This week’s winning photograph is a picture of serenity, captured amongst the perfect calm of Lake Proserpine by Megan Weir.  

Submitted under the theme of Landscapes, this is a photo you could step right into, and float on a lilypad across waters so reflective you don’t know which way is up.  

Thank you and congrats, Megan!  This the theme is “Aromas in Focus,” AKA things that smell nice – so get snapping, and submit your photos via the Whitsundays Amateur Photographers Facebook group.

In the time before radio and television and when gramophones and records were very basic and quite expensive, residents yearned for entertainment outside the home. Occasionally, travelling vaudeville groups and pantomime companies visited the town. From very early days, concerts were staged as both church and community fundraisers as well as providing a social outlet. The Tivoli Hall was a regular venue for these occasions.  

Opened in 1913, the Tivoli Hall/Theatre was situated in Chapman Street. It had earlier been known as Oddfellows Hall which hosted a variety of functions.  Before transitioning to the showgrounds, exhibits for the annual show were displayed in the Oddfellows Hall. In 1910, the inaugural Proserpine Show Ball was held there and the “Bowen Independent” April 11th 1911, reported, “The ladies of the R. C. Church are holding a Euchre Party on Easter Monday night in the Oddfellows’ Hall.” In an advertisement on April 15, 1911, Mrs G Taylor announced that she intended holding “A series of Assemblies in the Oddfellows Hall … every fortnight …Bright and up-to-date music.”  

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The Tivoli, managed by Mr RAT Morrison, served as the town's initial venue for moving picture screenings and events before entertainment shifted to larger venues such as the Eldorado Picture Company run by Mr J Johns in the Alexandra Hall on Main Street. A boy was employed to ring an auctioneer’s bell in the main street announcing, “Pictures tonight!”  

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Twice weekly, silent movies were screened at the Tivoli. Typical programmes presented a feature film, a comedy and a serial episode. Serials such as “The Iron Test” and “Elmo the Fearless” often ran for up to twenty episodes, each ending with an unresolved crisis - usually placing the heroine in danger to encourage audiences to return. Programmes sometimes included live acts such as “Frank Sidney - Trick Cyclist and Vaudeville Artist with his Singing Dog” and “Mr Dickenson who Specialises in Irish Songs”.  

Life for the cinema proprietors had its difficulties. Because of unreliable transport, films often failed to arrive, and equipment breakdowns were a perpetual worry, so old programmes had to be re-shown, or the proprietors cheerfully held a dance instead.  

In 1918, the Tivoli’s screening of the 5^th episode of the great picture, “Gloria’s Romance” was thrilling audiences. Seats were a bit cheaper at the Tivoli than Alexandra Hall. Canvas chairs were 1/8; front seats 1/4. I Edwards was manager at this time. The “Bowen Independent” reported positively on the Tivoli pictures. February 18, 1919 – “Last Saturday night the Proserpine Branch of the Tivoli was packed to its utmost to see “Zara”, and the management was well thanked for the grand paramount program.” October 21, 1919 – “An enormous crowd witnessed the screening of that wonderful picture, ‘The Better Ole’”  

During the severe influenza epidemic of 1919, when restrictions on indoor entertainment were imposed, the community was fortunate to have the Tivoli’s open-air skating rink providing an alternative venue for their entertainment.  

The First Annual Military Ball was held at the Tivoli on Anzac night, 1919. This event was greatly anticipated as a commemoration marking the anniversary of the Anzac campaign. Circa 1927, the Tivoli held its first skating Fancy Dress Ball.  

In 1934, the Tivoli ceased to operate and was converted into a plumbing business. After suffering severe damage during Cyclone Debbie in 2017, structural assessments determined that the then 104-year-old building was beyond repair and could not retain its heritage façade. It was subsequently removed from the Queensland Heritage Register. And so ended a grand chapter of our district’s history.  

Story and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum Society.  

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Markets are part of what makes the Whitsundays tick – supporting local businesses, giving visitors a taste of the region, and bringing people together.

