Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
The Pioneer Valley, a hidden gem west of Mackay, is a place where natural beauty meets untapped potential. From the lush subtropical rainforests to the wide paddocks of sugar cane swaying in the breeze, the valley offers a serene escape into nature's embrace. The Pioneer River meanders through this landscape, providing cool, invigorating spots for a refreshing dip, while the misty Eungella Range adds a touch of mystery and allure. This region, with its cascading waterfalls and boutique artisan businesses, is on the cusp of becoming a major tourism destination. Imagine luxury eco-resorts nestled within the rainforests, offering a retreat from the everyday, or vibrant markets showcasing the rich flavours and cultural heritage of the area. The Pioneer Valley is ready to welcome visitors seeking adventure, relaxation, and a taste of the great outdoors. With new businesses emerging, job opportunities increasing, and the community thriving, the Pioneer Valley is poised to take its place as a premier destination for those looking to explore Queensland’s natural beauty. Whether you're seeking a tranquil getaway or an exciting adventure, the Pioneer Valley is where the journey begins. CAPTION: The Pioneer Valley's stunning natural landscapes, from rainforest-clad mountains to the winding Pioneer River, continues to attract visitors and showcase the region's potential as a premier nature-based tourism destination
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On Sunday, botanical artist Kate Bruner lead the Mackay Bushwalkers’ Club weekly outing to a remote area of Finch Hatton Gorge, known as Sparkle Falls. Twelve members hiked up, up and away onto the western branch of Finch Hatton Creek. A very steep and steady trail took them to an outstanding lookout and the first of many beautiful waterfalls. As the group continued, they were treated to a succession of picturesque cascades, numerous creek crossings, and plenty of boulder hopping through the rugged creek bed. On arrival at Sparkle Falls a few adventurous souls braved the chilly waters for a refreshing swim, while others relaxed in the sunshine and soaked up the tranquil surroundings. A long lunch was enjoyed, followed by slow walk back. It was an excellent day in the bush, filled with breath taking scenery, good company and a diverse group of friendly hikers who made the experience all the more enjoyable. For more information about the club, phone 0429 363 929. Contributed with thanks to Coral and Carole.
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NAIDOC Week celebrations across Mackay and the Whitsundays will receive a funding boost this year, with three local events sharing in State Government grants to mark the 50th anniversary of the annual celebration. More than $170,000 has been allocated to 59 community-led events across Queensland through the NAIDOC Grants Program, with funding designed to support activities that celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, heritage and community connections. In the Mackay region, Mackay NAIDOC Incorporated received funding for its Street Parade and Family Fun Day in East Mackay, while the George Street Neighbourhood Centre Association secured support for its NAIDOC Week at The Neighbourhood Hub event. In the Whitsundays, Yooribaya Cultural Experiences Pty Ltd was awarded funding for its "Together by the Sea: NAIDOC 2026" celebration in Airlie Beach. National NAIDOC Week will be held from the 5th to the 12th of July under the theme "50 Years of Deadly", recognising half a century of celebrating and honouring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, culture and achievements. Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships Fiona Simpson said the grants helped communities deliver meaningful local celebrations. “As we celebrate Fifty Years of Deadly, our NAIDOC Grants not only pay respect to the strength of our Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islander peoples, but they also amplify the impact of community events,” Minister Simpson said. “It is inspiring to see communities from Brisbane to Bamaga committing to coming together during NAIDOC Week to recognise and celebrate the unique cultural heritage of our First Peoples. “The Government is a proud supporter of these community-led initiatives, which celebrate the rich 50-year history and traditions of the world’s oldest continuous living culture.” The grants program provides up to $2,500 for eligible events and activities, helping local organisers deliver community celebrations, cultural activities, yarning circles and family-friendly events during NAIDOC Week. This year's celebrations carry added significance as communities across Australia mark the 50th anniversary of NAIDOC Week, reflecting on five decades of recognising and celebrating the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Minister Simpson said the grants supported practical outcomes at a community level. “The Crisafulli Government remains committed to practical support to deliver tangible outcomes for our Aboriginal peoples and our Torres Strait Islander peoples,” she said. Local residents are encouraged to take part in NAIDOC Week events across Mackay and the Whitsundays when celebrations begin in July. CAPTION: Mackay NAIDOC Incorporated's Street Parade and Family Fun Day is among local events receiving State Government funding ahead of this year's NAIDOC Week celebrations. Photo source: Mackay Regional Council
