Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Mackay father Phil Smith has been recognised on the state stage, receiving the Queensland New Volunteer Award for 2026 for his tireless work raising awareness around asbestos-related disease. Since the passing of his wife Leah in 2024, Mr Smith has devoted himself to advocacy and fundraising through Ride In Shorts For Leah, contributing more than 1,200 volunteer hours and raising over $42,000 to support education and prevention efforts. Leah, who was unknowingly exposed to asbestos in childhood, was diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma at 49 and passed away just over eight months later. Her story has since become the driving force behind Mr Smith’s public mission to warn others about the risks hidden in many Australian homes. Presented at Brisbane City Hall by the Governor of Queensland, the award recognises his ongoing commitment to community awareness and support. What began in the shadow of personal loss has grown into a wider campaign of education, remembrance and prevention, carried forward in Leah’s name. Mackay father Phil Smith has been awarded the Queensland New Volunteer Award for 2026 in recognition of his asbestos awareness advocacy and fundraising efforts inspired by the loss of his wife Leah. Photos supplied
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With nearly two decades at Blacks Real Estate, Peter Francis has built a reputation across Mackay for honest service, strong negotiation skills and consistent results. Joining the agency in 2008, Peter now serves as Director and Sales Consultant, helping vendors and buyers navigate the property market with a focus on professionalism and clear communication. Originally trained as a surveyor at the University of South Australia, Peter later transitioned into real estate, where he went on to achieve national and international recognition, including National Top 20 rankings on seven occasions and a Hall of Fame award during a previous role. Since moving to Mackay in 2004 with his wife Kylie and their family, Peter has become deeply involved in the local community, balancing a busy career with raising five children and contributing to school communities and the Mackay Chamber of Commerce. Known for his calm approach and ability to mediate between buyers and sellers, Peter said building trust with clients has always been central to his work. His long list of repeat clients and referrals reflects the strong relationships he has developed across the region over the years. Blacks Real Estate continues to operate from Wood Street in Mackay and Dysart Garden Plaza, servicing residential, commercial and rural clients across the region. CAPTION: Peter Francis, Director and Sales Consultant at Blacks Real Estate. Photo supplied
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We need to talk about something that happens far too often – black kittens are usually the last to be chosen. Yet they are often the very best companions. These kittens are not just “another kitten”. They are the ones who follow you from room to room like your shadow. Who climb into your lap and stay there. Who greet you at the door like a dog and want to be involved in everything you do. They don’t just live in your home – they become part of your everyday life. Our black kittens are incredibly affectionate – true lap cats who crave human connection. They are confident and curious, often the first to explore and investigate. Playful and cheeky, they are full of personality and mischief. They are also highly social. They will chat to you, respond to you and connect with you. Once they choose you, they are yours completely. And in real life, they are absolutely stunning – with glossy coats, striking eyes, and an elegant, sleek presence that photos simply don’t capture. If you have ever wanted a cat that truly bonds with you, that seeks you out and becomes your constant little companion, come and meet our black kittens. Because once you meet them, you will understand. To register your expression of interest, please contact foster carer Janet on 0423 768 805. Contributed by Mackay Pet Rescue Inc
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There’s a type of exhaustion many women carry that doesn’t disappear with a good night’s sleep. It’s not just physical tiredness. It’s the constant mental juggling. Remembering school events, organising appointments, replying to messages, planning meals, checking homework, thinking ahead, caring for ageing parents, supporting friends, managing work deadlines, and somehow trying to look after yourself somewhere in between. Even during moments of “rest,” many women describe feeling like their brain never truly switches off. This invisible load is something women carry every day, and over time, the body often carries it too. As a women’s and pelvic health physiotherapist, I often see women who come in with symptoms like pelvic pain, bladder urgency, tension, leaking, headaches, jaw clenching, shallow breathing, or a feeling that their body is constantly tight or “on edge.” Many are surprised to learn that stress and nervous system overload can play a significant role in how the body feels and functions. When we’re stressed for long periods, the body naturally shifts into a protective state. Muscles tighten, breathing becomes shallow, sleep can be disrupted, and the nervous system stays on high alert. It’s a helpful response in short bursts, but when the body stays in that heightened state for weeks, months, or years, symptoms can begin to appear. And the pelvic floor is particularly influenced by this. Many people think the pelvic floor only matters during pregnancy or after birth, but these muscles respond closely to stress, posture, breathing, and tension patterns throughout the entire body. Some women unknowingly hold tension through their pelvic floor all day long, almost like clenching their jaw without realising. Over time, this can contribute to discomfort, urgency, constipation, pain, or difficulty fully relaxing the muscles. What’s important to understand is that this does not mean the body is “broken.” Often, it’s a body that has been coping, adapting, and carrying a great deal for a long time. And while exercise and movement are incredibly important, healing isn’t always about pushing harder. Sometimes it’s about creating moments where the body feels safe enough to soften and let go. That might look like slowing your breathing for a few minutes while sitting in the car before school pick-up. Going for a walk without turning it into another task to complete. Stretching before bed. Asking for help. Resting without guilt. Learning how to relax your pelvic floor, not just strengthen it. Small moments matter. Women are often exceptionally good at caring for everyone else while quietly ignoring their own symptoms. But tension, fatigue, and overwhelm are not simply things to “push through” forever. The body has a way of asking for attention eventually. If your body feels tight, tired, or not quite like itself, it may be worth listening with curiosity rather than criticism. Support can make a meaningful difference, whether that’s through movement, stress management, pelvic health physiotherapy, or simply giving yourself permission to slow down occasionally. Because women were never meant to carry everything alone, and the body shouldn’t have to either.
