Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
OPINION PIECE from the office of Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox There is no question that immigration into Australia is out of control. The government’s numbers are too high, and standards are too low. A sustainable migration program must consider our capacity to provide housing, healthcare, infrastructure and the essential services everyone relies on, and Australians must come first. But Labor’s decision to target Working Holiday Makers Visa holders is not the answer. These people filling vital gaps in our workforce are not the cause of Australia’s housing crisis. In many cases, they are living in accommodation provided by the very businesses that employ them. The National Farmers’ Federation has made the point that Working Holiday Makers generally stay in hostels, caravan parks or purpose-built on-farm accommodation. Resorts usually have on-site staff quarters. They are not the source of Australia’s housing shortage. So why is Labor making it harder for them to come here, when these workers fill genuine jobs that regional Australia holds? Working Holiday Makers fill approximately one in seven farm jobs nationally and are particularly important during peak agricultural periods, which for Dawson, it is right now! Farmers rely on these workers to plant, pick, pack and harvest the produce that ends up on Australian supermarket shelves. Having run one of Australia’s largest tomato farms, at times Working Holiday Makers made up more than 50 per cent of my workforce. Without them, much of our crop simply would not have been picked in time and rotted in the paddock. Some may say, why not employ the Australians who don’t have a job and are on “the dole”? Can I say, this does not work. Most farmers will employ Aussies over travelling backpackers, but many either don’t want to do the work or don’t turn up after the first day. Who picks the fruit or veggies then? Farmers are already warning that visa delays are leaving them without workers. The NFF says approvals that once took days are now facing processing times of up to three months, and this time frame can be the difference between harvesting a crop or losing it. That should concern every Australian already feeling the pressure at the supermarket checkout. The same problem is playing out in tourism. Across Dawson, Working Holiday Makers are an important part of the workforce supporting tourism and hospitality, particularly in the Whitsundays. They help fill shifts, work in hotels and restaurants, support tour operators and keep businesses running through their busiest periods. They also contribute to the local economy. They spend money on food, fuel, attractions and tours, supporting the small businesses that depend on a strong visitor economy. That is why tourism and business leaders across North Queensland are raising the alarm. They understand what happens when a regional business cannot get enough staff: opening hours are reduced, and services are cut, creating a downward spiral. We do need to reduce migration to sustainable levels. We need stronger integrity measures, and we need to crack down on rorts. But responsible migration policy means understanding which parts of the system are creating pressure and which parts are helping Australia function. Working Holiday Makers are not the problem. They are part of the workforce solution for regional. Australia. People have had a gutful of watching their standard of living go backwards. Groceries, fuel, housing and everyday expenses are already putting enormous pressure on families. The last thing Australians need is another reckless policy that makes it harder to produce food, harder to run regional businesses and harder for tourism operators to find the workers they need.
