Richard Evans, President Whitsundays Writers Festival

When people say they might one day write their story, they often add, “But nothing much happened to me.” Albert Facey would have disagreed.

‍

Facey’s A Fortunate Life is one of Australia’s best-loved memoirs, yet its author was no celebrity, politician, or sporting hero. He was a labourer, soldier, husband, and father who endured hardship, loss, and the horrors of Gallipoli. His remarkable book records an ordinary man’s extraordinary experiences, told with honesty and dignity. Despite everything, he considered himself fortunate.

‍

Facey reminds us that memoir is not a trophy cabinet of achievements. It is an act of remembering and paying attention. The details of everyday life: the work, family jokes, hardships, kindnesses, and small triumphs can reveal as much about a person as the major events that shaped them.

‍

Sally Morgan’s My Place offers another lesson. Her search into her Aboriginal heritage and her family’s past reveals generations of concealment, displacement, and survival. Her story shows that memoir can begin with a question about your own family, perhaps something never discussed around the kitchen table. Sometimes history has lived through you, even if you never realised it.

‍

Alice Pung’s Unpolished Gem provides a different perspective. With warmth and humour, she recounts growing up in a Cambodian-Chinese family in Footscray, navigating the expectations of her parents and the freedoms of suburban Australia. School, food, language, and family relationships become the material for a story that is both deeply personal and widely relatable.

What might these writers teach us? Not that every life must produce a bestseller, but that every life contains experiences worth exploring.

‍

So, before deciding your story is too ordinary, visit your local library. Browse the memoir shelves and discover how people from all walks of life have turned their experiences into books. You may find someone whose circumstances resemble your own, or a story that inspires you to look at your life differently.

‍

Then start small. Write one page about your first job, a childhood home, a memorable journey, a family celebration, or someone whose voice you can still hear. Forget writing your entire life story. Begin with one scene, honestly remembered, and vividly told.

‍

You don’t need to be famous to have a story worth sharing. You simply need to begin.

‍

…

‍

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

‍

‍

From Clay To Letterbox: Meet Whitsundays Artist Haley Vogel

Glenda Brown, President Creative Connections Whitsunday

Artist, former high school teacher, business owner and mum of three Haley Vogel has a way of turning creativity into something people can hold in their hands. Her work is inspired by the natural world around her in the Whitsundays, and these days it’s most likely to arrive in a child’s letterbox.

‍

‍

Artistic Background

Creativity has been part of Haley’s life for as long as she can remember. She studied a Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Teaching, specialising in high school visual arts, with a minor in communications and graphic design.

‍

She then spent four years teaching Marine science, media arts, visual arts, and a range of other subjects at high schools in Brisbane before returning home to the Whitsundays.

Today, Haley runs her creative businesses from home while raising and homeschooling her three young children, keeping art and imagination at the centre of a very full life.

‍

Bush Buddies Mail Club

Haley’s main creative focus is Bush Buddies Mail Club, a monthly snail mail subscription that brings a little 90’s nostalgia to children’s letterboxes. Each month, kids receive letters from an Australian animal character, along with stickers, collectibles, and surprise goodies.

Bush Buddies draws on everything Haley loves: illustration, graphic design, storytelling, and education, all wrapped up in a celebration of Australia’s unique wildlife. It’s a project that brings together her teaching background and her love of the natural world, and it gives children the simple joy of getting something special in the mail.

‍

A Ceramics Chapter

Before Bush Buddies took centre stage, clay was a big part of Haley’s creative practice. Her hand-built ceramics (with the occasional wheel-thrown piece) were inspired by the ocean and islands of the Whitsundays.

Her philosophy is simple: pottery shouldn't just be useful; it should also be a beautiful addition to the home.

Each handcrafted piece reflects the appeal of ceramics, where form, texture and function come together to create something individual.

While life with three little ones means clay is on hold for now, Haley hasn’t ruled out returning to it one day, hopefully soon.

‍

Find Haley’s Pottery at the Gallery

Creative Connections Whitsunday’s is delighted to have a selection of Haley’s handcrafted ceramics available at the Community Gallery in Proserpine. Each piece is a one-of-a-kind reminder of the Whitsundays coastline that inspired it, and a lovely way to take home a little local handmade.

Haley also stocks Bush Buddies Past Adventures at the Community Art Gallery, so little ones (and big ones) can pick up earlier editions of the club in person.

‍

If you’d like each new adventure delivered straight to your letterbox, you can subscribe to Bush Buddies Mail Club on Haley’s website: www.waratahstudio.com

Supporting local artists like Haley means supporting the creativity, skills and small businesses that make our Whitsundays arts community so vibrant!