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Over the past 12 months, the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry has managed the Airlie Beach Cruise Ship Markets in partnership with Airlie Events and has now added back-office support to Tarnia Patton and Ambi Ford for the popular Proserpine Community Markets.

Together, the markets create opportunities for local traders to showcase what they do, reach new customers, and contribute to the wider community.

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A place to start, test and grow

For many stallholders, markets are an important part of doing business – whether they’re starting out, testing an idea, or reaching new customers.

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Makers, growers, home-based businesses, and food vendors can meet customers face-to-face, build their profile, and generate income without the overheads of a traditional shopfront. For hobbyists, a market can also be a way to share a passion and see where it might lead.

The Airlie Beach Cruise Ship Markets provide the added opportunity to connect with thousands of visitors, many who stay connected long after they leave the Whitsundays.

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Supporting the people behind the stalls

For Cruise Ship Market stallholders, the past year has brought more support, clearer systems, and a stronger voice in the market’s future.

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Regular stallholder meetings, weekly updates, online registration and site allocation, and a dedicated Stallholder Sub-Committee make it easier for traders to stay informed and help shape the market.

The Chamber has also worked closely with Council on practical improvements to support stallholders and visitors, while Chamber’s $99 Market Vendor Subscription provides discounted fees, promotional opportunities, and access to business resources, education, and networking.

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Local money, local causes

Both the Airlie Beach Cruise Ship Markets and Proserpine Community Markets contribute to the Whitsundays Chamber Community Fund, which provides grants to eligible local not-for-profits, community groups and volunteer organisations.

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Keeping Proserpine’s local character

The Proserpine Community Markets have been built over more than five years by founder Tarnia Patton around a simple idea: run by locals, for locals. That local character remains, with Tarnia continuing as on-site Market Manager while the Chamber provides back-office support.

The next Proserpine Community Market is at the Proserpine Show Grounds on Sunday 6th December, with makers, growers, bakers, food vans, retailers, home businesses, services and community groups welcome to apply.

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The Proserpine Twilight Christmas Fair will also bring another opportunity for local businesses and community groups, running from 5pm to 8pm on Friday 11th December.

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More than a market day

“The Chamber is here to back our market stallholders. Behind every stall is a person, a product and often a small business, and we want to help create opportunities for all of them to connect, trade and grow,” said Chamber Portfolio Manager Cait Fleming.

Contact the Chamber to learn more about our markets via portfolios@whitsundaycoastchamber.com.au

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Sometimes a photograph’s beauty lies not in the grandeur of the subject, but in the intricate details revealed by looking a little closer.  

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Michele Shea captured this week’s winning photograph with a beautiful close-up of a waterlily in bloom, bringing the flower’s delicate petals and natural symmetry into sharp focus. It is a peaceful, yet wildly beautiful frame that makes for a great example of this week’s “Macro” theme.

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Congratulations, Michele, your photograph will have us all giving things a closer look!

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For next week’s Photo of the Week, the theme is “Landscapes”.

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

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Photo source: Shutterstock

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Serves: 4
Prep: 15 minutes
Cook: 10 minutes

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Ingredients

• 500g raw prawns, peeled and deveined  

• 1 tbsp olive oil  

• 1 tsp smoked paprika  

• ½ tsp chilli flakes  

• 1 garlic clove, crushed  

• Juice of 1 lime  

• 1 ripe mango, diced  

• ½ small red onion, finely sliced  

• Handful fresh coriander, chopped  

• 8 small tortillas  

• ½ cup Greek yoghurt  

• 1 avocado, sliced  

• Extra lime wedges, to serve  

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Method

1. Combine the prawns with olive oil, paprika, chilli, garlic and half the lime juice. Set aside for five minutes.  

2. Toss the mango, red onion, coriander and remaining lime juice together to make a fresh salsa.  

3. Heat a frying pan over high heat and cook the prawns for 2–3 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.  

4. Warm the tortillas, then fill with avocado, prawns and plenty of mango salsa.  

5. Finish with a dollop of Greek yoghurt and an extra squeeze of lime.  

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TASTE TIP: Add finely sliced jalapeño to the mango salsa for an extra kick, or swap the prawns for grilled chicken if seafood isn't your thing.