Read the full storySomeone sold a house in Sydney last week for $9 million less than they bought it for four or five years ago. The sellers had bought the property in Sydney’s eastern suburbs for $29 million and sold it for $20 million in a sale forced by their bank. I imagine the sellers are a little disappointed by the government’s decisions on negative gearing and capital gains tax and feeling pretty hurt by the increased interest rates. Australia’s interest rates are on the rise and are now sitting at levels not seen since 2011. Increased cost of living is hurting people around the country and interest rates are playing into that. But the impact of interest rates is not felt evenly around the country. The far-higher property prices mean people in the major cities suffer much more than regional areas with the rates increase. That is certainly not to say people in Mackay are unaffected by the cost of living; it’s just that the impact of interest rates increase on a $400,000 mortgage is much less than the impact on a $1m mortgage. There are other Mackay-specific factors that are in play when discussing the current housing market. The big factor is the role of coal in our economy. Most of the coal extracted and exported from our region is coking coal, which is used to make steel. The price of coking coal is around $280 a tonne, which is about 50 per cent up. Good activity in the coal market translates to good news for the Mackay economy, as it is an economic engine that other cities and regions just don’t have. Good activity in Bowen Basin flows throughout the Mackay economy; Paget workshops, transport, suppliers and related businesses all benefit. But so do other, non-mining-related businesses as they benefit from the general confidence and spending that goes on. The strong mining activity also means mines need to keep their staff levels up and that means more people moving to Mackay. Of course, Mackay is much more than a coal mining town but if the coal sector is going well those other areas definitely benefit. It is a confidence boost for Mackay people looking to get into the housing market and those wanting to upgrade or downsize. It also means continuing strong demand from people wanting to rent a property and it will be interesting to see what sort of activity that creates from investors. Investors have walked away from the big-city markets because they can no longer use negative gearing on established properties that do not have a sufficient yield to be positively geared. Negative gearing has never been a big thing in Mackay because our prices are lower and rental returns continue to be strong so many investors have a positively geared property. Around the country everyone is nervous about the state of play and the probability of more interest rate rises. But strong coal prices and an economy that is performing well mean Mackay might just be presenting an opportunity for buyers and sellers that doesn’t exist in other parts. I remember when national confidence was flying high and Mackay prices were going up significantly that many buyers were saying “I wish we had bought a while ago when the market wasn’t so hot”. I’m not armed with a crystal ball so I’m not here to tell you what is going to happen but I suspect there is a very good buying window right now for those looking for an opportunity.
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A local Mackay and Sarina based model has created a dress out of newspapers, including Mackay Life, for her upcoming pageant, representing her region and hometown on the runway as she vies for Miss Diamond International in Brisbane. Zoe Place will be competing this weekend in the three-day event, beginning this Friday 2nd October and ending on Sunday 4th October. The young model spent around a month creating her eco-fashion outfit, using old newspapers as the main material and transforming them into a bodice, skirt and flowers. Red elements were also incorporated into the design to give the dress a bold and glamorous pageant feel. Zoe said, “The entire concept was really about taking something that would normally be thrown away and turning it into something beautiful and meaningful.” Her eco-fashion creation will form part of a busy weekend in Brisbane, with the Miss Diamond International event including photo shoots, interviews, an eco-fashion show and the final pageant. Zoe has been preparing for the event by practising her strut and walking, preparing for interviews and getting comfortable in the different outfits she will wear throughout the weekend. Alongside her love of modelling, pageantry has also provided Zoe with a platform to raise awareness about causes close to her heart, including mental health, while fundraising for Beyond Blue. “Pageantry has given me more of a platform to combine my love for modelling with something that is really important to me.” “When I first started, I was more nervous about putting myself out there and worried about what others would think about me – but I’ve changed a lot through my journey in pageantry.” “Pageantry has also taught me that it’s not about how you look on stage. It’s about the person you are when you step off it.” “Every woman has their own unique journey and that journey is something we should all be really proud of.” “To me, it represents confidence, empowerment, kindness, and using your voice to make a difference.” Zoe said she was looking forward to meeting the other contestants, making new connections and creating memories. “I’m definitely looking forward to meeting all the new contestants and making new connections and creating memories that I will carry with me for a lifetime.” While Zoe hopes to eventually move to the city, her sights are set even further afield, with a dream of one day walking in New York Fashion Week. Mackay and Sarina local Zoe Place has created an eco-fashion dress from recycled newspapers, including Mackay Life, ahead of her Miss Diamond International pageant in Brisbane. Photos supplied
