What's Happening With Australias First Orbital-Capable Rocket?

By Ruth Puddefoot

After a few turbulent weeks, Gilmour Space Technologies is back on track with its Eris TestFlight1 mission, following the successful resolution of a payload fairing issue that led to two launch scrubs earlier this month.

Now back on the pad at the Bowen Orbital Spaceport, the Eris rocket has had a new payload fairing installed and has entered the next phase of launch preparations, with system testing currently underway. A revised “No Earlier Than” (NET) launch target of 1 July has been confirmed via Gilmour Space Technologies’ Facebook page, sparking renewed excitement.

The root cause of the delays was traced to an unexpected power surge during a routine vehicle shutdown on 15 May. The surge, believed to have resulted from electrical backfeed from downstream devices, triggered the payload fairing system and caused it to separate prematurely. While shutdowns are a standard part of launch operations, the fairing system is a single-use mechanism and had never been activated in previous testing in order to preserve its reliability. Unfortunately, this meant the fault went undetected until the rocket was fully prepped for launch.

It has been a challenging period for the team, who were just moments away from entering the fuelling stage of the countdown. Despite thorough rehearsals and checks, Gilmour explained this was the first time the separation mechanisms had been fully energised, meaning they were pressurised and armed for flight. The experience became a valuable, albeit costly, learning curve.

A replacement fairing was promptly shipped from Gilmour Space’s Gold Coast facility and has now been fitted. Following an internal investigation, the company implemented both hardware and software changes to prevent a recurrence. They even joked that, despite early suspicions, the culprit wasn’t the curious cockatoo spotted poking around the wiring.

While a June launch had been the initial goal, recent weather conditions delayed those plans. The revised NET launch date remains subject to weather, wind and ongoing system checks.

Despite the setbacks, optimism remains high at the Queensland-based launch startup. The recent success of ElaraSat, Gilmour’s satellite developed in collaboration with CSIRO and launched via SpaceX and Exolaunch, marked a major milestone. ElaraSat is now in orbit, with tracking and commissioning support currently being provided by LeoLabs and KSAT.

Gilmour Space’s journey with Eris TestFlight1 forms part of Australia’s growing footprint in the global space sector. Scrubs and technical hiccups are said to be all part of the process, especially with new vehicles, but each delay brings valuable lessons that help shape a stronger path ahead.

The countdown continues.

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Bowen rocket set to launch

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Weddings Whitsundays stands as the region’s go-to  planning resource and promotional hub for wedding planning in the Whitsundays, connecting couples globally with our unparalleled beauty and professional services.

The fundamental purpose of Weddings Whitsundays is two-fold: to passionately promote this magnificent region as the ultimate wedding destination and to foster the growth and success of local wedding businesses. For members, being part of this collective is invaluable. With its recent strategic merger into the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Weddings Whitsundays has amplified its ability to assist members.

This new structure means members gain enhanced marketing reach through dedicated website listings and forthcoming promotional campaigns as well as gaining access to business resources, business education, and unparalleled networking opportunities at Chamber events.

Furthermore, membership is now just $299 per business, and grants access to powerful advocacy, ensuring your voice is heard on vital industry matters. Weddings Whitsundays is more than a directory; it's an investment in a collaborative future, ensuring your business thrives and contributes to our local economy, solidifying the Whitsundays' reputation as a world-class wedding destination.

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Weddings Whitsundays can help you plan your wedding. Photo credit: Brooke Miles Photography

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The fifth annual Coffee with a Cop catch up is set to take place at Whitsunday Plaza next Wednesday 2 July at 10am.

The popular and ongoing event has become a powerful tool for building trust between police and the public.

“Sometimes are reluctant to speak to police because of the position that we hold,” explained Officer in Charge of Whitsunday Station Senior Sergeant Anthony Moynihan.

“Sometimes the only interaction that people ever have with the police in their life is through something serious, sad, or they're getting a traffic ticket.

“Coffee with a Cop, is a way for us to have conversation with the general public and see us as normal people. There's no better way than sitting down and having a cup of coffee with someone and having a general conversation.”

Coffee with a Cop is a global event and Sergeant Billy Li is looking forward to its return at the Whitsunday Plaza.

Thomas Glisson centre manager of the Whitsunday Plaza said that Coffee with a Cop has been a key part of building community and retailer relationship with the police in a natural area for all.

