Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
After more than 25 years with Blacks Real Estate, Andrew Black continues to be a familiar face in Mackay’s residential property market. Andrew joined the agency in 2000, beginning his career in residential property management before transitioning into residential sales. Now a Licensed Real Estate Agent and Sales Consultant, he has spent decades helping local buyers and sellers navigate the Mackay housing market. His long-standing connection with the agency has given him extensive knowledge of the region’s property landscape and changing market trends over the years. Blacks Real Estate said Andrew’s experience across both property management and sales provides clients with a well-rounded understanding of the real estate process, from investment properties through to family homes. Operating from offices in Mackay and Dysart, Blacks Real Estate services residential, commercial, rural and industrial clients across the region. CAPTION: Andrew Black has spent more than two decades with Blacks Real Estate. Photo source: Blacks Real Estate
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I’m not sure that Donald Trump would play fair if he were one of the buyers in a multiple offer scenario on a Mackay property. There are clear rules about how multiple offer situations must be handled and, based on recent form, I just don’t think the US president would want to abide by the rules. From what I can tell he doesn’t seem to be a very good sport, not a great loser, and in a multiple offer situation in Queensland real estate there has to be a loser. Take Trump’s conduct during the soccer World Cup, being held in the US, Canada and Mexico. When US star Folarin Balogun received a red card and, as is standard practice, got an automatic one-match suspension Trump was on the blower to FIFA president Gianni Infantino asking for a review. The result was that the US star’s suspension was suspended for one year and he was able to play in the next World Cup game. It seems unlikely that a phone call from leaders of other countries would have resulted in a similar reversal of a decision. But I don’t blame Trump … that’s what he does. He tries to push and shove and shout and bully his way to getting the best deal he can for the United States. You might not like him but he certainly tries to get the best deal he can for his country on the world stage and, no doubt, for himself when it comes to business. It was, however, a bit of a surprise to hear he had made a call to the FIFA president trying to reverse the ban on a US player. What was even more surprising was that his strategy worked. Now I’m not to sure about this and I am just a real estate agent in Mackay who follows other football codes much closer than soccer but that FIFA mob looks a bit dodgy to me. You would have thought there would be a clear response from the FIFA president along the lines of: “Thanks for the call Mr President but you have got to be kidding if you think the independent body governing the world game is going to be influenced by political leaders about who can and cannot play based on our established rules.” Clearly that was not how the call played out and it turns out that there seems to be some flexibility in the rules and how they interpreted based on the person who is making the request. Which brings me to another contentious situation, the multiple offer scenario for properties being sold in Queensland. When it comes to multiple offers and which one is accepted, it is entirely up to the seller. The seller can accept a higher offer, accept a lower offer that might have no building and pest clause or no finance clause, or accept an offer just because that’s the one they like. A client of mine accepted a lower offer on a property last year because the buyer was a young, local woman who was starting off in life and had made the best offer she could. An investor offered about $30,000 more but the seller said, “I’m making good money out of this either way. I want the young woman to have it.” But one thing that is clear is that a real estate agent can’t tell one buyer what another buyer has offered in a multiple offer situation. We have to tell a buyer: “There is another offer on the table so you are in a multiple offer situation and I suggest you put in your best and final offer as you might not get a chance to make another offer.” That’s when some buyers say: “How much is the other offer.” Some buyers can be quite forceful but rules are rules and agents can’t reveal that. Although, if the FIFA president was the agent and Donald Trump was the second buyer there might be some flexibility.
