Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
With a passion for real estate and more than 10 years of experience in human resources management, Puja Mehrotra continues to deliver reliable and professional service as Senior Property Manager at Blacks Real Estate. Known for her strong work ethic, positive attitude and people-focused approach, Ms Mehrotra works closely with both landlords and tenants to help ensure positive outcomes across every aspect of property management. Blacks Real Estate said her commonsense approach, combined with her friendly nature and commitment to maintaining properties as if they were her own, makes her a valued member of the team. Ms Mehrotra said her willingness to learn and dedication to providing high-quality service continued to drive her work within the industry. Puja Mehrotra can be contacted through Blacks Real Estate on 07 4963 2500. CAPTION: Puja Mehrotra, Senior Property Manager at Blacks Real Estate. Photo source: Blacks Real Estate
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When people talk about the Australian property market it often seems as though they are talking about one market, something that contains uniform traits and a consistency throughout the country. The single-market phenomenon probably applies to other areas; the corn market is probably pretty uniform in the corn-growing areas of the country and I would expect wheat and wool and other markets to have very little variation. Of course, the wool market is one of the many things I know nothing about, although I do hear good things about the merino breed of sheep and its soft, fine wool. I’m slightly better informed about the property market and one thing that is very clear is that there is not one market. Demand and supply play out in different ways in different cities. Business activity varies, population movements change, demographics have an impact and none of this is the same from one city or region to the next. There are also the different types of property markets. The so-called “prestige market” is different to the suburban mum and dad market because different factors apply. It is true that a federal budget that removes negative gearing on established dwellings and increases capital gains tax does have an impact in all markets but the extent varies. And when tax changes combine with other economic factors such as an increase in the cost of living for things such as fuel and electricity, the results can be seen in various markets. There has, without a doubt, been changes to property markets around the country over the past few months and none of them, in my opinion, appear to be going up at the moment. But the impacts have been felt far more seriously in bigger cities than in other locations. The prestige and higher-end markets in Sydney and Melbourne have been smashed. Many of those properties increased dramatically in recent years. A property in Sydney that increased from $4m to $5m over a short period will probably find that price winding back now. The Herron Todd White property clock, a monthly assessment of property markets around the country by the valuation company, described Sydney and Melbourne as markets in decline in July. There is no doubt that the removal of negative gearing will be having a huge impact on properties at the higher end as investors shy away from the negative yield those properties would provide. It was interesting to note which cities the HTW housing property clock described as “approaching the peak” of the market. Gladstone, the Sunshine Coast and Townsville were all described as approaching the peak. Not so Mackay, which is still described as a “rising market”, along with Rockhampton, Cairns and Emerald. Brisbane is described as being at the peak of the market. Melbourne is a good example of how markets around the country differ. Someone last month bought a two-bedroom unit in an inner-city suburb for $610,000. The same unit last sold in 2018 for $635,000. A loss after eight years is a very different experience to the Mackay situation where the prices have more than doubled in that period. As always, economic factors in individual regions have an impact and Mackay’s economy is going well, with full employment and plenty of activity. Markets plunge when economic factors force people to sell. That is not the case in Mackay and it’s generally not the case in other parts of the country. Meanwhile I had an average of eight people turn up to my four open homes last weekend and we ended up with strong offers on all four of them. Buyers are more cautious than they were but people still need somewhere to live so well-priced properties that are marketed properly are attracting good attention from buyers. It’s certainly not the case that there is one property market in Australia and that what is happening in Sydney is replicated throughout the country.
Read the full storyThe Greater Whitsunday region is positioning itself to become a key player in Australia's growing critical minerals industry, with a new roadmap outlining how local businesses can capitalise on emerging opportunities across mining, manufacturing and advanced technology. The Mackay and Greater Whitsunday Critical Minerals Roadmap will be launched at the Resource Industry Network Industry Briefing on Friday. Developed by the Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) with support from North Queensland Bulk Ports and BHP Mitsubishi Alliance, the roadmap identifies opportunities in exploration, mineral processing, logistics, manufacturing, research and innovation, while helping local businesses diversify into new markets. GW3 Diversification Project Lead Jodie Thompson said the region was well positioned to support Queensland's critical minerals future. "The Greater Whitsunday region is primed to service and lead a critical minerals future for Queensland," Ms Thompson said. "This Roadmap is about understanding where our region can add the greatest value, helping our businesses diversify and ensuring we are ready to capture new investment and economic opportunities. "It is not about replacing the industries that have driven our region's success, it is about building on those strengths, creating additional opportunities and ensuring our economy remains resilient and competitive as global markets evolve." Resources Centre of Excellence Chief Executive Officer Steven Boxall said the region was already investing in the infrastructure and innovation needed to support future resources industries. "Critical minerals development will require new approaches to extraction, processing, automation and resource recovery," Mr Boxall said. "Our region has an important opportunity to develop, test and commercialise those solutions locally." The roadmap was developed through consultation with industry stakeholders and regional partners and forms part of GW3's broader strategy to attract investment, diversify the economy and strengthen the Greater Whitsunday region's role in future critical minerals supply chains.