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Trends, reels and the endless cycle of always wanting more has quietly bombarded the minds of countless social media users of all ages, but one former Mackay local has made it her mission to help others understand the effects of social media and find practical ways to break free from online addiction. Alexis Zahner is in Mackay over the next week to teach upcoming generations about social media and the effects it can have on the mind, particularly on identity, self-discovery, as well as the marketing strategies that get viewers hooked and influence their decisions. It is something Alexis knows first-hand can be a useful tool, but also a great disruption to authenticity and the world as we see and experience it. Alexis will hold a free meet and greet and book launch today, Friday 2nd October, at 5.30pm at the Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club, where she will give a talk and answer questions relating to her debut book, Real: Reconnecting to Yourself in a World of Likes and Lies. A former Mackay girl, Alexis spent the past 15 years working across business psychology, marketing and media, with her interest in social media influence beginning during her university studies at James Cook University in Townsville. Her own experience as a social media user, travel blogger and influencer eventually led her to question how much of her identity, decisions and values were being shaped by what she saw online. “The tipping point came for me about 3 years ago when I had this feeling that I couldn't separate influence from my own personal decision making,” she said. “I couldn't separate my own likes, dislikes, values, relationships from what I was being exposed to and being influenced by online.” “I found that I needed to take some time away from social media to recalibrate what was important to me and sort of reconnect and come back to myself.” Alexis said she understood the feeling of questioning who you are outside of social media. “I know what it feels like to live a life under the influence of social media and have that existential crisis of thinking to yourself, who am I? What do I like? What's the kind of life I want to live? and struggling to separate myself from influence.” Alexis is particularly passionate about reaching teenagers, who she says are in an important stage of identity development, and will share this message with Mackay high school students during her upcoming school talks. “Teenagers are really easily influenced by social media. So it's a really important age where we start educating them – not just on the mental health repercussions of things like social media and how it shortens their attention span, but how it actually influences who they become.” “If you're asking yourself these questions, it's not your fault. Social media is actually geared to create this impact on you.” Alexis encourages people of all ages to “start expanding beyond what you see on the platform.” “Dare to indulge in the things that you've always been curious about or things you used to love,” she said. “Don't be afraid to put the phone down to let yourself be curious and have fun.” What: Alexis Zahner's 'Real' Book launch When: 5.30pm Friday 2nd October 2026 Where: Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club Former Mackay local and author Alexis Zahner is returning home to share her experiences with social media and her debut book, Real. Photo supplied
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Mackay locals joined police and Neighbourhood Watch to share home security tips and crime prevention advice. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Mackay residents came together last Wednesday 23rd September for a Secure Your Home Day event, enjoying free pizza while chatting about practical ways to improve safety in their neighbourhoods and reduce opportunities for crime.
Hosted by Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton in partnership with Northern Beaches Neighbourhood Watch, the event brought locals together with police to talk about home security, crime prevention and the simple ways neighbours can look out for one another.
Secure Your Home Day is held on the 26th and 27th of September and is a national initiative led by Neighbourhood Watch Australia encouraging Australians to assess their home security and encourage the implementation of simple crime prevention measures.
Mr Dalton said the event was about giving residents practical tools to protect their homes and prevent crime before it occurs, and enthused locals to relay the information with their neighbours.
“This has been organised to make sure that everybody has access and opportunities to what we call target: harden your house,” Mr Dalton said.
“The best way of doing that is to prevent the crime before it actually happens.”
Officer-in-Charge of Mackay Northern Beaches Police Station Senior Sergeant Mitch Benson said police continued to focus on proactive measures across the Northern Beaches, with local Neighbourhood Watch also playing an important role in connecting the community.
“We’ve done a lot of work in that proactive space of trying to stop crime before it happens,” he said.
“That’s probably the first step in preventing people becoming victims in the first place.”
Sergeant Highway Patrol James Dolby also spoke about ongoing police efforts across the district, including crime prevention and road safety matters.
He said police would continue to focus on issues including off-road vehicles and dangerous riding, with officers maintaining a visible presence across the community.
“We’re working very hard trying to keep the numbers down,” Sergeant Dolby said.
“We’re having some really good wins and some positive hits at that.”
“Rest assured, we’re out there every day, every afternoon, every night.”
Locals were encouraged to take what they had learned back into their own streets, with simple conversations between neighbours forming part of the broader approach to community safety.