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Most small business owners I speak to are not short on ideas, if anything, they have too many. They are trying to keep up with social media, update their website, understand Google, run ads, write emails, serve clients, follow up leads and still actually do the work they are known for. No wonder marketing starts to feel overwhelming. And here is the thing. The problem is not always that you are doing nothing. Sometimes the problem is that you are doing a lot, but without a clear direction. You post because you feel like you should. You boost something because business feels quiet. You update your website because someone told you it might help. You try another platform because everyone else seems to be there. But without a strategy behind it, it can start to feel like you are throwing spaghetti at the wall and hoping something sticks. This is where stepping back can make a huge difference. In most cases, you do not need another platform, another content idea or another person telling you to “just be consistent.” Sometimes, you need to look at the bigger picture. What are you actually trying to sell? Who are you trying to reach? What is working already? What is wasting your time? What should you focus on first? A clear conversation can often save weeks or even months of guessing. Marketing coaching can be helpful for this reason. It gives you space to untangle the mess, ask the right questions and create a plan that feels realistic for your actual business. At Glow Sphere Marketing, this is something I help small business owners with through short, practical coaching sessions, including a 2-hour option for those who want clarity without ongoing support. Marketing does not have to feel so messy. Sometimes you just need someone to help you sort through it.
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Some rescue stories stay with you, and Ahsoka and Johnny Cash’s journey is one of survival, strength and an unbreakable bond. Ahsoka was found as the smallest of a litter of six kittens, cold, weak and barely responsive after losing her siblings. Thanks to the dedication of an incredible foster carer who provided round-the-clock care, she defied the odds and pulled through. She is still being monitored for an injured eye but continues to grow stronger every day. Johnny Cash, affectionately known as the “Man in Black”, was found alone at just two weeks old. After being placed alongside Ahsoka in an incubator, the pair quickly became inseparable. While Ahsoka is gentle and resilient, Johnny is bold, curious and full of playful mischief. Together, they have helped each other heal and formed a bond too special to break. These two little survivors are now ready to find their forever home — but only together. If you can offer Ahsoka and Johnny Cash the loving indoor home they deserve, contact Ros on 0403 814 318 and share a little about yourself, your family and why you could be their perfect match.
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Left: Emma and Anthony Colfelt at Whitsunday Cairn, one of the walks featured in the Walking The Whitsundays book. Photograph credit: Felix Colfelt
A new guide to walking the Whitsundays has been launched by the family behind the region's much-loved boating "Bible", following more than a decade of research, island adventures and one broken ankle.
Published by Windward Publications, Walking The Whitsundays – A Guide to 45 Island and Mainland Walks is a 304-page guide covering 45 walks across the Whitsunday islands, Airlie Beach, Conway National Park and Bowen.
Designed as the hiking companion to 100 Magic Miles, it features maps, photographs, elevation profiles and practical information, alongside insights into the region's history, wildlife, geology and culture.
Tourism Whitsundays CEO Tim Booth said the book encourages visitors and locals to discover another side of the region.
"Walking The Whitsundays encourages people to slow down, explore more deeply and experience a different side of the landscapes, stories and natural beauty that make this region so special," Mr Booth said.
Anthony Colfelt said the book grew naturally from a lifetime of walking the Whitsundays with his family.
"The walks have always been a big part of our sailing trips," he said.
"We have long wanted to include more about them in 100 Magic Miles, but quickly realised they deserved a book in their own right because they are not just for boaties. These walks are for everybody."
The guide includes national park island walks, resort island walks and selected mainland tracks around Airlie Beach, Conway National Park and Bowen, including the Whitsunday Ngaro Sea Trail and the new Ngaro Track on Whitsunday Island.
The Colfelts began researching the project in 2011, exploring the islands by boat, camping and walking as many tracks as possible while continuing to update new editions of 100 Magic Miles.
The project wasn't without setbacks. While photographing Coral Cove on Hamilton Island, Emma Colfelt slipped on a wet rock and broke her ankle, requiring surgery and a lengthy recovery. Much of the book's writing and historical research was completed from bed while she recovered.
"Having the book to focus on helped me cope with the pain after surgery and the weeks stuck in bed," she said.
Anthony Colfelt said the accident became part of the story behind the book.
"It was a reminder that this book was a real family effort," he said.
"Researched on foot, refined around the kitchen table and, at one point, written from a sick bed."
The guide also explores the Whitsundays' rich history, from the enduring connection of the Ngaro, Gia and Juru people to Country through to early settlers and the pioneers of island tourism. Alongside local stories and wildlife observations, it features previously unpublished historical photographs and images by photojournalist Sharon Smallwood, capturing a side of the region many visitors never experience.