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Ohhh, I do love me a good bit of quirky Bri'ish (not a typo) theatre if I do say so myself. And Kucom's latest play - a delightful adaptation of a classic BBC sitcom - is a perfectly precise, profoundly polished and pleasing production, that would make the BBC proud! Waiting for God is full to the brim with quick wit, and witty quips, providing the audience with chuckles, guffaws and a rather loud "ha!" from me that may have been a snort - yes indeed, this play will have you grinning from ear to ear. If you know Director Bronwyn Grannall (and I do), you'll know she's got a delightful sense of humour, and this shines through in all facets - from the perfect casting to the set design and even the lighting (which I’m told is a brand new system at Kucom - very exciting!) Tessa King as Diana, shines with razor-sharp cleverness and surprising warmth, Sarah Menso as Jane brings a wonderfully awkward and delightful propriety to proceedings, and Hayden White as Harvey is the kind of character you'd love to give a gentle nudge off a cliff. Then there's David Goodwin as Geoffrey, whose characterisation and accent had me in absolute stitches, and Cheryl Obst, who stepped seamlessly between Sarah Chase, the Doctor, and stepped up as understudy for Andrew Obst as Rev Dennis Sparrow. Cheryl delivered each character with such distinct flair that you'd never know she was doing the work of three. Special mention to Jeany Elliott for her fab supporting characters! And, of course, praise to Geoff Stewart-McLean, who should really be on the stage (or TV) in London, as he always exceptionally embodies every character he plays. Waiting for God is sharp and funny, and carries some rather lovely themes about life, desire, and the very wonderful reminder that it is never, ever too late to find love - or not find it! Jolly good show Bronwyn and cast. 10/10 pearls clutched in absolute delight. Book your tickets now!!! Season dates: 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 27 June at 7.30pm, plus Sunday matinee 21 June at 2pm Bookings: https://events.humanitix.com/waiting-for-god
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Volunteers are being sought to help bring Between the Tides to life at Airlie Beach this July, with locals invited to support the festival while enjoying a night of live music and cultural experiences.
Music lovers are being encouraged to get involved in one of the Whitsundays’ most exciting live music events, with volunteers now being sought for Between the Tides in Airlie Beach this July.
Presented as part of the QLD Music Trails: The Reef series, the one-day festival-style experience will transform the Airlie Beach Foreshore into a vibrant celebration of music, culture, art and community on Saturday, 4th July.
Set against the stunning backdrop of the Whitsunday coastline on Ngaro Country, the event will feature a stellar line-up of Australian artists including Boy & Bear, Jem Cassar-Daley, Mid Drift, Tjaka and Kaylee West.
Organisers are calling for volunteers to help make the event a success, offering locals the chance to be part of the action while supporting a major cultural event in the region.
Volunteer roles include greeting patrons, scanning tickets, handing out wristbands and assisting with merchandise sales throughout the afternoon and evening.
There are two volunteer shift options available, and once volunteers complete their shift, they’ll receive a GA18+ wristband allowing them to enjoy the live performances and festival atmosphere afterwards.
More than just a concert, Between the Tides promises a rich cultural experience featuring workshops, sand art, cultural performances and knowledge-sharing opportunities, alongside locally crafted food, drinks and art installations.
Organisers say volunteering is a great opportunity to meet new people, support live music and experience the event from behind the scenes.
Anyone interested in volunteering can complete the application form online at qldmusictrails.com/volunteer. For further information, email ticketing@qldmusictrails.com or call 07 3010 6600.
WHAT: Between the Tides
WHERE: Airlie Beach Foreshore, Ngaro Country
WHEN: Saturday 4th July, 2pm-10pm
Photo supplied
By day, Whitsundays community leader Bec Woods works full-time supporting local families and community members. By night, she writes dystopian fiction.
Now, after years balancing community work, family life, and writing around a full-time schedule, Woods is preparing to release her debut novel, The Quiet Held, on the 30th June.