“This I believe has helped build a stronger community interaction with police of all age groups,” he said.

“It is something that we enjoy having each year to assist the police and community to interact, talk and share a coffee as everyday people.”

What: Coffee with a Cop
Where: Whitsunday Plaza
When: 10am - 11:30am Wednesday 2 July

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Constable Mitchell Dentler, Constable Kai Osmetti, Officer In Charge Senior Sgt Anthony Moynihan, Constable Mason Bira, and Sgt Billy Li are ready for Coffee with a Cop next week. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Last week, Daydream Island and Tourism Whitsundays hosted an action-packed ATEC Explore North Queensland event and The Whitsundays was proudly front and centre.

Hosted by the Australian Tourism Export Council (ATEC), the event brought together international travel buyers and local tourism operators from North Queensland to help strengthen the region’s international presence. With 11 Whitsundays operators present and eight from Tropical North Queensland, our region was passionately represented.

They were joined by 25 international travel buyers from key distributors, including online and in-person travel agencies, wholesalers, and tour operators from the United Kingdom, the United States, Europe, Asia, and more.

The main event was a jam-packed day of one-on-one, ‘speed-dating’ style meetings where each operator got the chance to meet with each buyer. These appointments gave them the chance to showcase their products and build partnerships with the buyers to ensure that they are visible and bookable in international markets.

However, the benefits of trade engagement events extend beyond the partnerships created in the room. They are an important part of ensuring The Whitsundays is seen and desired by travellers around the world. By increasing our visibility to international markets, we help to keep the region at the top of bucket lists all over the world and remain competitive on a global stage.

If you are a local tourism business and are interested in learning more about how you can increase your international visibility and bookings, don’t hesitate to reach out to Tourism Whitsundays.

Contributed with thanks to Tourism Whitsundays Marketing Manager Laura Knipe

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ATEC event attendees at Lovers Cove on Daydream Island. Photo supplied

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The Whitsunday Sailing Club is stepping up its family-friendly offerings with the launch of a new 'Kids Eat Free' menu, available every day of the week.

This initiative makes it easier and more affordable for families to enjoy quality dining in one of Airlie Beach’s most iconic waterfront locations. The bistro serves a wide range of meals made with fresh local ingredients, offering something to please every palate—including little ones.

The Whitsunday Sailing Club offers more than just 'Kids Eat Free'. On Tuesday nights Airlie Beach’s original 'Music Bingo' kicks off with a crazy $25 Steak night too. Friday nights enjoy a variety of live musicians and on Saturday enjoy the Sailing Clubs Sunset Session. The background chilled beats provide an enjoyable evening, and great specials on offer too make the Whitsunday Sailing Club the place to be as the sun sets on a Saturday.

This daily promotion is part of the club’s broader commitment to delivering excellent value and a welcoming experience for members, visitors, and locals alike. Combined with its unbeatable ocean views, relaxed atmosphere, and community spirit, the Whitsunday Sailing Club continues to be a go-to destination for casual dining and social connection.

Whether you’re stopping by for a weekday dinner or a weekend outing with the kids, the club is making it easier than ever to enjoy time together by the sea.

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Whitsunday Sailing Club is the perfect spot for days or evenings. Photo sourced: Instagram

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Providing opportunities for primary industry, supporting small business and improvements to the Bruce Highway are all on Bowen’s horizon according to Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP.

Whilst the broad base of industry calling Bowen home provided a challenge when it came to delivering broad-scale improvement, Mr Last said that the Crisafulli government had homed in on key issues that would make a real difference.

“Diversity really is one of Bowen’s advantages because it means there is an almost constant stream of opportunities for growth,” Mr Last said.

“It also means that you can’t just make one change and expect a huge result but it’s a challenge the Crisafulli government is embracing.

“Primary industry is vitally important for Bowen but, for too long, the sector has been ignored and even portrayed negatively. What we now have is an ambitious goal for growth and work is underway to finalise a plan to deliver on that goal.

“While the initial goal is to increase primary industries production to $30 Billion by 2030, we are also working on a plan to support and grow primary production right through until 2050. That plan will be shaped during consultation with locals and will provide access to opportunities while addressing challenges like biosecurity and invasive plants.

“We’ve also moved to restore confidence in the commercial fishing industry because we back our
commercial fishers, and we know how important that industry is to towns like Bowen. It’s about working with primary industry for the best outcomes rather than threatening their future.”