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Star Sign: Aries Favourite Movie: Pacific Rim Favourite Colour: Red Favourite Holiday Destination: Fiji Favourite Music: Rock Favourite Quote: “Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country.” – John F. Kennedy Something most people don't know about you: I enjoy hands on activities like painting miniature figurines and target shooting. Mackay-born dentist Kaveet Raniga is swapping miniature figurines and long-distance target shooting for a new chapter at Hanly Dental Studio, bringing more than five years of hands-on experience and a friendly, people-focused approach to his role as Associate Dentist, with bookings opening from September. Kaveet has always enjoyed working with his hands, but when he first started treating patients in his third year of University everything just clicked. “When I started treating patients that’s when I really found a passion for it.” More than five years later, it’s the variety of dentistry, and the people behind each appointment, that continue to make the profession rewarding for Kaveet. While no two days are the same, his role often sees him involved in ceramic work and rehabilitation, alongside check-ups, fillings, cleans, whitening and oral surgery – but whether a patient needs a small procedure or more complex treatment, Kaveet’s focus remains firmly on helping people feel comfortable, cared for and confident in their treatment. For Kaveet, some of the most rewarding moments are often the smallest. Whether it’s seeing a patient’s genuine reaction when they look in the mirror after treatment, or giving a young patient a high-five after a check-up, he values the opportunity to make someone’s experience a positive one. “It's just small wholesome moments like that that really mean a lot to me.” That people-first approach is particularly important when treating patients who may feel nervous or apprehensive about visiting the dentist. Kaveet believes building trust can take time and is more than happy to work at a patient’s pace, whether they are coming in for a routine check-up or something more elaborate. Outside the clinic, Kaveet is a self-confessed dog lover, with plans to welcome a Kelpie once he has settled into his new role. After growing up in Mackay, apart from moving to Cairns for university, Kaveet is looking forward to continuing his career close to home and joining a team he already feels comfortable with. Bringing his experience, curiosity and distinctly “jokey, friendly and professional” personality to Hanly Dental Studio, Kaveet is ready to help Mackay locals feel a little more at ease in the dental chair. Contact the friendly team at Hanly Dental Studio for more details!
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Photo source: Shutterstock
On Tuesday 18th August Mackay marked six decades since the Battle of Long Tan, with Vietnam veterans, community members and respected local representatives gathering at Jubilee Park to honour those who served and sacrificed during the Vietnam War.
The Vietnam Veterans Day ceremony featured a parade, the Australian and New Zealand national anthems, wreath-laying and a poppy tribute, providing an opportunity to reflect on the service and sacrifice of those who served.
The ceremony also placed a focus on carrying the legacy of military service into the future, with a naval cadet commanding officer delivering the guest address and younger members of the Australian Defence Force encouraged to take part.
The gathering provided a poignant reminder of the experiences carried by Vietnam veterans and the importance of ensuring their service and sacrifice continue to be remembered by future generations.
Lest we forget
Jetstar’s suspension of Brisbane–Mackay services from October 24th will change travel options for regional locals, prompting concern over affordability and connectivity. Photo source: Shutterstock
By Hannah McNamara
Mackay travellers have been left facing changes to their flight options after Jetstar announced it would suspend its Brisbane–Mackay services from October 24th.
The decision has prompted concern among local travellers, with some community members saying the low-cost service had provided an important alternative when travelling between Mackay and Brisbane.
One local resident claimed customers with existing bookings after October 23rd had received emails advising their flights would either be transferred to Qantas or refunded. These arrangements may vary depending on individual bookings, and travellers have been encouraged to check directly with their airline.
