Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
“In summing up, it’s the constitution, it’s Mabo, it’s justice, it’s law, it’s the vibe. And, no, that’s it, it’s the vibe. I rest my case.” The quote is from the Australian film classic The Castle and is taken from the memorable courtroom scene. “It’s the vibe” is now a commonly quoted line and it could in many ways be used to describe the current behaviour of the Australian real estate market. In summing up, it’s inflation, it’s interest rates, it’s the Iran conflict, it’s the price of fuel, it’s cost of living, it’s the vibe. The vibe is spread and reinforced on the nightly news and there is no doubt it is having an impact. Herron Todd White property valuers recently released their October review and it gave a good snapshot of the state of play for the national property market. The review covered off on some of the big factors at play: “National dwelling values fell 3.7 per cent over the September quarter, sales volumes are more than 17 per cent below last year, and the median property now spends 47 days on the market, roughly double the time it took a year ago. Tellingly, fewer owners than usual are listing at what should be the year's busiest time. This isn't a market flooded by forced sellers. It's one where buyers have stepped back,” the report said. What is clear around the country, and in Mackay, is that there are great opportunities, particularly for first home buyers. The HTW report says: “Conditions remain favourable for first home buyers in several markets. As prices ease, entry points are becoming more accessible, and a pullback in investor activity is reducing competition at the lower end of the market, where first home buyers and investors typically compete most directly. “First home buyers need to carefully assess competing factors. A lower purchase price today may be attractive but is it an indicator of limited capital growth? Properties in fringe locations are more affordable, but are new owners of those properties facing significantly increased living costs as, say, fuel prices remain high?” Fringe locations are more of a consideration than they are in Mackay as we don’t have the travel distances that the larger cities have to manage. But it is clear that there are some fantastic opportunities on the table for buyers in Mackay. It is true that the investors who were driving the market over recent years have definitely pulled back, however we agents have started getting calls from buyers agents who have clients who see value in the Mackay market. The Mackay market is not suffering the same way as other southern markets and I only need to look at my open house numbers at the weekend to show there is still good buyer interest. Two of my open houses had seven groups at the open homes and one of those properties had another three private inspections in the following couple of days. Buyers are looking and engaged and many are ready to snap up an opportunity. It will be interesting to see if those investors do start coming back into the market. For them, it’s all about the rental yield. With prices down a bit the rental yield creates a very good return for investors. As agents it’s our job to get the best price for our clients, the sellers. However, we would all love that buyer to be a local rather than a southern investor. But “the vibe” is having an impact in Mackay as it is elsewhere and it could mean that some locals again miss out on the opportunities in the current market. Nothing to panic about but people who don’t act because of the vibe could end up regretting their delay. How many times did I hear over the past few years?: “We really should have bought a couple of years ago when the market wasn’t so hot.”
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The power of a good hair day is not to be underestimated, and Botanical Hair Collective has made it their business to help people find that feeling, whether they need a big, bold change, a simple refresh or relaxing pamper. What sets Botanical Hair apart is their commitment to using only natural and organic products, which reduces the chemical stress on their clients' hair and bodies, ensuring the hair that walks out of the salon not only looks but feels healthy. Their colour range from Oway is organic and entirely plant-based; even the bleach is ammonia-free, with Kukui butter as its main ingredient. Botanical Hair is a two-woman show, run by Chloe, the owner and senior stylist, and her third-year apprentice, Bonny. Chloe looks after her own clients, as well as overseeing Bonny's training and taking care of the behind-the-scenes work. Passionate about blondes and colours, Chloe is chatty and bubbly, offering a killer cut and even better conversation on the side. Bonny loves all things styling and colour. She offers all services at an emerging stylist price and will be offering heavily discounted prices for her foiling training. Following in her boss's footsteps, she is welcoming, chatty and outgoing. Chloe's dream of building a hair business began when she was a kid, looking up to her hairstylist older sister. She started her apprenticeship in Airlie Beach with an amazing boss who worked with organic hair products, and realised that helping clients make healthy hair choices was a path she wanted to continue to pursue. Chloe moved from Airlie Beach to Mackay and expanded her skills by working in a range of salons using different tools. It was through these experiences that Chloe realised she was ready to have her own salon. Creating a space where clients felt appreciated and relaxed, alongside stylists who felt supported, was the goal Chloe set at start of her career. As the years have passed, the smiles, laughs and confidence are what Chloe enjoys the most, alongside creating iconic looks. “Seeing the brightness that comes from my clients when they get that look they’re after always makes my day, making it easier and easier every day to fall deeper in love with creating gorgeous hair,” Chloe said. “Another thing that is very special to me is watching Bonny grow and fall in love with hairdressing every day, like I did when I was an apprentice.” Chloe's salon sticks to an effective framework: organic, relaxing and grounded. From her products and styles to the way she makes her clients feel confident, her main priority is always the client in the chair. “We strongly believe in quality over quantity, and if they come to us, they won’t be just another number. We like to make connections with our clients.” P1. Botanica Hair Collective creates a welcoming space. Photo Supplied: Botanica hair.