According to the Home Security Guide, these four key principles are important for good home security:
For more information, visit the Queensland Police Service Home Security Guide at police.qld.gov.au.
Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP is calling on creative Year 5 and 6 students across the region to submit their artwork for the chance to feature on Australian Parliament House during Enlighten Festival 2027. Photo supplied
Students with a creative flair are being encouraged to step forward and submit their artwork for the chance to see it projected onto the façade of Australian Parliament House.
The opportunity is open to creative students in Years 5 and 6 across Dawson, with selected artworks set to feature as part of Canberra’s Enlighten Festival 2027, which will run from February 26th to March 8th and celebrate light, art and creativity.
As part of celebrations marking 100 years of Parliament in Canberra, artworks from every Australian state and territory will be projected onto the Australian Parliament House façade.
Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP said the opportunity would allow young artists to showcase what makes the Dawson region special.
“Our part of Queensland is pretty hard to beat when it comes to inspiration,” Mr Willcox said.
“We have the Great Barrier Reef, cane fields, beaches, rainforest, rivers, farmers, fishing, wildlife and some of the most unique communities in the country.
“There is plenty there to put on the big screen, and in this case, the screen is Parliament House itself.”
From the natural beauty of the Great Barrier Reef and cane fields to local wildlife and communities, students are being encouraged to draw inspiration from the places, people, animals, plants and landscapes that make their part of Australia unique.
Mr Willcox said he would love to see Dawson represented among the artworks selected for the national display.
“I would love to see a slice of Dawson among them,” Mr Willcox added.
“Imagine walking around Canberra at night and seeing Parliament House illuminated with artwork created by a student from Dawson.
“That would be something to be proud of.”
The program also provides students with an opportunity to engage with civics and learn more about the home of Australia’s democracy.
Mr Willcox is encouraging schools, teachers and parents across Dawson to support creative Year 5 and 6 students to take part.
Submissions close Thursday, October 29th.
A student toolkit containing tips and templates, along with a fact sheet for parents, is available through the Parliament House website at aph.gov.au/StudentArtwork.
On Tuesday 29th September, Mackay police officers, local representatives and community members gathered for National Police Remembrance Day. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Mackay’s CBD and St Patrick’s Church on River Street were filled with officers in blue last Tuesday 29th September, as Queensland Police Service officers gathered alongside local representatives and members of the public to honour the lives of those who never came home from their shift.
A march through the Mackay CBD was followed by a memorial service at St Patrick’s Church for National Police Remembrance Day.
Officers and staff from across Mackay joined members of the community to honour those who lost their lives in the line of duty and reflect on their courage, dedication and sacrifice.
Mayor Greg Williamson spoke about the community’s appreciation for police and the important role officers play across the region.
He highlighted how police are often the first people the community turns to when there is a safety concern, while also recognising officers as members of local families and communities.
“The people of Mackay call them when there's community safety at risk. And so, today, there's a chance for us, as a community, to join with the police force and say, We, as a community, really appreciate what you do.”
“To the people who put their hand up to be in the police force, thank you. Thank you for what you are doing for us as a community, and for Queensland in general.”
“Quite often, we take the police for granted, but that's who we call first, when there's a community risk apparent.”
Mackay Whitsunday District Officer Superintendent Dean Cavanagh spoke about the officers who made the ultimate sacrifice and the lasting impact their deaths have had on families, friends, colleagues and the wider community.
He also reflected on the strong attendance at the memorial and the respect shown towards those being remembered.
“Today we come together as one voice to remember those officers who made the ultimate sacrifice.”
“We gather not only to remember their courage, but also to acknowledge the profound impact their loss has had on families, friends, colleagues, and this community.”
“It’s a privilege to see such a strong attendance here today, and it always demonstrates the enduring respect held for those that we remember.”
“Please remember that today’s an opportunity to recognise the values of service, sacrifice and a reminder that behind every badge is a person.”
“With honour they served.”
A one-year-old girl has tragically died following a fatal traffic crash in Dysart on Sunday, 27th September.