Another community member, who said they travelled through Mackay Airport monthly, described the change as a potential financial burden.
“As someone who flies here monthly it’s going to be a huge impact on my purse…”
“The [Jetstar] flight is always full. FIFO workers are always a part of the customers flying too…”
A spokesperson from Mackay Airport said, “We are disappointed Jetstar has decided to suspend its Brisbane–Mackay services from 24th October. We recognise that any reduction in air services can be frustrating and disruptive for passengers.”
The airport said broader aviation pressures were also contributing to increased operating costs.
“Airlines make their own commercial decisions about where and how they operate their networks, based on a range of factors. Ongoing global challenges, including significant fuel-price pressures on airlines, have contributed to higher operating costs and disruption across Australia’s aviation network.”
“Mackay Airport remains committed to supporting strong and sustainable air connectivity for our region and we continue to work constructively with our airline partners to support services for the community.”
In a statement on social media, Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP said Jetstar’s decision to suspend its Brisbane–Mackay route would affect regional travellers, with reliable air connections crucially important for businesses, medical appointments, tourism and families.
Mr Willcox said, “I can confirm that Jetstar Australia has decided to suspend its Brisbane-Mackay route, as rising operating costs mean the service is no longer commercially viable.”
He said he was taking action to discuss the decision with key stakeholders and push for the flights to return.
“I am taking immediate action. I am in the process of arranging a meeting with the CEO of QantasLink in Canberra next week to discuss the impact this decision will have on our region. I can assure everyone I will be pushing to have these flights reinstated.”
Mr Willcox also raised concerns about the impact on travellers facing higher costs.
“When the cost of everything keeps going up, it is often the low-cost options that hurt the most.”
“Our region cannot be left stranded by sudden service reductions.”
Photo for illustrative purpose. Photo source: Shutterstock
Mackay’s footy fans are being encouraged to kit up in their favourite team colours next month and help children and families facing cancer as part of the Fight Cancer Foundation’s Footy Colours Day.
A national fundraising initiative running throughout September, Footy Colours Day stands as an opportunity for thousands of Australians to come together to show their support for kids with cancer, and getting involved couldn’t be easier.
Schools, workplaces, sporting clubs, families and groups can choose a date, register for free via www.footycoloursday.com.au and create their own footy-themed fundraiser! It could be a morning tea, BBQ, pizza night, sausage sizzle or a few footy games; the only requirement is wearing your colours with pride and raising funds for the cause.
In 2025, 1,362 Footy Colours Day events helped raise almost $548,000 to support children and families affected by cancer, with all funds raised used to support vital cancer research and help keep parents, siblings and children together during an incredibly difficult time through providing accommodation for families who must travel for treatment.
So, whether you're backing the Cowboys, Broncos, Storm or something entirely different, get your team together and show your colours for kids with cancer!
Photos supplied
Mackay’s cycling community turned out in force for the 2026 BMA River 2 Reef Ride Festival, with rider numbers climbing 20 per cent on last year and the 25km Queensland Country Health Fund Dash reaching a complete sell-out.
Starting at the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens, the festival brought riders of all ages and abilities together for a weekend that combined cycling, family fun and plenty of local spirit.
A new community partnership model also put 13 local groups at the heart of the action, with volunteers helping marshal the course, cheer on riders and support activities throughout the festival.
With strong participation, local partnerships and plenty of colour on the course, the 2026 ride proved Mackay was more than ready to get on its bike!
The 2026 BMA River 2 reef Ride Festival rolled through Mackay this weekend, with riders turning out in force to celebrate the region’s biggest community cycling event, delivering an atmosphere organisers are calling the best in the festival’s history.
Participation numbers were up 20% on last year, with the 25km Queensland Country Health Fund Dash selling out completely as riders of all ages and abilities lined up at the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens for a weekend of colour, community and celebration.
This year’s festival was powered by the event’s 13 local community group partners, whose members brought extra energy to the course, cheering, marshalling and fuelling riders from start to finish. New initiatives added even more vibrancy to the weekend including a free sausage sizzle for young riders at the Golding Kids colour Ride courtesy of Mackay City Central Scout Group, a finish line pit stop hosted by Pioneer Swimming Club and their swim families cheering riders as they crossed the finish at the BMA River 2 Reef Ride.
