Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Photo source: Whitsunday Anglican School (Facebook) Whitsunday Anglican School’s Kindy to Year 2 students enjoyed a fun-filled Athletics Carnival, with young athletes taking part in running, jumping and throwing events while showing plenty of enthusiasm, determination and House spirit. Supported by Senior School volunteers, the day celebrated participation, encouragement and the strong sense of community across the school. See more photos here: www.mackayandwhitsundaylife.com/social-pics/little-legs-big-spirit-at-whitsunday-anglican-schools-kindy-carnival
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Leading Mackay real estate business REMAX Select has announced the appointment of highly respected business professional Samantha Self as General Manager. The appointment is set to further strengthen the agency's high-performing team across the Mackay region, with Principal Nikita Kinnane describing Ms Self's arrival as an exciting step forward for the business. “We are heading in a really exciting direction with our business, and I cannot be more excited to have Samantha join our leadership team to build on that momentum,” Ms Kinnane said. Ms Kinnane said the recruitment process was focused on finding a leader whose values aligned with those of the business, it was Ms Self's shared commitment to those values and vision that made her the ideal candidate. "Samantha will play an important role in shaping the future REMAX Select, bringing exceptional experience in property, management and leadership to help drive growth and innovation, and this will flow into enhancing every aspect of our business. "Importantly, Samantha shares our core values and commitment to putting Mackay first, and we share the same drive to really make impactful change, bring big city ideas and execute them in our own country girl way.” It was the core values of respect, integrity, collaboration, excellence and trust that Ms Self aligned with, sharing her goal to continue to build on the trust and integrity the agency has established in Mackay, while supporting the continued growth and development of both the team and business. “I’m excited to take on the role of general manager and work alongside Nikita and the entire team at REMAX Select,” Ms Self said. “REMAX Select has a strong team with exceptional talent which is highly respected throughout the community and I’m excited to be part of its continued success.” Ms Self steps into the role after eight years as retail manager of the largest shopping centre in northern Australia. During that time, she was the key driver of building positive, collaborative relationships with retailers, creating an environment where retailers were genuine partners in success. Having led sales performance analysis and market insight initiatives, Ms Self said she looks forward to applying her knowledge and experience to support the continued success of the REMAX Select team. “I am dedicated to empowering our team members through training and development opportunities, ensuring they have the tools they need to succeed,” she said. “My goal is to continue to foster the team’s culture of professionalism, responsiveness and customer-first approach and I look forward to collaborating with our talented agents and staff to create a dynamic and successful environment here at REMAX Select.” REMAX Select is an award-winning real estate business, recently recognised as the 2025 REIQ Medium Agency of the Year and finalist at the 2026 REIA National Awards for Excellence. The office consistently ranks in the National Top 10 Offices in the REMAX Australia network, recognised as the #3 individual office for commissions and transactions at the REMAX Australia Annual Awards 2025 earlier this year, where they were also named a finalist for the network’s community service award and special achievement in marketing for an office award. REMAX Select is located at 133B Victoria Street, Mackay. Contact (07)4829 4612 or visit remax.com.au/select/ for an award winning real estate experience. Newly appointed General Manager, Samantha Self (Left) with REMAX Select Principal Nikita Kinnane (Right).
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In 2000, Peter and Denise Phillips laid the foundation for what would become one of Mackay’s most recognisable holistic, all in one property, insurance and financial services ecosystem. Starting as a Mortgage Choice franchise, Gardian was built on a commitment to helping people make confident financial decisions with local people in the know! Over the decades, that foundation has steadily evolved. Today, Gardian encompasses a wide range of services, including all manner of finance, general and business insurance, financial planning, real estate sales, property management, and commercial sales, management and leasing. What began as a single offering has grown into an integrated business model serving individuals, families, businesses, and community across the region. Now, the organisation enters its next chapter. After many years at the helm with her late husband Peter, Denise Phillips will step down from her role as Managing Director. Her leadership has been central to Gardian’s growth — not just in size, but in culture, reputation, and its connection to the local community. Taking over the role is Ben Phillips, Owner/Director and Head of Gardian Finance. Having been closely involved in all aspects of the business and its clients, he brings both continuity and a forward-looking perspective to the position. Leadership transitions often mark defining moments for organisations. In this case, the change represents both the continuation of a strong legacy and the opportunity to build on it. The evolution of Gardian — from a small franchise to a diversified advisory group — reflects the importance of adaptability, strategic growth, and staying aligned to core values to the community. For the Mackay business community, this transition highlights the strength of long-term vision and succession planning, particularly within locally grown enterprises. It also reinforces the impact that leadership grounded in community and relationships can have over time. As Gardian moves forward under new leadership, it does so with deep roots, a clear purpose, and a platform built for continued growth.