‍

…

‍

Wild & Wonderful: Animals of the Whitsundays

‍

Creative Connections Whitsunday’s latest art display at Bendigo Community Bank celebrates the wonderful variety of animals and birdlife that inspire our local artists.

Featuring a collection of artworks by Creative Connections Whitsunday artists Tony Ayling, Suzanne Baker, Debbie Stephens and Suzi Hancock, the display captures the beauty, colour. and character of the creatures we know and love.

Drop into Bendigo Community Bank between 29 October and 10 December to enjoy the artworks and support our talented local artists.

‍

What: Community Creative Space  

When: Monday to Friday, 9:30am–4:00pm (closed 1:00pm–2:00pm for lunch)

Where: Bendigo Community Bank branch, Whitsunday Plaza, Cannonvale  

‍

‍

Council Contributions To Roadworks. Council will allocate $120,000 to resealing and construction of roads in the Proserpine Shire. For capital works the Federal Government claimed it contributed 60% but its critics estimate the figure to be 47.8%.  

‍

State Elections: Profiles of Candidates:  

Geoff Muntz, current member, National Party, appointed to Cabinet in 1983, is dedicated to the needs of the community and its small businesses and farms.  

‍

Bob Rowley, Liberal Party, a shire resident for 15 years, particularly supports junior sport especially cricket.  

Peter Jardine, ALP, established in business in Mackay for 7 years, extensively involved in youth affairs, rugby union and the Choral Society.  

‍

Obituary.  

Clive Brooke Mitchell died aged 52. His funeral was at St. Catherines.  

‍

Proserpine State School; fancy dress proved a successful function with many interesting characters including a roaring twenties flapper and a handsome prince in frog uniform.  

Green Light for Woodwark Bay Resort. Work on the 360 room international hotel, the 18 hole golf course, shops and recreational facilities expected to cost $100 million would begin early next week.  

‍

Pitter-Patter On South Molle. Thanks to staff members and their wives the infant population on the island has rocketed from one to twelve in the past 18 months.  

Cannonvale Reef Gateway Hotel. Smorgasboard with live entertainment $10 per head.  

‍

Toadmaster Laments Death of Horny Devil. Toad master Craig Anthony relied on his thoroughbred toad to produce some precious stock for his races in Airlie so he was sad to lose his Horny Devil. Fortunately all was not lost. He was able to use its skin to fashion a waist coat and hat which can still be seen in the Proserpine Museum.  

High School Speech Night. Guest speaker was former 1977 student Mary McLennan. Student displays of musical items and gymnastics were of a high standard. Senior Dux Awards went to Reg Muller [senior] and Nicole Kelly [junior] with Rod Kelly Sportsperson of the Year.  

‍

Harvest Festival. Proserpine is set to enjoy celebrating its 3 day Harvest Festival  run by the Lions with a wide variety of entertaining activities planned. Several charities benefited from fundraising including the Nursing Home and the NQ Bush Children’s Home.  

Success For Bora’s Hopes. Local pullers came out winners out of 8 teams after 5 successful pulls.  

‍

Change of Club For Eddie Muller. Eddie took time off between clubs to cut some family cane, after finishing last season with Brisbane Souths and before joining his new club Canterbury Bankstown.  

‍

Banjo Jack, back in the 80s. Photo supplied

‍

Now in its 14^th year, the Airlie Beach Festival of Music has helped establish the town as a premier live-music destination. Described as “a tropical escape with a killer soundtrack” (“Core Magazine”, Issue 5, 2026), it has become a permanent fixture on the Australian festival calendar.  

Long before this festival began, however, Airlie Beach’s reputation for live entertainment was taking shape at the Airlie Beach Hotel.  

Local identity, Harry Muller, was among the first to recognise the area’s potential. In 1968, he took a significant step towards developing local tourism by opening the Airlie Beach Hotel. Believing the hotel needed live entertainment, he hired a local band featuring Noel Durnsford, Ross Howard, Richie Leo, Hec Phillipson and Lui Raiteri. The idea was an immediate success and helped launch the live-music tradition that would become an Airlie Beach trademark.  

The first established musician employed at Muller’s hotel was Peter Zeigenhahn, a German-born pianist with an eclectic repertoire spanning classical pieces, Glenn Miller tunes, jazz and contemporary pop songs.  