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The late Leah Smith, riding horses fearlessly in shorts. Photo sourced
After losing his wife to asbestos-related cancer in August 2024, Mackay father and widower Phil Smith has spent the past 22 months relentlessly advocating and fundraising through Ride In Shorts For Leah, an initiative to which he has devoted more than 1,200 volunteer hours and raised over $42,000 for asbestos education and disease prevention initiatives.
On May 15th, Mr Smith proudly, yet humbly, received the Queensland New Volunteer Award for 2026.
Advocacy Australia and its Asbestos Education Committee announced the win, presented by the Governor of Queensland, Her Excellency the Honourable Dr Jeannette Young AC PSM, at Brisbane City Hall.
The recognition comes in the wake of profound loss, following the heartbreaking passing of his wife, Leah Smith.
Leah had unknowingly been exposed to asbestos fibres as a three-year-old when her parents built their family home. At just 49 years of age, and only eight months and one day after her diagnosis, she tragically succumbed to malignant mesothelioma.
She has since been remembered as a woman of great courage, often doing what she loved most – riding horses fearlessly in shorts, with a beer in hand.
It is a legacy now carried forward through Ride In Shorts For Leah.
Since her passing, Mr Smith has become a powerful voice in educating Australians about the dangers of asbestos exposure and the importance of safe renovation practices.
He said the award was dedicated to Leah and to every family impacted by asbestos-related diseases including malignant mesothelioma, lung cancer and asbestosis.
“Leah wanted people to be warned about the dangers of asbestos and how easily exposure can happen when asbestos-containing materials that remain in 1-in-3 Australian homes are disturbed during renovations, maintenance and demolition.
“I made a promise to Leah that I would share our story and if it helps prevent even one family from going through this heartbreak, then everything we’ve done will have been worth it,” Mr Smith said.
“This award doesn’t just acknowledge my efforts. It belongs to Leah, our sons, supporters and volunteers, especially Jade Flack and Stephanie Wood, who supported me through the toughest time of my life and continue to support our Ride In Shorts For Leah fundraising and awareness activities.
“The riders, donors and every person who’s helped raise awareness and funds to support asbestos education across the community; this award belongs to them all,” Mr Smith said.
Advocacy Australia chair and Asbestos Education Committee chair Clare Collins said, “Phil embodies everything volunteering is about - courage, compassion, leadership and service to others.
“What makes Phil’s contribution so remarkable is that his advocacy for asbestos awareness was founded on profound personal loss.
“And yet despite his grief, Phil continues to relive his loss publicly to keep a promise he made to his beloved wife Leah - to protect other Australians from exposure to asbestos fibres that can kill,” she said.
“Through Ride In Shorts For Leah, Phil has not only honoured Leah’s legacy but created a powerful and growing grassroots movement that is helping save lives through awareness and education about asbestos risks,” Ms Collins said.
One thing I’ve been reflecting on lately is how easy it is for all of us, myself included, to look at ideas for Mackay and think, that would be great to have here.
And honestly, many of them would be.
People want things for our region because they care about this place. Whether it’s major events, new facilities, upgraded infrastructure, beautification projects or tourism ideas, most suggestions come from a genuine desire to see Mackay continue growing and improving.
But one of the biggest things I’ve learned sitting at the council table is that wanting something and responsibly delivering it are two very different things.
Another important part of this role is learning perspective, not just pushing my own perception. Every decision carries a cost and a consequence. Not only the cost to build something, but the long-term cost to maintain, operate, repair and sustain it into the future. Those costs are ultimately carried by the community and the ratepayer. That’s perspective.