Read the full storyBe honest. When was the last time you caught yourself humming in the kitchen for no reason, or smiled at a stranger without immediately wondering if you’d just done something weird? Happiness has a sneaky reputation as something that arrives once the to-do list is finished, the perfect relationship appears, or the digestive system finally behaves itself. Spoiler: it doesn’t work that way. Happiness is less of a destination and more of a daily practice that starts with whether your body feels safe enough to relax. Your gut, for example, has opinions. A calm, well-hydrated digestive system is far more likely to let you feel content than one that’s staging a protest after lunch. Movement helps too, nothing dramatic, just enough to remind your body it still lives in a body. Breathing deeply (the kind where your shoulders actually drop) signals safety. So does drinking water before you reach for a coffee. These aren’t glamorous, but they’re surprisingly effective at turning down the internal alarm system. Then there are the humans. Non-toxic relationships matter more than most people admit. The ones where you don’t have to perform, explain, or shrink. Add a sense of passion or mission. When you have something that makes you want to get out of bed excited for the day, your internal state improves. Regular breaks from the work and to-do list help as well. Having something to look forward to (a walk, a meal with a friend, even a ridiculous comedy show) gives the nervous system a reason to stay out of permanent emergency mode. Here’s the part most of us miss: we can react or we can respond. Reacting is the sharp, automatic version: tight chest, racing thoughts, the story that this moment is a catastrophe. Responding is calmer. It asks, “What meaning am I giving this?” The same delayed email can mean “they hate me” or “they’re busy.” One version keeps the body in stress. The other lets it calm. Over time, the meaning we assign becomes the internal environment we live in. The more happiness we can cultivate from the inside, the more healing and rejuvenation follows. Happiness really is the greatest virus ever! Contagious in the best way. In a public setting it spreads fast. People want a piece of it, and rightly so. Happiness has healing qualities that nothing else can replicate. The best part? It comes from inside each one of us. Not from perfect circumstances. It’s available to everyone. Like most people, my own health journey took me through some deeply uncomfortable moments. I never knew that upgrading my health would land me in places of genuine happiness, joy and gratitude. I had experienced these feelings in the past but never as intense and long lasting. That experience is what I wish for others: the internal joy that appears when the body finally has the conditions it needs to do its job. The path starts simply. By paying attention to what your particular body is asking for and honouring those requests. Digestive calm, movement, hydration, breath, loving connections, purpose, and regular relief from the grind. That’s where real happiness has room to grow. That’s also where we can help.
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Year 10 Agricultural students from Mackay North State High School have raised and released 13 barramundis into the Goose ponds, making your next catch a possible close friend of a Mackay Student. Under the supervision of two classes and the help of Mackay Area Fish Stocking Association, the fish have tripled in length in six months, growing from about 100mm to 300mm. The barramundi growth was comparable to rates achieved on commercial fish farms, shared Mackay Area Fish Stocking Association hatchery coordinator Brandon Ford. “We’re releasing fish so these kids and their kids will have fish in the future to go fishing for,” Brandon said. North High and MAFSA’s partnership began when Aquatics, Science and Agriculture teacher Josh Grant reached out to the association about stocking the school’s recirculating aquaculture system. The association helped the school create perfect growing conditions, whilst Mr. Ford sourced fish from a local barra farm. Cleaning filters, checking pumps and monitoring water levels are all part of the students' regular work to keep the fish healthy, according to science teacher Kelly Dunne. “They are the first ones to notice if there is anything amiss,” she said. The students were fascinated by the Barramundi; observing them in class gave them new insights into the fish. For student Julian, feeding time revealed a measure of how much the fish had changed. “They’ve definitely gotten bigger and a lot feistier,” he said, adding that he had been fascinated to learn during the unit that barramundi could change their sex. “They actually don’t turn into a female until they hit a certain size or a certain age,” he said. The change generally happens when barramundi reaches about 85–100cm long. While they can live in freshwater, they need saltwater to breed. The students tagged their barra for release into the Mackay Goose ponds. With the help of Mr. Ford and his daughter Evelyn, they used drops of clove oil in a transfer tank to keep the fish calm. Suntag tags will help track their growth and movements, with Mr. Ford saying the barra could eventually reach saltwater through connected waterways, particularly during floods. MAFSA’s volunteers are supported by the school's efforts. MAFSA raises thousands of barramundis and sooty grunters for local waterways, including Kinchant, Teemburra and Eungella dams. MAFSA’s scheme has had great results, with one barramundi being released at Platypus Beach in Mirani and then being recorded in the Fitzroy River seven years later, by which time it had grown to about 1.2m. Anglers who report a tagged catch to Suntag can receive a certificate showing when and where the fish was tagged, how much it has grown and how far it has travelled. Mackay North State High School Year 10 Agriculture student with one of the 13 barramundis raised at school and released into the Goose ponds. Photo supplied: Mackay North State High School Mackay Area Fish Stocking Association hatchery coordinator Brandon Ford helps Mackay North State High School students prepare their barramundi for tagging and release into the Goose ponds. Photo Supplied: Mackay North State High School.