Peter performed both solo and with musicians who helped shape the area’s vibrant music culture during the 1960s and 1970s. They included local schoolteacher Keith Hickox, Merv Jones, Ken Locke, Tex Simmons, Tommy Smith and Jack Gilbert Crane, better known as Banjo Jack. They performed at Wanderers, Bob Porter’s Whitsunday Village, the Wildlife Park, island venues and on boats. Skipper Derek “Billy” Williams, known as Captain Seaweed, ferried travelling musicians to mainland jam sessions.  

As Airlie Beach grew, so did the music scene – and so too the reputation of one of its earliest musicians, Jack Gilbert Crane. After travelling the world with his drums, guitar and banjo, he settled in the Whitsundays in 1961 and worked as a labourer and musician, and taught music behind Fuller’s music shop in Proserpine. Among his many aspiring students was a young Sharon Waddington who later became the popular Australian country singer, Sharon (Shaza) Leigh. Sharon recalled that, at just ten years old, she regularly performed with Banjo at Whitsunday Village, earning $20 plus free food and drinks each Sunday evening.  

A carpenter and all-round tradesman, Banjo helped build the Daydream Island resort and other tourist developments. He often served as “entertainment officer”, using his trusty banjo, Silver Bells, to keep workers amused. In later years, he continued performing at weddings and functions around Airlie Beach and Shute Harbour. His music was an eclectic mix of popular songs from the early 60s together with older jazz compositions as well as country and western.    

Banjo led an unusual life. Although he had a modest home, he spent many nights in a tin-lined cave dug into the black volcanic soil of his hillside block at Airlie. For years, he was an easily recognisable figure around town. With his distinctive long white hair and beard, his beloved banjo seemingly always at hand, and an encyclopaedic knowledge of history, archaeology, politics, astrology and life, he was a charismatic presence.  

In the final years of his life, he lived quietly at 69 Faust Street, Proserpine, under the name Jack George Gilbert, for reasons unknown. There he was far removed from the pines, ornamental trees, bananas, tomatoes, avocados and oranges he had planted on his terraced hillside overlooking the Whitsunday Islands.  

More than a memorable local character, Banjo Jack was among the musicians who helped shape Airlie Beach’s emerging music scene. Together, they left a lasting musical legacy.  

Sources: “Core Magazine”; “Tide Lines” by Philip Hayward; “Pioneers of Airlie Beach Volume 2” by Dale Hell; and the “Whitsunday Times”. Photo sourced from “Tide Lines”.  

30th October

ABH: Andy Mammers, 7pm-10pm

Sorrento: Kaedan McCarthy, 4pm-7pm

KC’s Bar & Grill: , 8pm-10pm

Grand View Hotel Bowen: DJ Night, 8pm onwards

‍

31st October  

ABH: Yacht Rock Revival, 2pm-5:30pm

ABH: Andy Mammers, 7pm-10pm

Sorrento’s: Simon Briley, 4pm-7pm

KC’s Bar & Grill: ABFoM, 8pm-10pm

Grand View Hotel Bowen: Tuxedo Riot, 8pm onwards

‍

1st November  

ABH: Motown Revival , 2pm-5:30pm

ABH: Paul Fergus Morris, 6:30pm-9:30pm

Sorrentos: Josiah, 4pm-7pm

KC’s Bar & Grill: ABFoM, 8pm-10pm

‍

2nd November  

Sorrentos: Will Heta, 4pm-7pm  

KC’s Bar & Grill: ABFoM, 8pm-10pm

‍

3rd November  

ABH: Studio 54 Revival for the Melbourne Cup (ticketed), 10am-1pm  

Sorrentos: Will Heta, 4pm-7pm  

KC’s Bar & Grill: ABFoM, 8pm-10pm  

‍

4th November  

Sorrentos: Will Heta, 4pm-7pm [Text Wrapping Break]KC’s Bar & Grill: ABFoM, 8pm-10pm

‍

5th November  

ABH: Aaron Saxon, 6:30pm-9:30pm

Sorrentos: Lucy Rose, 4pm-7pm  

KC’s Bar & Grill: ABFoM, 8pm-10pm

‍

Dellacoma Rio, frontman for INXS tribute band

‍

Airlie Beach Hotel will be turning into AIRLIE LIVE from November 5–8, with four days of INXS anthems, ’80s favourites, ’90s rock and dance-floor hits taking over The Pub.

‍

The Australian INXS Show, Absolutely 80s, Royale with Cheese and Jam Hot Live will keep the music flowing from afternoon sessions into late-night shows, giving music lovers plenty of reasons to settle in and sing along.

‍

The Australian INXS Tribute Show will bring the swagger and stage presence that made INXS a worldwide sensation.

