Here it comes – the soundtrack of your childhood playing right here in Airlie Beach! Creedence Clearwater Survival is bringing only the best CCR and John Fogerty Live Experience for two free shows this March 8th and 9th at Airlie Beach Hotel’s own, The Pub! Amazing audiences across Australia with their faithful renditions of record-breaking hits they just don't make anymore. If you’re a fan of the swampy, roots-rock sound that defined a generation, then this tribute band is the one to see.
Creedence Clearwater Survival is Australia's premier tribute band to the legendary rock group Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR) and the solo works of John Fogerty. This Melbourne-based band has earned a stellar reputation for recreating the raw energy, passion, and authenticity of the iconic CCR sound. From their carefully crafted instrumentals to their attention to visual detail, they manage to replicate the very essence of a live Fogerty/CCR concert.
“We’ve had people come up to us who had seen Credence play in Festival Hall in 1972 and say “you guys are better!”
The band covers all the CCR classics that everyone knows and loves, such as Green River, Born on the Bayou, Proud Mary, Bad Moon Rising, Fortunate Son, and Old Man Down the Road. Their performances are more than just cover songs, they capture the spirit and dynamic energy that made CCR one of the greatest rock bands of the 60s and 70s.
“It’s the sort of music that is just kind of absorbed my osmosis. You know the songs even if you don’t know the words. You’ll hear him (John Fogerty) in the supermarket, in movie soundtracks, you'll hear it.”
Creedence Clearwater Revival was no overnight sensation but their sound, quickly became the soundtrack for millions of young people, resonating especially with the working class. John Fogerty’s songwriting, in particular, gave voice to the disillusioned and the hopeful in equal measure, painting pictures of life in America’s swamps, bayous, and small-town backroads.
Creedence Clearwater Survival embraces this legacy wholeheartedly. Their frontman, fondly known as “John Forgery,” does an incredible job of channelling Fogerty’s vocal style and energy, while the band around him provides the perfect backdrop with their dynamic instrumental performances. Whether it’s the hypnotic backbeat of Suzie Q or the scorching rockabilly licks of Ramble Tamble, this group delivers an experience that transports fans back to the heyday of CCR. Their chemistry brings to the stage that magic of the original band, creating an authentic live CCR experience for their Airlie audience.
The band has a diverse and talented group of musicians who have been performing together for over 15 years, a testament to their commitment and long-standing passion for keeping the CCR sound alive. The band’s approach is both serious in their dedication to recreating the authentic sound, and relaxed in their atmosphere, ensuring that audiences enjoy a night of great music, storytelling, and pure entertainment.
So y’all better “hitch a ride to the end of the highway” and let Creedence Clearwater Survival entertain you with reliving the golden era of roots rock. Don’t miss out on these free shows this March 8th and 9th at The Pub – book your table now, and get ready for an unforgettable evening of live music that brings CCR’s timeless tunes back to life!
https://thepubairliebeach.com.au/whats-on/creedence-clearwater-survival-saturday-8th-sunday-9th-march/’

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Friday 28 February
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm–10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Paul Berger (4pm–8pm)

Saturday 1 March
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Pink Vs Gaga Ultimate Tribute (2pm–5:30pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm–10pm)
Grand View Hotel: DJ Night (4pm-8pm)
Coral Sea Pavilion:  Live Music & Chill DJ Session (1pm–6pm)

Sunday 2 March
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Pink Vs Gaga Ultimate Tribute (2pm–5:30pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6:30pm–9:30pm)
Grand View Hotel: Dave Johan (4pm–8pm)
Coral Sea Pavilion: Chill Acoustic Session (2pm-6pm)
Colonial Palms: Dave Reaston Duo (from 3pm)

Thursday 6 March
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Chris Booroff (6.30pm–9.30pm)