Emma Colfelt said she hoped the guide would encourage more people to explore the Whitsundays on foot.
"We hope the book inspires people to explore, helps them know what to expect, and enriches their experience of this special place," she said.
Walking The Whitsundays – A Guide to 45 Island and Mainland Walks is available now for $49.95 from The Beach Book Boutique in Airlie Beach, News Whitsunday in Cannonvale, Trader Pete's on Hamilton Island, selected local outlets and online at 100magicmiles.com.
Bella Walters Photo Supplied: Robert Harris
To celebrate NAIDOC Week 2026, a few Bowen State High School Students were asked the question: What does NAIDOC mean to you and why is it important to celebrate?
Bowen State High School celebrates every year with a full day of activities, awards, and reflection.
What I love most about NAIDOC is seeing everyone come together to celebrate and learn about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. It creates a sense of belonging, respect and pride while strengthening our school community.
NAIDOC is important to me because it gives me the opportunity to celebrate my culture, honour the strength and resilience of my ancestors, and share the stories and traditions that have been passed down through generations.
It reminds me of where I come from and inspires me to carry my culture forward with pride. I'm proud to represent my culture and show that our history, knowledge, and traditions that continue to thrive.
Being able to share my culture with others and help build understanding makes me feel proud to be a First Nations student at Bowen State High School. I hope I lead by showing kindness, respect, and pride in who I am.
I want other First Nations students to know they can embrace their culture and chase their goals while staying connected to their identity.
To me NAIDOC is a time to celebrate and honour the cultures, histories, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. It’s a reminder of the importance of listening and learning about cultures, languages, and stories for future generations.
For me it’s an opportunity to learn and show respect to one of the world’s oldest continuing cultures.
It’s a time to acknowledge the challenges they have faced and continue to overcome. NAIDOC celebrations at Bowen State High School is a fun, welcoming time when the whole school celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. Some of my favourites include Cultural Ceremonies, Memorial Awards and Community Engagement.
This honours and celebrates First Nations culture by bringing students, families, and local Traditional Owners together to promote reconciliation and educate the next generation.
Gabby hanging out with her new Furry Friends at Great Whitsundays Vet. Photo Supplied: Gabby Appleton
St Catherines Catholic College Year 10s return from school holidays to a week of work experience, set to gear the kids with practical skills and potential taste of the future.
The week-long placements form part of the college's Year 10 careers education program, with students spending the year exploring future pathways before stepping into the workplace.
This matches local businesses and students, giving them the chance to experience potential career paths before choosing their senior subjects and looking into future study options.
“We find that it can lead to better decision-making in their pathway through year 11 and 12 and beyond,” said Tundi Gosselink, VET, Career and Pathways leader.
Before students step into a workplace, they're encouraged to explore where their interests and strengths might best fit. Through careers classes, psychometric testing and interviews with people already working in different industries, students begin narrowing down potential career paths before selecting a placement.
"It's a really difficult conversation to have, so in preparation they investigate different careers, their own interests and strengths, and how those match different professions,” Mr Gosselink said.
The students can pick from the likes of tourism, to trades, admin, agriculture or in the case of Gabby Appleton, animal care.
Gabby started her first day at Great Whitsundays Vet this week and can already see herself pursue it as a long-term career.
“I think it's more valuable because you're actually doing the job,” Gabby said.
“I'm planning on finishing grade 12, then hopefully going to uni and becoming a vet.”
Mary-Ellen Kusu Photo supplied: Robert Harris
Two Bowen State High School students are being recognised during NAIDOC Week after earning places in Indigenous university programs, giving the next generation of First Nations students a glimpse of what university can offer.
Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island Foundation (QATSIF) scholarship recipients Mary-Ellen Kusu and Kenzie Andersen were selected from a competitive field to attend winter schools at Bond University and James Cook University respectively.
"The girls have embraced the opportunity to explore university life,” said Bowen State High School Principal Robert Harris.
“Their willingness to leave home to attend these residential camps reflect their commitment to achieving their future goals.”
Mary-Ellen attended the 2026 National Indigenous Business School at Bond University on the Gold Coast, enabling her ability to develop a career while strengthening her cultural identity.