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I don’t know about you, but I find morning TV hosts incredibly annoying. I rarely get to see them, with their contrived laughter, over-the-top friendliness, stupid nicknames for each other, make-up and perfect hair cuts. But sometimes, if there has been some event that might interest me, or if I’m curious about what’s going on, I might flick on the TV and see what’s happening as I’m getting ready for work. I immediately regret it and start flicking channels to try to find someone bearable. It’s a challenge that usually lasts a couple of minutes before I turn the TV off and do something much more pleasant, like go to work. I did like Karl Stefanovic but he has been flicked, apparently because his employer didn’t like his podcast guests. There seemed something real about Karl but he was an island in a sea of fakery so there’s no point in me turning on Channel 9 anymore. There’s an Irish journalist/host on ABC TV, Catherine Murphy, who I also like. She’s funny and real and seems to want to stick to simply presenting a story in her slightly quirky style without imposing an agenda. But that’s about it for me. One thing the morning shows have an abundance of is “experts”. Whatever the drama that’s emerged, there’s an expert to explain it to you, pull it apart and tell you how concerned you should be. The expert needs to do it in about 17 seconds because everyone is going to get bored soon and we’ve got an ad break coming up. The more dramatic the event and the more it impacts the loyal viewers, the more vital it is that an expert is on hand. The current disaster of note it a neat combo: the economy/inflation/interest rates/housing downturn. This is the type of news drama you want when you’re planning the show because it affects the viewers, hits their hip pockets. But experts are everywhere in the media on this one, not just the morning shows. They’re out there giving their views on interest rates (some say they will go up, others say they will go down), the economy (some say it will be okay, others say we are headed for a recession), inflation (some say it will get worse and others say it will ease). Part of this blockbuster, of course, is house prices. Some experts say prices will drop in big cities like Sydney and Brisbane. Others say they will drop everywhere. Some say there will be a small, temporary drop but things will soon start going up again because there is a lack of housing supply across the nation. One group of experts that are worth paying attention to are the valuers from Herron Todd White, who put out their monthly property clock, which is a snapshot of how they see particular markets. The position on the clock face a particular city is located (we’re talking analogue here kids, not digital) tells you where it sits in the market. Twelve o’clock is top of the market, 3 o’clock is a falling market, 6 o’clock is the bottom of the market, 9 o’clock is a rising market. Things can change quickly and there a times a property can go from falling market to bottom of the market and up to rising market very quickly. HTW’s June clock would have been a challenge for them because tax changes and other events had happened but their longer-term impacts are unclear. They had Bundaberg and Toowoomba at the top of the market, Sydney at 2 o’clock and starting to decline, The Whitsundays, Gladstone and Sunshine Coast approaching the top of the market and Mackay, along with Rocky, Townsville and Cairns, in a rising market. Most agents in Mackay will tell you there has been a change but there is still activity, investors are still engaged and properties are selling. Most are being alert, not alarmed.
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Throughout the week, communities across Mackay came together for a series of events celebrating the culture of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as part of the 50th anniversary of NAIDOC Week. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Celebrating 50 Years of Deadly! Mackay and surrounding regions have united in a powerful week of culture, connection and community, marking a milestone in the history of NAIDOC Week. From moving flag-raising ceremonies and captivating traditional performances to the recognition of respected Elders, the celebrations have honoured the voices, stories and legacy of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. As the region prepares to line the streets for today’s vibrant NAIDOC Parade and Family Fun Day, this landmark anniversary stands as a celebration of resilience, identity and a shared future built on respect and recognition.
Happy NAIDOC week!
Communities across Mackay have come together this week to celebrate NAIDOC Week, with a series of events recognising the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples under this year's theme, “50 Years of Deadly.”
The week's celebrations began on Monday with Mackay Regional Council's NAIDOC Week Flag Raising Ceremony in the MECC foyer. While wet weather prompted a move from the Civic Precinct, the change of venue did little to dampen the significance of the occasion as community members gathered in reflection, recognition and celebration.
The ceremony marked the beginning of the milestone 50th anniversary of NAIDOC Week and honoured the strength, resilience and contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, while recognising those who have helped shape the NAIDOC movement over the past five decades.
Yuwi Elder Philip Kemp delivered the Welcome to Country before the ceremonial raising of the flags by Mayor Greg Williamson (Australian Flag), Aunty Ann McDonald and Aunty Pam Young (Aboriginal Flag), Mr Mahussan (Uncle George) Barba (Torres Strait Islander Flag) and Chief Executive Officer Gerard Carlyon (Queensland Flag).
