Over 3000 people browsed the Hand Made Markets, held at Fair Tree Park on the Airlie Beach Foreshore on Sunday, with many picking up a unique item or simply enjoying the lively atmosphere of this vibrant event.

With 32 stalls, the markets offered a variety of handmade wares including pottery, candles, jewellery, and homewares.

This year for the first time, organisers also incorporated a food element to the event.

“Food is one of the most important handmade items!” said festival coordinator, Jade Richardson.

“It was so wonderful to see so many locals come on the day and there was an incredible atmosphere, a great vibe and all the stall holders told me they had a successful day.”

The Hand Made Markets operate under the umbrella of the Whitsundays Arts Festival which has moved to a bi-annual event but would usually be held around this time each year.

Jade said that following the success of their first standalone event, she is keen to organise a Christmas Markets in Proserpine later in the year.

Photo credit: Rachael Smith

‍

The glitz and glamour is coming to Bowen, with the annual Bowen Cup making our spring perfect.

Dressed in your best and taking to the race course, Bowen Turf Club will be the place to be.

For those wishing to ease the day away, perhaps The Field VIP Marquee package, sponsored by Filby’s Motors Mitsubishi is perfect.

Including an exclusive drinks package, gate entry, access to the VIP Marquee and so much more, as well as an up-close look at the Bowen Cup Fashions of the Field.

The Brown Brothers Premium Trackside Marquee is a great option for those who wish to be close to all the track action.

Including gate entry, access into the Trackside Marquee, and five standard drinks of beer and wine, this is a great premium package for those wishing to have a good energy day, watching the races carefully.

Outside of packages, the Bowen Turf Club has everyone covered, with six local races, a bar and a myriad of delicious food vendors, the Grand View courtesy bus, and TAB and bookmakers available onsite all day.

And don’t forget to get your ticket for the bus, ensuring no one is a designated driver and everyone can have the best time on the Bowen fields.

Get your tickets while you can, as this is sure to be an outstanding day of quality racing.

WHAT: Bowen Cup

WHERE: Bowen Turf Club

WHEN: Saturday October 14

TICKETS: whitsundaytickets.com.au and available at the gate

‍

October 14 is gearing up to be an awesome day at the Bowen Turf Club

‍

‍

The King Is Back At Proserpine Entertainment Centre

The Proserpine Entertainment Centre is looking after the Whitsundays, with the king of swingers, Rhydian Lewis and his band, The Residuals, gracing the stage, bringing the absolute charm and perfection of Frank Sinatra with them.

Dedicating and catering his craft to lovingly recreate the charisma of Frank Sinatra, Rhydian’s performance is intimate and personal, creating the allure of times gone past.

Set against a captivating backdrop of classic and iconic stories and pictures, the audience is swept up, encompassed in the unmissable and most recognisable voice and face in American history.

Featuring and showcasing many of the hits, including Come Fly With, The Lady Is A Tramp, Fly Me To The Moon, I’ve Got You Under My Skin, That’s Life, My Way, and the theme from New York New York, this show will be a highlight of the season.

WHAT: Morning Melodies: King of the Swingers – Sinatra Through The Years

WHERE: Proserpine Entertainment Centre

WHEN: Thursday, October 12, from 11am

TICKETS: proserpineentertainmentcentre.com.au

‍

Rhydian Lewis and The Residuals are pushing us back in time with classic tunes. Photo supplied

‍

Friday 29 September

Electric Dreams Karaoke Lounge

9pm – 1am

Where you are the star! You love to sing, McGuires has the songs.

Accepts functions and group bookings. | Free entry.

McGuires Hotel, Mackay

Full Moon Party

From 9pm

Neon lights and jelly shots, FREE glow gift on arrival, UV face painters, prizes and giveaways.

The Rabbit Hole, Mackay

Mr Q (Live) @ The Burb

6:30pm – 10:30pm

Join for a night of live music entertainment. | Free entry.

Souths Suburban Bowls Club, Mackay

Saturday 30 September

Mackay Showground Markets

6am – 10am

Local Produce, Natural products, Seafood, Plants and much more.

Weekly event, held every Saturday. | Free entry.

Mackay Showgrounds

Jumbo Sale

7am – 1pm

Lots of bargains, as well as stalls for plants, cakes and crafts. A sausage sizzle and morning tea will be available. All welcome, with proceeds going towards the Bowling Club. | Free entry.

Marian Bowls Club

Falun Gong Classes

Every Saturday from 10am

Falun Gong offers you relaxation, meditation, inner peace and health through movement.