During this program, she took part in activity pitching ways to improve indigenous inclusion for the 2032 Olympic Games, where her team put together a winning performance.
Kenzie attended the JCU Indigenous Winter Program, participating in lectures and practical health workshops, including CPR, first aid and midwifery simulations. She achieved a perfect score on a nursing assignment, confirming nursing is the career she wants to pursue.
There’s something special about Lake Proserpine.
While the Whitsundays is renowned around the world as the Heart of the Great Barrier Reef, home to 74 tropical islands and soon to host sailing during the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, our region also offers incredible experiences beyond the coastline. Lake Proserpine is one of those hidden gems that continues to attract visitors from across Australia and showcase another side of what makes the Whitsundays so special.
Whether you know it as Peter Faust Dam, the home of the famous metre-plus barramundi, or simply as a place to spend quality time with family and friends, Lake Proserpine has become one of our region's premier land-based tourism destinations.
It was fantastic to see so many people at the recent Lake Proserpine Open Day enjoying everything the area has to offer. From fishing and wildlife displays to water safety demonstrations, live music and family activities, it was a wonderful reminder of just how important this destination has become for both our local community and visitors alike.
Over the years, Council has worked alongside partners including Sunwater and local tourism operators to steadily improve the Lake Proserpine precinct. Better facilities, improved access and ongoing investment have transformed it into a destination that encourages visitors to stay longer and explore more of our region. That investment continues, with 20 new powered caravan and camping sites scheduled to come online by the end of September, providing even more opportunities for visitors to enjoy everything this remarkable destination has to offer.
The reopening this year of the free Proserpine RV Park is another welcome milestone. It provides self-contained travellers with a convenient base to discover Proserpine, support local businesses and experience everything from our beautiful hinterland to our world-famous coastline.
Of course, Lake Proserpine has earned an international reputation as the home of the iconic metre barramundi. Anglers travel thousands of kilometres for the opportunity to land one of these incredible fish, making fishing tourism an important contributor to our local economy.
As the world's attention increasingly turns towards the Whitsundays in the lead-up to the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, we have an incredible opportunity to showcase every corner of our region. Visitors may come for our islands and sailing, but they'rediscovering so much more — from Proserpine and Collinsville to Bowen, our hinterland and treasures like Lake Proserpine.
My thanks go to Sunwater, BMA CQ Rescue, community groups, volunteers and everyone who helped make the recent Open Day such a success. Together, we're continuing to build a region that we're proud to call home and one that visitors can't wait to return to.
Club Whitsunday continues to invest in local sport and community
Club Whitsunday is more than a hospitality venue – it is a 100% profit-for-community organisation built on a model that directly reinvests earnings back into local sport and community development across the Whitsundays.
Unlike traditional hospitality businesses, Club Whitsunday is owned by not-for-profit sporting groups, with volunteer directors overseeing operations. Every dollar generated is returned to the community, either through reinvestment into facilities or direct support for local not-for-profit organisations. This structure ensures the Club’s success is measured not only in financial performance, but in community impact.
In 2025 alone, Club Whitsunday contributed more than $120,000 to local not-for-profit clubs through direct contributions and raffle proceeds. In addition to this, the Club is investing more than $100,000 annually into maintaining and upgrading the Whitsunday Sportspark playing fields and courts. This includes comprehensive groundskeeping services and specialised equipment designed to deliver some of the highest-quality playing surfaces in the region.
These investments directly benefit the sporting codes that call Whitsunday Sportspark home, including AFL, cricket, darts, netball, rugby union, soccer, and touch football. Support also extends beyond the main codes to rugby league, fishing, and bowls, as well as broader community organisations such as the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea, Kids Cancer initiatives and MND Deep Freeze fundraising efforts.
Like many regional organisations, Club Whitsunday acknowledges that community clubs face growing pressures, including rising transport and construction costs, wage pressures and increasing regulatory requirements. However, one of the most significant challenges is the decline in volunteer participation.