The morning also featured a didgeridoo performance by Lyndon Francis, cultural dance performances by Patrick Thaiday and CAID Dreamtime, and community market stalls that provided opportunities to connect, learn and celebrate First Nations culture.
On Tuesday, 7th July, community members gathered at the Mackay Northern Beaches Police Station for another flag-raising ceremony, where Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm, Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton and Mayor Greg Williamson were in attendance. Tchundal Malar Aboriginal Dancers brought the elements of the earth to life through a vibrant and expressive cultural performance. The Mackay Torres Strait Islander Dancers accompanied the official flag raising with the rhythmic beat of traditional drums before later showcasing their culture through dance and traditional instruments.
A Murri Court "Elders Evening" was also held last Wednesday, 1st July, where community members gathered for an evening of culture and connection as they celebrated both elders and the upcoming generations. During the event, Mr Patrick Thaiday and Mrs Florence Pitt were named the 2026 Senior Mr and Mrs NAIDOC in recognition of their ongoing contributions to the community and the positive example they continue to set for future generations.
NAIDOC Week celebrations will conclude this Friday, July 10, with two major community events happening today (Friday, 10th July). The NAIDOC Street Parade will begin with participants gathering from 9am on Macalister Street before stepping off at 10am. The celebrations will continue with a NAIDOC Family Fun Day at Queens Park from 11am to 3pm.
The community is encouraged to attend and join in celebrating First Nations culture, history and community spirit, embodying “50 Years of Deadly” across the great lands in which we share.
For many homeowners, deciding to sell isn’t the difficult part - it’s the uncertainty of what comes next.
The good news is that buying and selling don’t have to be two separate, stressful events. With the right strategy, they can be planned together for a seamless transition.
By working with a Buyers Agency before your property goes on the market, you can gain access to opportunities not widely available to the general public, understand what your budget will buy, and begin searching for your next home early.
Once the right property is identified, you can confidently hit the go button on your sales campaign, with conditions and settlement terms negotiated to align with the sale of your existing home - reducing pressure and uncertainty.
Rather than asking, “Should we sell first?”, consider asking, “What do we want to buy next?”
If you’ve been putting off selling because you’re unsure where you’ll go, we’d love to hear what your ideal next property looks like. Tell us what you’re searching for, and we’ll help you understand what’s possible so that, when the right opportunity comes along, you can secure it, and you’re ready to make moves with confidence.
For more information or to discuss your next move, contact Whitsunday Property Buyers on 0498 336 268, visit www.whitsundayspropertybuyers.com.au, or follow @whitsundayspropertybuyers on Instagram.
Dr Lindsay Simpson Photos supplied: Faye Chapman
The Whitsunday Conservation Council's next Green Drinks event will offer more than a conversation, with the launch of an interactive digital trail designed to uncover the hidden stories of the region's world-renowned landscapes.
On Tuesday, July 14, at the Reef Gateway Hotel, the Council will officially unveil the Whitsunday Heart of the Reef Discovery Trail, giving attendees a first look at the immersive web app and the stories that will soon line the Bicentennial Walkway and other locations across the region.
"The idea of the trail was to provide visitors and locals with a richer understanding of what's under the water before they head out on a boat and go snorkelling,” said Whitsunday Conservation Council committee member and project coordinator Dr Lindsay Simpson.
The trail follows the journey of a sea turtle as it travels through the Whitsundays, with each stop exploring a different ecosystem. From seagrass meadow encounters with dugong to open ocean interaction with whales, visitors will learn the wildlife and habitats that make the region so otherworldly.
The trail will connect visitors with the stories of the Whitsundays as they explore the coastline, using geo-positioned QR codes to access immersive multimedia experiences that reveal the hidden stories of the landscapes beneath their feet.
Dr Rachael Smith, another one of the project coordinators and a science communicator, said the trail would give locals and visitors an understanding of the full extent of the ecosystems and biodiversity that make the region globally recognised.
"With 74 islands stretching from Bowen to the Repulse Islands, the Whitsunday region encompasses more than eight million hectares of marine park and hosts approximately 400 species of coral in its fringing reefs,” Dr Smith said.
“The region's diverse landscape spans from pristine islands and protected bays to ancient rainforests and fertile valleys, creating a complex ecosystem that supports thousands of species, including rare and endangered wildlife."