Everyone knows the cost of living has increased, but what many people may not realise is how unpredictable the broader economic and geopolitical landscape has become. Global instability, supply chain pressures, fuel prices, inflation and shifting economic conditions all flow downstream into local government in different ways. Councils don’t operate separate from those pressures. We feel them too.
That’s why local government has to think beyond announcements and individual ideas. Council has to weigh budgets, legislation, priorities, operational realities and long-term sustainability all at once. Sometimes leadership means asking not only, “would this be good to have?” but also, “is this realistic, achievable and responsible in the long run?”
I think people deserve honesty about that.
One important thing I’ve also learned is that the role of a councillor is strategic, not operational. Under local government legislation, councillors help set the strategic direction of council, represent the community and provide oversight and accountability. The operational side, the day-to-day management and administration, sits with the Chief Executive Officer and council staff.
That doesn’t mean councillors shouldn’t understand how things work. We need to understand projects, systems and community impacts to make informed decisions and remain strategically relevant. But there is a difference between understanding operations and interfering in them.
It’s also important to understand that councillors are not always privy to every detail at every stage. Some matters are legally confidential, commercial-in-confidence or subject to contracts and negotiations that restrict what can be publicly discussed at certain times. That can understandably frustrate people wanting immediate answers, but those protections exist for important reasons.
I also don’t claim to know everything. This is my first term on council, and there are councillors and mayors with several terms and decades more experience and understanding than I have. I respect that. Part of leadership is being willing to learn, ask questions and continue growing into the responsibility of the role.
What keeps me grounded is remembering the people behind the reports and agenda items. Financial decisions affect households already managing rising costs. Infrastructure decisions shape what future generations inherit.
Growing up in a working-class family taught me that most people value practicality, honesty and common sense. They understand that sometimes you can want something while also recognising the need to approach it responsibly.
That’s not negativity. That’s stewardship.
For me, this role has never been about headlines or monuments. It’s about contributing to meaningful and reasonably achievable outcomes that genuinely benefit our region over time.
Nigel Dalton MP with Louise O’Neill CEO Palliative Care Queensland
As the weather in Mackay begins to change, we’re moving into the cooler months — not quite slippers weather yet, but it’s definitely time to break out the hot chocolates and marshmallows. Over the past few weeks, I’ve been out and about across our region almost every weekend, attending local events, catching up with community groups and speaking directly with residents about what they want to see for Mackay’s future.
Last week in Parliament, I was proud to advocate for Mackay by supporting the Resources Safety and Health Queensland and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2026, while also recognising the invaluable contribution local volunteers make to keeping our community strong and connected.
In relation to the Resource and Safety Bill I highlighted that in Mackay, mining is more than an industry — it supports local jobs, families, apprenticeships, small businesses and the growth of our regional communities. These reforms are about strengthening worker safety, accountability and governance across Queensland’s resources sector, while ensuring every worker returns home safely at the end of every shift.
I also spoke on the Inquiry into Volunteering in Queensland and recognised the incredible network of volunteers in the Mackay community. From Neighbourhood Watch groups helping keep our streets safe, to U3A Mackay supporting lifelong learning for seniors, to Volunteers in Policing (VIP’s) — volunteers are at the heart of our region. I also acknowledged the dedicated volunteers at Mackay Senior Citizens Hall, Mackay Mental Health and Community Programs, and the many local sporting clubs where volunteers continue to coach, manage, fundraise and support local families.
I also had the opportunity to attend Palliative Care Week and Neighbourhood Week celebrations in Parliament. These important initiatives often rely heavily on volunteers, carers, community organisations and local advocates who work tirelessly to support vulnerable Queenslanders and strengthen community connection.
Outside Parliament, it has been fantastic to see important local projects progressing across Mackay. I am proud to announce that works are now underway on upgrades for Mackay Musical Comedy Players Inc, delivering on our 2024 election commitment to invest in community infrastructure. I’m looking forward to seeing the new storage space completed and the many future productions still to come.
Construction is also progressing well on the new social and affordable housing project on Macalister Street. This development is part of a broader pipeline delivering 36 social and affordable homes across the Mackay. Once complete, the new apartment building will provide 18 homes, adding to the growing supply of safe and secure housing for local residents. Now well underway, this project represents a significant step forward, following the delivery of 36 homes in Mackay since being elected in 2024.
As always, if you would like to get in touch, my office is open Monday to Friday 8am -4pm or come and say hello at the Mackay Marina Run on Sunday, 7 June at Mackay Marina.
