting our students and providing such valuable industry experiences.
"We're proud of everything our students have achieved – keep up the great work!”
Sarina will celebrate a significant milestone later this month with a community event recognising more than 250 years of combined history, creativity and local connection.
Sarina Community Arts & Crafts will host a triple birthday celebration on Saturday 29th August, marking 30 years of Sarina Arts & Crafts, 100 years of the Mt Pelion State School Building, and more than 120 years of the Old Sarina Courthouse and Watch House.
The celebration will be held at Railway Square, Field of Dreams, Sarina, from 9am, with official ceremonies, cake cutting and formalities taking place from 10.30am.
The event will celebrate the people, places and stories that have helped shape Sarina, with the volunteer-run Sarina Community Arts & Crafts group continuing to provide a space for local makers to share their creations.
Community members are invited to attend, reflect on Sarina’s rich history and enjoy a day of connection, creativity and celebration.
What: Sarina’s 250-Year Triple Birthday Celebration
When: Saturday 29th August, from 9am
Where: Railway Square, Field of Dreams, Sarina
Image source: Shutterstock
The Queensland Government has taken the next step in its review of the State's Financial Provisioning Scheme, releasing the Terms of Reference that will guide an assessment of whether the framework is effectively supporting both environmental rehabilitation and future investment in the resources sector.
The review was announced in Mackay during the Queensland Mining & Engineering Expo on Wednesday, 22nd July, with the Government saying it aims to ensure Queensland remains competitive as global demand for critical minerals continues to grow.
The Financial Provisioning Scheme requires resource companies to provide financial security, pay annual contributions to a central fund, or both, to cover rehabilitation costs if mining operations are abandoned or environmental obligations are not met.
The review will examine whether the scheme strikes the right balance between managing financial risk while encouraging investment, particularly from smaller explorers, mid-tier companies and emerging operators.
Minister for Natural Resources and Mines Dale Last said the review was progressing in response to concerns raised by industry.
"The Financial Provisioning Scheme has been one of the top three issues raised with me by smaller explorers and operators. We listened to our miners, we committed to a review last month and we're getting on with delivering it," Mr Last said.
"The world is entering a new era of resources growth, and the Government recognises the need for Queensland to have the most appropriate policy settings to capitalise.
"Our vision is to build on Queensland's reputation as a global resources leader and this review will ensure we are promoting new investment while balancing environmental obligations.
"We will work closely with industry as the review progresses to make sure we deliver the right settings for future development."
The Terms of Reference outline a broad assessment of the scheme's performance, Queensland's competitiveness with other jurisdictions, the treatment of small and mid-tier operators, investment settings and risk classification rules.
Consultation on the review is expected to open in September, with stakeholders invited to provide feedback on potential improvements to the scheme.
QRIDA is offering disaster recovery grants of up to $75,000 to help eligible Mackay primary producers restore their businesses after the 2025–26 severe weather events. Photo source: Shutterstock
Primary producers across the Mackay region impacted by severe weather, flooding and tropical cyclone events between December 2025 and April 2026 can now access disaster recovery grants of up to $75,000 to help restore their operations.
The Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority (QRIDA) is administering the Exceptional Disaster Assistance Recovery Grants, designed to assist eligible primary producers with the costs of clean-up, repairs and reinstatement following the Queensland Monsoon Trough, Cyclone Koji, Cyclone Narelle and associated severe weather events.
Mackay Regional Council is among the local government areas declared eligible for the assistance whereby eligible producers can apply for an initial grant of up to $10,000 to begin immediate recovery work, with subsequent applications available up to a combined maximum of $65,000, bringing the total assistance available to $75,000.
The grants can be used for a wide range of recovery activities, including purchasing or hiring equipment for clean-up, repairing damaged buildings and fencing, replacing essential plant and machinery, restoring crops, purchasing fodder, replacing deceased livestock and covering additional labour costs associated with recovery efforts.
The funding is intended to help primary production enterprises recover from direct physical damage caused by the disaster events and resume normal operations as quickly as possible.
To be eligible, applicants must operate a primary production enterprise within an activated disaster area, hold a valid Australian Business Number (ABN), demonstrate direct damage from the eligible disaster event and intend to continue operating in the affected region.
QRIDA is encouraging producers who need assistance with the application process to contact its Disaster Support team, with personalised appointments and regional support available to help applicants prepare and lodge their claims.
Applications remain open until 6th January 2027. For more information, eligibility guidelines or to apply, visit the QRIDA website, www.qrida.qld.gov.au, or phone 1800 623 946.
Queensland's new Critical Minerals Strategy aims to grow the State's resources sector by accelerating investment, processing and manufacturing. Photo source: Australian Mining
The Queensland Government has unveiled a new strategy aimed at accelerating the State's critical minerals sector, with the plan expected to support jobs, attract investment and strengthen regional economies, including resource-rich areas such as Mackay.
Delivering Queensland's Critical Minerals Future 2026–30 outlines the Government's vision to position Queensland as a globally recognised supplier of critical minerals by expanding extraction, processing, refining and manufacturing capabilities.
The strategy follows a $146 million commitment in the State Budget to help unlock Queensland's critical mineral reserves and respond to increasing global demand for resources essential to renewable energy technologies, advanced manufacturing and modern infrastructure.
Queensland is home to significant reserves of critical minerals, along with an established mining sector, skilled workforce and processing expertise, placing the State in a strong position to capitalise on changing global supply chains.
Minister for Natural Resources and Mines Dale Last said the plan would help Queensland move beyond exporting raw materials by strengthening the entire critical minerals value chain.
"We've seen the impact that recent geopolitical uncertainty and export restrictions have had on global supply chains and the need for secure and reliable sources of strategic resources," Mr Last said.
"The Delivering Queensland's Critical Minerals Future 2026–30 sets out key actions to grow Queensland's value chain to expand processing, refining and manufacturing to build a global supply chain that is shielded from externalities that halt critical and strategic resources.
"The world is knocking on Queensland's door, and we are ready to capitalise on this generational opportunity that will deliver long-term jobs and economic opportunities to regional Queensland.
"We have the resources, industrial capability, energy and importantly, the will to deliver critical minerals to the world and get this done."
The strategy aims to encourage new investment while strengthening Queensland's role as a reliable supplier of the minerals needed to support global manufacturing and secure supply chains in the years ahead.
Publishers Indemnity. Any individual or entity that places advertising, supplies copy material, or submits editorial content to Core Life Publishing agrees and undertakes to ensure that all such material:- Does not infringe upon any copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property rights;- Is free from any content that could be considered defamatory, libelous, or slanderous;- Does not infringe upon any rights related to privacy or breach of confidence;- Contains no obscene, indecent, or otherwise unlawful material;- Complies fully with the Trade Practices Act and all other applicable laws, regulations, or statutes.Furthermore, by submitting or placing such material, these individuals or entities agree to indemnify and hold harmless the publisher, Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd, and/or its agents from and against any and all investigations, claims, demands, liabilities, damages, costs, or judgments arising out of or in connection with the material provided. All material is believed to be accurate at the time of printing and remains the copyright of Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd.
© 2026 Mackay and Whitsunday Life Pty Ltd.