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Are you looking to treat yourself this International Women’s Day? Well, look no further than the Reef Gateway Hotel who are putting on a fabulous and eloquent high tea. This 8th of March, enjoy a sumptuous package of set menu delectables and bubbles on arrival with alternate pricing for non-drinkers available too!
It will be a celebration of grace, strength and empowerment, in honour of the women in our community who inspire, lead, and make a difference to our everyday lives. This is a great opportunity to get to know your feminine community better and enjoy their wonderful company.
The Reef Gateway Hotel is serving up sweet and savoury treats, and of course plenty of scones and cream as no high tea is complete without them!
Spaces are limited, so book in now for you and your girlfriends and lock your spot. Walk-ins are welcome on the day, but we all know booking is best to guarantee your place at this delicious event.
It’s 18+ only as the Hotel is always promoting the responsible service of alcohol, sit down to elegance, serving between 11:00am – 2:00pm, so book in now at: reefgatewayhotel.com.au

WHAT: International Women’s Day High tea
WHERE: Reef Gateway Hotel
WHEN: Saturday 8th March 11am-2pm

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February
28 Seniors Computer Program, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9am-2:30pm Bookings Required
28 Pram Pushers, Bowen Neighbourhood Centre, 9am-10:30am
28 Seniors Bingo, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:30am-12pm, $7.50pp & Seniors Card  
28 Drop-in Baby Clinic & Baby Play, Cooinda Family Centre, 10am-12pm
28 Adult Roller Skate Class, PCYC Whitsunday, 6pm-7pm
28 Alcoholics Anonymous, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 6pm-7:30pm