Emergency services were called to Golden Mile Road at about 9.05am after a single vehicle left the road and rolled.
The one-year-old girl was declared deceased at the scene.
A five-month-old boy also sustained serious injuries in the crash.
The driver, a 22-year-old Moranbah woman, sustained minor injuries.
Police are appealing for anyone who may have information, including dashcam or CCTV footage, to come forward. The Forensic Crash Unit is investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash.
There were no further updates at the time of print.
A thoughtful act of kindness is helping bring a little extra warmth to premature babies and their families at Mackay Base Hospital.
My Hospital Foundation recently expressed their gratitude to the team Mackay Youth Justice Services, for a delivery of hand-knit premature baby beanies.
The cosy hats were knit by a young person in connection to the service as part of their community hours, with help from Indigenous Service Support Officer Jackie T.
“These beautiful handmade gifts have been donated to babies at Mackay Base Hospital and will bring comfort to families during a very special time,” a spokesperson said.
“Acts of kindness like this make a real difference in our community. Thank you for your generosity and support.”
The beanies are a reminder that even small gestures can make a big impact, with the young person's time and effort helping to support local families when they need it most.
CQ Rescue supporters gathered at the BMA CQ Rescue hangar to celebrate 30 years of lifesaving service and reflect on the organisation’s remarkable legacy. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
CQ Rescue marked 30 years of lifesaving service with a special HeliCore Collective evening at the BMA CQ Rescue hangar, bringing sponsors and supporters together for networking, connection and a behind-the-scenes look at the service they help make possible.
Guests heard from CQ Rescue CEO Tim Healee, BMA Caval Ridge General Manager Justin Doherty and Daly Bay Executive Manager Operations Glenn Anderson, before a special panel reflected on the organisation’s three-decade journey.
Dr Bert Sadleir, Dr Siva Sivanujan and Senior Base Air Crewman Darren Bobin shared personal experiences, stories and memories from CQ Rescue’s remarkable history and evolution.
BMA CQ Rescue marked a significant milestone on Wednesday 23rd September, bringing together HeliCore members, supporters and distinguished guests to celebrate 30 years of lifesaving service across the Mackay, Whitsunday and Isaac regions.
Held at the BMA CQ Rescue hangar in Mackay, the HeliCore Collective event provided an opportunity to reflect on three decades of emergency response and recognise the people, partnerships and community support that have helped shape the organisation’s journey.
Guests heard reflections and stories from BMA, CQ Rescue’s Naming Rights Partner, Daly Bay, HeliCore Presenting Partner, as well as current and former Board members and staff, highlighting the organisation’s history and the many people who have contributed to its work over the years.
The evening also gave HeliCore members and supporters an opportunity to connect and network while celebrating the impact of CQ Rescue’s 30 years of service to the region.
Happy 30 Years To BMA CQ Rescue!
BMA CQ Rescue receiving the charity cheque from Mayor Ry Collins. Photo supplied: Whitsunday Regional Council
A record $44,000 has been raised for BMA CQ Rescue following the 2026 Whitsunday Mayor’s Charity Ball, delivering a significant boost to the region’s vital aeromedical rescue service.
The ‘Whispers of the West’ themed event takes Council’s total contribution to BMA CQ Rescue to an impressive $350,000 since 2016.
Sponsors, businesses and community members were thanked at a special ceremony this week, where BMA CQ Rescue was officially presented with the $44,000 cheque.
Nabin has been cooking up a storm at Hog’s Breath since 2023. Photo credit: Whitsunday Life
Hog’s Breath Café has been a staple of the Airlie Beach dining scene for 37 years.
As the business continues to grow and evolve, so does the team, with new chefs bringing culinary skills from across the world to the iconic Airlie Kitchen.
One such chef is Nabin.
Nabin has been cooking in Hog’s Breath’s flagship restaurant since January 2023, arriving in Australia from his home country, Nepal.