“People’s lives are busier than ever, and fewer volunteers are available to support the day-to-day running of clubs,” Justin Butler, Club Whitsunday Chairman said. “We help take on many of those operational tasks so committees can focus on delivering the sporting and community outcomes they exist to provide.”
By providing groundskeeping services, operational support and event assistance, Club Whitsunday helps reduce the burden on volunteer committees, ensuring community clubs can continue to thrive even with reduced volunteer capacity.
In partnership with Whitsunday Sportspark Operations and in support of the Whitsunday Regional Council’s new sporting precinct at Brandy Creek, Club Whitsunday sees a future where the region is supported by multiple high-quality facilities.
At its core, Club Whitsunday remains focused on one purpose: investing in people, sport, and community to strengthen the Whitsundays for the long term.
Walkers exploring the exposed rock Photo supplied: Bowen Tourism.
Hundreds of locals and visitors took advantage of this week's exceptionally low tides to make the popular walk from Dalrymple Point to the historic North Head Lighthouse, enjoying one of Bowen's most unique natural attractions.
The walk, only possible when tides fall below 0.2 metres, leads visitors about one kilometre across the exposed seabed to the lighthouse, one of the oldest in North Queensland.
This offers a unique view across Edgecumbe Bay. Along the way, walkers can spot colourful coral, rock pools and an array of marine life revealed by the receding tide.
If you missed out in July, there are still two opportunities to complete the walk, with low tides forecast for August. Walkers should leave well before low tide to allow plenty of time for the return journey.
Low Tides Times:
August 11th - 2.48pm
August 12 - 3.31pm
Kymbellie holding her flowers and award certificate Photo supplied: Kymbellie Butler
Making a difference has never been about recognition for Kymbellie Butler, but her dedication to Bowen's young people and her passion for sharing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture has earned her the 2026 NAIDOC Community Person of the Year Award.
Presented by the Bowen Girudala Community Cooperative Society, the award recognises people who demonstrate a strong commitment to caring for, protecting and nurturing the Country and cultural values of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
“It was an incredibly humbling experience,” Kymbellie said.
“Walking up to accept the award in front of our Elders and the wider community was quite nerve-racking, but it was also a moment of immense pride.”
While Bowen wasn't where Kymbellie Butler's story began, it's the place she now calls home. A proud Bundjalung woman from the Byron Bay region, Kym says a difficult childhood shaped her passion for making sure young people have the support and opportunities she once needed herself.
Today, Kym wears many hats across the community, all centred around supporting the next generation. She is a Student Engagement Officer at Bowen State School and, since joining PCYC Bowen last June, has progressed from Activity Facilitator to Community Development Officer and Lead Gymnastics Coach.
In that role, she created safe and welcoming spaces for young people through youth drop-in programs and introduced the Duke of Edinburgh Award to the centre. This is an internationally recognised award that challenges youth to set and achieve goals across voluntary service, physical recreation, skills development and adventurous Journey.
“Seeing young people build confidence, develop new skills, and feel like they belong is one of the most rewarding parts of my job,” Kymbellie said.
A large part of Kym's work centres on helping young people build a strong sense of identity to culture and country.
Through the PCYC Youth Leadership Team, she encourages local teenagers to care for their community by organising beach and community clean-ups, while at Bowen State School she helped establish a Torres Strait Islander dance group for this year's NAIDOC celebrations.
Supported by Torres Strait Islander volunteers who mentor the students and share their language, traditions and culture, the group has created an opportunity for young people to celebrate their heritage with pride.
“Our stories, languages, traditions, and knowledge connect us to our ancestors, our communities, and to Country,” Kymbellie said.
“It's our responsibility to help keep those connections strong for future generations.”
She's currently studying a Bachelor of Education and a Master of Secondary Teaching, driven by a desire to keep learning while helping others do the same.
“It is a community that I care deeply about,” Kym said.
“I feel incredibly privileged to be able to give back through the work I do.”
Kymbellie thanked the people who have supported her throughout her journey, especially a woman she affectionately calls "Mumma Julz", whose love, guidance and encouragement helped shape the person she is today.
“Her love, guidance, and unwavering support have had a profound impact on my life,” Kymbellie said.