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Mackay will honour the original torchbearers of the 1956 Olympic Torch Relay, celebrating 70 years of history and the local runners who helped carry the flame. Photos supplied
By Hannah McNamara
Mackay is preparing to celebrate a significant piece of Australian Olympic history this Saturday, with a reunion bringing together original torchbearers, their families and community members to mark 70 years since the 1956 Melbourne Olympic Torch Relay.
The 1956 Olympic Games, popularly known as the Friendly Games, saw the Olympic flame travel from Greece to Australia before making its way from Cairns to Melbourne. After being flown to Darwin by Qantas, the flame was transported to Cairns by a Royal Australian Air Force aircraft, where the Australian leg of the relay began.
Covering approximately 2,830 miles (4,555 kilometres), the relay travelled day and night along Australia's east coast, passing through towns and cities including our region of Mackay. Around 2,830 torchbearers took part in the Australian leg, with each runner generally allocated a one-mile section to complete within a set time.
But with great success, often comes challenges.
Runners had to adapt to Tropical Queensland's unpredictable weather and ever-changing road conditions.
According to historic reports, one notable section was between Mackay and Rockhampton, where heavy rain around St Lawrence forced a change to the planned route between Sarina and Marlborough. The diversion added approximately 22 miles (36kilometres), but with no extra time allowed in the schedule, and runners were instructed to pick up the pace to keep the flame on track.
“They had to run a mile in seven minutes, but because they were running late in some areas, they had to run a mile in six minutes. Some of them, even a mile in five minutes,” organiser Majella Daley said.
Majella is the daughter of Eric Ross, who was one of the original torchbearers.
What began as a small idea sparked between a father and daughter has grown into a gathering of more than 200 people, with 33 surviving original torchbearers identified. Families of runners who have since passed away will also be there, with some eventravelling from interstate to share stories and reconnect with an important part of history.
As far as organisers know, it’s the only event on Australia's east coast specifically celebrating the original 1956 torchbearers, giving the runners themselves an opportunity to be recognised for their part in Olympic history.
For Mackay, the occasion is a chance to look back on a remarkable chapter in the region's history, while hearing first-hand accounts from some of the people who helped carry the Olympic flame south all those years ago!
Image for illustrative purposes only. Photo source: Shutterstock
A family have extended their heartfelt thanks to a group of strangers who stopped to help their son following a car accident near Blue Mountain on the Peak Downs Highway last Tuesday.
The good samaritans pulled over to assist the son and stayed with him until emergency services arrived. They kept the family updated by phone, providing reassurance during an incredibly difficult time when they couldn’t be there themselves.
The family said they were overwhelmed by the generosity shown to their son, particularly when the people who stopped had no obligation to get involved.
“You didn't have to do any of that, but you did,” the post read.
“In the worst moment of our lives, you showed us the best of humanity.
“Because of you, our boy wasn't alone. We'll never forget it,” they wrote.
“From the bottom of our hearts, thank you. If we ever cross paths, the beers are on us.”
Four well-known men in the community are in the running for this year's Mackay Man of the Year title, with the finalists announced ahead of International Men's Day on Thursday 19th November.
The annual celebration is all about recognising the men who make a difference in their own way, whether that's lending a helping hand, supporting local causes or simply being there for the people around them.
The four nominees, along with their families, friends, supporters and community members, will come together for the International Men's Day Celebratory Breakfast, where this year's winner will be announced.
Anthony Nielson: A long-time foster carer, Anthony has spent many years supporting others and has a strong understanding of authentic manhood. Described as a solid contender for the title, Anthony's nomination recognises his years of fostering and his approach to being a positive male role model.
Max Lamb: A strong believer in supporting local charities, Max is passionate about giving back through charity fundraising and is also a very proud dad. His support for local causes and pride in his family have earned him a place among this year's nominees.
Wally Argent: Having spent much of his life cutting cane and helping others, Wally's community involvement stretches back to his days in Rural Youth and continues today. Described as a humble bloke, his nomination recognises a lifetime of helping people out.
Zeke Foxon: Between assisting local Member Nigel Dalton, studying at university and helping charities and not-for-profit organisations apply for grants, Zeke certainly keeps busy but is always ready to offer a helping hand. He is also recognised for maintaininga good balance between work, family time and leisure, making him a solid contender for this year's title.
The winner will have his name engraved on the Mackay Man of the Year Perpetual Trophy and receive a personal trophy, along with a prize package featuring a travel package to Bowen courtesy of Gallivantor Travel and 360 on the Hill Restaurant, a 12-month Muscle Garden Gym membership, $400 cash and dinner for two at Roshni By Raj.