Mr Last said support for small business was also a priority given it was the largest employer in many regional areas, as was vital infrastructure.

“In the lead up to the state election we were told that the federal government had reduced funding for the Bruce Highway and that we would just have to deal with it,” he said.

“We were actually successful in restoring funding levels and that means work can commence on urgently needed upgrades and on long- term projects to improve safety.

“Regardless of whether you drive North or South from Bowen, there are safety improvement projects
about to get underway and other projects in the planning phase.

"We cannot fix years of neglect of the Bruce Highway overnight, but we can, and we are, making a real difference when it comes safety.

“We’ve also got down to business when it comes to small business. We made a commitment to cutting
red tape for small and family business as well as providing additional support, and we are delivering on that commitment.

“Over $100 Million has been invested in providing a variety of support packages for small and family business and delivered targeted grants to over 600 small businesses including some in Bowen. Those grants are focussed on strengthening businesses to secure and grow local jobs across the state.

“With an empowered Primary Industry sector, stronger small business and improved infrastructure,
there’s an even brighter future ahead for Bowen.”

Contributed with thanks to Dale Last MP

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Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP, said a recent trip to Bowen with Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie highlighted the opportunities to make the town’s future even brighter. Photo supplied

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Two local students are crediting face-to-face learning and hands-on training for giving them the confidence to step into new careers in aged and disability support.

Sera Armitage and Annabel Tink are among the first to complete a new six-month Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing & Disability) at TAFE Queensland’s Whitsundays campus in Cannonvale. With just 20 hours of placement remaining, both women say it was the in-person learning that made the biggest impact.

“For me personally, I enjoyed having a teacher direct us face-to-face,” said Sera.

“And our teacher, Christina Fletcher, was amazing, very supportive. Being able to get feedback straight away from a teacher and being in one room together with other students, bouncing ideas off one another was really good.”

The pair were part of a small class, allowing for a collaborative and personalised learning environment.

“There’s different sorts of learning,” Annabel said.

“Some people learn by doing. Some people learn by reading. I like to write things down, and I think Christina was brilliant, if you didn’t understand something, she could explain it in a different way to you. I don’t think you’d get that on a computer.”

The course also featured extensive practical learning both simulated and real-world.

At the Bowen campus the students trained in an on-site mock hospital complete with hoists and mobility aids to mimic a real hospital ward. They have also completed 100 hours of placement at the Proserpine Nursing Home.

“The practical side of the course is really good,” said Annabel. “You’re put in an environment where you can practise your skills instead of just going straight into a nursing home and going, ‘Oh, I’ve never seen one of those.’ You’re prepared.”

“It was good to go and learn how to use hoists and things I’d never thought of before, for example getting somebody from a wheelchair into your car and back again,” she added.

Next is their 20 hours of disability work placement and while they are yet to complete their disability sector placement, both Sera and Annabel feel the course has already opened their eyes to the range of support roles available and given them the tools to pursue work with confidence.

“I’ve learned a lot about the industry,” said Sera. “Now going into it, I feel more knowledgeable, confident and comfortable looking after somebody and helping them.”

Annabel agreed, “It was an amazing course and I think being face-to-face was a huge part of why it worked so well.”

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Annabel Tink and Sera Armitage have loved the face-to-face teaching component at TAFE. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Director/Principal Kellee Fogg

Legal matters can feel overwhelming—but they don’t have to be.

At Whitsunday Law, we’re part of a trusted local network, working alongside your real estate and accounting professionals right here in the building.

Whether you’re buying a property, preparing a will, navigating family changes, or dealing with a criminal charge, we’re here to offer clear, practical advice tailored to your situation.

We take pride in being approachable, thorough, and straight-talking.

No jargon. No fuss. Just the support you need, when you need it.

If you’re not sure where to start — start with us. We’re here to help.

Whitsunday Law - the firm you can trust.

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Kim Jamieson and Steve Diez

Did you know?
The superannuation guarantee rate will increase from 11.5% to 12%. The new rate of 12%, will apply to all salary and wages paid to eligible workers, on and after 1 July 2025.

Need help lodging your 2025 Tax Return?
The end of the financial year is 30th June 2025! We know it can be hard to organise a time to visit your accountant during the work week- that is why we offer appointments via phone, online and in-person.