March
1 Park Run, Meeting Area D, Coral Sea Marina, starting at 7am
1 Airlie Beach Market, Airlie Beach, starting at 8am
1 Proserpine Farmers Market, 17 Chapman St Proserpine, 8am-12pm
1 Polocrosse Fun Day, Bowen Polocrosse Club, from 9am, BYO Horse
1 The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 12pm & 3pm
2 Clean Up Australia Day, Coral Sea Marina, from 11:30am
2 Bowen Community Sunday Market, Hansen Park, from 8am
3 Bindi Bindi, Cooinda Family Centre, 9am-11am
3 Boardgames Club, Proserpine Library, from 1pm
4 DV Court Support, Bowen Neighbourhood Centre, 8:30am-11am
4 Suicide Intervention Training, Bowen Neighbourhood Centre, 9am-4pm, Bookings Required
4 Emergency Relief, Bowen Neighbourhood Centre, 10:30-11:30
4 Various Book Clubs, Cannonvale Library, 2-3:30pm
5 Whitsunday Quilters, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9am-1:30am, $5pp
5 Cooking Classes 6week program, Cooinda Family Centre, 12pm-2pm, Bookings Required
6 Stay ‘N’ Play Excursion: Queens Beach, Cooinda Family Centre, Bookings Required
6 Morning Melodies - The Great British Songbook, Proserpine Entertainment Centre,11am
7 Pram Pushers, Bowen Neighbourhood Centre, 9am-10:30am
7 Seniors Bingo, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:30am-12pm, $7.50pp & Seniors Card
7 Drop-in Baby Clinic & Baby Play, Cooinda Family Centre, 10am-12pm
7 Adult Roller Skate Class, PCYC Whitsunday, 6pm-7pm
7 Alcoholics Anonymous, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 6pm-7:30pm
8 International Women’s Day
8 Park Run, Meeting Area D, Coral Sea Marina, starting at 7am
8 Adopt-a-dog day, Pets Domain in Bowen, 10am-2pm
8 Airlie Beach Market, Airlie Beach, starting at 8am
9 Bowen Community Sunday Market, Hansen Park, from 8am
9 Whitsunday Thrift Club’s Preloved Clothing Market, Kipara Rainforest Retreat, 9am-1pm
9 Greater Whitsunday Vet Services Open Day, 52 Main St Proserpine, 10am-2pm
10 Bindi Bindi, Cooinda Family Centre, 9am-11am
10 Boardgames Club, Proserpine Library, from 1pm
11 DV Court Support, Bowen Neighbourhood Centre, 8:30am-11am
11 Sailability, Downstairs at the Whitsunday Sailing Club, Volunteers 8am-2pm & Sailors/Carers 9am-1pm, Bookings Required
11 Building Blocks, Cooinda Family Centre, 9am-11am
11 Emergency Relief, Bowen Neighbourhood Centre, 10:30am-11:30am
12 Cooking Classes 6week program, Cooinda Family Centre, 12pm-2pm, Bookings Required
12 Anh Do - The Happiest Refugee Live! Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 7.30pm
14 Pram Pushers, Bowen Neighbourhood Centre, 9am-10:30am
14 Seniors Bingo, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:30am-12pm, $7.50pp & Seniors Card
14 Drop-in Baby Clinic & Baby Play, Cooinda Family Centre, 10am-12pm
14 Alcoholics Anonymous, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 6pm-7:30pm
15 Park Run, Meeting Area D, Coral Sea Marina, starting at 7am
15 Airlie Beach Market, Airlie Beach, starting at 8am
16 Bowen Community Sunday Market, Hansen Park, from 8am
17 Harmony Week 17th – 23
17 St. Patricks Day
17 Chair Exercise, CWA Hall, 9am-10am
17 Bindi Bindi, Cooinda Family Centre, 9am-11am
17 Boardgames Club, Proserpine Library, from 1pm
18 DV Court Support, Bowen Neighbourhood Centre, 8:30am-11am
18 Building Blocks, Cooinda Family Centre, 9am-11am
18 Emergency Relief, Bowen Neighbourhood Centre, 10:30am-11:30am
18 Elder Abuse Awareness & Prevention, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 11am-12:30pm Bookings Required
18 Knit Wits Knitting Club, Cannonvale Library, 1:30pm-3pm
19 Whitsunday Quilters, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9am-1:30am, $5pp
21 Harmony Day
21 Pram Pushers, Bowen Neighbourhood Centre, 9am-10:30am
21 Seniors Bingo, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:30am-12pm, $7.50pp & Seniors Card
21 Drop-in Baby Clinic & Baby Play, Cooinda Family Centre, 10am-12pm
21 Adult Roller Skate Class, PCYC Whitsunday, 6pm-7pm
21 Alcoholics Anonymous, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 6pm-7:30pm
22 Park Run, Meeting Area D, Coral Sea Marina, starting at 7am
22 Airlie Beach Market, Airlie Beach, starting at 8am
22 How Do You Library? Community Expo, Bowen Library, 8:45am-11:45am
22 Andrew de Silva's dedication to George Michael, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 7.30pm
23 Bowen Community Sunday Market, Hansen Park, from 8am
24 Chair Exercise, CWA Hall, 9am-10am
24 Bindi Bindi, Cooinda Family Centre, 9am-11am
24 Boardgames Club, Proserpine Library, from 1pm
25 DV Court Support, Bowen Neighbourhood Centre, 8:30am-11am
25 Sailability, Downstairs at the Whitsunday Sailing Club, Volunteers 8am-2pm & Sailors/Carers 9am-1pm, Bookings Required
25 Building Blocks, Cooinda Family Centre, 9am-11am
25 Emergency Relief, Bowen Neighbourhood Centre, 10:30am-11:30am
28 Pram Pushers, Bowen Neighbourhood Centre, 9am-10:30am
28 Seniors Bingo, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:30am-12pm, $7.50pp & Seniors Card
28 Drop-in Baby Clinic & Baby Play, Cooinda Family Centre, 10am-12pm
28 Adult Roller Skate Class, PCYC Whitsunday, 6pm-7pm
28 Alcoholics Anonymous, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 6pm-7:30pm
29 Park Run, Meeting Area D, Coral Sea Marina, starting at 7am
29 Airlie Beach Market, Airlie Beach, starting at 8am
29 Adam Harvey - Let The Song Take You Home Tour, Proserpine Entertainment Centre,7.30pm
30 Bowen Community Sunday Market, Hansen Park, from 8am
31 Chair Exercise, CWA Hall, 9am-10am
31 Bindi Bindi, Cooinda Family Centre, 9am-11am
31 Boardgames Club, Proserpine Library, from 1pm

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Keava Brennan is a name many in Mackay recognise, not only for her thriving career at Gardian Real Estate but also for her deep-rooted passion for Irish dancing. With over 15 years of experience, Keava has competed across Australia and internationally, dedicating herself to a discipline that requires focus, resilience, and creativity.