The winner will be announced at the International Men's Day 2026 Celebratory Breakfast next week.
Community members and dignitaries laid wreaths at the Jubilee Park Cenotaph to honour and remember those who came before us in service. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Wednesday marked 108 years since the guns fell silent at the end of the First World War, with Mackay residents gathering at Jubilee Park to honour those who served, remember the fallen and pay tribute to generations of sacrifice during the annual Remembrance Day service.
From the traditional Last Post to a special fly-past, the community came together in a moment of reflection.
Lest we forget.
108 years ago, at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918, history was made as the guns fell silent, marking the end of the First World War.
Each year, communities gather to honour the lives lost, remember those who served and pay tribute to those who returned home, and those that didn’t.
In Mackay this year, residents, veterans, families, community members and dignitaries gathered at Jubilee Park on Wednesday 11th November, for the annual Remembrance Day service.
The ceremony featured guest speaker Janette McGrath, whose family has personal ties to the Great War, alongside special guest Isabelle O’Hara, a Mackay North State High School student and recipient of the Premier’s ANZAC Prize.
The crowd recited hymns, while a minute’s silence, the traditional Last Post and Rouse, a wreath-laying ceremony and a fly-past by the Mackay Tiger Moth Museum formed part of the tribute.
We will remember them.
Lest we forget.
Photo source: The Comms People
More than 900 tourism industry representatives attended the gala on the Gold Coast, where Mackay and the Whitsundays claimed 13 honours between them.
From the volunteers who greet travellers at Bowen’s Big Mango to the Airlie Beach operators who get visitors out on the water, Whitsunday tourism teams had plenty to celebrate. The gala put the region in the spotlight, toe to toe with some of Queensland’s best, recognising the work locals put into making a Whitsundays holiday one worth coming back for.
Originally from the UK, Amy arrived in Australia in 2003 with a sense of adventure and a love for exploring new places. Having lived in Western Australia and South Australia, she made the move to tropical Queensland in 2008, settling in Mackay before discovering the Whitsundays and making Airlie Beach home in 2014.
A proud mum to two beautiful daughters, Amy has embraced the Whitsunday lifestyle wholeheartedly. With a love for the outdoors, fishing, camping, music and just about every sport, she brings the same energy and enthusiasm to her personal life as she does to her career.
Beginning her real estate journey in 2021, Amy quickly discovered a genuine passion for the industry and hasn't looked back. With a strong background in sales, excellent communication skills and a natural flair for negotiation, she brings confidence, determination and a results-driven approach to every property transaction.
Known for her down-to-earth personality, infectious energy and ability to connect with people from all walks of life, Amy combines a friendly, approachable manner with a sharp commercial mindset. She understands that successful real estate is about more than simply buying and selling property - it's about understanding people, recognising opportunities and knowing how to negotiate the best possible outcome.
Amy prides herself on her honesty, transparency and straightforward approach. She believes that building trust, maintaining open communication and providing exceptional service are the foundations of lasting client relationships.
With an extensive understanding of the local lifestyle, a strong work ethic and a genuine commitment to achieving outstanding results, Amy approaches every opportunity with enthusiasm, professionalism and determination.
For Amy, real estate is about people first, property second, and achieving results that truly matter.
The 110th Squadron standing as the ceremonies honour guard. Photo credit: Zach Houtenville
Proserpine paused at the cenotaph outside the Proserpine Entertainment Centre on Wednesday 11th November to honour those who served and remember those who lost their lives in service.
Former Proserpine RSL President Jason Raiteri organised the Remembrance Day ceremony on behalf of the RSL, bringing together veterans from different conflicts and residents from across the town in a moment of reflection and appreciation.
The service was filled with heartfelt and sombre moments, from the laying of the wreaths to the blessing of the ceremony by Father Melrose.
Students from Proserpine State High School and St Cath’s made their presence felt at the service, with both schools laying wreaths and cadets from No. 110 Squadron standing as the honour guard.
Proserpine State High School’s student captains also stood at the podium, and Year 11 student Daphne Wood gave a stirring rendition of the national anthem.
When the service concluded, those gathered at the cenotaph were invited back to the Proserpine RSL Club on Chapman Street to share memories and catch up over refreshments.
Lest we forget
Sabian Nuttall, Diane Jackson and Jai Dennison. Photo Credit: Zach Houtenville.
Contributed with thanks to Diane Jackson
After months of determination and planning, the Whitsundays Archery Club will be commencing Come and Try Archery sessions with the first one scheduled for Sunday 22nd November.
Head down to the outdoor range at the Sportspark, behind Club Whitsunday, any Sunday from 9am to 11.30am, where the club will supply all the gear, and qualified instructors will show you the ropes before you get a chance to put what you’ve learnt to the test.
Over two and a half hours, participants will learn how to hold and shoot a bow safely, get familiar with common archery terms and find out how to score their shots.
Each session wraps up with a friendly scoring competition, giving friends and family a chance to see who can finish closest to the bullseye.