The idea also acknowledges the work volunteers have put in to maintain and protect this unique form of biodiversity, such as Eco Barge Clean Seas, who have collected 240,000 in trash since 2009 and Whitsundays seagrass Volunteers, who worked tirelessly on the grass since 1998. The trail will give visitors the chance to learn from and get inspired by these “Local Heroes”.
"We hope it will encourage volunteer tourism and citizen science, such as Eye on the Reef, where citizens actively collect data underwater,” Dr Simpson said.
Anyone interested in sponsoring the project or providing feedback can contact lindsaywcc@gmail.com.
The big but loveable Baxter. Photo sourced: facebook. *Remove wording from the photo if you can!
Baxter has spent weeks patiently waiting for a family to see just how special he is, and now he's hoping his forever home is just around the corner.
The 12 to 18-month-old Mastiff cross has been thriving in foster care, where he's proven to be a big softie with plenty of love to give around. House and crate trained, Baxter loves socialising with his fellow mates, being very playful and gentle with all different typesof dogs.
He has mastered commands including sit, drop, spin and crate, and is growing more confident on the lead each day.
Despite his impressive size, Baxter's favourite place is close to his people, soaking up attention and cuddles whenever he can.
Friendly with everyone he's met so far, as well as fully vaccinated and vet checked, he's more than ready to settle into a home with enough room to stretch out and a family to call his own.
If Baxter sounds like the perfect addition to your household, contact Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue by direct messaging your name, phone number and "Baxter" to begin the adoption process.
People taking a break from exploring a possible Shute Harbour route from Jubilee Pocket, in 1959. Showcases how underdeveloped the land was at the time. Photo supplied: Larraine Biggs.
Solitary men eking out a living from the land.
In the 1940s and 1950s, our beautiful wild countryside acted like a magnet for several independent souls who sought to construct their own utopian, hermit-like existence within its confines. Some succeeded in eking out an almost completely self-sufficient lifestyle. Usually, they were to be found close to the water as this was their preferred means of transport. They cleared a small area of land on which to construct a cabin.
One such character was George Bailey, a retired Royal Navy engineer, who decided to settle on a small clearing close to Mars Beach, adjacent to neighbours, Athol and Alex Pringle, perhaps very close to where Northerlies is located. Here he constructed a small blue cabin with a shell grit pathway curving down to the beach. Land connection to Cannonvale was not much more than a rough dirt track, but George’s lifestyle rendered this irrelevant.
He purchased a sailing boat which had been raced in the celebrated Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race and modified it for rowing. He used it regularly to row across the bay to Cannonvalley Beach store to collect his mail and provisions, often sleeping in his boat on the beach while he waited for the tide to change.
Contemporary locals remembered him as a bright and intelligent man who enjoyed discussing nineteenth century English Literature and had a working knowledge of Esperanto, the planned universal language of the time. George’s relaxed lifestyle included fishing, sailing, looking after his fruit trees and feeding scrub turkeys. There are probably better ways to live but not many!
Bailey was only one of the men living a hermit existence within the fold of the hills. Another George – George Sax – was written about in an earlier article back in September, 2022.
Many died as they had lived, in solitude, as was the case with old Billy Fitzsimmons who lived further on from John Campbell’s place, about as far as one could go. (Stay tuned for John Campbell’s story in a future edition.) Many others made their own unique contribution such as the “Mayor of Muddy Bay” who lived in the mangroves that used to flourish near where the roundabout to Shute Harbour Road is situated, along with his spray painted dog that didn’t seem to mind being purple!
John Harper described them very well – “These men had a natural dignity, a sturdy independence, and a quiet reserve that was engaging. Mostly they lived in some crude shelter which they had built mainly from rough, hewn wood and sapling poles. If they had no iron for a roof, they made a thatch. Their utensils were a saucepan or two, a frying pan and the old black billy. They had an enamel pannikin or two for their tea. Cupboards were old cases and kerosene tins.
They did not encourage visitors, but if you called, they would always put the billy on. If they had not seen a soul for longer than usual, they may be on for a talk. Squatting down poking a stick into the fire, they would recall life as a fettler, or as a shearer. Some had survived Gallipoli or France in the Great War, and most of them had seen very hard times during the Depression.
There is no use speculating on why they chose to live as they did. They would never tell you the real reason. Perhaps because some of them did not know the reason anyway and the others had a reason not to tell.”
Story and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum archives and information also sourced from “Life on the Harper Farm” by John Harper.
Whitsundays Coin Laundry.
Four years ago, Michelle and Ben took a chance on a Cannonvale laundromat. Today, that leap of faith has grown into a three-site business serving communities across the Whitsundays.
The idea was born during Ben's time working as a miner, where waiting for loads of washing to finish revealed an opportunity where others saw a chore.