Founded by guitarist Rob Moody, the six-piece band is fronted by Dellacóma Rio, whose portrayal of Michael Hutchence brings plenty of energy to favourites including ‘Never Tear Us Apart’, ‘New Sensation’ and ‘Don’t Change’.

‍

“Airlie Beach has become a bit of a second home,” Dellacóma said.

“We've got a very, very high energy show.”  

‍

The fully immersive Wembley-style experience will see the band take over Airlie Beach Hotel from 7pm–10pm on Thursday 5th and Friday 6th November.

Absolutely 80s will be getting the singalongs started with four Australian music icons performing the songs that helped make them famous.

‍

Scott Carne of Kids in the Kitchen joins Uncanny X-Men’s Brian Mannix, The Chantoozies’ Ally Fowler and Wilbur Wilde of Ol’ 55 and Jo Jo Zep, backed by the Absolutely 80s Band.

Their original hits, including ‘Change in Mood’, ‘Everybody Wants to Work’ and ‘Wanna Be Up’, will feature alongside other favourites from the decade.

‍

Catch their two shows from 2pm–5.30pm on Friday 6th November and Saturday 7th November.  

Jam Hot Live will keep the weekend moving with a mix of soul, funk, pop and dance favourites, combining a live DJ with vocals, saxophone and percussion.

‍

For the Gold Coast group’s Charles Oliver, connecting with the crowd is what brings the show to life.

“When we’re playing, everyone will forget about everything else,” he said.

‍

“Get down early, get to the front, and we will see you on the dance floor,”

Jam Hot Live bring the groove from 9pm–midnight on Saturday November 7th, and 7pm–10pm on November 8th.

‍

Adding some guitar grit to the weekend, Royale with Cheese will wind the clock back to the ’90s with grunge, Britpop and Australian rock favourites

“What we really do is we sell nostalgia,” said Royale with Cheese Drummer David Moses.  

‍

Together for around 12 years, the five-piece has built a repertoire of roughly 200 songs, keeping every show fresh with a different setlist each time they take the stage.

“Wherever we play, we make sure that we change the set from last time we were there,” David said.

‍

“It’s fun just to change the show every night … to keep it fresh for us and for the audience.”

Alongside the guitar-heavy hits of Nirvana, Pearl Jam and Oasis, you really don’t know what you’re going to hear slipped into the set, with David admitting Backstreet Boys are a guilty pleasure.

‍

“I can’t say I’m a Backstreet Boys fan, but I love playing Everybody,” David said.

‍

Catch their energy from 7pm–10pm on Saturday 7th November and 2pm–5.30pm on Sunday 8th November.

‍

What: The Australian INXS Show - Airlie Live
Where: Airlie Beach Hotel
When: Thursday 5th and Friday 6th November, 7pm–10pm

‍

What: Absolutely 80s - Airlie Live
Where: Airlie Beach Hotel
When: Friday 6th and Saturday 7th November, 2pm–5.30pm

‍

What: Royale with Cheese - Airlie Live
Where: Airlie Beach Hotel
When: Saturday 7th November, 7pm–10pm, and Sunday 8th November, 2pm–5.30pm

‍

What: Jam Hot Live - Airlie Live
Where: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel
When: Saturday 7th November, 9pm–midnight, and Sunday 8th November, 7pm–10pm

‍

Stinger nets are back at Boathaven and Cannonvale beaches, ready for another Whitsunday summer. Whether you’re cooling off with the kids or enjoying a dip, the enclosures provide a safer place to swim during marine stinger season. Stinger nets reduce the risk of stings but aren’t completely stinger-proof, so consider wearing a protective stinger suit, even inside the enclosure. Keep an eye on warning signs and never touch marine stingers, even if they’ve washed ashore.

Glenn Burling, Leanne Abernethy and Cindy Tonks. Photo supplied: Leanne Abernethy

‍

A commitment to helping visitors discover more of Queensland drove three Bowen Tourism and Business team members north this week for the annual Queensland Information Centre’s Association (QICA) conference.

‍

Representatives from Visitor Information Centres across the state gathered in Cairns, Kuranda and Mareeba to share ideas, explore attractions and discuss how their centres can continue meeting travellers’ needs.

‍

Held in a different Queensland location each year, the conference combines networking and professional development with opportunities to experience other regions firsthand.

Bowen Tourism and Business manager Leanne Abernethy said the annual gathering was always worthwhile, giving staff greater confidence when recommending destinations to visitors heading north.