The club encourages anyone with accessibility needs to get in touch before booking so instructors can discuss what would help them take part. That could mean using adaptive equipment, setting up a custom bow stand or adjusting the way a coach teaches a technique.
The club already has a member who uses a wheelchair and is working to make its shooting line as accessible as possible.
The club plans to extend its shooting distances to 70 metres, giving experienced archers more room to practice as several members set their sights on the Olympics or Paralympics in Los Angeles in 2028 or Brisbane in 2032.
Bookings for Come and Try sessions can be made through the club’s website at www.whitsundaysarchery.com.au.
Richard Evans, President of the Whitsundays Writers Festival
Ask two relatives about the same Christmas lunch and you may hear two different stories. One remembers Uncle Jack’s joke about the pudding; the other remembers the remark that stung for years. Both are sincere. Both are, in their way, true.
When writing family history, your task is not to prove who was right. It is to preserve what happened, what it meant to you, and why it still matters.
In my novel Horrible People, I drew on my own pre-selection battles as a former federal Member of Parliament: the lies and political manipulation of those who would have preferred I was not in Parliament. As the title suggests, I didn’t think much of them. But turning those events into fiction let me explore motives, consequences, and moral grey areas without putting any real person on trial.
Memoir asks something similar of us. When we write about family, we are not simply reporting facts. We are interpreting a life from where we stood. A sister, brother, parent, or cousin may have stood somewhere else, and seen another truth.
Three simple rules can help.
Where accounts clash, treat the disagreement as part of the record. It is perfectly fair to write, “My brother remembers it differently,” or “Mum always said the farm was sold for another reason.”
You might also look at old letters, photographs, and records, or talk to older relatives. Let the evidence and the memories sit side by side. The aim is curiosity, not judgement.
Your writing challenge this week
Choose one family event that is still told in different ways. Write 300 words in your journal about it from your own point of view. Include one sentence acknowledging that someone else may remember it differently.
A family story does not need to win an argument to be true. Sometimes its greatest value is that it allows several truths to be heard.
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Celebrating local creativity
Whitsundays Writers Festival
Richard Evans
Festival Director and President
hello@whitsundayswriters.com
Save the date for the 2027 Whitsundays Writers Festival, 10-12 September.
Creative Connections Whitsunday
Glenda Brown
President
info@creativeconnectionwhitsunday.com
Creative Connections Whitsundays supports local artists through exhibitions, workshops, and manages the Community Gallery in Proserpine.
Get in touch
If you would like to submit a poem, creative writing piece, profile suggestion, event news please contact hello@whitsundayswriters.com
Community Gallery Opens Its Doors To Creative Workshops
Glenda Brown, President Creative Connections Whitsunday
Creative Connections Whitsunday’s Community Gallery in Proserpine is expanding its offering, with a new program of hands-on art workshops giving locals the opportunity to explore their creativity and learn new skills.
The workshops cater for beginners and those keen to try something different, with small groups, friendly guidance and all materials supplied.
Local artist Debbie Stephens is presenting a series of step-by-step soft pastel classes, teaching participants how to create texture, depth, and character in their artwork. Each $60 class includes all equipment, with upcoming subjects including a tiger on Saturday 14th November, a Christmas platypus on 21st November, and a bumblebee on 28th November. Classes begin at 10am.
On Wednesday 25th November, local artist Lucy Seddon-Brown will lead an introductory fluid art workshop. Running for approximately 1.5 to two hours, the $55 session explores paint mixing, colour, and different pouring techniques, with participants creating artworks to take home. No painting or drawing experience is needed.
Both workshops will be held at the Community Gallery, 192 Main Street, Proserpine. Places are limited and bookings are essential.
To find out more or register, visit www.creativeconnectionswhitsunday.com
Christmas Has Come Early to the Gallery
Glenda Brown, President Creative Connections Whitsunday
If you’re looking for something a little different this Christmas, the Creative Connections Whitsunday Community Gallery in Proserpine is a great place to start.
The Gallery has been adding to its range of original artworks, handcrafted gifts, and creative supplies, offering plenty of ideas for thoughtful and unusual Christmas presents.
A particular highlight is the collection of uniquely Whitsundays-themed Christmas cards from local maker Made by Leah – a lovely way to share a little of the region with family and friends.
There’s also handmade ceramic paintbrush holders and ink and paint wells, beautiful hand-covered journals, and an expanding range of greeting cards and gift cards.
Whether you’re shopping for an artist, an art lover or someone who appreciates handmade gifts, there’s plenty to discover.
Every purchase also helps support local artists and the ongoing development of the Community Gallery.
Visit the Community Gallery at 192 Main Street, Proserpine, and make your Christmas shopping a little more creative.
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Looking for a gentle and obedient boy with a gorgeous brindle coat? Meet Astro, a loyal couch potato ready for his new chapter!
Astro is approximately 4.5 years old and a Mastiff. He is fully vetted and ready to share his love with a new family.