Nikki Giles, BMA River 2 Reef Ride Event Director, said the festival’s new community partnership model was born from a desire to make it easier for local groups to access funding.
“This initiative came from a genuine desire to break down the barriers so many of our local groups face when fundraising or applying for grant monies,” Nikki said.
“We wanted to make it really easy for the people working tirelessly behind the scenes in our local groups to access guaranteed funding, without the added human resource load. In return for their volunteer role during the festival we guaranteed each of our community partners proceeds straight to their organisation’s bank account, plus the opportunity to earn $5 for every registration and jersey purchase where an entrant selected them from the dropdown menu in the registration portal.”
“It’s a genuine win-win. Our riders get a really memorable BMA River 2 Reef Ride Festival experience and our community groups receive funds to put toward their 2026 initiatives,” Nikki said.
She added that the energy and community spirit on display over the weekend confirmed the new model had struck a chord with Mackay.
“The energy and community spirit out on course this year was alive and well from the moment our first riders rolled out,” Nikki said.
“Our riders were cheered from start to finish, our 13 community group partners and their members brought extra vibes to every corner of the course, and it truly felt like the whole of Mackay had come out to be part of something special. The support for this year’s ride has been phenomenal and shows just how much this event means to our region.”
Kate Sommerville, General Manager of BHP Mitsubishi Alliance’s (BMA) Hay Point Coal Terminal, said BMA was proud to see the event’s community-first model deliver such a strong result in its first year.
“It has been fantastic to see this event go from strength to strength, and this year was truly a community event from start to finish,” Kate said.
“BMA is incredibly proud to support a festival that puts community wellbeing and local partnerships at its hear, and to see our local groups, volunteers and riders come together in these numbers is something truly special for the Mackay region.”
Kate said organisers were incredibly grateful to everyone who helped bring the 2026 festival to life.
“We are so grateful to all of our event sponsors, volunteers and community groups for supporting an event that supports the Mackay region,” Nikki said.
“This festival simply would not be possible without them, and we cannot wait to do it all again next year.”
The community is invited to lend support to help John return home. Photo supplied
A 42-night holiday in Bali has become an unforeseeable ordeal for 72-year-old Cannonvale local John Lyle, who suddenly lost the ability to walk and is now fighting to recover and return home.
John and his partner Kate were travelling through the Gili Islands in May when a series of falls was followed by rapidly worsening numbness and mobility loss.
After their travel insurance claim was rejected on the grounds that John’s condition was pre-existing – a decision Kate strongly disputes – the couple are seeking support, searching for a way to bring a lightweight wheelchair to Bali to help John on his recovery.
Proserpine RSL President Dave Clifford and Treasurer Brian Dunlop present Peter Jameljanenko with his certificate recognising 30 years of service to the Proserpine RSL. Photo supplied
Proserpine RSL member Peter Jameljanenko has been recognised for 30 years of dedicated service to the organisation.
Peter was presented with a certificate marking the milestone by Proserpine RSL President Dave Clifford and Treasurer Brian Dunlop.
Peter’s own military service began when he was called up for National Service on September 26th 1972. He completed his basic training in Singleton, New South Wales, before being based at Enoggera in Queensland. He later went on to participate in Tropical Trials in Innisfail.
Looking back, Peter remembers the experience as a major change in his life, but one he ultimately embraced.
“It was a big change and I enjoyed it,” Peter said.
His commitment was put to the test only months after he entered the National Service, when the Whitlam Government abolished the scheme in December 1972 and servicemen were given the choice to leave.
“They were given the option of either staying in or getting out, and I stayed in,” he said.
Peter originally joined the RSL for a chance at fellowship, wanting to be surrounded by the people who understood the commitment and toll being a service member had.
“I joined the RSL to be a part of something and have somebody to talk to, people that recognize what you've been through,” Peter said.
During his 30 years with the Proserpine RSL, Peter has taken on a number of roles, including serving as treasurer, while also becoming a familiar face at the town’s ANZAC Day commemorations. For many years, he has served as marshal and led the annual ANZAC Day march through Proserpine.
“It made me proud,” Peter said.
When asked about the future of the RSL, Peter said he would like to see changes both within the organisation and at a government level to ensure veterans continue to receive the support they need, particularly raising concerns about medical expenses from the DVA being capped at $5,000.