‍

“The annual conference provides attendees with a valuable platform to network and exchange knowledge with representatives from other regions, and it gives us the chance to learn from each other,” she said.

‍

The Bowen team’s itinerary began in Cairns, with visits to Cairns Aquarium, Tombs of the Pharaohs and Skypark.

Delegates then travelled by scenic train to Kuranda, where the local Visitor Information Centre team welcomed them, before spending the final two days of the conference in Mareeba.

‍

Alongside discovering attractions, the gathering provided time to discuss the changing role of visitor centres and the importance of keeping pace with technology.

“As a network, we know it is very valuable to connect with representatives from other regions and for our centres to evolve with the changes in technology to ensure we continue to meet the needs of our visitors,” Leanne said.  

‍

Leanne said personal connections remained central to helping travellers make the most of their holidays.

“Personalised visitor services provided via face-to-face services are so important to so many of our visitors and can lead to longer stays and an enriched experience for our guests.”

‍

Bowen hosted the conference in 2019, welcoming the statewide visitor information network to its own region.

‍

‍

A close look at a bush stone-curlew has earned Leonie Lovell this week’s winning spot, with the bird’s striking eyes making it a fitting choice for the theme ‘Eyes’.

Leonie photographed the bird at Whitsunday Shute Harbour Airport, capturing its face in a portrait that invites viewers to stop and look back.

With the focus on those watchful eyes, it’s a chance to appreciate the finer features of a familiar local bird.

‍

Congratulations to Leonie for capturing and sharing this lovely portrait. This week’s theme is ‘Rust’, offering plenty of possibilities for photographers to find beauty in weathered surfaces.

Thank you to everyone in the Whitsundays Amateur Photographers Facebook group for sharing another wonderful collection of images.

‍

Photo source: BMA CQ Rescue  

‍

The BMA CQ Rescue Family Fun Day attracted strong community support on Sunday 11^th October, with Mackay Showgrounds filled with families enjoying a day of activities, rides and entertainment. Visitors had the opportunity to see helicopters, meet crew members and learn more about their local rescue helicopter service. Organisers thanked the volunteers, exhibitors, vendors and everyone involved in bringing the event together, along with Mackay Showgrounds and Mickala Group for their generous support. The successful day brought families together for a fun-filled Sunday while raising awareness and supporting an important regional emergency service.

‍

‍

‍

Mackay is set to come alive with music, colour and cultural discovery when Global Grooves returns to Queens Park this Saturday, October 24.

‍

Running from 3pm to 8pm, this free family-friendly event invites the community to travel the world in a single afternoon, celebrating the diverse cultures that together make up the proud Mackay region.

With live music, multicultural performances, colourful market stalls, exotic foodie delights and interactive workshops, there will be plenty to see, taste and experience.

‍

“This free community event will feature an array of performances from multicultural artists, local community groups, and a range of talented musicians,” a spokesperson said.

Visitors can get hands-on with a variety of cultural activities, from African hair-braiding to traditional weaving, painting and dance.

‍

Highlights include an authentic early medieval living history display, complete with a fully furnished encampment, traditional craft demonstrations and interactive educational experiences.

The Mesh & Knots MASSI MATSI Women’s Group will guide participants through traditional Australian South Sea Islander and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander coconut painting and weaving, sharing cultural practices through this volunteer-run community organisation.

‍

Visitors can also discover the traditions of China’s Mosuo ethnic people through bamboo dancing, a skirt ceremony, cultural storytelling, fashion shows and spiritual dance.

For those keen to try something new, workshops will introduce the beauty of Indian classical dance, Bharatanatyam, including its distinctive hand gestures, facial expressions, rhythms, costumes and jewellery.

‍

Pacific Island-inspired weaving will offer the opportunity to learn simple techniques using coconut leaves and create a handmade item to take home.

Proud Wulgurukaba woman Lee will also lead a guided cultural weaving activity exploring storytelling, healing, reflection and connection to Country.

‍

Those looking to get active can try introductory Thai martial arts in a safe, supportive and encouraging environment, with basic movements designed to build fitness while having fun.

Alongside the activities, families can browse the market stalls, sample a range of local and international flavours, and enjoy the vibrant entertainment throughout the afternoon and evening.

‍

Global Grooves is an initiative of Mackay Regional Council and the MECC, celebrating the cultural richness of the region and bringing communities together through shared experiences.

Gather your family and friends and enjoy an afternoon of culture, creativity and connection at Queens Park.