Back home in Nepal, Nabin honed his skills across various cuisines. He began his career in a continental kitchen, cooking western and Mexican food alongside Nepalese dishes.
His favourite taste of Nepalese cooking would be the momos- traditional steamed or fried dumplings filled with minced meat or vegetables.
Now, three years has passed since Nabin’s move down under and he has integrated himself into life here in Airlie Beach.
Just last week, Nabin’s wife joined him here, meaning now, it truly feels like home.
Nabin’s wife cooks too, but- at least according to Nabin - he’s the best chef in the household.
Nabin’s favourite part of working at Hogs Breath is the team, who have a lot of fun working together and truly believe in the food they present.
When it comes to the Hog’s Breath menu, Nabin’s recommendations are hearty classics cooked with finesse – starting with the prime rib.
The prime rib is cooked for 18-hours in Hog’s Breath’s unique slow-cooking ovens because – as the team believes - greatness takes time. The meat is selected for its superior quality by trusted supplier Teys, which has been in partnership with Hog’s Breath since the first restaurant’s 1989 conception.
Once the Prime rib is ordered, it’s hand cut, seasoned and flame grilled to seal in maximum flavour. Then, it’s cooked to taste- though it’s recommended as best served medium-rare.
The prime rib is served with a choice of two sides, like the café’s iconic curly fries or creamy mac and cheese.
Nabin’s second recommendation is the Chicken Parmigiana - Crumbed chicken breast topped with Italian-style tomato sauce & a duo of melted cheeses. A classic done well!
As for the best time to visit, Nabin highlighted the live music that accompanies meals on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, as well as the Salsa dancing that takes over the restaurant floor on Thursday evenings.
Meet Cassie, the dynamic force behind property management at Taylors Property Specialists. Born and raised in the Whitsundays, Cassie brings a blend of local insight and worldly experience to the table. Having jet-setted across the globe several times, she’s returned home with a wealth of knowledge and a passion for creating seamless property experiences.
As a devoted mum, Cassie knows the value of family and time well-spent. When she's not orchestrating the perfect property match, you can find her soaking up precious moments with her loved ones.
With a knack for problem-solving and a keen eye for detail, Cassie thrives in the bustling world of property management. She's not just about transactions; she's about building relationships. By prioritising open communication and fostering trust, she ensures both owners and tenants feel heard and valued.
At Taylors Property Specialists, Cassie is more than just a manager; she's a catalyst for happiness. Whether it's finding the ideal tenant or swiftly addressing maintenance needs, she's dedicated to making every interaction positive and productive.
With her winning blend of professionalism and warmth, you'll soon discover why clients trust her to make their property dreams a reality.
Steve and Lynne Rix receiving James Strickland’s painting of themselves Photo credit: Zach Houtenville
Creative Connections Community Gallery recently brought art lovers together for an evening celebrating local creativity, which allowed revellers to take home their very own piece of original art.
The $100 Art Night featured an inspiring collection of original works donated by local artists, with guests able to browse, meet the creatives behind the pieces, enjoy drinks and nibbles, and perhaps find the perfect new addition for their home.
With every artwork priced at just $100 and 100 per cent of sales going towards supporting the gallery, the evening forged new creative connections, whilst supporting the relatively new and already beloved Proserpine gallery space.
Four-year-old Poppy is hoping to find a loving forever home through Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue.
A gentle and affectionate girl, Poppy is happiest curled up for a cuddle or enjoying a walk along the beach. She is comfortable around children of all ages, gets along well with other dogs and is curious but non-aggressive around cats.
Poppy has a calm nature and tends to hang back when other animals are around, but she is always happy to join in when playtime begins. She would suit a home where someone is around a little more and can give her plenty of affection and attention.
Poppy is desexed, vaccinated and flea and tick treated, with her microchip status currently being confirmed. She weighs approximately 35–40kg and has not yet been tested around livestock.