“$5,000 gets you nothing,” Peter said.
For Peter, much of that comes down to ensuring today’s veterans can find the same support and camaraderie that first drew him to the RSL 30 years ago.
“The way it is now, I wouldn't recommend it to anybody,” he said.
“They promise the world and give you nothing.”
Once a marine engineer working hundreds of kilometres offshore, Lukas Vaid is now putting those same problem-solving skills to work helping people across the Whitsundays find their dream home.
Lukas’ move into real estate came during COVID, when opportunities in marine engineering dried up and his wife, already working in real estate, encouraged him to try something new. He joined Taylor's in 2020, working alongside experienced agent Brad Sobott and learning the property market before eventually stepping out on his own.
His engineering background has given Lukas a different way of approaching real estate, bringing the precision, structure and problem-solving skills of his former career into the property world.
“I’m used to working a couple hundred miles offshore for a few weeks at a time and you don’t have room for error,” Lukas said.
“You really need to have a structured approach to everything that you do and have the attention to detail and make sure that everything is done properly rather than just jamming things together.”
Having moved from Germany and Switzerland 14 years ago, Lukas knows what it’s like to search for somewhere to call home, and takes the time to understand what each buyer needs before helping them find the right fit.
“It’s about really finding out what people need for their life,” Lukas said.
“We really value what the underlying reasons are that people are looking at property, so we try to make sure, to the best of our ability, that it really is the right fit.”
The QCWA Collinsville Branch recently celebrated their 100th anniversary! Photo supplied
The QCWA Collinsville Branch has celebrated a remarkable 100 years of friendship, community service and support for local families, marking the milestone with a special birthday celebration.
The branch, which has supported women and the wider Collinsville community for a century, commemorated the occasion with celebrations attended by members, community supporters and special guests.
Among the guests was the Patron of the Queensland Country Women’s Association (QCWA), Governor of Queensland Dr Jeannette Young, who visited the branch alongside Mayor Ry Collins.
Dr Young congratulated the Collinsville branch on reaching the milestone, reflecting on her time as QCWA patron over the past five years.
The celebration also recognised the branch's longstanding contribution to Collinsville, with members continuing the tradition of bringing people together while supporting the community.
Member for Burdekin Dale Last also paid tribute to the branch, describing its commitment to Collinsville as a standout example of community service.
“Well, I might be a bit bias, but I reckon that the Collinsville CWA is the best in the country,” said Mr Last.
“Why am I saying that? Well, you never let that community down, and you’re always there and your hospitality is second to none.
“Happy Birthday on reaching that magnificent millstone of 100 years. What an achievement that’s been many, many years of service to the Collinsville community. We all appreciate it, congratulations again.”
Whitsunday Regional Councillor Michelle Wright also congratulated the branch, highlighting the friendships and service built over its century of operation.
“Congratulations to QCWA Collinsville Branch on a wonderful and incredible 100 year milestone. That’s a century of friendship, a century of service, and a century dedicated looking after your community. It truly is a wonderful achievement, and on behalf of Whitsunday Regional Council, here’s to celebrating your proud history and the wonderful years ahead,” said Councillor Michelle Wright.
The celebrations included plenty of community spirit, with members and guests gathering to mark the occasion alongside food, laughter and festivities with QCWA Collinsville thanking everyone who offered their support and helped celebrate the milestone.
Mayor Ry Collins described the occasion as an incredible achievement for an organisation that has continued to support rural women, families and the Collinsville community across a century.
The milestone marks 100 years of the branch's history, while its continued activity demonstrates the enduring role community organisations such as QCWA play in bringing people together and supporting regional communities.
Mark and Sandra of ABC Distillery. Photo credit: Bronte Hodge
Airlie Beach-based ABC Distillery is celebrating a major win on the national stage after taking home two Gold Awards and a Silver at the 2026 Australian Distilled Spirit Awards in Melbourne.
The local distillery was recognised for all three products it entered in the competition, with its Single Malt Redgum Smoked Whiskey and Whiskey Barrel Aged Rum both awarded Gold. Its Hibiscus Pink Gin also impressed the judges, taking home a Silver Award.
Owner Sandra Argo travelled to the Australian Distilled Spirit Awards at the Melbourne Showgrounds after being encouraged to attend following a call congratulating the distillery on its strong results.