The meeting place is under the Mango Tree on the Tropical Sun Lawn (near the café).  Please bring a yoga mat (or similar) and wear comfortable clothing.

For more information, please contact Catherine Campbell on 0417 193 309 | Free entry.

Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens

Aeroflow Outlaw Nitro Funny Cars

Gates open 8am | Racing from 12pm – 9pm

Make sure you are here to watch these awesome machines battle it out.

NITRO passes will be at 4.00pm, 6.00pm & 8.00pm.

Full fields of support classes with everything from Supercharged Outlaws to Junior Dragsters!

Pits are open to all spectators. | Tickets available from mackaytickets.com.au

Palmyra Dragway

Rhythm and the Reef 2023

1pm – 9pm

Your 2023 lineup includes Lime Cordiale, Example (UK), Go-Jo, Discovery, Clovr, Giant Palms, Late November and Cherry.

Licensed for All Ages | Get tickets at rhythmandthereef.com

Bluewater Quay, Mackay

Sunday 01 October

Mackay Swap Meet and Community Markets 2023

6am - 12pm

Over one hundred stalls, bursting with all sorts of fascinating odds and ends. You’ll discover car, truck and bike parts, cool memorabilia, and a range of tools for all trades.

Not only that, but there will be plants, clothing, woodwork and bric-a-brac stalls, too! No matter what you are searching for, you’re sure to find it there.

All proceeds from this event will be donated to support local charities. | $5 entry fee

Mackay Showgrounds

Monday 02 October

Neon Sip & Paint

2pm – 4:30pm

During this fun session, draw the curtains and turn out the lights to paint under UV lights and bring neon artwork to life. All art supplies provided, with easy to follow instructions.

Shared nibbles platter included. BYO Drinks, ice and glass ware provided.

Min age 16 years and must be accompanied by participating adult. | Find tickets online.

The Creative Art Studio, Shop 1, 3 Ungerer Street, Mackay

Tuesday 03 October

Morning Melodies

11am - 1pm

Enjoy a morning of fun, food and entertainment with Morning Melodies at the Leagues Club with Anette Worthington performing live once a month!

The cafe will be open from 10am & the bistro from 12pm.

Souths Leagues Club, Mackay

Sunrise Bootcamp

5:15am

To kick start our return to group fitness classes, Double M Fitness have their Sunrise Bootcamp at Lamberts Beach.

Don't forget your towel! A post workout dip in the ocean is on the cards.

Buy tickets at doublemfitness.com.au

Lamberts Beach, Mackay

Wednesday 04 October

Teen Shed Mackay Teen Circle

Every Wednesday, 4:00pm to 5:30pm

Teen Circle is a place for all teens in the community to come together. It's a safe space for them to connect, heal and learn from each other. This gathering will be held every Wednesday, all teenagers are welcome to attend. It is a free event, but attendees are asked to register for numbers.

Kutta Mulla Gorinna Special Assistance School

Mackay Farmers’ Market

Every Wednesday, 6:30am to 10:30am

Shop fresh, shop local. The Farmers’ market is a showcase of our region’s amazing produce. Enjoy a morning beside the Pioneer River and buy direct from the farmer.

Bluewater Quay

Sugar City Rock and Roll Mackay Club Wednesday Night Lessons

Every Wednesday, 7:00pm

Why not come along and learn to rock ‘n’ roll in a friendly and fun atmosphere with the Sugar City Rock ‘n’ Rollers Mackay Club? Previous experience is not required. $5 for members and $8 for non-members after that.

For further enquiries call 0408 983 911.

58 Macalister St, Mackay

Thursday 05 October

Mackay Riverside Market

Every Thursday, 3:00pm to 7:00pm

Come and meet your local growers, bakers and makers, chill on the lawn listening to some beautiful tunes and grab some delicious dinner and dessert.

Bluewater Quay

The Butcher’s Ghost

9pm – 10pm

Come on a haunting journey into a ghost story that lies hidden in your home town!

The Butcher's Ghost is waiting for you on this unique self-guided ghost hunt adventure.

Are you ready to follow the clues, solve the puzzles and unlock the projections that will lead on your way - all with your mobile phone?! Take the lead in a unique paranormal investigation and discover the shocking twist in the tale!

You require a fully charged, internet enabled mobile phone or tablet, headphones or earbuds, and a car to participate.

Book tickets via the-thousand-interactive-5896.myshopify.com

‍

‍

Mackay Swap Meet and Community Markets 2023

Rhythm and the Reef 2023

Electric Dreams Karaoke Lounge

Full Moon Party @ The Rabbit Hole

Aeroflow Outlaw Nitro Funny Cars

Morning Melodies

‍

This October will mark 15 years of the Choir of Unheard Voices, who are celebrating with a concert that is not to be missed.