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Photo source: Hotel Mackay

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Looking for something a little more fun than the usual Monday night at home?  

Hotel Mackay is bringing plenty of laughs, good food and friendly competition to the start of the week with its regular Monday night trivia.

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While the trivia might be competitive, there is no need to take it too seriously. It is all about enjoying some wholesome fun with friends, family or colleagues, with a chicken parmy and schooner deal available for $30 to round out the evening.

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Located in Mackay’s City Heart, Hotel Mackay is a locally owned and lovingly restored historical hotel, now offering a bar and restaurant where locals can settle in for a meal, a drink or a night of entertainment.

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Trivia is just one of the regular offerings on the calendar, with meat raffles, live music, karaoke and regular food and drink specials also bringing plenty of life to the venue.

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Open from 10am daily, Hotel Mackay offers a relaxed place to catch up, enjoy a meal and make the most of a night out in the heart of the city.

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For bookings, call Hotel Mackay on 07 4863 0564!

Photo supplied by Hotel Mackay  

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Two Mackay CBD businesses are joining forces this Melbourne Cup Day to create a spring celebration unlike anything Mackay has seen before.

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Hotel Mackay and A Willow In Bloom, the boutique florist located in Wood Street, are collaborating to transform the historic hotel into a bright and colourful spring garden party for the race that stops the nation.

Guests can expect the venue to come alive with spectacular floral installations and vibrant spring styling by A Willow In Bloom, creating an elevated Melbourne Cup atmosphere from the moment they walk through the doors.

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The experience will include a complimentary charcuterie platter on arrival, a glass of sparkling wine and roaming food throughout the day, along with plenty of entertainment.

Of course, Melbourne Cup Day wouldn’t be complete without the racing. Hotel Mackay’s TAB facilities will be operating throughout the event, giving guests the chance to follow all the action live.

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There will also be Melbourne Cup trivia, Fashions on the Field, prizes and plenty of surprises throughout the day.

Combining A Willow In Bloom’s spectacular florals with the atmosphere of one of Mackay’s historic pubs, the collaboration is set to bring something fresh and exciting to the city’s Melbourne Cup celebrations.

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Melbourne Cup Day at Hotel Mackay is shaping up to be the place to be.

Tickets will be released soon, with full event details and booking information to be announced.

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Keep an eye on Hotel Mackay and A Willow In Bloom’s social media pages for the ticket release and further details!

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Take a social walk through Pioneer Valley, or learn about the flavours of Vietnam in Finch Hatton. Photo source: Shutterstock

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Every Thursday

Walk, Talk & Coffee

9am

Enjoy a relaxed morning of walking, fresh air and good company at this free community walk through the Pioneer Valley. The group follows the Pioneer Valley Rail Trail from Gargett to Gargett Gap and back, providing a great opportunity to get active, meet locals and enjoy a chat along the way. Coffee at Gargett Store afterwards makes for the perfect finish. Everyone is welcome.

Pioneer Valley Sports Association, Gargett

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Sunday 27^th September  

Trash & Treasure & Fruit & Veg Market

8am–12pm

Browse a great mix of fresh produce, homemade treats, plants, herbs, handmade crochet items and plenty of bric a brac at the Gargett markets. With fresh eggs, health drinks and local stallholders including Ernie the Tool Man, there’s plenty to discover. Come along for a relaxed morning, pick up a bargain and support local sellers and the community.

Gargett Store

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Saturday 10^th October

Art Exhibition: Opening Night

4pm–6pm

Step into the imaginative world of Threads of Metamorphosis, a unique wearable art exhibition by Leah Tranter inspired by the wild beauty of the Pioneer Valley. Celebrating transformation, creativity and the extraordinary hidden within the ordinary, the opening night offers visitors the chance to experience Leah’s imaginative works and celebrate the local landscape through art.