“I truly wouldn't be where I am without her, and I will always be grateful for everything she has done for me.”
Looks rough but it’s in much better shape following their help. Photo Credit: Rachael Smith
Whitsunday Life journalist Zach Houtenville set out before sunrise on Saturday hoping to photograph kangaroos at Cape Hillsborough, but an unexpected roadside encounter instead led to an act of kindness he will not soon forget.
Zach left Cannonvale at 4.45am, hoping to capture one of the region’s most iconic sights, kangaroos gathered along the shoreline as the first light broke over the beach.
However, he saw one much earlier than expected. At about 5.50am, just five minutes from the turn-off along the Bruce Highway, a kangaroo suddenly struck the front right side of his car.
The vehicle remained drivable, but after arriving at Cape Hillsborough, Zach discovered the bumper had been pushed in, the washer fluid reservoir punctured and several parts left hanging beneath the car.
With little mechanical knowledge, and staring down the daunting thought of another two hour drive home still ahead, he was lying on the ground trying to assess the damage when a couple parked nearby walked over and asked if he was alright.
The Wollongong pair immediately pulled a toolbox from their car and, despite it being before 7am, stayed to help.
Using pliers, they repaired a loose plug, secured the hanging parts so they would not scrape along the road and pushed the front bumper back into place.
Their help and confidence that the car would be ok gave Zach the peace of mind to drive home.
Premier David Crisafulli visited Mackay's Northern Beaches this week, confirming the long-awaited Mackay-Bucasia Road and Golf Links Road intersection upgrade had progressed to detailed design.
“We said we'd do it, and we are,” Mr Crisafulli said.
The highly anticipated announcement comes as sweet relief for a lot of motorists, with this intersection seeing up to 30,000 vehicles pass every day, making it one of the most bottle-necked in the state.
“We can get anywhere in half an hour in Mackay, but then when you put in 24,000 to 30,000 vehicles passing one spot on a roundabout which is not working well, we need to change that,” said state member for Mackay, Nigel Dalton MP.
The $20M upgrade will transform the busy roundabout with traffic signals on all four approaches, supported by CCTV and queue-detection technology designed to improve traffic flow during peak periods.
Additional turning lanes are also planned on Mackay-Habana Road, Mackay-Bucasia Road and Golf Links Road, with construction expected to begin early next year.
“People will see shovels in the ground early next year after the wet season,” Mr Cristafulli said.
“We want to deliver a project that a growing community needs, that it deserves, that's been crying out for the better part of a decade.”
Member for Whitsunday, Amanda Camm has been a long-time advocate for upgrading the intersection, first calling for funding while in opposition before including the project as part of the State Government's election commitment.
Throughout the planning process, Ms Camm also undertook community consultation, receiving more than 600 responses from Northern Beaches residents. Feedback from those surveys, alongside community meetings, helped push the project to the stage it’s at today.
“I want to say thank you to the community and those particularly who are represented here today by Antoinette du Toit, a local resident,” Ms. Camm said.
“It’s through her advocacy, through our community's joint advocacy, that we are here today delivering upon our $20 million government election commitment to upgrade.”
For Northern Beaches residents like Antoinette, navigating the area's growing traffic has become an everyday frustration.
“I think one of the biggest concerns for people is if there's an accident here, we can't get in or out,” Antoinette said.
“They're [the State Government] listening to us, they see what we need and are actually progressing on it.”
The project comes amid growing concern over the condition and capacity of regional Queensland roads, particularly the Bruce Highway.
“It has been a national disgrace,” Mr Crisafulli said.
“If you have a look at the infrastructure spend, then you realise how fair dinkum we are about it.
“We are unashamedly passionate about making sure that rural and regional Queenslanders get their fair share of what they haven’t for many years, that we're not backing away from doing projects right across the board.”
Photo source: Whitsunday Anglican School (Facebook)
Whitsunday Anglican School’s Kindy to Year 2 students enjoyed a fun-filled Athletics Carnival, with young athletes taking part in running, jumping and throwing events while showing plenty of enthusiasm, determination and House spirit. Supported by Senior School volunteers, the day celebrated participation, encouragement and the strong sense of community across the school.