“He was like, with the amount of times he sat there, he thought this could be a really good investment,” said Michelle.
In November 2022, the couple purchased the Cannonvale laundromat, transforming the long-running business into more than just a place to wash clothes.
Originally from Mackay and Brisbane, Ben and Michelle quickly became part of the community, with customer feedback driving upgrades and eventually inspiring expansion across the region.
"It's just listening and the support, and that's what's helped us grow," Michelle said.
By December 2023, those conversations led the couple to Jubilee Pocket, where they purchased and refurbished an existing laundromat after hearing strong demand from locals.
A year later, they expanded again, transforming a former bike, mower and curtain shop at 10 Chapman Street into Proserpine's much-needed 2nd laundromat. Now, their sights are on a fourth location in Bowen down the track.
“Bowen is growing in so many ways,” said Michelle.
“A couple of laundry mats could be welcomed up there quite easily.”
Looking back, Michelle said running three laundromats was never part of the couple's original plan.
"Sometimes you can overthink too much when you're investing in a business, but this came along and it's an essential service,” she said.
She also paid tribute to the staff who keep the laundromats running each day, thanking long-time team member Carol, Jen and the team from Sparkling Sisters for their commitment to maintaining the sites and providing excellent customer service.
Left to right: Mayor Ry Collins, BCE Chairman Paul Mclaughin, Bowen State High School Principal Robert Harris, David Mardell of Murray Bay Project, Mick Spencer from Agave Farm Blue Sky Drinks and Will Weaver, GM of Sunwater Projects. Photo sourced: Facebook
Emerging developments, future industries and the changing face of education took centre stage as business and community leaders gathered for the latest Bowen Collinsville Enterprise (BCE) Business Breakfast at the North Queensland Cruising Yacht Club on July 3rd.
Hosted by BCE Chairman Paul McLaughlin, the breakfast welcomed a diverse mix of business owners, community leaders and representatives from local government, education and industry.
The regular networking event provided attendees with updates on major projects, emerging industries and initiatives helping shape the future of the region.
Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins opened the morning with an overview of Council's 2026-27 Budget, outlining key investments and the significant capital works planned across Bowen and the wider region.
Bowen State High School Principal Robert Harris then explored one of the most talked-about topics in modern education, artificial intelligence.
His presentation examined both the opportunities and challenges AI presents in the classroom, while outlining how schools can better prepare their students to coincide with modern technology.
Attendees also heard from David Mardell, who provided an update on the proposed Murray Bay development, with plans for the exclusive resort project highlighting the potential for further tourism investment along the region's coastline.
Agriculture and manufacturing were spotlighted by Mick Spencer, who discussed the rapid progress of the Australian Agave Project since acquiring the farm last year. Guests received an insight into the industry's growth, as well as the upcoming launch of SollosSpirits and its future cellar door.
Rounding out the presentations, Sunwater Projects General Manager Will Weaver delivered a regional water infrastructure update, including progress on the Bowen Pipeline and the projects helping secure long-term water supply for North Queensland communities.
With infrastructure, education, tourism and agriculture all featured on the agenda, the breakfast highlighted both the diversity of the region's economy and the collaborative approach driving its ideal growth.
Every five years, Australians are asked to take part in something that might seem simple on the surface — the national Census.
But for regional communities like the Whitsundays, the Census is actually one of the most important tools we have to help shape our future.
On Tuesday 11 August 2026, households across the country will complete the Census, helping build a picture of who lives where, how communities are growing and what services and infrastructure are needed into the future.
For the Whitsundays, getting an accurate count matters.
We are one of the fastest-growing regional areas in Queensland. We continue to see strong population growth, increasing tourism pressures, housing demand and growing expectations around roads, community infrastructure, healthcare, sporting facilities and emergency services.
Recently at our State of the Region event, we challenged ourselves and our community to “Think Big” about the future of the Whitsundays.
That includes major long-term planning around infrastructure, liveability, economic growth and our vision to become the Home of Olympic Sailing for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
But strong advocacy starts with strong data.
The Census helps governments understand the true scale of growth and demand in regional communities like ours, and it plays a major role in future funding and infrastructure decisions.
Importantly, it also strengthens Council’s ability to advocate for projects and investment that will support our region for decades to come.
Whether it’s planning for future roads, community hubs, parks, libraries, sporting facilities, housing or disaster resilience, reliable data matters.
If regional communities are undercounted, there is a real risk they can also be underplanned for.
The Census is also important for local businesses, community groups and service providers who rely on accurate population information to plan for future investment and services.