The recognition comes as another exciting milestone for the local business, which produces a range of spirits including gin, vodka, rum and whiskey.
Sandra said the team was thrilled with the results, particularly after entering just three products in the prestigious awards.
The awards add to a growing list of achievements for the distillery and highlight the quality of locally produced spirits coming out of the region. The distillery produces a selection of handcrafted beverages, with the award-winning Redgum Smoked Whiskey and Whiskey Barrel Aged Rum now boasting national recognition.
For those looking to raise a glass to the distillery’s latest achievements, a tasting may be in order!
Story courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum. Long Tan Memorial photo sourced from Bribie Island Vietnam Veterans’ Association Facebook page.
This year, August 18 marks 60 years since the Battle of Long Tan, officially commemorated in Australia as Vietnam Veterans' Day. During the Vietnam War, “523 Australians died, more than 3000 were wounded or injured, over 60 000 served, and many others were traumatised by their service.” (Sir Peter Cosgrove, “The Sunday Mail”, August 13, 2023)
Young men from Proserpine who served in Vietnam were Peter Roberts, Ian Lade, Barry Parnell, Jeffrey Korn, Les Stevenson and Kevin Bluck.
On May 29, 1965, Peter Roberts, a 20-year-old private in 1RAR, sailed to Vietnam on HMAS “Sydney” after just nineteen months in the Army. 1RAR later joined the American 173rd Airborne Brigade. Peter served from May 27, 1965 to June 1, 1966, then returned to Vietnam as a section commander after 18 months in Malaysia as a corporal with 8RAR. Following a mate’s death, he was promoted to sergeant, a responsibility he described as a heavy burden. His second tour ran from November 18, 1969 to November 12, 1970. Peter later founded the Airlie Beach RSL Sub-Branch and has long served Legacy in Proserpine, including as president.
Private Les Stevenson (1st Australian Reinforcement Unit) enlisted on September 29, 1965, rather than wait for a possible call-up. After three months’ training at Kapooka, he was posted to the newly formed 7th Battalion RAR at Puckapunyal. Deployed on February 5, 1967 to 1ARU for special service at Nui Dat, Les returned to Australia after his tour and was discharged on September 28, 1967.
A National Service call-up saw friends, Jeff Korn, Ian Lade and Barry Parnell complete basic training at Singleton. Jeff and Ian were transferred to Townsville’s 6th Battalion – Ian to Alpha Company and Jeff to Delta Company, the same company that fought the Battle of Long Tan three years earlier. Sapper Barry Parnell joined the Royal Australian Engineers in the 1st Field Squadron at a different base. He was the first of the three friends to be deployed and served in Vietnam from December 2,1968 to December 10,1969.
In May 1969, Lance Corporal Jeff Korn and Private Ian Lade were shipped to Vietnam on HMAS “Sydney”, a voyage which made the 6th Battalion the first to leave Townsville since WW2. Being that it was also the 13th trip to South Vietnam with troops for HMAS “Sydney”, rumours abounded aboard the “Sydney” that it would sink on that trip. Thankfully it didn’t. Jeff and Ian both served in Vietnam until April 2, 1970.
As a Delta Company 6RAR soldier, Jeff Korn attended the 1969 Long Tan dedication in Vietnam, where a cross was erected at the battle site. After returning to Australia, he was active in the RSL and helped create the Bribie Island replica of the Long Tan Memorial Cross, now a widely recognised symbol of Australia’s Vietnam War heritage.
On Ian Lade’s return to Proserpine, he served the RSL Sub-Branch as secretary and treasurer for over thirty years, including more than twenty consecutive years as RSL Club president. Through Ian’s perseverance, the Proserpine Historical Museum now features a dedicated Military Room, providing a secure home for an historically significant display.
Private Kevin Bluck served in the 3rd Battalion RAR from February 15,1971 until October 13, 1971. Maurice Beasley, a Bowenite, was called up at the same time as Jeff, Ian and Barry. He had been working as a sugar chemist at the Proserpine Sugar Mill at that time and travelled with them to Singleton for training. (Temp) Corporal Maurice Beasley was a section commander 8 RAR and served in Vietnam from November 17,1969 to October 1,1970.
We thank them for their service. Lest we forget.