Set in a tightly controlled society governed through compliance, allocation, and “care,” The Quiet Held explores what happens when systems designed to protect people slowly become systems that control them.
For Woods, the inspiration did not come from abstract science fiction ideas, but from years spent working within real community structures in the Whitsundays.
“When you work closely with people long enough, you start noticing how much power systems hold over everyday life,” Woods said.
“Not just governments, but policies, assessments, processes, approvals. Most systems begin with good intentions, but over time they can become impersonal. That tension became the heart of the book.”
The local author said the novel was shaped around the emotional realities of institutional language, efficiency culture, and the pressure many people feel to remain compliant within systems they depend on.
Despite writing a full trilogy, Woods has continued working full-time throughout the drafting and publishing process.
“This book was written between work and everyday responsibilities,” she said.
“I think being a frontline worker helped the story. There’s space here to observe people closely. Community work keeps you connected to what matters.”
The novel blends literary fiction with speculative dystopian themes and has drawn comparisons to Never Let Me Go and The Handmaid’s Tale for its restrained emotional style and social commentary.
Woods said she hopes readers connect not only with the larger dystopian themes, but with the quieter human moments inside the story.
“At its core, it’s really about belonging, survival, and the small compromises people make to feel safe.”
The Quiet Held will be available in paperback and ebook formats from 30th June 2026 from Amazon. https://amzn.asia/d/0dqMXxuw
Where do stories come from?
That question will take centre stage at the 2026 Whitsundays Writers Festival when three accomplished regional authors come together for an entertaining and insightful panel discussion exploring the origins of creativity.
Where Do You Get Your Story Ideas From? will reveal the surprising, strange, and often mundane everyday moments that spark books, characters, and stories, offering audiences a glimpse into the minds of working writers.
The afternoon session forms part of the Whitsundays Writers Festival on Sunday 13 September 2026 at the Whitsunday Marine Club, Cannonvale.
Festival Director Richard Evans said the panel would appeal to readers and aspiring writers alike.
“People often assume writers are waiting for lightning to strike, but inspiration can come from a conversation overheard in a café, a childhood memory, a newspaper article, a road trip, or a simple ‘what if?’ question,” Richard said.
“This discussion explores the many ways stories begin and how writers transform everyday experiences into something readers connect with.”
The panel brings together three authors whose work spans personal development, adventure memoir, and crime fiction.
Krissy Regan
Children’s Author & Adult Personal Development
After decades of travel and delivering projects for clients around the world, Krissy Regan embarked on a creative journey of her own, publishing her first book in 2020 and quickly following it with five more titles. A passionate storyteller, Krissy writes for children and adults, creating meaningful, values-based content designed to inspire and encourage. She is also a regular contributor to family publications including Kiddipedia and other print and online media.
Gary Wood
Adventure Memoir
Award-winning author, travel writer, and motorcycle adventurer Gary Wood finds inspiration on the back roads of regional Australia. Through his books Gun Fights, Ghosts and Goannas and Red Dust and Rainforests, as well as his popular website Digital Swaggie, Gary documents the people, landscapes, and forgotten places that continue to shape Australia’s identity. His storytelling combines history, observation, humour, and a deep appreciation for the practical wisdom found in regional and remote communities.
Veronica Lando
Crime Fiction
North Queensland author Veronica Lando grew up above her parents’ Melbourne bookshop, surrounded by stories from an early age. Her debut novel The Whispering won the 2021 Banjo Prize for Fiction and was shortlisted for the Queensland Literary Awards Courier-Mail People’s Choice Book of the Year and Sisters in Crime Scarlet Stiletto Award. She has since secured multiple publishing contracts and established herself as a rising voice in Australian crime fiction. Drawing inspiration from North Queensland’s uniquely harsh and sometimes dangerous landscapes, Veronica creates atmospheric stories that blur the line between beauty and menace.
The discussion forms part of a full day of literary events celebrating local authors, regional stories, and community connection.
The 2026 festival programme also includes the prestigious From the Heart keynote by multi-award-winning romance author Rachel Armstrong, the presentation of the Whitsundays Literary Heart Awards, and Stories by the Sea — a free community event featuring more than 20 regional authors, book sales and swaps, live music, art demonstrations, children’s activities, and a gold coin BBQ.