This isn’t just about statistics.
It’s about making sure the Whitsundays is properly recognised for the community we are today — and the community we are becoming.
I’d encourage every household across the Whitsundays to take part on Census night and help ensure our region’s voice is heard clearly.
Because every person counted helps strengthen the future of our region.
Rising Star winner Shontelle Buchanan of Bowen Rail Company. Photo supplied: Julia Evans
One year on from the inaugural Whitsunday Business Awards, winners say the recognition has delivered far more than a trophy—providing confidence, credibility and an opportunity to celebrate the people behind their success.
Established to recognise excellence across the Whitsundays, the Awards celebrate businesses and individuals demonstrating leadership, innovation, sustainability, customer service and community impact.
As applications for the 2026 Awards draw to a close, last year's winners are encouraging others to put themselves forward.
Business Leader of the Year, Kellee Fogg of Whitsunday Law, said the award recognised the collective effort of her entire team.
"Winning this award was an incredibly proud moment for, not just me, but the entire team as it reflects their efforts as well as mine... It reinforces the importance of leading with integrity, supporting others to succeed, and continually striving to make a positive impact on our team, our clients and our community."
Rising Star winner Shontelle Buchanan of Bowen Rail Company said the award recognised her dedication as an apprentice and provided new opportunities for professional growth.
"It was incredibly rewarding to have my efforts acknowledged, and the experience has given me greater confidence in my career... I would encourage businesses to nominate their trainees and apprentices, as it's a fantastic way to recognise their commitment and achievements."
Community Champion winner Bowen Tourism and Business was recognised for its outstanding contribution to the region through tourism promotion, volunteer engagement and community initiatives.
Manager Leanne Abernethy said, "To receive an award that recognised the meaningful difference we make through community contribution and initiatives was a very proud moment for the entire team... We have so many great organisations and businesses in the Whitsundays region that deserve to be recognised."
Applications for the 2026 Whitsunday Business Awards close at 11:59pm on Friday 17 July. With categories spanning business excellence, leadership, customer service, community impact and innovation, the Awards continue to celebrate the businesses and individuals helping shape the future of the Whitsundays: www.whitsundaycoastchamber.com.au/business-awards/
As last year's winners demonstrate, entering is about more than winning – it's an opportunity to reflect on achievements, celebrate your team and showcase the passion and impact behind your business.
Bowen visitor centre team with their Certificate of Accreditation. Photo Supplied: Leanne Abernethy.
The team at Bowen Tourism and Business are celebrating after welcoming a record number of visitors in the past financial year.
A total of 65,638 people visited the Bowen Visitor Information Centre next to the Big Mango in the 12 months to June 30, 2026.
A further 4078 people visited the information booth at Bowen’s Front Beach – taking the total number of visitors to 69,716.
This represents an increase of more than 16% on the year prior.
Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy, said the team was very proud of these numbers, particularly given the uncertain economic climate in recent months with raising interest rates and fuel prices and the overseas conflict putting pressure on fuel supply.
“In recent years, we have continued to welcome more visitors each year, but a 16% increase is beyond anyone’s expectations,” Leanne said.
“To welcome an average of more than 1340 people a week is a significant increase on just five years ago when we were welcoming just over 40,000 people per year.
“We have also seen an increase in the number of international visitors coming to Bowen.
“They now make up more than 17% of our total visitors.”
Chair of Bowen Tourism and Business, Jenn Honnery, said the most significant highlight of these numbers was the number of people taking the detour into Bowen, not just calling in between Townsville and Mackay.
“The team welcomed more than 25,000 people on day trips in the past financial year – mainly from Airlie Beach,” Jenn said.
“Of the total number of visitors, more than 17,000 were staying for at least one night in Bowen.
“The total number of visitors has continued to increase in recent years, and the most pleasing statistic is the percentage of people now going into Bowen for a day or more – and that benefits every Bowen business.
“The information centre is conveniently located on the highway but is 5km from Bowen.
“The team do a great job encouraging that Bowen visit and that has resulted in about 62% of all our visitors spending money in the town.
“The number of people making a day trip to Bowen when on holidays in Airlie Beach is on the up and that economic dispersal of visitor spend is important to the regional economy.”
Total visitors at info centre and info booth - 69,716
Weekly average – 1340 people
Total international visitors – 17%
Total visitors spending a day or more in Bowen – 62%
Increase in visitors from last year – 16%
The community hub’s projected appearance. Photo sourced: Whitsunday Regional Council
Progress continues at Cannonvale Community Hub, with early works now complete and the project moving confidently into its next stage.