Her success in both the competitive world of property management and the artistry of dance, boldly outlines her drive and vibrant personality.

“I believe I excel in both business and personal pursuits,” said Keava.

Her background in Irish dancing has given her a unique perspective on resilience, teamwork, and personal growth, which are qualities she extends into all areas of her life.

While Keava is known for her accomplishments in real estate and dance, she is also an accomplished singer, though she keeps that side of her talent close to her heart. It’s just one more layer to her diverse skill set that makes her a true multi-talent in the community.

As she prepares for Dancing with Heart, Keava is enjoying the opportunity to explore new dance styles.

“I enjoy going to dance practice because it’s something I am used to, and it’s a creative outlet for me.

“It has been fun learning new styles of dance,” she shares.

Although fundraising has proven to be a challenge, Keava is determined to create meaningful connections with her supporters.

“Getting people to donate can be challenging, but I believe it's all about making a personal connection and emphasising the impact their contribution can make.”

Keava is a strong believer in the mission of the Mackay Hospital Foundation, whose work she supports passionately.

“By focusing on the health and well-being of local residents, the Foundation fosters a sense of unity and shared purpose.

“Giving Day is a perfect example of how they inspire the community to give back, and it’s events like these that make a real, lasting impact.

“In my view, it's incredibly important to keep the community connected, especially when it comes to healthcare and well-being.

“The Foundation’s efforts not only raise vital resources but also strengthen the bond within the community, which is crucial for long-term success.”

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Jason Barrett is ready to lay down some fresh moves on the dance floor! As the face behind Get Turfed Pty Ltd, he’s known for helping Mackay locals achieve their dream lawns with expert turf installation, ground preparation, soil products, irrigation, and lawn care services.

Offering a complete start-to-finish package, Jason prides himself on quality service and efficiency, backed by top equipment and trusted supplier relationships.

“We’re loyal, and we build great relationships with our suppliers,” he said.

But there’s more to Jason than turf. Raised on a cane farm in Proserpine, he spent 19 years growing pasture before a decade-long stint as a rigger in the mines. A self-proclaimed “mad sportsman” in his younger years, Jason now enjoys keeping up with his cheeky four-year-old granddaughter.

Known for his generosity and community involvement, Jason values kindness above all. Now, he’s pushing his boundaries for Dancing with Heart, with a focus on raising funds for the Mackay Hospital Foundation.

“Some of the moves are like ‘HOW,’ ‘WOW,’ ok I’ll do that – somehow… Not saying what dance moves or style – you’ll just have to come watch!”

He’s keeping his performance under wraps, urging the community to dig deep and join in for the big reveal.

“Once the crowd hears the song, it's game on – and they’ll be expecting a huge performance from me. To see my dance and costume is worth the cost of the evening alone.

“Plus, you’ll get to see eight other dancers perform, enjoy a beautiful meal, and donate to a fantastic charity.”

While he enjoys rehearsals, Jason admits fundraising has been the toughest part.

“Getting people to donate and finding new ways to inspire them has been a real challenge,” he said.

“The foundation enables us to stay close to our loved ones when we need it most. They support our healthcare workers and ensure the money stays in our community, helping you and your loved ones.”

“What's your price for healthcare to stay in your home community?”

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From gliding across roller rinks to stepping onto the dance floor, Stacey Brownsey is no stranger to combining grace with determination. Known locally for her sharp business acumen at Helloworld Travel Mt Pleasant, Stacey is now swapping travel packages for dance steps as she takes on Dancing with Heart to raise funds for the Mackay Hospital Foundation.