Tickets and full programme details are available via the festival website: https://www.whitsundayswriters.com/2026-programme-speakers/
Last fortnight, we explored why life skills matter and how they to navigate the ups and downs of everyday life. The next step is knowing where these skills develop.
Life skills are built in everyday moments.
They grow in the small interactions: a disagreement with a sibling, frustration over homework or workplace activities, or deciding what to do with free time. These situations offer natural opportunities to strengthen skills like problem-solving, communication, and emotional awareness.
Rather than stepping in quickly to fix things, a more helpful approach is to stay alongside and guide. Simple prompts can make a big difference:
These questions encourage reflection without pressure, helping people build self-awareness and confidence in their own thinking.
You can also create small, intentional opportunities:
Over time, these repeated moments build a strong internal toolkit. People begin to recognise their emotions, think through challenges, and communicate more effectively.
Next fortnight, we’ll focus on two of the most important (and often overlooked) life skills—managing emotions and coping with stress—and how to support these in practical, everyday ways.
“If you’d like more support, visit my website https://www.personaltransitions.com.au/ or give me a call 0418708214.”NDIS FRIENDLY
How to Stop Time is a beautifully written and thought-provoking novel that stayed with me long after I finished it. Matt Haig has a wonderful way of blending the ordinary with the extraordinary, and this story is no exception.
I just loved the story and the way it transported me to and from different time periods. Following Tom Hazard’s life across centuries was fascinating, and each era was brought to life with such vivid detail that I felt completely immersed in his journey. Beneath the novel’s unique premise lies a deeply human story about loneliness, love, belonging, and learning how to truly live in the present.
Like other Matt Haig books that I have read, I thoroughly enjoyed this one just as much. His writing is full of warmth, wisdom, and compassion, making even the most complex emotions feel relatable and understandable.
Another favourite of mine is The Comfort Book, which is filled with little quotes, anecdotes, and delights that offer comfort and perspective when needed most. Haig has a remarkable ability to connect with readers on a personal level. I think what makes Matt Haig such a fabulous writer is his honesty and empathy. His books resonate even more when you are navigating your own trials and tribulations, offering reassurance, hope, and moments of reflection.
How to Stop Time is a captivating, heartfelt read that I would highly recommend.
Amy Smith
Caprioglio Girls carting cane
It is impossible to estimate the importance of the role that women have played in the history of the sugar industry. They not only raised and cared for large families but were often responsible for feeding the gangs of canecutters who came to the district during the harvesting season. Their duties soon extended into the fields working alongside their partners, forging out a life for their families.
Women played a vital role in supporting field work, especially during the harvest. Many Italian migrants who came to Queensland as early settlers began as canecutters and their labour depended heavily on the assistance of their wives, as well as the wives of the farmers who employed them. These women prepared the large, hearty meals needed to sustain the demanding work of cutting and loading cane.
Stories of Italian women cooking for gangs of canecutters demonstrate the sheer scale of the task. On some farms, cane was loaded as early as 3 am, so these women were often up by 2.30 am to light the fire and prepare breakfast. In addition to cooking, they carted smoko out to the fields. Their day frequently did not end until 9 pm.
Prior to World War Two, only Italian women worked regularly in the field reflecting cultural differences. With the critical shortage of labour during the war, however, all women rallied to the occasion often working farms singlehandedly while continuing to care for their large families. By 1942, many farmers’ wives had learned to drive tractors.
In the early years, women made a major contribution to farming by preparing and planting sugar cane. Stripping cane was hot, hard, and time-consuming, but it provided valuable seasonal work. Often with children in tow, women worked in the paddocks with gloves to strip the cane and ready it for planting. Many then went on to operate tractors, taking on another demanding role in the process.
Today, women continue to work in the fields, helping with planting, fertilising, harvesting and haulout operations. In joint farming operations, their administrative and accounting skills are essential to running the business. Many have also farmed successfully in their own right.
The asset value of women to the industry also extends beyond the farm. On the milling side, they have made a significant impact. Initially, their involvement was mainly restricted to the offices and in laboratories as assistants, check chemists and cane testers. Despite resistance from some to their employment in this section, they were regarded as more accurate as weighbridge clerks. By 1997, women were employed in all areas of the Proserpine Sugar Mill.