The Whitsundays Writers Festival has named its shortlist for the 2026 Whitsundays Literary Heart Award Short Story Prize, narrowing the 20-story longlist down to just eight finalists as judging enters its final and most closely contested stage.
The shortlisted stories were drawn from a national field of 94 entries and represent the very best of what this year’s competition had to offer: a mix of crime, historical fiction, contemporary drama, speculative fiction and more, judged anonymously and assessed purely on the strength of the writing.
“The standard this year has made every stage of judging genuinely difficult,” said Festival Director Richard Evans. “Narrowing the field to these finalists wasn’t about finding fault with the stories that didn’t make the cut, it was about identifying the small number that stood out even among very strong company. That’s a great problem for a regional prize to have.”
The eight shortlisted stories will now progress to the final stage of judging, with finalists coming from five states and territories across Australia.
Queensland has two finalists, Janet Humphries and Jessica McLaren, while Victoria is represented by Fergal Bannon, Christopher Mitchell and Matthew Southwell. Kat Ryan represents Western Australia, Lesley Boland the ACT and Bon Henry-Edwards South Australia.
Next, The judging panel will now undertake its final assessment of the shortlisted stories to determine the 2026 winner and runner-up.
The Open Age Short Story Prize carries a $1,000 first prize and $500 runner-up prize.
The winner and runner-up will be announced at the Whitsundays Literary Heart Awards ceremony at the 2026 Whitsundays Writers Festival, held on Sunday 13 September at the Whitsunday Marine Club, Cannonvale.
A free community afternoon celebrating local writing
This year’s festival puts local authors front and centre, with a free community afternoon open to everyone, no ticket required. Locals and visitors are invited to swap a book at the community book swap, browse book stalls from more than 20 regional authors, enjoy live music and watch local artists at work, and grab a snag at the community sausage sizzle.
“The Heart Awards bring a national spotlight to the Whitsundays, but this festival has always been about our community too,” Richard said.
“The free afternoon is our way of making sure everyone can be part of it, whether you’ve read every local author book or you’re just here for the sausage sizzle.”
Image from Pexels
Whitsunday residents are being asked to get behind a push for a mobile blood bank service, with more than 1,300 people already adding their names to the campaign.
The push has been underway since October 2025, with campaigners arguing a region of more than 40,000 people should have an easier way to roll up their sleeves and donate.
For anyone in the Whitsundays wanting to give blood has to travel to the nearest permanent donor station, which is in Mackay. That means setting aside a decent amount of time just to donate, something campaigners say can be difficult between work, family and everyday commitments.
They have even offered to financially contribute towards bringing a service to the region, but say Australian Red Cross Lifeblood advised them it is government funded and does not accept monetary donations for the purpose.
The calls come as Lifeblood continues to seek more donors, with blood supplies recently falling to a 12-month low.
Blood also cannot simply be stored away for when it is needed, with red blood cells having a shelf life of just 42 days.
Campaigners believe the Whitsundays has plenty of people ready to donate if given the chance to do so closer to home.
“If our region is ready to think BIG, we need this facility,” Michael and Val said.
“It should be a priority.”
They have also pointed to Proserpine Hospital’s reliance on blood supplied from Mackay, raising concerns about how readily blood could be accessed locally during a major emergency.
The campaign has been taken to state and federal politicians as well as local councillors, but those behind it say they now need more voices to get behind the cause.
So far, 1,338 people have signed a Change.org petition calling for a mobile blood bank service in the Whitsundays.
For the campaigners, the next step is getting decision-makers to listen and giving Whitsunday residents a realistic opportunity to donate closer to home and contribute to boosting our local supply.
This push comes amid a critical time for donations, with Lifeblood Chief Customer Officer Cath Stone saying winter colds and flu wipe out potentially thousands of people from donating on a national scale.
“Nationally we’re seeing up to 1,600 donation appointments sit empty every day, with many more people cancelling or rescheduling appointments,” Cath said.
“Even mild symptoms such as sniffles, sore throats, and headaches make people temporarily ineligible to give blood, and this can severely impact the availability of donors during winter months.
“Patients in critical situations will always get the blood they need, but full fridges are essential to ensuring blood is available for everyone who needs it, when they need it,” she said.
“This includes cancer patients, new mothers, people undergoing surgery, and many other patients including children who need donated blood to save their lives.