With a lifelong connection to the community, Stacey is proud to call Mackay home, having grown up on a cane farm in Eton before becoming the owner of Helloworld Travel Mt Pleasant in 2013.

“Being a small business owner in a regional community is really rewarding,” Stacey said.

“Dancing with Heart gives me the chance to give back to the region that has given me so much.”

Beyond her business, Stacey’s heart for her community shines through her volunteer work with the Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce and involvement in a parent engagement program at her son’s school.

However, before she was known for curating dream holidays, Stacey was a star on wheels, familiarly renowned as an Artistic Roller Skater who proudly represented Australia nine times on the world stage from the late 1980s to the early 2000s.

“In my youth, I was frequently featured in local newspapers for my achievements in Artistic Roller Skating - a sport best described as ballroom dancing on wheels,” she recalls.

Stacey now hopes the same precision and poise from her skating days will guide her as she finds her rhythm on the dance floor with coach Dolly.

“My lessons with Dolly have been an absolute joy! She has a wonderful way of making me feel relaxed and comfortable,” Stacey says.

While ballet elements have brought a fun challenge, footwork remains the toughest hurdle.

“The biggest challenge is reminding myself that I’m an amateur dancer - it doesn’t have to be perfect!”

However, what matters most to Stacey is the cause behind it all.

“We never know when we or someone we love may need medical care,” she says.

“That’s why it’s so important for our community to come together in support for the Mackay Hospital Foundation.”

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U3A (University of the Third Age) exists to provide a fun and inclusive community delivering lifestyle and learning activities to enrich the lives of seniors no longer working full-time. It is a worldwide organisation promoting learning for personal enjoyment and satisfaction, offering seniors the opportunity to explore new interests and share knowledge and skills.

The U3A movement began in Toulouse, France, in 1973 and quickly spread across Europe. It then reached Britain in 1981, and Australia established its first U3A in Melbourne in 1984.

Today, U3A continues to connect seniors to lifelong learning opportunities globally, especially in Mackay.

A successful luncheon was held on Wednesday, February 5, to recognise the invaluable work undertaken by the convenors of U3A Mackay groups.

Courses Coordinator Iris Harvey welcomed the convenors and provided an opportunity to discuss updates and plans for the 2025 calendar.

A highlight of the event was the recognition of three long-serving members who have contributed to the organisation for more than 20 years. Hector Keioskie, Dawn Keioskie, and Marlene May were awarded Life Memberships of U3A and presented with certificates and badges by President Muriel.

A representative from U3A Mackay said, “Congratulations to Hector, Dawn, and Marlene, and thank you to all who attended.”

Looking ahead, those of interest are encouraged to attend the 2025 Sarina Information Day, on Friday, February 21, from 11am to 3pm at the Sarina Bowls Club, 1 Patroyce Ct, Sarina.

What: 2025 Sarina Information Day

When: Friday, February 21, 11 am to 3 pm

Where: Sarina Bowls Club, 1 Patroyce Ct, Sarina

Caption: U3A Mackay celebrated its convenors and awarded life memberships to three long-serving members at a special luncheon. Photos supplied

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The Just Saying Project Women’s Awards 2025 will be held on Saturday 29 March and celebrates the magic makers in the Greater Whitsunday Region.

There are six categories, nominees were picked by the public and the event is an amazing fun filled night showcasing women in the community.

The Keynote Storyteller this year is Jane Tara, author of the hit book ‘Tilda is Visible’.

Jane has published over a hundred children’s books, several plays, a few YA and romance novels too. She is a prolific writer with a passion for storytelling. Jane is a dedicated daily meditator and proud rescue mut advocate, she’s also a front-row cheerleader for her two sons.

Jane spent thirteen years traveling the world, living in five different countries, before settling in Sydney, where she now calls home.

On the night Jane will be speaking and celebrating women in the region that not only create magic in their communities, homes, and businesses, but are also beacons of light who bring joy, strength and passion.