Those interested in giving Poppy a forever home can email Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue at bcpri.adoptions@gmail.com to enquire about the adoption process.
Families are being invited to get up close with the region’s native wildlife while supporting the volunteers who work to protect it at the Fauna Rescue Whitsundays Family Fun Day.
The free community event will be held at Coral Sea Marina on Shingley Beach Road, Airlie Beach, from 12pm to 6pm on Saturday 3rd October.
The afternoon will feature something for all ages, with market stalls, street food, live entertainment and kids’ activities planned throughout the day. Young visitors can get involved with kids’ craft stations, face painting, competitionsand a scavenger hunt, offering plenty to keep little wildlife lovers entertained while families explore the event.
The event is being hosted by Fauna Rescue Whitsundays, a local volunteer organisation dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating and releasing sick, injured and orphaned native wildlife. Founded in 2001, the organisation works alongside vets, Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service, Council and other wildlife and environmental groups, while also providing education to local schools and community organisations. Behind the scenes, much of that work relies on volunteers.
Fauna Rescue operates a 24-hour wildlife emergency hotline, connecting members of the public with trained volunteers who can provide advice, coordinate rescues and arrange transport for animals requiring care.
The organisation's most recent annual reporting highlights just how busy that service can be, with the hotline receiving between 80 and 150 calls each month, or up to around 1,500 calls a year. In the 2023–24 reporting period, the organisation recorded 1,172 hotline calls, with 621 from the Whitsundays, 403 from Mackay, 25 from Isaac and two from outside its service area. Birds accounted for 827 of those calls.
That community reliance on the rescue network is one reason events such as the Family Fun Day are important, providing an opportunity for locals to learn more about native wildlife while supporting the volunteers behind the rescues. Fauna Rescue also encourages community members to become involved, with opportunities ranging from rescue and animal care to hotline operation and other volunteer roles. Training and support are provided for volunteers.
For families heading along on 3rd October, however, the focus will be on enjoying an afternoon together, with plenty of entertainment, food and activities celebrating the wildlife that makes the Whitsundays home.
If you spot an animal who needs help, contact the Fauna Rescue hotline via 4947 3389.
BMA CQ Rescue receiving the charity cheque from Mayor Ry Collins. Photo supplied: Whitsunday Regional Council
A night of fun and generosity has delivered an impactful result for the Whitsundays, with the 2026 Mayor’s Charity Ball raising an impressive $44,000 for BMA CQ Rescue.
Mayor Ry Collins officially handed over the cheque this week, a culmination of support from the local sponsors, businesses, donors and community members who rallied behind the annual event.
“When something goes seriously wrong, having your service available to our community makes an enormous difference to people when they are at their most vulnerable,” Mayor Collins said.
“It was a great night for the community, but this is ultimately about supporting a service that is there for us when we need it most.
The Whispers of the West themed evening raised an outstanding $44,000, bringing the council’s total amount raised for BMA CQ Rescue since 2016 to $350,000. For the 24/7 community funded aeromedical and rescue services based in Mackay, this money goes a long way to keep the blades chopping.
“We're really grateful for the money that they've raised, it's amazing support in a lovely area and from lovely people,” said BMA CQ Rescue General Manager Lisa Krowley.
“Our operational cost per year is $17.5 million and covers a lot of ground, so the support from the communities and the regions is second to none.”
Mayor Collins took the opportunity to thank the sponsors of the event for helping make the evening, and donation, possible.
“A huge thank you to our sponsors, to everyone who donated and bought a ticket, and to everyone who helped make the ball happen,” Mayor Collins said.
“We had another fantastic ball this year. The support from our local sponsors, businesses and everyone who came along was tremendously important.”
Council is already looking ahead to the 2027 Mayor’s Charity Ball, with sponsorship opportunities now open for businesses interested in helping make next year’s event another memorable night for the community.
H Hamilton Island is celebrating two MICHELIN Key hotels, with qualia receiving the prized global accolade for a second consecutive year and The Sundays receiving its first following its opening in 2025.