The Old Finch Hatton Railway Station

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Sunday 11^th October

Eungella Community Markets –  (every 2nd Sunday of the Month)

9am–1pm

Take a scenic drive up the mountain and enjoy the friendly atmosphere of the Eungella Community Markets. Browse a variety of local stalls featuring handmade items, crystals, leather goods, wood-turned bowls, fresh produce and tasty macarons. Stop by the café for a tea or coffee, soak up the mountain air and enjoy a relaxed morning supporting local stallholders.

Eungella Hub, North Street

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Art Exhibition: Threads of Metamorphosis

10am–2pm

Explore Threads of Metamorphosis, a unique wearable art exhibition by Leah Tranter, inspired by the wild beauty of the Pioneer Valley. Celebrating transformation, creativity and the extraordinary hidden within the ordinary, the exhibition invites visitors to step into an imaginative world where art, nature and wearable creations come together.

The Old Finch Hatton Railway Station

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Monday 12^th October

Finch Hatton Progress Association General Meeting

5.30pm–7pm

Come along to the Finch Hatton Progress Association’s general meeting and stay up to date with current community projects, upcoming events and local initiatives. The meeting is also an opportunity for residents, local businesses and community members to share ideas, have their say and help shape the future of Finch Hatton. Everyone is welcome to attend.

RSL Finch Hatton

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Sunday 18^th October  

Vietnamese Cooking Class

10.30am–1.30pm

Join One Hungry Mumma in Finch Hatton for a hands-on cooking experience exploring the vibrant flavours of Vietnam. Learn how to prepare traditional-style dishes using a range of fresh ingredients while picking up practical cooking tips along the way. A relaxed and enjoyable class for anyone wanting to expand their home cooking skills and discover new flavours. Tickets/bookings essential.

One Hungry Mumma, Finch Hatton

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Background shots from Baz Luhrmann’s Elvis. Photo supplied: Anthony ‘Bud’ Hopes

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Airlie Beach locals could soon find themselves in front of the camera, with casting now underway for background and supporting roles in an international television series set to film in the region from late October to early November.

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The project is casting for North Queensland-based people of any Asian heritage, aged from three to 100.

The opportunity includes both single and multi-day roles, with most successful applicants to spend two days on set after attending a fitting the week before filming.

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The production will give locals a rare opportunity to step behind the scenes, experience life on a professional television set and perhaps even spot themselves on screen when the series is released.

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Behind the search is Bud Hopes Film and Television Casting, a Gold Coast-based company with more than 60 production credits to its name, that has spent more than 20 years helping everyday people step onto film and television sets.  

“I sort of fell into it,” said Founder Anthony "Bud" Hopes.

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“It was in the early days of the Queensland film industry when someone rang and asked if I wanted to give the job a go. I said yes, and 20 years later, I’m still here.”

The company works with talent agencies and community groups to find background performers who reflect the places, cultures and stories being brought to the screen.

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“In the bigger metro cities, we have an ecosystem of agents that we use, and we combine that with delving into communities as well,” Bud said.

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“When we go north to places that don’t have a whole lot of agents, we get straight into the community and put it out there through social media and the press.

“Bud Hopes Casting is passionate about bringing realness and authenticity to all the stories we tell, and we'll go to any length to nail the brief every time.”

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Bud Hopes Casting has built an impressive list of credits across film and television, with its portfolio including Baz Luhrmann’s Elvis, the action thriller Land of Bad and work connected to the Godzilla vs Kong franchise, with more recent projects include Anaconda, Balls Up, The Bluff and Runner.

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For more information visit: https://www.budhopescasting.com/self-cast

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The Airlie Beach Foreshore is about to turn into an open air cinema once again, as balmy summer evenings open the door to movie nights under the stars.

It’s time to dig out your picnic blankets, pack a bag full of snacks, round up the kids and prepare for an evening of classic entertainment, delivered a little differently.