Tiffany Grace, who was a previous finalist in the Rising Star category at The Just Saying Program Women’s Awards, will performing on the night.

Tiffany’s music blends country charm with pop energy and a rock edge. Her songwriting is heartfelt and relatable, she resonates with audiences and radio stations worldwide.

Her incredible performances have led her to perform at major festivals, including the 2024 Tamworth Country Music Festival and Springfest 2024.

With a powerful voice and dynamic performances, she’s certainly turning heads.

THIS YEARS’ NOMINEES

Magic Muse Nominees:

Arekahanara King

Tammy Laval

Tegan Philpott

Nell Thomsett

Tammie Cunningham

Sarah Brown

Ally Blines

Megan Warrener

Kaley-Jade Baker

Karen Jacobson

Alaina Earl

Demi Linden

Abby -Jane Walsh

Tonia Beckmann

Leisa Persson

Anna Dutton

Autumn Skuthorpe

Dr Anne Butcher

Kirsty Head

Mother of All Mothers Nominees:

Terri’lee Sharpe

Amanda Potter

Courtney Simpson

Nicole McDonell

Lisa Versaci

Mindy Keys

Hayley Matschoss

Samantha Munt

Amanda Katsadoros

Briel Dorr

Nikki Bounden

Maree Sturdy

Tracey Camilleri

Robyn Agius

Javion Woods -Whetstone

Vivien Hanrahan

Kirsten Sanfilippo

Health and Wellbeing Warrior Nominees:

Courtney Mahler

Amanda Potter

Sari Jurczyluk

Lauren Heitman

Krystal Ballagh

Deb Rae

Stacey Raymond

Dr Ritu Rana

Lisa Thompson

Dawn Deakin

Josie Middleton

Wendy Steindl

Tegan Lakimo

Mel Bailey

Kimberly Bailey

Lisa Neilson

Rebecca Cooper

Nakia Watters

Dr Elissa Hatherly

Danielle Hancock

Lauren Dillion

Dr Laura Thompson

Dr Dee Middendorp Hacking

Laura Lombardozzi

Fi Southwell

Charlotte Heller

Jody Walker

Resilient Rebel Nominees:

Lauren Heitman

Judy Porter

Antoinette du Toit

Anne-Maree Tranter

Amanda Wright

Tracey Victor

Susan Martin

Mariejan Bigby

Tyla Baldock

Bianca Dixon

Jody Euler

Dr Suzanne Francisco

Tegan Philpott

Barb Hill

Lauren Dillon

Casey Kelland

Josie Middleton

Kristen Finlay

Gemma Taylor

Jenna Lee

Rising Star Nominees:

Arhamah Haider

Hannah McNamara

Jorja Jurczyluk

Charlotte Heller

Ava Peppin

Lila Munt

Nikki Nagin

The Equaliser Nominees:

Dylan Lattimore

Kyle O’Keeffe

Marty Strecker

Rod Francisco

Andew Obst

Patrick McKenna

Caption: The Just Saying Project Award Nominees at the 2024 event

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Artificial intelligence is transforming the tech world, however, could it help save the Great Barrier Reef?

Australian researchers are developing a global real-time monitoring system to protect coral reefs from climate change and bleaching, which has affected 75% of reefs in the past two years.

The Great Barrier Reef has been devastated by bleaching since 2016, worsened by starfish outbreaks and coastal development.

Led by the University of South Australia (UniSA), the project uses remote sensing, AI, and GIS to monitor and reduce damage. A central platform will consolidate data for real-time global monitoring.

Dr. Abdullahi Chowdhury, lead researcher at UniSA, explains that the model will integrate all factors affecting coral reefs, providing real-time predictions for environmental scientists.

“At the moment we have separate models that analyse substantial data on reef health – including bleaching levels, disease incidence, juvenile coral density and reef fish abundance – but these data sets are not integrated, and they exist in silos,” Dr Chowdhury says.

“Consequently, it is challenging to see the ‘big picture’ of reef health or to conduct large scale, real-time analyses.”