He is friendly with dogs and is learning leash manners. Make sure to feed him grain-free biscuits only, as he has a sensitive stomach.
Astro is looking for a calm, loving home with older teenagers or adults to spend time with, as he doesn't like being left alone.
Astro would love to cuddle up with someone on the couch. He is more than happy to share the couch with a friendly dog. He can't live with cats, but in return he will be your loyal, snuggly best mate for life.
If Astro sounds like your next companion, message Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue with your name, phone number and "Astro" to begin the adoption process.
Pied pigeon in flight. Photo Credit: Julia Hazel
The Pied Imperial Pigeon Count is commencing on the 13th, 14th & 15th of November through the Whitsunday Conservation Council (WCC), alongside BirdLife North Queensland.
Pied Imperial Pigeons have a vital ecological function in maintaining the diversity and abundance of coastal forests, as they are champion dispersers of native tree seeds.
The count keeps track of the population's health as they migrate to QLD every summer from Papua New Guinea.
As the count is a big task, volunteers are being called to spot, count and record the numbers of Pied Imperial Pigeons crossing the coast on each night between 4pm and 7pm (especially 4.30pm to 6.30pm).
Counting will take three hours before sunset at set locations to standardise the results. The local count location is Cannonvale Beach, near the playground.
Bring your own binoculars, or a sharp set of eyes, and help record the numbers of these important annual visitors.
Please RSVP with the date(s) you can commit to, and a phone number that we can use to contact you: jsheils@internode.on.net
Find out more on pipwatch.net
Alfred George Shaw Photos supplied
On Remembrance Day, we honour those who served in the many theatres of war to protect the values we cherish as a nation. We remember those who were killed in battle, endured the horrors of prisoner-of-war camps, returned home wounded, ill or injured—sometimes mere shadows of their former selves—or died in later years, long after the sounds of battle had faded.
The Proserpine Cenotaph bears the names of 80 service personnel who made the supreme sacrifice. Among those commemorated is Alfred George Shaw (No. 6416, 25th Battalion), who was killed in action at Mont St Quentin, France, on September 2, 1918.
Alfred was born in Bowen on October 20, 1892, to Charles Henry and Sarah Ann Shaw (née Cinnamond) of Kelsey Creek. He attended Kelsey Creek School and enlisted in Bowen on May 23, 1916. Posted to the 18th/25th Battalion at Lytton Camp, he later embarked from Sydney aboard the “Demosthemes” on December 23. Three months later, on March 3, 1917, Alfred disembarked at Plymouth, England, and joined the 7th Training Battalion at Rolleston. On June 16, he sailed from Southampton for France, where he was posted to the 2nd Australian Division Base Depot at Havre and subsequently joined the 25th Battalion.
On October 4, while in action, he suffered a severe gunshot wound to his left shoulder. Alfred was treated at the 2nd Stationary Hospital in France before being transferred to the Southern General Hospital in Birmingham, England. He was later posted to the 2nd Commonwealth Depot at Weymouth and eventually returned to France, rejoining his battalion on January 15, 1918.
After assisting during the German Spring Offensive, which began on March 31, Australian troops took part in the counter-offensive that captured the heights of Mont St Quentin on September 3, 1918. Sadly, Alfred George Shaw was killed in action at Mont St Quentin, France, just one day before the successful offensive against the Germans and only two months before the war ended.
Alfred was initially buried in an isolated grave. In 1920, his remains were exhumed and reinterred in the Péronne Communal Cemetery Extension situated in the Somme department of the Picardy region of France.
Alfred’s younger brother, John Melton Shaw (No. 5910, Lance Corporal, 25th Reinforcement, 26th Battalion), also served and was awarded the Military Medal.
Born on January 8, 1896, in Kelsey Creek, he enlisted approximately the same time as his brother. They went through basic training together before being separated into different battalions. John embarked from Brisbane aboard the “Boonah” on October 10, 1916, bound for Plymouth, England and embarked for France on April 25, 1917.
On October 31, he was wounded in action with poisonous gas – only several weeks after his brother was also wounded in action.
John Melton Shaw was promoted to Lance-Corporal on July 21, 1918, and on October 10, he was awarded the Military Medal during action near the French town of Peronne, ironically where his brother, Alfred, was eventually buried.
Lance Corporal John Melton Shaw returned to Australia on June 4, 1919. On October 10, he married Laura Elizabeth Cooper whose brother, Private Joseph (Percy) Cooper had been killed in action near Ypres, Belgium on October 5, 1917.
When World War Two broke out, Lieutenant Shaw dutifully enlisted in the Voluntary Defence Corps (VDC) 22nd Battalion on April 16, 1942, and fulfilled this important wartime role until October 22, 1945.
In 1949, he and his wife moved to Mackay and then Brisbane in 1968. John Melton Shaw died on March 13, 1970.
We salute the Shaw family and remain grateful for their service.
LEST WE FORGET.