Sugar boiler, Michelle Wilkins, made history as the first female sugar boiler. She and Lola Pogson formed the first female pan stage team in the Australian Sugar Industry. Katrina Bowman, employed as an ash handler on the boilers, was the first woman at Proserpine Sugar Mill to gain a steam turbine ticket. The first female loco fireperson was Vicki Bernett who was appointed in 1989. These are just a few examples.
While women were most visible in farming, harvesting and milling sectors, some also advanced into leadership and management. From 2007 to 2013, Del Linneweber served as a director of the Proserpine CANEGROWERS and in 2022, Bessie Orr was elected as a director of the organisation and currently still holds this position.
Women can be justly proud of their continuing contribution to the sugar industry. Their roles have been wide-ranging, vital, but far too often understated.
Information and photo sourced from PHMS archives; “A Crystal Century”; “Centenary Celebrations: A Scrapbook” (Proserpine Sugar Industry 1897 – 1997) and “A Heart in Two Places”.
A powerful dose of classic rock is set to hit Airlie Beach this June, with audiences invited to enjoy two free afternoon performances from one of Australia’s most respected Meatloaf tribute acts, “To Hell and Back – Australia’s Tribute to Meatloaf”.
Known for its explosive live energy and remarkable musical accuracy, the show has earned a strong reputation nationwide for faithfully recreating the sound, drama and scale of Meatloaf’s iconic recordings. At the centre of the production is front man Gary, whose striking vocal similarity and commanding stage presence bring the spirit of Meatloaf vividly back to life on stage.
Audiences can expect a full five-piece live band delivering the signature “wall of sound” that defined hits such as Paradise by the Dashboard Light, Two Out of Three Ain’t Bad, and You Took the Words Right Out of My Mouth. A standout feature of the show is a complete performance of the landmark album Bat Out of Hell played in its entirety, offering fans the chance to experience the record as a full live journey, alongside additional fan favourites from Meatloaf’s catalogue.
“This is one of the most highly anticipated shows of the year,” said Airlie Beach Hotel Marketing and Entertainment Manager Mark Wilkins.
“It has received rave reviews from all who attended last year and the bookings are already coming in thick and fast for a guaranteed booked out show.”
Originally formed in 1999, To Hell and Back has evolved into a tightly honed touring production, with the current lineup performing together for the past 14 years. That long-standing collaboration is evident in the precision, energy and cohesion of the performance, which continues to draw enthusiastic crowds wherever it appears.
“We’re over the moon to be playing in Airlie Beach again,” said manager and drummer Tom.
“Everyone is really looking forward to catching up with the locals again.”
Whether you are a lifelong Meatloaf fan or simply looking for a lively afternoon of free live entertainment, this is a rare opportunity to experience a high-calibre tribute show in an intimate coastal setting.
This is set to be one of the standout free live music events of the season, bringing classic rock energy to the heart of the Whitsundays.
June
6 Whitsundays Songwriter Festival Songwriting Summit, 9.30am-4pm
6 Whitsundays Songwriter Festival Concert & Conversation, Whitsunday Sailing Club, 6pm - 8pm
9 Social Seniors, Proserpine Library, 9am
16 Collinsville Open Cut Free Event
18 Social Seniors, Bowen Library, 10am
23 Social Seniors, Proserpine Library, 9am
Friday 5 June
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm
Sorrento: Kaedan McCarthy (4pm – 7pm)
KCs: Mick Woodbridge (from 8pm)
Saturday 6 June
Airlie Beach Hotel: Blues Brothers (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Sunday 7 June
Airlie Beach Hotel: Blues Brothers (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
KCs: Louisa Taylor (from 8pm)
Monday 8 June
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm – 7pm)
KCs: Andrew Baldino (from 8pm)
Tuesday 9 June
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm – 7pm)
KCs: Andrew Baldino (from 8pm)
Wednesday 10 June
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm – 7pm)
KCs: Daniel Sproule (from 8pm)
Thursday 11 June
Airlie Beach: Aaron Saxon (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
Sorrento: Lucy Rose (4pm – 7pm)
KCs: Phoenix Revival (from 8pm)
Iconic British rock band, Pink Floyd left an indelible mark on the world, inspiring generations with their ground-breaking soundscapes and thought-provoking lyrics. 2025 marks the diamond anniversary of Pink Floyd's inception, and to honour this milestone every era of Pink Floyd's illustrious career will be celebrated in grand style in a brand new concert production, Echoes of Pink Floyd.