A growing wave of community concern has emerged following a decision by Mackay Regional Council to repurpose the Gordon White Library in 2027, as part of broader plans linked to the new Northern Beaches Community Hub development.
The council has indicated the Mount Pleasant facility will no longer operate as a full-service library once the new hub opens, with the building instead potentially becoming a broader community-council facility.
The proposal has prompted a wave of feedback from residents who say the library plays an important role in the community.
An online petition titled “Save Gordon White Library”, started by local resident Kristy Dodt, has gathered significant support since launching on May 6th, with 1,913 verified signatures recorded.
The petition states: “The accessibility of this library for people of all ages and abilities makes it an integral part of this community, [which] offers so much to the people who utilise its resources, programs and staff.
“We are asking Council to reconsider any plans to reduce operations at this facility, if they are unable to offer an immediate, viable and accessible alternative option for the community.”
Community members have also shared personal reflections on why the facility matters to them.
One signatory, Irene, wrote: “Three generations of my family use this library because of its accessibility, resources, friendly staff and proximity to where we live.
“It’s such a shame that the community that actually utilises this community hub were not consulted further.”
More than 400 comments have also appeared on a social media post from Mackay Regional Council discussing the proposed changes.
Among them were comments from residents expressing disappointment or concern about the future of the library.
“Whilst I agree a library at northern beaches would be nice, it should not come at the expense of losing Gordon White!” wrote Kayla.
Another resident James added: “This is a terrible decision. The Gordon White library is used by so many people in the community; people from all walks of life: students, the elderly, people living with disability, parents with young children and families in general.”
Annette wrote: “This is the best Library in Mackay.
“Really should consider closing the Mackay city library instead. Much harder to park and sometimes can be quite confronting taking children too. Was a horrible spot to pick.
“Please don’t shut Gordon White.”
Mayor Greg Williamson and Mackay Regional Council CEO Gerard Carlyon have previously assured residents that the Dudley Denny City Library is safe, noting security guards are on site, and that the Northern Beaches Community Hub will feature a world-class library available for all to use.
Council has also stated that it would be unnecessary to have two libraries on the northern side of Mackay, at Mount Pleasant and the Northern Beaches, once the new facility opens.
Under the proposal, the Gordon White building would not be completely closed but could be repurposed as a community space similar to the Jubilee Community Centre, with meeting rooms and offices. A click-and-collect option for library books may also remain available at the site, though it would not be fully operated by library staff.
Discussion around the future of the Mount Pleasant facility continues, with residents and library users sharing a range of views on the proposed changes.
Residents wishing to provide feedback on the proposal can still do so until June 16th 2026 — as the community considers what the next chapter for the Gordon White Library could look like.
OPINION PIECE by Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox
The law is supposed to be the ultimate shield for the vulnerable, yet in Australia it has become a weapon used to dismantle the hard-won boundaries of women and girls.
The recent Full Federal Court decision in the Tickle v Giggle appeal is a watershed moment, representing a ruling that should deeply alarm every Australian who still believes that common sense, safety, and biological reality matter.
By dismissing the appeal of app founder Sall Grover and doubling the damages against her to $20,000, the court has effectively declared that single-sex spaces are no longer legally defensible in our country.
How did we arrive at a point where an Australian woman can spend years in court and hundreds of thousands of dollars just to defend her right to create a female-only network?
The root of this crisis lies squarely within the halls of parliament.
In 2013, the Gillard Labor government amended the Sex Discrimination Act, deliberately introducing the concept of "gender identity" while leaving the definition of "sex" entirely ambiguous.
The courts are now simply interpreting the flawed framework they were handed.
As the legal definition of sex is judicially expanded beyond biology, the protections for women’s changerooms, domestic violence shelters, hospital wards, prisons and sports are being quietly hollowed out.
As a father and a grandfather of girls, I believe this is a matter of absolute principle.
This ruling sends a chilling message to women and girls across our nation that their boundaries do not matter, their privacy is a secondary concern, and their desire for single-sex safety will be treated as unlawful discrimination.
We are witnessing the systematic erasure of female-only spaces, spaces that were built to ensure dignity, privacy, and fairness.
We do not need to look far for a blueprint of sanity.
The United Kingdom Supreme Court previously ruled unanimously that sex means biological sex. Five judges came to a single, common-sense conclusion, and our own laws should be just as clear.
The Coalition will not stand by and watch women's rights be compromised.
In the next sitting of parliament, the National and Liberal Parties will bring this matter forward as a matter of absolute urgency.