Story and photos courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum. Information sourced from “Proserpine answered the call” by Lloyd Fox and Lyn Burke.
Image from Pexels
More than 900 tourism industry representatives gathered on the Gold Coast for the 41st Queensland Tourism Awards, with Mackay and the Whitsundays taking home 13 honours between them.
The gala at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre wrapped up Queensland Tourism Week. Run by the Queensland Tourism Industry Council, the awards followed months of mentoring, benchmarking and independent assessment, with this year’s winners drawn from 12 regions.
Council CEO Natassia Wheeler said the awards recognised the work operators put into improving what they offer visitors. She also pointed to the industry’s reach, with tourism supporting more than 277,000 jobs across Queensland.
“They have looked hard at every part of their operation, invested in their people and lifted the experience for every visitor who walks through their door,” Wheeler said.
Whitsunday Escape took home the Whitsundays’ only gold, winning the Unique Accommodation category.
In Bowen, the team at the Big Mango had two reasons to celebrate, taking silver in the Visitor Information Centre category, while its volunteers picked up bronze for the second year running. Whitsunday Coast Airport and Iconic Whitsunday Adventures also came away with a silver and a bronze, while Pinnacles Airlie Beach earned silver in Self Contained Accommodation.
Mackay collected five honours. Nautical By Nature Mackay took bronze in The Steve Irwin Award for Ecotourism and was highly commended in Adventure Tourism. Oh Deere Farm Stay and Quest Mackay on Gordon also earned bronze, while Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre was highly commended in Business Event Venues.
Iconic Whitsunday Adventures has taken home silver in Adventure Tourism and bronze in Tour and Transport Operators at the 2026 Queensland Tourism Awards, marking the third year in a row the family-run business has been recognised at the state awards.
“When you work so hard all year round, it’s incredibly rewarding to have that effort recognised,” said Iconic Whitsunday Adventures Director, Nicole Graham.
“We’re a locally owned, family-run business, so to be recognised alongside the best operators in the state is humbling. It also shines a light on the passionate people who work here every day.”
Nicole and her husband, Jeremy, founded the business out of a shared love of the ocean, starting with Sundowner before expanding into other on-water experiences including Lady Enid and Viper, plus on-land experience Coastal Explorer.
Nicole said the awards submission itself was a chance to look closely at how the business was doing, from its environmental practices to the working conditions of its crew.
“Putting a submission in for the Queensland Tourism Awards is not an easy task in itself, but I love the process as it really makes you look at your business year-round and keep improving,” Graham said.
The operator caters for different ages and travel styles, with the team constantly working to keep that experience personal as the business grows, pointing to reef care, guest education and respect for culture and Sea Country as part of the work that goes into each trip.
“We offer a diverse range of experiences for different ages and travel styles, delivered by a crew who genuinely love what they do,” she said.
Nicole thanked the crew for the care they show guests and acknowledged the support of family, partners and suppliers. She also made a point of thanking the locals who keep coming back.
“Thank you to our guests, our family, our partners and suppliers, and the locals from Mackay to Townsville who come back time and time again,” Graham said.
“This win belongs to our whole team, and we’re excited to keep protecting and sharing the place we love for years to come.”
Whitsunday Coast Airport has reinforced its reputation as one of regional Queensland's leading tourism gateways, securing two prestigious awards at the 2026 Queensland Tourism Awards.
The Whitsunday Regional Council-owned airport received Silver for Excellence in Accessible Tourism and Bronze for Tourism Retail, Hire and Services, recognising its commitment to delivering quality, inclusive visitor experiences.
The double success highlights the important role Council-owned tourism infrastructure plays in supporting the Whitsundays' visitor economy and strengthening the region's reputation as a world-class destination.
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said the awards were outstanding recognition for the airport team and the broader tourism industry.
"Our airport is a vital economic asset connecting our region to the rest of Australia, supporting local jobs, businesses and tourism operators," Mayor Collins said.
"The Silver award for Accessible Tourism is particularly pleasing because it recognises our commitment to making the Whitsundays a welcoming and inclusive destination for everyone.
"I also congratulate all our Whitsundays tourism operators recognised at this year's awards. Their success reflects the quality, diversity and professionalism of our tourism industry and the collective effort that makes our region one of Australia's premier visitor destinations.
"Tourism is a cornerstone of our regional economy, and these awards demonstrate why continued investment, innovation and collaboration across the industry are so important."
With the Whitsundays preparing to host sailing events for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, the region's tourism gateways and operators will play an increasingly important role in welcoming visitors from across Australia and around the world.
Bowen Visitor Information Centre won silver in the Visitor Services category at the Queensland Tourism Awards, while its volunteers earned bronze in Outstanding Contribution by a Volunteer or Volunteer Group for the second year in a row.
The silver is a sign of improvement from last year’s bronze for the centre, following a record financial year for visitor numbers at its home beside Bowen’s Big Mango.
“We have won Bronze in the same awards in the past so to go one better and win Silver at State Level was a real honour,” said Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business Leanne Abernethy.