Newly appointed General Manager, Samantha Self (Right) with REMAX Select Principal Nikita Kinnane (Left).
Leading Mackay real estate business REMAX Select has announced the appointment of highly respected business professional Samantha Self as General Manager.
The appointment is set to further strengthen the agency's high-performing team across the Mackay region, with Principal Nikita Kinnane describing Ms Self's arrival as an exciting step forward for the business.
“We are heading in a really exciting direction with our business, and I cannot be more excited to have Samantha join our leadership team to build on that momentum,” Ms Kinnane said.
Ms Kinnane said the recruitment process was focused on finding a leader whose values aligned with those of the business, it was Ms Self's shared commitment to those values and vision that made her the ideal candidate.
"Samantha will play an important role in shaping the future REMAX Select, bringing exceptional experience in property, management and leadership to help drive growth and innovation, and this will flow into enhancing every aspect of our business.
"Importantly, Samantha shares our core values and commitment to putting Mackay first, and we share the same drive to really make impactful change, bring big city ideas and execute them in our own country girl way.”
It was the core values of respect, integrity, collaboration, excellence and trust that Ms Self aligned with, sharing her goal to continue to build on the trust and integrity the agency has established in Mackay, while supporting the continued growth and development of both the team and business.
“I’m excited to take on the role of general manager and work alongside Nikita and the entire team at REMAX Select,” Ms Self said.
“REMAX Select has a strong team with exceptional talent which is highly respected throughout the community and I’m excited to be part of its continued success.”
Ms Self steps into the role after eight years as retail manager of the largest shopping centre in northern Australia. During that time, she was the key driver of building positive, collaborative relationships with retailers, creating an environment where retailers were genuine partners in success.
Having led sales performance analysis and market insight initiatives, Ms Self said she looks forward to applying her knowledge and experience to support the continued success of the REMAX Select team.
“I am dedicated to empowering our team members through training and development opportunities, ensuring they have the tools they need to succeed,” she said.
“My goal is to continue to foster the team’s culture of professionalism, responsiveness and customer-first approach and I look forward to collaborating with our talented agents and staff to create a dynamic and successful environment here at REMAX Select.”
REMAX Select is an award-winning real estate business, recently recognised as the 2025 REIQ Medium Agency of the Year and finalist at the 2026 REIA National Awards for Excellence. The office consistently ranks in the National Top 10 Offices in the REMAX Australia network, recognised as the #3 individual office for commissions and transactions at the REMAX Australia Annual Awards 2025 earlier this year, where they were also named a finalist for the network’s community service award and special achievement in marketing for an office award.
REMAX Select is located at 133B Victoria Street, Mackay. Contact (07)4829 4612 or visit remax.com.au/select/ for an award winning real estate experience.
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In 2000, Peter and Denise Phillips laid the foundation for what would become one of Mackay’s most recognisable holistic, all in one property, insurance and financial services ecosystem. Starting as a Mortgage Choice franchise, Gardian was built on a commitment to helping people make confident financial decisions with local people in the know!
Over the decades, that foundation has steadily evolved. Today, Gardian encompasses a wide range of services, including all manner of finance, general and business insurance, financial planning, real estate sales, property management, and commercial sales, management and leasing. What began as a single offering has grown into an integrated business model serving individuals, families, businesses, and community across the region.
Now, the organisation enters its next chapter.
After many years at the helm with her late husband Peter, Denise Phillips will step down from her role as Managing Director. Her leadership has been central to Gardian’s growth — not just in size, but in culture, reputation, and its connection to the local community. Taking over the role is Ben Phillips, Owner/Director and Head of Gardian Finance. Having been closely involved in all aspects of the business and its clients, he brings both continuity and a forward-looking perspective to the position.
Leadership transitions often mark defining moments for organisations. In this case, the change represents both the continuation of a strong legacy and the opportunity to build on it. The evolution of Gardian — from a small franchise to a diversified advisory group — reflects the importance of adaptability, strategic growth, and staying aligned to core values to the community.