We will champion legislative amendments to define the two biological sexes within the Sex Discrimination Act as male and female, reflecting the unchangeable reality of the sex a person is born.
This initiative is not about stripping protections away from any individual, but rather about restoring the foundational right to preserve spaces reserved exclusively for women and girls, as well as men and boys.
The Labor Government created this problem, and consequently, it is up to parliament to fix it.
A society that refuses to define what a woman is will ultimately find itself entirely unable to protect one.
It is time to restore biological reality, eliminate ideological overreach, and return common sense to the laws of our land.
A 29-year-old woman has died following a serious single-vehicle crash at Sarina on May 13th, with the Forensic Crash Unit continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
Around 6.15pm, emergency services were called to reports a Toyota Hilux utility had lost control and crashed on Homebush Road.
The male driver, aged 25, sustained minor injuries, while the female passenger suffered life-threatening head injuries and was transported to Mackay Base Hospital, where she later passed away.
Police are appealing for any witnesses or dashcam footage. Tributes shared online describe her as a “beautiful young woman,” with heartfelt messages of love, loss and condolences from family and friends mourning a life gone too soon.
Volunteers from the Mackay SES are among the thousands of Queenslanders being recognised during the 2026 Queensland Volunteering Awards. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Community volunteers across Mackay and the Whitsundays are being celebrated as part of the 2026 Queensland Volunteering Awards, which recognised nearly 50,000 volunteers across the state.
This year’s awards featured 275 nominations, recognising volunteers working across emergency services, sporting clubs, charities, tourism events and community support programs.
Queensland Minister for Volunteers Ann Leahy said volunteers played a vital role in keeping Queensland communities connected and supported.
“Volunteers are at the heart of our communities, and our government is proud to be delivering practical support and recognition for the people who selflessly give their time to help others,” Minister Leahy said.
Mackay and Whitsundays communities rely heavily on volunteers across major events, surf lifesaving clubs, emergency response groups and local sporting organisations.
“These awards are about honouring the thousands of Queenslanders who step up every day to support others, strengthen communities and deliver real impact across our state,” she said.
CEO of Volunteering Queensland Jane Hedger said volunteers continued to support their communities during challenging economic times.
“At a time when cost of living pressures and increasing demand for support are placing strain on Queenslanders, volunteers continue to step up and be the steady hands helping to hold our communities together,” Ms Hedger said.
Since launching in 2016, the Queensland Volunteering Awards have highlighted the efforts of volunteers and organisations making significant contributions across the state.
The team at Belle Property Whitsundays at ‘A Morning For Fern’ on Sunday. Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi
The community came together on Sunday to raise money for single-mum, Fern Wilson, who is battling incurable cancer following a second tragic diagnosis earlier this year.
Fern had spent two years in remission after successful treatment for stage 3 breast cancer in 2023, but sadly began to feel unwell in January and scans confirmed the worst.
As the devastating news reached the community, many people rallied around to show their support and within a matter of weeks planning for ‘A Morning For Fern’ was underway.
Organised by Reanne Burnett and hosted by Steph McQuirter and her team at Belle Property Whitsundays, the event saw more than 300 people attend on Sunday morning.
Following dedicated effort from a broad support team, an impressive $30,000 was raised to help Fern as she navigates her battle for survival from Bali where she is currently receiving treatment.
A total of 35 raffle prizes, contributed by 70 local businesses and valued at $3,000, were up for grabs on the day. These items raised $9,602.
In addition, 15 silent auction prizes generated a further $6,044 and a GoFundMe site garnered $14,120.
With additional donations still filtering in, organisers are expecting to exceed this amount in the coming days.
Every cent is going directly towards Fern, taking away the financial pressure as she navigates life and embraces hope for the future.
Earlier this week, Fern thanked everyone who had contributed towards making the morning a success.
“I especially want to thank Belle for putting together this beautiful morning tea and for all the love, effort, and support that has gone into making today possible. Your kindness means more to me than words can express,” she shared.
“To all the sponsors and everyone who donated the incredible prizes - thank you from the bottom of my heart. Your generosity is helping make my overseas treatment possible and is giving me the opportunity to continue healing, living, and fighting for my future.”
“I also want to say a very special thank you to Jacquie from the Trudy Crawley Foundation, and to the beautiful nurses Kris and Rosie, for supporting me throughout my cancer journey. They have been an absolute godsend and such a blessing in my life.”
‘A Morning For Fern’ was kindly supported by a host of local vendors who all donated their time on the day, many also giving their proceeds to Fern.