Call us today to book your 2025 Tax Return appointment, on 07 4948 4444.

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Students from Proserpine State High School are making the most of the upcoming school holidays, proudly representing their school in a wide range of events across the state.

Dozens of students across multiple year levels are embracing every opportunity to pursue excellence extension programs in career fields of interest.

Year 10 student Miley Thomson will attend the James Cook University 2025 Indigenous Winter School Program.

Fellow peer Alexa Stuchbree will be representing the school at the 4-day exclusive NIE Future Doctors Program in Brisbane, which equips aspiring medical school applicants with invaluable insights into making informed career choices.

Meanwhile, Year 10 student Millie Groom and Year 11 student Tiarne Watson will delve into the history books as part of the Queensland State Library Young Researchers Program. The students will be joined by Proserpine State High School teacher Lucy Schaeche-Priestley who will also be attending as one of two teacher chaperones.

In addition, Year 12 students Ivy Thompson, Blake Hanks, Dominik James-Johnson and Kaydee Miller have been successful with their applications to audition for the highly competitive musical theatre auditions at Griffith University.

While Year 11 and 12 students Zepp Henry, Ivy Thompson, Thalia Foster and Ruhveer Kaur have been accepted into the Queensland University of Technology Future You Summit providing them with an opportunity to expand their skill sets beyond the classroom and explore future career ambitions with like-minded peers.

Principal Don McDermid praised the students' enthusiasm and initiative.

“We are incredibly proud of how our students have taken up these opportunities. Their commitment, talent, and willingness to step beyond the classroom is a testament to them all,” he said.

“Many of these students have been supported by their teachers or Heads of Department to pursue these avenues and have now been successful in their applications. We look forward to hearing and seeing how they use these experiences to positively shape their future learning and career directions."

The proactive spirit students have shown in applying for these roles has been inspiring. Many of them have pursued applications, written personal statements, and undergone selection processes — developing essential life skills in the process.

Year 10 student Millie Groom, who represented the school in a national STEM competition, said: “It was challenging but exciting. I learned so much and met people from all over the country who share my interests.”

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Millie Groom at Awards Night. Photo supplied

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Keep the weekend of 5 and 6 July free to visit this fantastic community event, held every two years at the Hydeaway Bay Community Clubhouse.

On display will be an impressive variety of artworks created by talented locals from the Hydeaway Bay, Dingo Beach and Cape Gloucester area. Exhibitors include members of the Textile Arts (TARTS) group and the Hydeaway Bay Quilters, along with many other hobbyists working in photography, pottery, painting, jewellery making, woodwork and more.

Many of the artworks are for sale, and visitors can also browse the popular craft bazaar, perfect for picking up handmade items and maybe even getting an early start on Christmas shopping.

Saturday will feature craft demonstrations, and there will be fun rock painting activities for the kids. Delicious food and drinks will also be available, with cuppas, cakes and burgers on offer.

This wonderful event is organised by dedicated volunteers from the Hydeaway Bay community, who look forward to welcoming you and sharing the creativity of the region.

It is only a short 30 to 45 minute drive from Airlie Beach, Bowen or Proserpine, so make a day of it and explore the expo along with the beautiful nearby beaches.

WHAT: Gloucester Hidden Talent Art Expo
WHEN: Saturday 5 July 2025, 9:00am to 4:00pm & Sunday 6 July 2025, 10:00am to 3:00pm
WHERE: Hydeaway Bay Community Clubhouse

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Gloucester Hidden Talent Art Expo at Hydeaway Bay is coming up soon. Photo supplied

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A generous $10,000 anonymous donation has helped transform a newly renovated youth space at the Whitsunday PCYC, with funds already going towards much-needed furniture and equipment.

The donor, who wishes to remain unnamed, quietly delivered the contribution on May 2.

Sergeant Billy Li from PCYC Whitsunday said this is the second time this individual has gifted a large donation to the PCYC and he said it will make a major impact.

The money will go towards a furnishing a newly built youth programme space.

“Majority of this money will go towards the newly built youth programme space which will house all our programme staff,” said Sgt Billy Li.

“For example, our Breaking The Cycle, our Get Set for Work team and we'll be running a youth group in the particular space as well.

“We will be getting furniture, blinds, maybe a TV in there as well. It will be used to deck out that youth space that we have.”