‍

WHEN: Saturday, October 24, 3pm–8pm

WHERE: Queens Park, Mackay

COST: Free

‍

MONTHLY MARKETS

Marian Markets

8am – 12pm | The Third Sunday Of Each Month

Enjoy a relaxed Sunday morning browsing the Marian Markets, held on the third Sunday of each month at the Holy Rosary Church grounds. With a variety of stalls, delicious food and a welcoming community atmosphere, there is plenty to explore while supporting local stallholders.

Holy Rosary Church grounds, Marian

‍

Pinnacle Markets

9am – 1pm | The Third Sunday Of Each Month

Make a Sunday outing of the Pinnacle Markets, held on the third Sunday of each month at the Pinnacle Family Hotel. Discover a range of local stalls, support small businesses and enjoy the friendly community atmosphere. Stallholder bookings are available by calling 4958 5207. Markets will continue monthly through to September.
Pinnacle Family Hotel, Pinnacle

‍

Eungella Community Markets

9am – 1pm | The Second Sunday Of Each Month

Make the trip to Eungella for a morning of local shopping and community connection at the Eungella Community Markets. Held on the second Sunday of each month, the markets feature local stalls in a family-friendly, undercover and air-conditioned all-weather venue. With picnic areas also available, it is a lovely opportunity to explore the region and enjoy a relaxed day out.

Eungella Memorial Hall, 5 North Street, Eungella

‍

Trash And Treasure Fruit And Veg Market

8am – 12pm | Every fourth Sunday

From fresh produce to handmade goodies and second-hand treasures, the Trash and Treasure and Fruit and Veg Market offers plenty to browse. Visitors can explore stalls featuring fresh eggs, herbs, plants, homemade cakes and biscuits, crochet items, health drinks, bric-a-brac and more.
Gargett Store

‍

COMMUNITY EVENTS

‍

Walk, Talk And Coffee

From 9am | Every Thursday

Enjoy some fresh air, friendly conversation and a little exercise with the free weekly Walk, Talk and Coffee gathering in Gargett. The group follows the Pioneer Valley Rail Trail to Gargett Gap and back, with the morning finishing over coffee at the Gargett Store. New faces are always welcome. 9am departure from Pioneer Valley Sports Association, followed by a 9.15am departure from Gargett Store

Pioneer Valley, Gargett

‍

Grassroots Fridays

9am – 12pm | Every Friday

Looking for a friendly place to catch up with locals and meet new faces? Grassroots Fridays brings the community together at the Old Finch Hatton Railway Station. Drop in for a relaxed morning of conversation and connection.
Old Finch Hatton Railway Station

‍

Pasta Perfection Cooking Class

10.30am – 1.30pm | 30 October 2026

Bring a little taste of the Mediterranean into your kitchen with this hands-on cooking class at One Hungry Mumma. Learn how to prepare fresh homemade pasta, whip up a garden-inspired mint and pistachio pesto, and bake focaccia from scratch. With small groups of eight to 10 participants, the experience encourages everyone to get involved before sitting down together to enjoy the delicious creations over a shared meal.

One Hungry Mumma, Finch Hatton

‍

Travels Of Asia Cooking Class

10.30am – 1.30pm | 8 November 2026

Take your tastebuds on a journey through Asia with this interactive cooking experience at One Hungry Mumma. Participants will learn to prepare Thai coconut chicken curry, Vietnamese rice paper rolls, fresh Asian slaw with sesame dressing and Japanese yakitori chicken skewers cooked over the hibachi. Get hands-on with the chopping, stirring, grilling and rolling before enjoying a shared feast together.
One Hungry Mumma, Finch Hatton

‍

Six months after opening, Finch Falls Retreat is quickly establishing itself as a sought-after nature escape in the Pioneer Valley, combining family-friendly luxury, thoughtful sustainability and the simple pleasure of slowing down in nature.

‍

Nestled in the lush Pioneer Valley, the 13-acre retreat features open space, restored native habitat and rainforest, creating a peaceful setting where families can reconnect, explore and enjoy time together.

At its heart are two beautifully appointed, two-bedroom Eco Lodges, each accommodating two adults and up to four children. Featuring a private ensuite, fully equipped kitchenette, king bed, children’s bunk room and generous living space, each lodge also offers a private deck and undercover BBQ area for relaxed family meals and evenings immersed in nature.

‍

Environmental restoration is central to the retreat’s story. Once part of a former cane farm, the property has been transformed through the planting of hundreds of native trees and plants since 2024, helping stabilise the land, restore habitat and encourage native wildlife.