“We’d all want blood to be there if it was someone we knew or loved who needed it.”
Pheobe Murphy Photo supplied
At Collinsville State High School, being a small school means we can do things differently - including pioneering School-Based Education Support traineeships in our region. Through traineeships, community partnerships and working with off-site registered training organisations, our senior students access pathways that work for them.
We asked some of our Year 11 and 12 students to share their experiences…
Pheobe Murphy (Year 12 student)
Years 11 and 12 at Collinsville State High School have looked different for everyone in my classes. There are various opportunities provided for students at this school, from online courses for certificates to school-based traineeships to travelling for TAFE courses.
For me, senior secondary has looked like spending Wednesday's bonding with students and staff at Collinsville State School and building confidence in the workplace while I completed a Certificate III in School-Based Education Support with a school-based traineeship.
It's been an incredible opportunity to introduce myself to work and allowing me to understand what I want to do in the future, and earning a Certificate III.
Mckenzie Grosskreutz (Year 12 Student)
My traineeship at Collinsville State School has been a valuable experience while completing my Certificate III in Education Support. I have worked with students in Year 5/6 and have recently transferred to Prep/Year 1 which is giving me experience across different age groups and learning needs.
This experience is helping me develop my communication, classroom support and behaviour management skills.
It has also given me a better understanding of the role of an education support worker and will help prepare me for my future career as a primary school teacher, working in schools and supporting students.
Holly Maher (year 11 Student)
One of the experiences I have valued this year is studing a Certificate III in Agriculture through Charters Towers School of Distance Education. The course has provided me with the chance to acquire new skills and knowledge, as well as offering opportunities to obtain hands on experience.
Our class recently visited Wambiana Station where we engaged in various activities like branding, drafting, spraying and fencing.
We also gained an insight into artificial insemination in cattle, learning how this breeding technique can be used to selectively improve herd genetics and assist producers in achieving desirable traits within their cattle.
It was a great experience and gave me the chance to learn outside the classroom and put my knowledge into practice.”
Finlay Farrell and his prep buddy, Hendrick Travis. Photo supplied
From the playground to cooking, painting or having a laugh, St Catherine’s Catholic College’s oldest and youngest students are proving the gap between Prep and Year 12 isn’t quite as big as you’d think.
Through the College’s annual Buddy Program, every Year 12 student is paired with a Prep student, building friendships that give the school’s youngest learners someone to look up to, while offering the graduating class their own opportunity to become mentors.
“With those buddy programs, I guess it’s kind of building that relationship between our junior students and our senior secondary students,” said Assistant Principal Bruce Laguna.
“It gives them that extra bit of purpose and leadership here at the College.”
The program gives each pair plenty of opportunities to bond, whether through cooking, painting, moulding Play-Doh or heading out to the soccer fields, while also giving the Year 12s a chance to lend a hand in the classroom.
“I really enjoy it, to be honest. I think it’s great that we get to build connections throughout the whole of the College,” said year 12 student, Finlay.
The project culminates with a new tradition at the school, which will see the prep students walk their year 12 students down the aisle for graduation.
“Starting some traditions are really valuable and important, so that way we’ve got something significant for our future graduating students.”
Bowen State High School is excited to welcome students, staff, families and the wider Bowen community to its 2026 Arts Showcase.
This event will celebrate the outstanding talents of both students and staff across a range of artistic disciplines. From instrumental music, drama and vocal performances to short films and visual art displays, the evening promises to be a memorable celebration of creativity and talent.
Throughout 2026, students and staff in the Arts Department have been developing works inspired by a variety of themes. These performances and art pieces reflect the dedication, imagination and artistic skill of Bowen State High School’s talented students. With no school musical being staged this year, the Arts Showcase provides a wonderful opportunity for students to present their work and share their artistic achievements with the school and wider community.
Audience members can look forward to performances by the concert band, a series of short films, scenes from Macbeth, the premiere of a new school song, and much more.
“We have a talented group of staff and students who are passionate about the arts, drama and music,” said Bowen State High School Principal, Robert Harris.
“Their passion is inspiring, and I always enjoy attending these events to see their work come to life. I invite our school and wider community to come along and support them.”
The school encourages everyone to attend and enjoy an evening showcasing the creativity and hard work of Bowen State High School’s Arts community.
Contributed with thanks to Principal Robert Harris.
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