Lumos café, Whitsunday Sweet Delights, Mrs Beans Coffee Van, Rilo real fruit ice cream & smoothies, Smoking Gunns BBQ, Samuel McCann Musician, Cliolistic Face painting, Elementa – 74 Island Bar and Top Tukka all donated their services.
The following businesses also contributed to making the event special: Palm Co Media- Videographer, TP Events and Styling, Karen Hill Florists and The Balloon Emporium.
Organisers would also like to thank all the local businesses who donated prizes on the day and everyone who came along to the event and contributed to the money raised.
Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort (left) and Officer in Charge of Ayr Police Station Senior Sergeant Lisa Shields (right) with survivors following the tragic bus rollover near Gumlu. Photo: Jacob Casha
A bus crash in Gumlu, north of Bowen last week, has made national news after the incident tragically took the life of one of the passengers.
Emergency Services were called to the Bruce Highway north of Bowen just before 4pm on May 14th after the southbound flexibus travelling from Cairns to Airlie Beach left the roadway and rolled onto its side. Passengers were transported to hospitals across Townsville, Ayr and Bowen.
According to passengers, the bus driver had warned everyone that the bus was ‘not the best one’, before the departure. A bus crash occurred on the same stretch of highway two years ago, claiming three lives.
A young overseas tourist has died and dozens of passengers were left shaken after a bus crash near Gumlu last Thursday afternoon.
Emergency services were called to the Bruce Highway north of Bowen just before 4pm on 14th May, after a southbound FlixBus travelling from Cairns to Airlie Beach left the roadway and rolled onto its side.
The bus was carrying 29 people at the time of the crash. The driver, a 70-year-old Mackay man, was taken to Bowen Hospital with minor injuries.
Police confirmed 26-year-old Serena Andreatta, a dual Argentinian and Italian national, died at the scene.
Several other passengers sustained injuries and were transported to hospitals in Townsville, Ayr and Bowen for treatment.
One passenger who survived the crash told Life Publishing they became concerned about the bus’s movements in the hours before the rollover.
“I did not feel so safe,” the passenger said, claiming the bus appeared to be “swerving” at times.
The passenger said the concern prompted them to fasten their seatbelt.
They then recalled the bus striking a barrier before rolling, describing chaotic scenes inside the vehicle as passengers and belongings were thrown around the cabin.
Following the crash, passengers were cared for in Ayr overnight before continuing their journey south on another bus.
Burdekin Shire Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort attended to check on passengers and assisted in sourcing medication for those affected. Passengers lauded the response efforts of Burdekin Shire Council, Ayr Police, and the wider community.
The Queensland Police Forensic Crash Unit is continuing to investigate the incident.
The incident occurred on the same stretch of highway where a fatal Greyhound bus crash in 2024 claimed three lives.
Superintendent Dean Cavanagh described the crash scene as “very confronting” and praised emergency crews for their rapid response.
“This was a very complex incident, it was a very serious incident, and it was in an isolated area,” he said.
“Although we tragically lost a life, I believe that effort that we saw absolutely went into saving many [more].”
Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins issued support, thanking the emergency service providers who promptly responded.
“My thoughts are with those involved, their family and loved ones, and the first responders, including our council traffic crews who worked through a very serious incident.”
Premier David Crisafulli described the incident as a tragedy, expressing condolences for the woman who died and noting multiple patients were still fighting for life in hospital.
He declined to speculate the cause of the crash, but reiterated his commitment to improving safety on the Bruce Highway.
“It’s a road that means everything to the state, and it’s a road that’s a long way short of where it should be.”
The Whitsundays Writers Festival has announced the winners of its 2026 Stanza Bonanza poetry competition and inaugural Fast Fiction competition, showcasing storytelling talent inspired by the Whitsundays’ landscapes, people and imagination.
Sydney writer and journalist Linda Daniele was named the winner of the 2026 Stanza Bonanza poetry competition, while Airlie Beach author Natalie Stockdale took out the festival’s first Fast Fiction title.
Presented to mark World Poetry Day, the Stanza Bonanza competition invited poets of all levels to submit an original poem of up to 20 lines inspired by the prompt: “A Whitsundays postcard from 100 years ago, or 100 years from now.”
Meanwhile, the Fast Fiction competition — launched for International Day of Storytelling — challenged writers to craft a story in 250 words or less responding to the prompt: “Something unexpected washed ashore on Whitehaven Beach…”
Festival Director Richard Evans said both competitions attracted a strong response from writers across a wide range of backgrounds and experience levels.
“The response to Stanza Bonanza was a wonderful reminder of how powerfully poetry can connect place, memory and imagination,” Richard said.