Sustainability extends into everyday operations, guests are encouraged to recycle, conserve water and energy, and learn about the ongoing restoration efforts. Solar power was recently installed, helping to further reduce the retreat’s environmental footprint. In September 2026, Finch Falls Retreat achieved Sustainable Tourism Accreditation through the Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC), marking an important milestone in its commitment to responsible tourism.

‍

There’s plenty to explore in the surrounding region, from the well-known Finch Hatton Gorge just minutes away to the lush surrounds of Eungella National Park. Add mountain bike trails, a pump track, natural swimming holes and plenty of opportunities to get outdoors, and there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the Pioneer Valley. Located at 564 Gorge Road, Finch Hatton, the retreat makes an ideal base for exploring everything this beautiful part of the region has to offer.

‍

With strong occupancy, five-star reviews and growing visitor interest, Finch Falls Retreat is planning additional Eco Lodges for 2027, creating opportunities for more families to experience this special part of Queensland.

‍

Combining thoughtful design, environmental restoration and meaningful local connections, Finch Falls Retreat offers families something increasingly precious: space to slow down, reconnect and enjoy time together.

‍

Here, luxury doesn’t compete with nature — it sits comfortably within it.

Finch Falls Retreat — Your escape starts here.

‍

Photo source: Sarina Arts Council, Sarina Gallery  

‍

Sarina Arts Council's Sarina Gallery has showcased a beautiful collection of local artwork throughout October, celebrating the creativity and talent of local artists. With one week left to view this month's exhibition before the next display takes its place, visitors are encouraged to pop in, with the gallery open daily from 9am to 2pm.

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

Richard Evans

By Richard Evans, President, Whitsundays Writers Festival  

‍

Last week, I encouraged you to start telling your story. This week, the message is simple: keep going.  

‍

You don’t need a finished book, a perfect memory or a literary style. You need a collection of stories, written in your own voice, one memory at a time.  

The trick is to make writing a habit, not a mountain to climb. Find ten minutes in your day, perhaps over a morning cup of tea. Don’t worry about spelling, grammar or whether it’s any good. You can tidy it up later. For now, your only job is to get the memory down.  

‍

Start with a moment, not your whole life. Instead of writing “I was born in 1952”, picture your grandmother’s kitchen on a Sunday morning. What could you smell? Who sat at the table? Was there an argument, a joke, or someone who always arrived late?  

‍

Details like these bring a memory to life. They also let readers step into your world, even if they’ve never met you.  

Keep a list of stories you might write. A first job, a cyclone, a wedding, a hard decision, a funny neighbour, a place you still miss. Jot down a few words whenever a memory surfaces. On days when nothing comes, you’ll have plenty to choose from.  

‍

And don’t feel you must begin at the beginning. Memoir isn’t a school assignment. Write the stories that matter to you now. The connections between them will show themselves later.  

Some days you won’t write at all. That’s life, not failure. Start again with a paragraph, or even one sentence: “I remember the smell of rain on the bitumen outside our front door.” Small steps keep the door open.  

‍

When you’re ready, share a story with someone you trust or join a local writing group. You don’t need anyone’s permission to write, but encouragement helps you keep going. For tips, writing prompts and news oflocal events, visit whitsundayswriters.com and join our mailing list.  

Here’s your challenge for this week: pick up a pen tonight and write one memory in 300 words. If nothing comes, take out an old photo and start with what you see. Don’t aim for perfection. Aim to finish. Next week, write another.  

‍

Every story you save is a gift to yourself, your family and our community. You lived it. Now make sure it’s remembered.  

‍

So Much to Discover at the Gallery  

‍

by Creative Connections Whitsundays  

There’s a fresh burst of creativity at the Community Art Gallery in Proserpine this October, with new artists, beautiful artworks, unique gifts, and opportunities to get creative.  

The latest Gallery changeover brings together a wonderful mix of new work from familiar favourites and exciting pieces from artists joining the exhibition space. From stunning underwater photography and colourfulpaintings to handcrafted glass art, there’s plenty to discover on your next visit.  

‍

A glimpse beneath the Whitsundays  

Photographer Tony Ayling takes visitors beneath the surface with a captivating collection of underwater photographs captured during his diving expeditions. His images showcase the extraordinary marine life of the Whitsundays, revealing the colour, diversity and beauty of the underwater world that makes our region so special.  

‍

Fresh colour and creativity  

Looking to brighten your home? Suzanne Baker is exhibiting a delightful collection of small acrylic and oil paintings. These colourful works offer an accessible way to bring original art into your living space, whether you’re looking for a special piece for yourself or a thoughtful gift.  