The researchers say an integrated system will track bleaching severity and trends over time; monitor crown-of-thorns starfish populations and predation risks; detect disease outbreaks and juvenile coral levels; and assess reef fish abundance, diversity, length, and biomass.

“By centralising all this data in real time, we can generate predictive models that will help conservation efforts, enabling earlier intervention,” according to Central Queensland University PhD candidate Musfera Jahan, a GIS data expert.

The technology will bring together datasets from organisations like the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute (MBARI), the Hawaii Undersea Research Laboratory (HURL) and Australia’s CSIRO.

“The future of coral reef conservation lies at the intersection of technology and collaboration. This research provides a roadmap for harnessing these technologies to ensure the survival of coral reefs for generations to come,” the researchers say.

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Each year, hundreds across Australia participate in Clean Up Australia Day, and Coral Sea Marina is inviting the Whitsundays community to join their regional clean-up.

In partnership with the Tangaroa Blue Foundation and ReefClean program, volunteers help protect the region’s waters and coastline by collecting litter from land, islands, or waterways. Tangaroa Blue sorts and records the debris, contributing valuable data to the Australian Marine Debris Initiative for marine protection efforts.

“For the last few years we have coordinated a Clean-Up Australia event, firstly to engage the community to seek simple ways they can positively contribute to protecting the marine environment, but also to show our support for this important national initiative,” explains Joscelyn O’Keefe, Head of Marketing and Business Development at Coral Sea Marina.

More than 22 million Aussies have participated in Clean Up Australia Day activities in the last three decades and as Australia’s waste challenges continue to grow, there is an increasing need to step up and support solutions.

With attendance at last year’s event of around 60 people, the marina is hoping to attract a crowd of at least 100 to this year’s event.

Ms O’Keefe continues, “The engagement we have had in the past, particularly from those with young families, is incredibly encouraging.”

“Last year we collected over 100kg of litter which was successfully removed.”

Following the clean-up, volunteers will have the opportunity to learn more about the impact of marine debris from the team at Tangaroa Blue and how to take ongoing action to protect the oceans.

For more information on the event or to register your interest visit the Coral Sea Academy website: coralseaacademy.com

What: Clean Up Australia Day

When: Sunday 2nd March, 8am

Where: Meeting Point D, Coral Sea Marina

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A swag of moorings and reef protection marker buoys now dot the reefs of the Whitsunday Islands, making boating easier and safer as well as protecting the corals from anchor damage. But it hasn’t always been this way.

Back in the bad old days, circa 1980-1990, boating and diving around the Whitsundays was pretty basic. When visiting a reef, the idea was to get right on top of the reef, drop an anchor (on the coral!) and hop in the water. No swimming required as you were already over the reef.

But as the popularity of boating and diving in the Whitsundays increased, anchor damage to local reefs increased. It is amazing how much damage a single anchor can do to a coral reef. It is not just the anchor hitting the coral, it is the anchor and chain dragging through the coral as the boat swings and the tide changes. It was devastating.

Around 1990, dive operators finally recognised the extent of the damage as their divers could actually see the smashed coral. The alarm was sounded and the reef management agencies alerted. Unfortunately, little was done.

Local politicians were notified but showed little interest.

It is now 1994, coral is still being smashed and the community is tired of waiting for the government to step up. Divers and boat crews pulled together and formed a community group, appropriately named the OUCH Volunteers (Order of Underwater Coral Heroes). After all, what does a coral say when an anchor is dropped on it? OUCH!

OUCH’s first project was to video an anchor dragging through coral and send it to the ABC 7:30 Report.

After the video was aired on national television, the government could not do enough.

The Reef Protection Program was launched by Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service and the OUCH Volunteers, resulting in the installation of reef protection marker buoys and moorings throughout the Whitsundays, significantly reducing anchor damage to the coral reefs.

This program has spread across the Great Barrier Reef as well as overseas. But it all started right here in the Whitsundays. And don’t worry. The OUCH Volunteers are still working hard to protect the Great Barrier Reef.