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Friday nights during the school holidays are a great excuse to get outdoors and connect with the community, as the big cinema screen on the Foreshore showcases two family favourites.

This coming Friday 25^th September, the sweetest pig in showbusiness takes centre stage in the heart-warming classic, Babe.

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The following Friday 2^nd October, we step back into 1989 nostalgia with Honey, I Shrunk the Kids. Prepare for plenty of laughs, family fun and cosy moments on your picnic blanket under the stars.

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If you fancy a treat, ditch the bag of snacks and enjoy a selection of delicious offerings from the food trucks on site.

With classic films, delicious food and a beautiful foreshore setting, these movie nights are the perfect way to enjoy a balmy evening together.

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WHAT: Babe

WHEN: Friday, 25^th September

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WHAT: Honey I Shrunk The Kids  

WHEN: Friday 2^nd October

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WHERE: The big screen on Airlie Beach Foreshore

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Small Business Hero, EDGE Dance Studio Whitsunday

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There are 46 nominees, seven award categories and plenty of secrets still to be revealed when the 2026 Whitsunday Business Awards take over the Proserpine Entertainment Centre.

The nominees know they are in the running. What they don’t know is what the judges have decided.

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That will be revealed live, with winners announced across categories celebrating business leadership, customer service, emerging talent, community contribution, ambitious ideas and long-standing regional achievement.

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Keeping the night moving will be Kaley and Scott from StarFM’s breakfast show, bringing plenty of energy and fun to the stage.

This year’s theme is From High Glam to High Vis, inviting guests to dress up, show their business pride or put their own spin on celebrating in the Whitsundays.

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The night will feature grazing and networking, an alternate-drop main course and the interactive Luxe Dessert Bar, where guests can decorate their own individual cake.

Return buses will operate from Bowen, Airlie Beach and Cannonvale, while a cash bar will run throughout the evening.

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The sold-out awards are presented by the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Bowen Chamber of Commerce and Whitsunday Regional Council. A waitlist remains open.

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2026 Whitsunday Business Awards  
5pm–9:30pm, Friday 9 October 2026  
Proserpine Entertainment Centre  

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2025 Winner of the legends of the Whitsundays hall of fame, Abbot Point Operations

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The Whitsunday Business Awards shine a light on local businesses and the people behind them – but an event celebrating regional business also relies on regional businesses getting behind it.  

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The 2026 Awards are supported by organisations from across the Whitsundays and wider region, each helping recognise a different part of the local business community.  

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James Cook University is the 2026 Principal Partner, supporting the Awards’ focus on regional people, skills, innovation and opportunity.  

StarFM is supporting Business of the Year, recognising businesses making a strong contribution to the Whitsunday economy and community.  

Abbot Point Operations is sponsoring Business Leader of the Year. Its mission, “Grow Local”, is a natural fit for an award recognising the people leading regional businesses.  

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“That's why we're proud to support the Whitsunday Business Awards and celebrate the businesses, leaders and teams who help drive our region's success,” Abbot Point Operations said.  

“Recognising business excellence is important to Abbot Point Operations because strong local businesses create jobs, support families and contribute to a thriving regional economy.”  

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TAFE Queensland is supporting Rising Star, recognising employees, apprentices and trainees building their careers and contributing to the region’s future workforce.  

LiveLife Pharmacy Airlie Beach is supporting Customer Service Excellence, celebrating the businesses and people who make looking after customers part of their everyday work.  

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McDonald’s Restaurants Airlie Beach, Cannonvale and Bowen is backing Community Champion, recognising businesses and organisations making a difference beyond the workplace.  

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Bishopp Outdoor Advertising is supporting Think Big, celebrating ambitious ideas and businesses prepared to look beyond the expected.  

Mackay and Whitsunday Life is the Awards’ print media partner, helping share the stories of the nominees, sponsors and winners with the wider community.  

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Whitsunday Transit is supporting the event’s transport, helping nominees and guests travel to and from the Awards ceremony.  

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Sponsorship is about more than putting a logo on an event. It provides an opportunity for businesses to actively support the people, organisations, and ideas that contribute to the region.  