Visitor numbers were not the only notable milestone for the centre this year, having produced a new visitor guide, expanded its merchandise range, installed new wheelchair-friendly furniture on its deck and also taking Visitor Information Centre of the Year for the second consecutive year at the Queensland Information Centres Association conference.
Bowen Tourism and Business thanked its staff, volunteers and committee, along with Whitsunday Regional Council for its ongoing funding support, and its more than 200 members.
“Our volunteers are such an integral part of the business,” Leanne said.
“They greet every visitor with a smile and they are a dedicated, passionate group of people who turn up every week to welcome thousands of visitors.”
The team congratulated the other winners and wished gold medalist Cunnamulla Fella Information Centre all the best at the national awards in February.
After more than 20 years of welcoming holidaymakers to Airlie Beach, Pinnacles has taken home silver in the Self Catering Accommodation category at the 2026 Queensland Tourism Awards.
“It's always an incredible feeling to receive recognition at a state level,” said Pinnacles General Manager, Sue Watson.
“The calibre of tourism operators across Queensland is outstanding, so to be recognised amongst some of the best in the industry is something we're extremely proud of.”
Pinnacles is celebrating a silver award that recognises the team’s resilience and determination to provide day-to-day care for guests and its ongoing work to improve the property’s facilities.
“This award is really a reflection of the amazing team we have at Pinnacles,” she said.
“Their hard work, dedication and genuine commitment to our guests are what make the difference.
“It's wonderful to see their efforts recognised on such a significant stage.”
Sue also thanked the apartment owners, contractors and suppliers who help keep Pinnacles running, along with the wider Whitsundays tourism industry.
“We're also fortunate to be part of such a supportive and passionate tourism industry here in the Whitsundays,” she said. “It's very much a collective effort.”
Sue also congratulated fellow finalists and acknowledged the time and effort that goes into entering the awards.
“To be surrounded by so many dedicated operators and recognised amongst them is pretty special,” she said.
PCYC team sit in front of their artwork. Photo Credit: PCYC Whitsunday
Graffiti-affected electrical boxes along Airlie Beach’s Waterson Way have been given a colourful makeover through a youth art initiative, with participants in the PCYC’s Get Set For Work program teaming up with local mural artist Martin from Gwada Murals to design and paint the community artworks as part of a graffiti prevention project.
Program manager Billy Li said that the colourful artwork adds character to the small town.
“I think it gives the community a sense of pride and ownership over our local environment,” Billy said.
Billy added that it is a long-term approach to creating a welcoming space in the community and curb graffiti.
“Graffiti artists generally do not paint over another person's work; therefore, it prevents further graffiti from being committed.
“It is about using art as a positive form of expression and demonstrating that young people can contribute to their community in creative and constructive ways.
“I believe we all have a responsibility to take pride in maintaining the appearance of our community. Rather than simply seeing graffiti as a problem that needs to be cleaned up, I wanted to explore a more positive and proactive approach,” Billy said.
The PCYC Get Set for Work program, previously known as Youth Skills, supports young people aged 15–24 who may be disengaged from education, training or employment.
“We recognise that every young person has different circumstances and barriers. Our approach is to provide a supportive environment.
“At PCYC, we believe every young person deserves an opportunity to feel valued, included and connected to their community.”
Housing remains one of the biggest challenges facing the Whitsundays, and solving it takes more than identifying land where homes could eventually be built.
Before new neighbourhoods can grow, the water, sewerage, roads and other essential infrastructure have to be there to support them.
That is why it is encouraging to see the next stage of our $52 million Build Whitsundays program now moving into construction in Bowen, supported through the Queensland Government’s Residential Activation Fund.
The program is delivering major water and sewer infrastructure across Bowen, Proserpine and Cannonvale, helping create capacity for more than 3,000 future homes across the region over the next decade.
In Bowen, crews have now commenced work on the sewer infrastructure required to connect the Whitsunday Paradise growth area into the town’s existing network.
The works include a new sewer rising main, pump station infrastructure and upgrades to the existing network — creating the capacity needed for future residential growth.
Work commenced near Eyles Road last week, with the first 250 metres of pipeline already installed.
Importantly, the investment is expected to help enable around 360 homes by 2028, with capacity to support more than 2,000 homes over the next decade.
Meanwhile, works are progressing in Proserpine, where almost five kilometres of new trunk water main is being delivered, while planning continues for the water and sewer infrastructure required to support growth in Cannonvale.
Most people will never see much of this infrastructure once it is finished.
But they will see what it enables.
More land able to move towards development. More housing choices for local families. More opportunities for workers to live close to where they work. And greater confidence for businesses and developers investing in our region.
Housing does not happen without infrastructure.
Build Whitsundays is about putting those foundations in place now so that our communities have the capacity to grow in the years ahead.
This is also a good example of what can be achieved when Council and the Queensland Government work together to turn identified housing constraints into practical infrastructure on the ground.
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