“Writers embraced the prompt in inventive and surprising ways, and the standard of entries was exceptionally strong.”
Speaking about the inaugural Fast Fiction competition, Richard said the quality of submissions highlighted the creativity within the region and beyond.
“The standard of entries in our first Fast Fiction competition was excellent,” he said.
“It was exciting to see so many writers embrace the challenge of telling a compelling story with limited words and time.”
Based in Sydney, Ms Daniele is a writer, journalist and editor who has worked in legal publishing for more than 15 years, alongside freelance journalism and editorial work for On The Side. Her writing has also been recognised in the Sydney Mardi Gras Short Story Competition.
Her winning poem, Dear You—, explored themes of memory, time and environmental reflection through imagery inspired by the Whitsundays landscape.
Airlie Beach-based Ms Stockdale is published by Big Sky Publishing and works professionally as a memoir writer. Like many locals, she draws inspiration from the region’s natural beauty, including Whitehaven Beach, which she describes as “our own backyard”.
Her winning short story follows a man confronting memories of conflict after discovering a rusted rifle washed ashore decades after losing it during the Rhodesian conflict.
A highlight of the Fast Fiction competition was the participation of students from Whitsunday Christian College and Proserpine State School.
“Seeing teachers and students encourage with the competition reminds us why these opportunities matter – they create space for young people to imagine, write, and share their voices,” Richard said.
Both winners will receive a $100 cash prize and a free day pass to the 2026 Whitsundays Writers Festival, which will be held on Sunday, September 13, at the Whitsunday Marine Club.
Richard encouraged entrants to continue exploring opportunities through the festival’s literary programs and competitions.
“We’re grateful to everyone who entered,” he said.
“The quality of work we received was inspiring, and we encourage all entrants to keep writing, keep experimenting, and keep sharing their work.”
Festival organisers have confirmed the full 2026 program and tickets are now available through the festival website.
Bella is looking for her forever family in the Whitsundays and beyond.
She is a one year old Staffordshire cross, medium sized, full of love, and so ready for someone to choose her and mean it.
She has been through more than most. Surrendered, rehomed, then unwell, and then without a home again through no fault of her own. Through all of it she has remained gentle, affectionate, and completely devoted to the people around her.
Bella loves children, thrives on connection, and just wants to be close to her people. She is best suited to a home where someone is around most of the time because when she has her person, she gives everything she has.
She has already been through so much. She just needs someone to choose her for life.
To adopt Bella, DM Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue Inc on Facebook with your name, phone number and "Bella".
The adoption fee is $400. She is microchipped, recovered and healthy.
Tamara Noble and Rebecca Woods from the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre with raffle prizes at the organisation’s Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea fundraiser. Photo supplied
The Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre has raised $1,860 for Cancer Council Queensland during its annual Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea event.
Held with a tropical theme, the fundraiser brought together locals for a colourful morning filled with community spirit, laughter and friendly competition, including prizes for the loudest tropical shirt.
The Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre thanked everyone who attended, donated and supported the event, with special recognition given to Club Whitsunday for partnering on the event and providing the brunch menu.
Organisers said events like Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea highlight the strength of the local community in supporting people impacted by cancer.
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Volunteers with Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc. sort and remove marine debris collected from Whitsunday islands as part of efforts to protect the Great Barrier Reef and turn ocean waste into recycled products. Photo supplied
A new North Queensland billboard campaign is calling on the community to help turn ocean waste into something useful, as Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc. continues its mission to protect the Great Barrier Reef.
Every year, Eco Barge removes tonnes of marine debris from islands across the reef. Now, in partnership with Paradise Outdoor Advertising (POA), the organisation is urging locals to join volunteers in transforming 24 tonnes of collected ocean waste into recycled products.
The campaign, displayed across key regional locations, encourages people to sign up and become part of the solution by volunteering in the Whitsundays.
Libby Edge, Founder of Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc, said the initiative represents an important next step in the organisation’s work.
“Every piece of marine debris we remove from the islands has a story,” Libby said.
“With the support of our volunteers, we’re now working to transform that debris into new products, showing that what washes up on our shores can become part of the solution rather than part of the problem.”
Since 2009, Eco Barge volunteers have removed 277,947 kilograms of marine debris, completed 569 clean-up trips, engaged 14,291 volunteers, and cared for 297 sick and injured marine turtles.
POA CEO Mitch James said billboards were a powerful way to inspire action. “Billboards are designed to capture attention and deliver a powerful message, in this case giving people an opportunity to protect the Great Barrier Reef through local action.”
He added the campaign aims to turn awareness into participation across the region.