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The Awards partners thank all sponsors and supporters for getting behind the 2026 Whitsunday Business Awards.  

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2025 winner, Trailblazing young entrepreneur, Sam Yanderpoel from Rolling with Netherpoel

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Behind every Whitsunday business are people creating jobs, training apprentices, supporting families, sponsoring community groups and investing in the place they call home.  

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That’s what the Whitsunday Business Awards are designed to recognise — not simply business success, but the people and organisations making a contribution to the region.  

Now in their second year, the Awards bring together businesses from across the Whitsundays through a joint initiative of the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Bowen Chamber of Commerce and Whitsunday Regional Council.  

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This year, James Cook University (JCU) is Principal Partner, supporting an event that shares its focus on regional people, skills and opportunity.  

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“JCU is proud to support the Whitsunday Business Awards and recognise the businesses, leaders and innovators contributing to our region. Supporting local talent, skills and regional communities is an important part of what we do.”  

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For the Awards organisers, that support reflects the broader role business plays in regional communities.  

A strong local economy needs skilled workers, opportunities for young people and businesses that are prepared to invest, grow and employ locally. It also relies on businesses supporting the community around them.  

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The 2026 nominees reflect that contribution, with categories recognising everything from customer service and emerging talent to community impact, innovation, leadership and long-standing regional contribution.  

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The Awards partners thank JCU and all sponsors and supporters for helping create an opportunity to stop, recognise the achievements of local business and celebrate the people behind them.  

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2025 Business of the Year: Bowen Old People’s Home Society (Murroona Gardens)

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The Whitsundays has plenty to celebrate, with 46 nominees competing across seven categories in the 2026 Whitsunday Business Awards.

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Representing tourism, trades, retail, health, manufacturing, professional services and community organisations, this year’s nominees are:

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Business of the Year: Airlie Adventure Tours; Airlie Beach Transfers & Tours; Australian Agave Co.; Belle Property Whitsundays; Bowen Rail Company; Magnums Unique Accommodation; NQ Aerovation; Ocean Rafting.

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Business Leader of the Year: Aaron Doherty, Coastal Brush; Emma Whybird, Edge Dance Studio Whitsunday; Hayley Moran, Airlie Health Hub; Stephanie McWhirter, Belle Property Whitsundays; Tenielle Matheson, Wildlife Whitsundays.

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Rising Star: Dean Leslie, Australian Agave Co.; Giulian Grasso, Whitsunday Law; Sam Mckay, Hamilton Island Enterprises; Soumya Santosh, Tassal.

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Customer Service Excellence: Airlie Beach Tourism; Airlie Beach Transfers & Tours; Airlie Health Hub; Airlie Legal; Ambitious Cakes; Bounce Airlie Beach; Bowen Tourism and Business; Bright Patch Cafe; Coastal Brush; Divine Weddings Whitsundays; Edge Dance Studio Whitsunday; Hog’s Breath Cafe Airlie Beach; Kath Barker, Compass Realty Whitsundays; Mana Skin Body & Soul; Mark Milligan, Pilcher’s Mitre 10; Rolling with Netherpoel; Team Whitsundays Body Corporate Management.

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Community Champion: Bowen Community Op Shop; Bowen Flexi Care Inc.; Compass Realty Whitsundays; GRB Mining; Healthy Kids Project; Proserpine Historical Museum Society; Whitsunday Community Services; Whitsunday Counselling & Support; Whitsunday Self Defense Academy; Wildlife Whitsundays; Zero Waste Solutions.

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Think Big: Bowen Community Council; GRB Mining; Hidden Valley Whitsundays; Scallywag Fabrication; Tassal.

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Hall of Fame: Bowen Tourism and Business; Chloe Bauer; Elizabeth Hackett; Jennifer Rush; Lowcock Builders; Pilcher’s Mitre 10; Rabia Morris; Wayne Singleton; Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre.

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Winners will be revealed on Friday 9 October at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre.

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