Over recent months, crews have completed site establishment, construction fencing, earthworks and the building pad, laying the foundations for the community hub to begin taking shape.
Throughout July, the work focuses on installing bored piers and pad footings, stormwater infrastructure, electrical conduits and new sewer and water connections.
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said the project represented one of the region's most significant community investments and was an important step towards delivering modern facilities for the Whitsundays' growing population.
"It's exciting to see this project continuing to take shape and moving from site preparation into the next phase of construction," Mayor Collins said.
"The Cannonvale Community Hub will become the heart of our growing community, bringing together a modern library, customer service centre, meeting rooms and flexible community spaces in one welcoming location."
Mayor Collins envisions the Hub as a place where all residents can connect, helping provide a good learning setting and access to important Council and community services for decades to come.
"This is about investing in the future of Cannonvale and the Whitsundays,” Mayor Collins said.
“As our region continues to grow, it's important we deliver the community infrastructure needed to support that growth and create places where people can come together."
The new Cannonvale Community Hub is a $30 million project proudly supported by a $15 million Australian Government Growing Regions Program grant, alongside significant funding from Whitsunday Regional Council.
As work continues through July, crews will carry out some construction near Beames Crescent, including underboring beneath the road. Nearby residents can expect periods of increased construction activity and traffic while these works are completed.
To help keep the project moving, construction traffic will continue to use Shute Harbour Road and the Garden Shack entrance. Works are typically carried out between 6.30am and 6.30pm, Monday to Saturday.
Mayor Collins thanked nearby residents and park users for their patience while construction progresses.
"We appreciate the understanding shown by our neighbours and the community while these important works are underway,” Mayor Collins said.
“There will be some temporary inconvenience, but the end result will be a fantastic community asset that future generations will enjoy."
Residents can keep up to date with construction progress and project information by visiting Council's Cannonvale Community Hub project page.
Damages done to Airlie Beach foreshore grass. Photo sourced: Whitsunday Regional Council
Just days before thousands of people descended on Airlie Beach for Between the Tides, Whitsunday Regional Council's Parks and Gardens team was forced to face the damages caused by E-scooters performing skids across the Airlie Foreshore.
The damage comes after the team spent the previous two weeks preparing the popular precinct for the Queensland Music Trails event, refreshing garden beds, laying mulch and carefully maintaining the turf to ensure the area was ready to welcome locals and visitors.
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said it was incredibly disappointing to see one of the region's most valued public spaces damaged, particularly after the effort invested by Council staff.
"To see that hard work damaged in a matter of minutes was heartbreaking for the people who take so much pride in maintaining these community spaces,” Mayor Collins said.
Council's Parks and Gardens team spent the following two days repairing the damaged turf so the foreshore would once again be ready ahead of the weekend's festivities.
Mayor Collins said every hour spent repairing avoidable damage came at the expense of other maintenance work across the Whitsundays.
"Our parks and public spaces belong to everyone, and they deserve to be treated with respect," he said.
"Every hour our crews spent repairing this unnecessary damage was time they could have been improving other parks and open spaces across the Whitsundays."
The incident has sparked some criticism online, with people commenting things like “Easy, ban the bloody scooter…Scourge of the planet,”, as well as others asking for potential places for them to ride to avoid this.
The debate comes as Queensland's new e-mobility laws came into effect this month, introducing stricter rules for e-scooter and e-bike riders to instill more road-safe responsibility.
Among the changes are a 12km/h speed limit on footpaths, increased fines for offences including careless riding, and new licensing requirements that will begin rolling out from August 31. The reforms follow a statewide review into e-mobility safety earlier this year.
Council is asking anyone who witnessed the incident or has information that could help identify those responsible to contact either Whitsunday Regional Council or Queensland Police.
The Queensland community and State government efforts to protect the Great Barrier Reef have not gone unnoticed, with UNESCO announcing this week that it has decided not to list the World Heritage site as "in danger".
The recognition follows the State Government's record-breaking $330.5 million Budget commitment to reef protection in the 2026-27 budget, with the funding set to support water quality improvements, practical conservation projects and long-term management of the World Heritage-listed ecosystem.
Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said the draft decision recognised the efforts of Queenslanders working to protect the Reef for future generations.
"Queenslanders care deeply about the Reef and we welcome the draft decision because it recognises the progress being made to conserve it," Minister Powell said.
"Our focus remains on practical action and delivering outcomes that protect the Reef and support the regional communities and jobs that depend on it.
However, a local conservation group has been left unsatisfied by the decision, claiming it to be a missed opportunity to acknowledge the real issues the reef faces.