The upgraded space will provide a safe and engaging environment for local youth, helping keep them connected and on the right path.

“These programmes are about keeping young people engaged and helping them make the right choices in their lives,” said Sgt Billy Li.

The donation will allow PCYC Whitsunday to continue with their programs and advance their course that help the local youth.

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Whitsundays Director Wayne Singleton

As markets across Australia shift, the Whitsundays continue to stand out, not just for lifestyle, but for the calibre of property and results being achieved.

Sotheby’s International Realty Whitsundays has guided many of the region’s most significant sales, from landmark estates on Hamilton Island to architect-designed homes in Airlie Beach, Bowen and beyond.

Airlie Beach, once a seasonal destination, now draws affluent relocators and lifestyle investors seeking quality, design, and long-term value. Premium homes in areas like Mandalay and waterfront enclaves are setting new benchmarks.

This isn’t just a market trend, it’s a movement, driven by infrastructure upgrades and strong demand from interstate and overseas buyers. With genuine scarcity in the prestige sector, competition remains strong.

Our team lives and invests here, with a personal, tailored approach that delivers standout results.

The Whitsundays isn’t just a destination it’s redefining coastal living.

If you'd like to know more or are seeking a professional appraisal of your home, contact Wayne Singleton on +61 416 024 168 or via email at wayne.singleton@qldsir.com.

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BCE Breakfast Forum

Bowen Collinsville Enterprise Inc. (BCE) is inviting local business leaders, community members to its upcoming Breakfast Forum, to be held on Friday, July 4, 2025, at the Euro Fusion Cafe at the North Queensland Yacht Club in Bowen.

Running from 6.30am to 8.30am, the event will serve as a platform for key presentations on economic priorities and developments shaping the region. Attendees will hear directly from influential voices across government and industry while enjoying a sit-down breakfast.

Guest speakers include Burdekin MP Dale Last, who will provide an update on the State Budget, and representatives from Whitsunday Regional Council. Deputy Mayor Michelle Wright is set to present a council budget update, while Economic Manager Paul Hanlon will outline the Front Beach Master Plan.

Also on the agenda are important infrastructure and development updates. Sean Brown will speak on the Bowen Pipeline Project, while Blake Thomas, General Manager, will provide insights into the progress of the Whitsunday Paradise Project.

Tickets are $30 per person, which includes breakfast and access to all presentations. With limited seating available, organisers are encouraging early bookings via Whitsunday Tickets.

This breakfast is a  valuable opportunity to “be informed, over breakfast,” the forum brings together decision-makers and community voices from across all layers of business, offering both networking and insights into the region’s future.

For those passionate about local economic development, the BCE Breakfast Forum is not to be missed.

What: BCE Breakfast Forum
Where: Euro Fusion Cafe at the North Queensland Yacht Club
When: Friday 4th July (6.30am - 8.30am)

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The Breakfast Forum will be insightful and valuable information will be received to all. Stock image

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Australian Church Women

Australian Church Women Inc. (ACW) is a national ecumenical body of Christian women who meet during the year, to give thanks and praise to God with song and prayer. For 60 years, ACW has worked to promote peace, understanding and unity through faithful service.

Here in Mackay, Australian Church Women has been an active part of our community since the early 1970s. This year, we warmly invite all to attend our annual Fellowship Day Service on Friday, 25th July at 10:00 am, to be held at Iona West Uniting Church, Brook Street, West Mackay.

The theme for 2025 is "Be Not Afraid – Celebrating God’s Guidance."

We will gather in joyful worship, celebrating the peace and assurance that comes from trusting in God's grace.

Offerings received during Fellowship Day Services held around the country will go towards the Winifred Kiek Memorial Scholarship. Named in honour of Rev. Winifred Kiek, the first woman ordained in Australia, this scholarship supports Christian women from Asian Church Women’s Conference member countries, multicultural Australia, and Pacific Island nations.

The scholarship assists with supplementary training or further study in theology or related fields. This year’s recipients are from the Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea.

Please join us as we celebrate the joy, peace and happiness that come from sharing God’s love together.

Contributed by Secretary/Treasurer Anne Jennings, from Australian Church Women

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Australian Church Women (ACW) celebrates 60 years of service with a Fellowship Day in Mackay on July 25, supporting the Winifred Kiek Memorial Scholarship for women’s theological training in the Asia-Pacific. Photo supplied

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