The campaign will run year-round. More information is available at www.ecobargecleanseas.org.au
Zoran teaches self-defence across all age groups, equipping individuals with important skills. Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi
With 43 years of experience across 8 different martial arts, Whitsunday local Zoran Stublin is passionate about bringing his expertise to the region. Zoran runs the Whitsunday Self Defence Academy, a completely free community initiative open to all members of the public.
Zoran’s approach to self-defence training comes from a synthesis of 8 different martial arts – Judo, Jujitsu, Aikido, Ninjutsu, Kyosho, Jutsu, Kapap, Krav Maga and Russian systema.
Moving to Whitsundays in 2021, he set up what is now known as the Whitsunday Self Defence Academy to provide guidance to the community on public safety and self-protection.
Zoran has also taken his training across the country, acting as a visiting instructor in Melbourne and Cairns.
Zoran’s professional background plays a huge part in what he does. His military training and additional consultancy work in security and government have helped him form a program that extends beyond just physical defence – examining ways to navigate different social situations when a person is under threat.
“It’s not just about martial arts.” Zoran said.
“There is a psychological element. I teach people how to recognise sociopaths and psychopaths. I also teach them how to de-escalate aggressive situations.”
“When I started the academy, a major issue amongst kids was bullying and harassment. I started a bullying programme that looks at navigating those situations. I also developed a specialised programme for women and self-defence. I teach them about home intrusion and provide tips on how to use everyday household objects such as spoons, towels and pans to defend themselves.”
Zoran’s self-defence program also covers theft attempts in carparks, sexual predators, abductions, kidnappings and ATM holdups.
“I’ve tried to create a realistic programme to equip people with skills for domestic situations.” He said.
Participants attend the class in their everyday clothes to prepare them for potential real-life situations.
“When you make someone wear a uniform in a dojo it creates a certain kind of psychology. They may be unprepared in a real-life situation without their uniform.” Zoran explained.
“Making people wear civil clothes removes the comfort that someone might get from putting on a uniform and prepares them better for real life situations.”
In the midst of Queensland Domestic and Violence month, Zoran’s priority is ensuring protection in domestic environments.
“It’s an issue in the region. I collaborate with counselling services, providing tips such as arrangement of furniture that would allow easier escape routes and better protection.”
At the core of Zoran’s initiative is a passionate desire to help the community as much as he can.
“My only aim for the region is to promote confidence in people, so they don’t walk around with fear. I’m not teaching them to be paranoid, but rather to be aware. I want to provide everyone with basic tools for their toolbox that they can take out when they need it.”
Sessions are conducted at Club Whitsunday every Tuesday and Thursday with kids’ sessions running from 4:30pm to 5:30pm and adult sessions commencing at 6pm.
Zoran strongly urges anyone interested to come along.
Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry Executive Officer, Julia Evans said many Whitsunday businesses were built over decades through personal sacrifice and should not be treated as speculative investments. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie
By Julia Evans
Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry Executive Officer
The Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry has listened to the deep concern among local business owners following last week’s Federal Budget.
Proposed changes to Capital Gains Tax (CGT) and Negative Gearing settings, particularly the potential move from the 50 per cent CGT discount to inflation indexation, have raised serious questions for family businesses, farmers, and sole operators across our region.
For many Whitsunday business owners, their enterprise is not a speculative asset. It is a lifetime of hard work, a retirement plan, a family legacy, and the backbone of local employment.
Under current proposals, when that business is sold to fund retirement, the tax outcome could be significantly higher, especially for those who built value over decades from modest starting capital. That risk is not abstract. It directly affects succession planning, reinvestment, and the economic stability of our communities.
In the Whitsundays, around 4,200 businesses employ more than 21,000 people. They already carry the weight of income tax, company tax, payroll tax, GST, and rising compliance costs from federal, state and local governments. Adding poorly designed CGT changes without proper regional consultation would risk making local businesses collateral damage in a national tax debate.
But this statement is not about attacking the government.
It is a clear signal that the Whitsunday business community cannot afford to be silent or fragmented. The scarcity of visible consultation with our North Queensland region reinforces one hard truth: without a strong, united voice, our realities will not be understood in Canberra.
The Chamber is calling on every regional business – micro, family, or medium-sized – to join us. Not just to complain, but to shape solutions. To feed real experiences into advocacy that matters. To ensure that future policy encourages investment, not uncertainty, and backs the people who build regional Australia.
As one, we are a strong and loud voice. Alone, we are easily overlooked.
The Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry encourages all local businesses to become members and help drive a practical, united response to the policy challenges ahead.
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