“These threats have not disappeared simply because the Reef has avoided an "in danger" listing,” said Whitsundays Conservation Council President Tony Fontes.
“An "in danger" listing is not a sanction or a mark of failure, it is an internationally recognised conservation mechanism designed to focus global attention on World Heritage sites facing serious and ongoing threats.”
UNESCO's draft decision is expected to be considered for formal adoption by the World Heritage Committee later this July.
Dash Cam footage of motorist. Photo sourced: Queensland Police.
A ride along the Bruce ended with a hefty fine, a six-month licence suspension and a stark warning from police after a motorcyclist was allegedly clocked travelling at 205km/h near Bowen.
The Mackay highway patrol were doing their routine patrols outside of Bowen this past Saturday, when at 12:40 pm, a motorist flew by them going 105 kilometres over the speed limit.
The 23 year-old New South Wales man was intercepted and charged with a traffic infringement notice for speeding over 40kms, while also receiving a $1,986 fine, eight demerit points and a 6 month suspension of his license.
Mackay Highway Patrol Officer in Charge Senior Sergeant Shane Edwards said the speed detected was one of the most alarming readings officers can encounter.
“Speeds like this leave virtually no opportunity to react if something goes wrong, dramatically increasing the likelihood of a fatal outcome,” said Senior Sergeant Shane Edwards.
“Driving at such excessive speeds dramatically reduces a driver’s ability to react to unexpected situations and significantly increases the severity of a crash.
“We know the devastating impact road trauma has on families and communities therefore every offence detected is an opportunity to prevent a tragedy from occurring on our roads.”
With 157 lives lost in Queensland this year as of July 5th and 11 being from the Mackay Whitsundays District, Senior Sergeant Edwards says motorists need to be vigilant in abiding by safety laws.
MP Jarrod Bleijie with the Wind Farm Action Group. Photo sourced: Whitsundays Wind Farm Action Group (WWFA)
The proposed Mt Challenger Wind Farm has taken another step into the spotlight, with Queensland's Deputy Premier visiting the site last week, as debate over the project continues to grow across the Whitsundays.
Queensland Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jarrod Bleijie met with local landholders and members of the Whitsundays Wind Farm Action Group (WWFA) to hear their concerns about the proposed development.
“The Crisafulli Government is for all of Queensland and we promised to listen,’ Premier Bleijie said.
“Thank you for having me on your back deck, with the most spectacular views of your cane farm and the mountains.”
The proposed Mt Challenger Wind Farm, located between Proserpine and Bowen, would feature up to 30 turbines, capable of powering 240 megawatts or thousands of homes through renewable energy.
While the residents haven’t expressed issues with renewable energy, the location of it has frustrated many farmers that call this area home, largely forming the need for the current Whitsundays Wind Farm Action Group.
“They're proposing to put those turbines 300 metres from my boundary fence, where I'm trying to build a house in the future,” said nearby farmer Damien Friederichs.
“I think people need to understand that we're not against the renewable side of it, it's just the location is wrong.”
“When I found out they were putting this turbine right at my back door, where I'm trying to build a house that I've been setting up for 15 years, I got on board with these guys to make sure that this does not happen.”
On top of impeding Damien's land and future property concerns, such as subdividing for his daughter, he fears the project could affect the aerial spraying on his cane farm, increase fire risk, raise insurance costs and leave neighbouring landholders carrying the impacts despite not hosting the turbines.
"I just cannot believe that the host thought that it was acceptable,” Damien said.
For the WWFA, the Premier’s visit was a positive sight they’d been waiting for.
“Well, it was a pleasure to have him turn up because it means that we're reaching the right people,” Damien said.
“Being from a farming background himself, he could very well resonate with how we were feeling and the problems that we have.”
Alinta Energy, the developer behind the proposed wind farm, say they are continuing to gather evidence and community feedback as part of the planning process.
"It’s still early days for the Mt Challenger Wind Farm,” said a spokesperson for Alinta Energy.
“We’re continuing to work through a range of environmental, technical and social assessments so we can provide clear, evidence‑based information to the whole community.
"We understand some community members have concerns about the development of wind farms in the area, and we are listening carefully to their feedback.”
Alinta Energy said, if approved, the project could deliver construction and operational jobs, local procurement opportunities, road and infrastructure upgrades and environmental improvement programs, while also supporting Queensland's renewable energy network.
The company will also host community information sessions at the Proserpine Tennis Club on Wednesday, July 29, from 4pm to 7pm, and the Flagstaff Hill Convention Centre in Bowen on Thursday, July 30, from 10am to 2pm, where residents can speak with members of the project team and ask questions about the proposal.
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