‍

‍

‍

The Gallery is also delighted to welcome Dawn Byrne, whose acrylic works introduce another distinctive style to the walls. Welcoming new artists alongside established members is part of what makes each Gallery visit different, offering fresh perspectives and creative approaches for visitors to enjoy.  

‍

‍

‍

The beauty of handcrafted glass  

There’s something magical about the way coloured glass catches the light, and the new leadlight pieces by talented glass artists Liz Knight and Libby Humphrey are a beautiful example. Their handcrafted works demonstrate the skill, patience and imagination involved in transforming glass into art.  

‍

Alongside the new exhibitions, visitors can explore the Gallery’s range of unique gifts and locally created treasures. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, searching for something special or simply curious about the creative talent in our community, there’s plenty to inspire you.  

The Community Art Gallery is a place to discover local artists, appreciate different forms of creativity and support the people who contribute so much to our region’s cultural life.  

‍

Make time to visit this October and see what’s new. You might just find a piece of art that speaks to you.  

‍

Celebrating local creativity, connection, and community  

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 Whitsunday is a volunteer-led, not-for-profit organisation supporting local artists, manages the Community Gallery, and growing the arts in our community.  

‍

‍

‍

‍

A talented artist, Mary’s sketches of landmarks in Proserpine and Whitsunday provide us with an excellent historical record of the changes in our district.  

‍

Maria (Mary) Spoor was born at Leiden, Holland on November 28, 1912, one of three girls born to Fokke (Fred) Spoor and wife, Sara. Her father was one of six children, five boys and one girl, most of whom had migrated to Australia in the first half of the 20^th century. Before the Second World War, Dutch migration to Australia was sporadic, making the Spoor family among its pioneers.  

‍

In 1924, encouraged by his visiting sister, Tietstke, Fred sold his hardware store and followed relatives who had left Holland for Australia more than a decade earlier. Mary was 11, and her sisters, Wietstke and Lies (Elizabeth), were 22 and 16. The family packed a few treasured possessions into 17 boxes (including an organ, bike and milk separator) and began English lessons before leaving for the other side of the world.  

The family sailed aboard the S.S. “Largs Bay”, calling at Fremantle, Melbourne and Sydney before reaching Brisbane six weeks later and eventually travelling to Proserpine where they joined Fred’s brother, Pieter (Peter) who was farming in Kelsey Creek. Fred grew cane, established a sawmill for tomato cases, and crafted cabinets and French-polished chess tables for locals. He later bought a lorry, transporting crowds to beach sports days and delivering weekly groceries to farmers and Happy Valley miners. Mary recalled that there were “lots of gates to open and close.”  

‍

From an early age, Mary loved drawing. In Holland, her father Fred’s art-loving business partner noticed her talent and gave her sketchbooks, paints and brushes, beginning her lifelong passion for art and buildings. In one competition she won a zither, a musical instrument like a harp, which she learnt to play and which she brought with her to Australia.  

‍

In Australia, Mary continued to paint and won many prizes at the annual Proserpine Show. She found particular satisfaction in depicting buildings and places, knowing they would change over time.  

When Dittmer was discovered and Harry Sinclair left his farm on lease to Wal Spencer and Mary in the late 1930s, they married. Together they raised six children: Daniel, Frederick, Walter, Frank, Kenneth and Jan. Apart from growing cane, Mary and Wal also grew vegetables and sold them around the area, just as Mary’s father had done.  

‍

Despite the demands of married life, painting remained an important part of Mary’s life. Wal supported her work by driving her many miles to sketch and paint local scenes and buildings. After his death, however, reaching these places became more difficult.  

‍

Her 1996 book, “An Artist’s Guide to Proserpine and the Whitsundays”, contains 33 sketches of landmarks throughout Proserpine and the Whitsundays. Sales of the book and an accompanying 1996 calendar raised funds for the Proserpine Historical Museum. Mary devoted many years as a volunteer at the museum where her artistic flair was greatly valued. The museum proudly holds several paintings that she generously donated over the years. Mary also created a book of captioned pen sketches to raise funds for the Proserpine Nursing Home.  

‍

Beyond her art, Mary enjoyed indoor bowls and tennis. She was also an active member of the Uniting Church.  

Mary Spencer passed away in 2016 at the age of 103, leaving a lasting legacy of art and community service. She generously donated proceeds from her artwork to worthy local organisations. Today, her sketches remain a valuable record of the district’s transformation over time.  

‍

Story sourced from PHMS archives and “Memories” by Mary Spencer (Museum newsletter 18 March 1995). Photo courtesy of Jan Lade (nee Spencer)  

‍