Echoes of Pink Floyd will take audiences on a mesmerising journey through six decades of Pink Floyd's unparalleled musical legacy. From the psychedelic sounds of the 1960s to the progressive rock masterpieces and stadium-shaking anthems of their latter years, this show will capture the true essence of Pink Floyd's evolution with precision and passion.
"This show is a testament to the enduring impact of Pink Floyd's music," said lead guitarist Daniel Hunter. "For six decades, their innovative sound and boundary-pushing creativity have captivated audiences around the world. We're thrilled to bring dedicated Floyd fans together to celebrate this milestone anniversary."
Echoes of Pink Floyd stands as Australia’s foremost tribute dedicated to honouring the legendary band's monumental legacy and has garnered widespread acclaim across the country since their inception in 2009.
Echoes of Pink Floyd's line-up boasts seasoned musicians and ardent Pink Floyd enthusiasts: Daniel Hunter (lead guitar), Jason Miller (drums and vocals), Paul Bindig (keyboards), Mark MacNab (rhythm and acoustic guitar), Matt Goodluck (vocals), Will Byrne (Bass and vocals), , Daniel Modica (keyboard and saxophone) and Bree Gregory, Rossella Fanelli and Montana Sharp (Backing Vocals).
Since embarking on national tours in 2014, their lovingly-crafted performances have captivated audiences nationwide, drawing praise such as "masterful," “absolute genius,” “spine-tingling,” and "absolutely the best live musical trip any Floyd fan can go on," with audiences likening their performance to that of the original band.
Don't miss your chance to be part of history as Echoes of Pink Floyd celebrate 60 years of Pink Floyd in style.
One of these beautiful, cool, pink-skied evenings, why not head to KC’s Bar & Grill for a chargrilled steak and a cold beer, soundtracked by some of the best live music Airlie has to offer.
As Airlie Beach’s original steakhouse, bourbon bar and live music venue, KC’s has built a reputation for serving premium-quality steaks cooked and prepared to perfection every time. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion, catching up with friends or simply treating yourself to a great meal, KC’s is the place to go.
The secret behind their exceptional steaks starts with the beef itself. KC’s exclusively serves Riverina Black Angus, renowned for its rich flavour and superior quality. Try their 28-day dry-aged steak; the process enhances both tenderness and taste, delivering an experience that is second to none.
Guests can choose from an impressive range of dry-aged steaks, with cuts ranging from 300g to a generous 650g. Adding to the experience, all steaks are displayed for diners to view before making their selection, allowing guests to choose the perfect cut to suit their appetite.
One of the standout favourites on the menu is the seasoned Picanha steak, loved for its flavour and signature tenderness. Every steak is served with your choice of house-made sauce and sides.
Add in a quality bourbon selection, live music and a welcoming atmosphere, and it’s easy to see why KC’s Bar & Grill remains one of Airlie Beach’s most popular dining destinations- visit any evening of the week, with live music every night from 8pm.
Jubilee Tavern created a ginormous Meat Tray Raffle to celebrate their renovation, with proceeds going to Whitsunday Suicide Prevention.
Last weekend Jubilee Tavern was a pub with a purpose hosting Airlie Beach’s Biggest Meat Tray Raffle, with all proceeds being donated to Whitsunday Suicide Prevention.
What started as a classic Aussie pub raffle to promote the newly renovated pub grew into something much bigger as the pub set their sights on creating what could be Australia’s biggest meat tray, in tandem with Master Butchers, Stuart Drive.
In the end, the tray was so impressive it had to be transported around the venue on a pallet on a forklift.
The tray included over $600 worth of meat, tickets to the Airlie Beach Festival of Music, and more than $300 in food and beverage vouchers.
Behind the fun was a cause that really matters to the local community. Suicide is something that affects families, friends, workplaces and communities across Australia, particularly in regional areas. The venue therefore decided to use this event to bring people together, raise funds, and start positive conversations around mental health support.