For the Mackay business community, this transition highlights the strength of long-term vision and succession planning, particularly within locally grown enterprises. It also reinforces the impact that leadership grounded in community and relationships can have over time.
As Gardian moves forward under new leadership, it does so with deep roots, a clear purpose, and a platform built for continued growth.
I don’t know about you, but I find morning TV hosts incredibly annoying.
I rarely get to see them, with their contrived laughter, over-the-top friendliness, stupid nicknames for each other, make-up and perfect hair cuts.
But sometimes, if there has been some event that might interest me, or if I’m curious about what’s going on, I might flick on the TV and see what’s happening as I’m getting ready for work.
I immediately regret it and start flicking channels to try to find someone bearable. It’s a challenge that usually lasts a couple of minutes before I turn the TV off and do something much more pleasant, like go to work.
I did like Karl Stefanovic but he has been flicked, apparently because his employer didn’t like his podcast guests. There seemed something real about Karl but he was an island in a sea of fakery so there’s no point in me turning on Channel 9 anymore.
There’s an Irish journalist/host on ABC TV, Catherine Murphy, who I also like. She’s funny and real and seems to want to stick to simply presenting a story in her slightly quirky style without imposing an agenda. But that’s about it for me.
One thing the morning shows have an abundance of is “experts”. Whatever the drama that’s emerged, there’s an expert to explain it to you, pull it apart and tell you how concerned you should be. The expert needs to do it in about 17 seconds because everyone is going to get bored soon and we’ve got an ad break coming up.
The more dramatic the event and the more it impacts the loyal viewers, the more vital it is that an expert is on hand.
The current disaster of note it a neat combo: the economy/inflation/interest rates/housing downturn. This is the type of news drama you want when you’re planning the show because it affects the viewers, hits their hip pockets.
But experts are everywhere in the media on this one, not just the morning shows.
They’re out there giving their views on interest rates (some say they will go up, others say they will go down), the economy (some say it will be okay, others say we are headed for a recession), inflation (some say it will get worse and others say it will ease).
Part of this blockbuster, of course, is house prices. Some experts say prices will drop in big cities like Sydney and Brisbane. Others say they will drop everywhere. Some say there will be a small, temporary drop but things will soon start going up again because there is a lack of housing supply across the nation.
One group of experts that are worth paying attention to are the valuers from Herron Todd White, who put out their monthly property clock, which is a snapshot of how they see particular markets. The position on the clock face a particular city is located (we’re talking analogue here kids, not digital) tells you where it sits in the market. Twelve o’clock is top of the market, 3 o’clock is a falling market, 6 o’clock is the bottom of the market, 9 o’clock is a rising market.
Things can change quickly and there a times a property can go from falling market to bottom of the market and up to rising market very quickly.
HTW’s June clock would have been a challenge for them because tax changes and other events had happened but their longer-term impacts are unclear.
They had Bundaberg and Toowoomba at the top of the market, Sydney at 2 o’clock and starting to decline, The Whitsundays, Gladstone and Sunshine Coast approaching the top of the market and Mackay, along with Rocky, Townsville and Cairns, in a rising market.
Most agents in Mackay will tell you there has been a change but there is still activity, investors are still engaged and properties are selling. Most are being alert, not alarmed.
Photo Sources: Glen Kelly MP and Mackay Region Chamber Of Commerce
More than 200 business, industry and community leaders filled the Mackay Turf Club on Tuesday, 1st of July, for the sold-out Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) Queensland Budget Briefing Luncheon, highlighting the importance of regional voices in shaping the state's future.
Hosted by Member for Mirani Glen Kelly MP, the event welcomed Deputy Premier, Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning and Minister for Industrial Relations Jarrod Bleijie MP, who discussed the Queensland Budget and its implications for regional investment, infrastructure and economic growth across the Greater Whitsunday region.
The luncheon provided an opportunity for businesses and community representatives to engage in conversations around government priorities and the investments that will help drive future growth throughout the region.
The event also recognised the outstanding contribution of Kylie Porter during a farewell luncheon, celebrating her years of leadership and commitment to regional collaboration.
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