Hamilton Island now has two MICHELIN Key hotels: the internationally acclaimed, adults-only qualia and The Sundays, the island’s newest boutique hotel, created with families in mind.
The MICHELIN Key is the hotel distinction of the MICHELIN Guide, recognising outstanding hotels around the world. Hotels are independently assessed across criteria including design, service, character, valueand their connection to place.
The 2026 Global Selection added 470 new hotels across 79 destinations worldwide, with 92 Key hotels recognised across Oceania, spanning Australia, New Zealand, Fiji and French Polynesia. Two of those are on Hamilton Island.
For qualia, the MICHELIN recognition follows a year that also saw the adults-only luxury retreat receive Condé Nast Traveler’s inaugural Triple Crown, recognising hotels that have appeared across its Hot List, Gold List and Readers’ Choice Awards since their inception.
Since opening in 2007, qualia has continued to evolve through considered refinement. Recent additions include Executive Chef Joshua Hingston’s Pebble Beach Collection and a collaboration with Fluidformfounder Kirsten King, alongside unique access to Whitehaven Beach, Heart Island and the waters surrounding Heart Reef.
“Retaining our MICHELIN Key for a second year means a great deal to the team,” said General Manager of qualia Rebecca Hamey.
“What has always defined qualia is exceptional privacy, intuitive personalised service and a deep connection to the beauty of the Whitsundays. Our guests come here for a complete escape; whether that’s through our dining and wellness experiences, a private day exploring the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, or simply enjoying the stillness of qualia itself. We’re incredibly proud to have that recognised again by MICHELIN.”
The Sundays’ first MICHELIN Key marks another milestone for the 59-room boutique hotel since opening on Catseye Beach in 2025. It follows its inclusion in Travel + Leisure’s It List 2026 and recognition as Gourmet Traveller’s Resort of the Year 2026, while Catseye Pool Club, its restaurant by Josh and Julie Niland, received its first Australian Good Food Guide Chef Hat in 2026.
“Receiving our first MICHELIN Key so soon after opening is a very proud moment for our team,” said Raza Syed, General Manager, The Sundays.
“The Sundays was created as a place for families to relax, reconnect and enjoy time together. From days by the waters-edge pool and beach to long, shared meals at Catseye Pool Club, there’s an easy rhythm to a stay here that is all about being together. To have that recognised by MICHELIN, alongside qualia here on Hamilton Island, makes us incredibly proud.”
The recognition comes amid a wider evolution of Hamilton Island’s accommodation, dining and experiences, and a year of accolades for Australia’s Tropical Island.
Judy Porter. Photo supplied
We talk a lot about communication in the workplace, but when a conversation might upset someone, expose a problem, or produce an outcome we can't control, for many - their communication skills tend to disappear.
Currently, I’m seeing avoidance of feedback, ignoring team tensions, and performance discussions so watered down that nobody actually understands there is a performance problem. Your team-members are not mind-readers, and honestly, most of them are too busy to pick up on your ‘hints’. Not having authentic discussions is a ‘you’ problem, not a ‘them’ problem.
The uncomfortable truth is difficult conversations trigger our human instincts. We are hardwired to be social, and potential loss of relationships, status, or belonging can feel like a threat. Our fight, flight or freeze response doesn't exactly make rational conversation easier, because the more we stress, the lower our IQ becomes.
Stepping into difficult discussions becomes easier when we prepare for them. Here’s my go-to list:
Avoiding a difficult conversation doesn't ever make the problem disappear, it simply gives you short-term relief while it gets quietly packed into the team-members ‘backpack of resentment’, to be lugged around until eventually creating a much bigger problem later.
Honest, authentic conversations combine curiosity, effective listening, accountability, understanding perspectives, managing emotions, and finding mutual purpose. Start with authenticity and good intent: “I might not have this right, but something doesn't feel right, and I think we need to talk about it.”
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