Contributed by Tony Fontes, Volunteer for OUCH.

Caption 1: Volunteers with their OUCH marker buoy

Caption 2: The OUCH volunteers

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Hi Everyone!

It’s week three and we have some interesting environmental questions in this week's Ruth 2 Reef. I really enjoy questions that go outside the box and challenge your way of thinking.

In other news! As we have had such a great response to this feature...I have the exciting update that Ruth 2 Reef will be carrying on, on a weekly basis! so please keep sending in your environmental stories to ruth@lifepublishinggroup.com, as I would love to have them featured.

This week, I had the incredible opportunity to assist with a count and sort at Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc. It was such a rewarding morning, connecting with new people and making a positive impact on the environment.

Eco Barge is an amazing community organisation with so many ways to get involved. If you're looking for a way to give back, come join me and the other volunteers for a count and sort.

I hope you’ll enjoy delving into the Whitsundays Environmental happenings this week.

Ruth

"The greatest threat to our planet is the belief that someone else will save it” - Robert Swan.

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Did you know that there is a much greater chance of being killed by a cow than by a shark? About 5 times greater.

It's time to change the “Jaws” narrative and properly value sharks for their amazing contributions to the health of our Great Barrier Reef.

Sharks are vital to ocean health—without them, marine ecosystems can collapse.

Many sharks are top predators. Because of this important role, their loss can have ripple effects through the food chain that throw the entire reef ecosystems off kilter.

When shark presence is reduced, an increase in smaller predators that prey on herbivorous fish is seen. The result? Without enough herbivorous fish feasting on algae, it can quickly grow out of control and take over the reef, eventually reducing biodiversity and diminishing the reef’s resilience to threats like as storms and coral bleaching.

The sad reality is that sharks now need our help to carry on performing their vital ecosystem services.

Sharks are declining at a staggering rate. More than one third of shark species are currently threatened with extinction. There are 71% percent fewer sharks in the open ocean today than there were 50 years ago.

Humans are the main culprit, killing an estimated 100 million sharks every year by overfishing. We are also destroying their habitat, particularly in coastal areas. This massive loss of sharks is harming the underwater ecosystems that rely so heavily on them.

All the threats sharks face are amplified by the fact that most sharks are slow to mature and have babies. We are fishing out many species faster than they can reproduce.  

Having more sharks around to perform their critical ecosystem functions keeps our reefs healthy. That means efforts to conserve sharks benefit more than just the sharks themselves; they help the entire reef.

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Conservation Council

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Ready to level up your recycling game?

The Whitsunday Regional Council has secured over $100,000 in funding to boost recycling efforts, thanks to the Queensland Government's Let's Get it Sorted Partnership Program.

This grant is part of a statewide initiative empowering 26 councils to improve household recycling habits and drive environmental change.

Mayor Ry Collins sees it as a crucial step in tackling regional recycling challenges.

“We live in one of the most environmentally diverse and delicate regions in the world, and in order to protect our local ecosystem, everyone needs to be playing their part in our war on waste,” he said.

“Our 2023 bin audit demonstrated that across the region, there is a 30% rate of contamination in our recycling bins, with the biggest issues being soft plastics and bagged recycling being placed into our yellow recycling bins.

“The campaign will focus on reducing this percentage, and another audit will take place at the end of the campaign to see how we are tracking as a region.

“By rallying the community together to make the correct choices when sorting their waste, we can make a real difference together.”

Coordinator Waste and Recycling, Clinton Shand, emphasised the importance of communicating the core recycling messages in order for the campaign to have maximum effect.

“We have chosen to focus our messaging on the dos and don’ts of recycling to get back to the basics of sorting waste correctly within our community,” he said.

“By starting from scratch, we can hope to bust some recycling and waste myths.”

The campaign will take a soft launch this February.

“Residents will also have the option to opt in to receive a ‘recycling top tips’ fridge magnet by visiting the Let’s Get it Sorted page on Council’s website,” added Mr Shand.

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