"We were absolutely blown away by the support from the Airlie Beach community,” said Senior Venue Manager Ellie Goulding.
“What started as a fun idea to create the biggest meat tray raffle we've ever seen quickly became something much more meaningful, with locals, businesses and visitors all getting behind an important cause.
“The atmosphere on the day was incredible, and seeing so many people come together to support Whitsunday Suicide Prevention was really special. Community is at the heart of what we do at Jubilee Tavern, and we're proud to have raised over $4k and awareness for an organisation that does such important work in our area."
Photos supplied.
As the winter season settles across the Whitsundays, the Airlie Beach Hotel is inviting locals and visitors alike to take refuge in warm hospitality, hearty meals, and sweeping ocean views that remain among the most iconic in Queensland.
This winter’s menu is designed to comfort and satisfy, showcasing classic dishes with a coastal twist. Slow-braised lamb shanks arrive tender and rich, paired with seasoned vegetables and creamy mash that speaks to traditional winter cooking at its best. The seafood curry offers a distinctly Whitsundays experience, combining fresh seasonal seafood with a fragrant house-made curry sauce, served alongside steamed rice, coriander, grilled lime, and crisp pappadum. For those seeking indulgence, the fettuccine carbonara delivers with chicken, house-smoked bacon, mushrooms, shallots, double cream, and parmesan, bringing depth and warmth in every bite. A rotating roast of the day, served with Yorkshire pudding, roast vegetables, and gravy, continues the long-standing tradition of comforting Sunday-style dining throughout the week.
Beyond the plate, the venue remains a central gathering point for the Airlie Beach community. Regular live music brings energy to weekends, while the sports bar screens major events including UFC, State of Origin, and international football, creating a lively atmosphere year-round. More than a dining spot, it functions as a social hub where locals and travellers converge.
With its combination of seasonal dining, entertainment, and waterfront ambience, Airlie Beach Hotel continues to define winter in the Whitsundays as both welcoming and distinctly memorable.
Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi
More than 50 local tourism operators and industry members headed out to Dingo Beach last week for a Tourism Whitsundays networking event. The regular evenings serve as chance for local businesses to catch up, hear the latest news and talk all things tourism.
Tourism Whitsundays CEO Tim Booth took the room through a packed industry update, covering the exciting new Zhik partnership, the Reforest program, their major upcoming campaign and the latest on Hook Island development. Mayor Ry Collins and Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP also spoke.
The event was linked to Queensland Small Business Month, and was supported by the Queensland Government.
A spokesperson shared “a huge thank you to Gordy and the team at Dingo Beach Hotel for having us, laying on a great spread and making everyone feel so welcome. Thanks also to Whitsunday Transit for getting everyone there and back safely.”
Whitsunday seniors proudly showcase their handmade textile artworks and memory books created through the Social Seniors Whitsundays Stitch in Time workshop series. Photo source: Facebook
Creativity, connection and storytelling will take centre stage next month as Whitsunday seniors showcase a year’s worth of heartfelt textile artworks in a special community exhibition at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre.
The exhibition, titled Stitch in Time, is the culmination of a series of creative workshops delivered through the Social Seniors Whitsundays project, an initiative of Whitsunday Regional Libraries aimed at reducing social isolation and encouraging community connection among older residents.
Over the past 12 months, seniors from across the region have worked alongside local artists to create unique textile-based memory books and artworks inspired by important moments and personal stories from their lives.
The collection features a diverse range of artistic techniques and formats, including hand-woven textiles, needle-felted storytelling pieces and imaginative hand-printed memory books, each reflecting the personality and experiences of its creator.
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins praised the program for the positive impact it is having within the community.
“It’s all about combatting social isolation within our senior community,” Mayor Collins said.
“The Social Seniors Whitsundays project and the Stitch in Time workshop series are offering our seniors the chance to share their stories, create community and become more socially active.”
The free exhibition will provide visitors with the opportunity to meet the artists behind the works while enjoying light refreshments and exploring the deeply personal pieces on display.
Organisers hope the exhibition not only celebrates creativity, but also highlights the importance of connection, inclusion and lifelong learning within the Whitsunday community.
The Stitch in Time exhibition will be held on 12th June at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre and is open to all members of the public.
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