Margaret Ross has spent the years witnessing the power of singing, for people in our community who are dealing with mental illness and disability.

In 2008, the Choir of Unheard Voices began as a way to reach into the closed spaces of the people who came to sing. They had their very first performance that year, to mark Mental Health Week.

In 2009, the choir travelled to Sydney to open at the International Mental Health Nurses Convention, as well as performing at Parliament House in Brisbane.

Over the years, the choir organisation has performed at over 400 community events, even staying resilient through Covid-19, livestreaming to keep the sound of music alive.

Many years have passed and many challenges have presented, but Margaret has been determined to keep the choir singing, right up until now, marking fifteen years.

This week, the Choir of Unheard Voices will celebrate this incredible milestone.

They will take you on a captivating journey, with the joy and laughter that has come from singing together. The choir will weave through their fond memories in a lyrical waltz, sharing stories and songs to give you an experience where music exists and nothing else matters.

Join the Choir for their fifteen-year celebration concert on Sunday 1st October at 2pm, Northside Uniting Church on Bedford Road.

‍

Some of the members of the Choir of Unheard Voices, 2023.

‍

Created for athletes and the Mackay/Whitsunday community, Capricorn Muscle & Fitness will host a new bodybuilding competition at the MECC in October.

The Mr & Ms Capricornia Bodybuilding Competition provides amateur athletes and the Mackay/Whitsunday community the chance to compete and support their favourite athletes in a local competition.

The event is organised and run by the production team from Capricorn Muscle & Fitness, a brand associated with CAPSA PTY LTD.

The team found that limited local bodybuilding competitions exist in Mackay and that both new and established bodybuilding athletes could benefit from a new local competition.

With no cost to compete as an athlete, both male and female athletes can compete in a range of discipline areas for division championships and the final titles of Mr or Ms Capricornia.

The judges are current and former bodybuilding athletes and will assess athletes throughout the day.

The day will start for ticket-holding patrons at 12.30pm on Saturday 28 October with complimentary refreshments and tea/coffee provided.

Patrons will then attend the bodybuilding competition’s remaining schedule to cheer on their favourite athlete and see who wins the titles of Mr or Ms Capricornia.

What: Mr & Ms Capricornia Bodybuilding Competition

When: Saturday 28 October 2023

Where: MECC Auditorium

Tickets: www.themecc.com.au

‍

With the semi-finals of The Voice 2023 coming to a close, Moranbah’s sweetheart, the beautiful Bella Mackenzie was unfortunately eliminated from this years’ national singing competition.

On Sunday night, Bella performed a unique rendition of Australian icon John Farnham’s ‘Two Strong Hearts’. She dedicated her performance to her late grandfather, ‘Feno’.

On her Facebook page, Bella stated, “We found out that Pop had cancer a week before my blind audition and we lost him not long after that.”

“He taught me everything I know about dreaming big and putting in the hard work every day to chase those dreams and if someone tells you ‘no’, you’re asking the wrong person.”

Bella thanked her family for travelling to see her perform, ending her heartfelt message with: “This one is for you, Pop.”

After Bella’s incredible performance, Rita Ora exclaimed, “I am always excited to see you, I’ve always looked at you as the full package. I’m really proud of you.”

Jason Derulo went on to say, “Bella, you were on fire tonight. I’ve seen you on fire before, but tonight you knocked it out of the park.”

Guy Sebastian ultimately chose Charlie Pittman to move onto the finals, commenting, "Bella, I know there's a lot of people watching through this journey that love country music that have really connected with you.”

Guy also stated, “I really wanted Bella to just show her country heart tonight. We worked on so much through mentoring, you should be so proud.”

Bella’s main hope was to spread the message that ‘no matter where you come from, you can do anything you set your mind to.’

“I wanted to inspire rural and country kids to believe in themselves and go for their dreams!”

To keep up with Bella Mackenzie, visit her website www.bellamackenzie.com.au or find her on social media at @bellamackenzieofficial.

‍

Over 200 people checked into the Bowen Neighbourhood Centre’s R U OK Day celebrations, with more than 10 local organisations gathering to create a mini street in the carpark, promoting mental health and suicide prevention.

“This year, we also targeted our messaging to a male audience,” Coordinator of the Bowen Neighbourhood Centre, Stephanie Cora explained.

The Hillery Group attended on the day and representatives promoted Real Mates Talk, a Whitsunday, Isaac and Mackay organisation which tackles the alarming statistic that three-quarters of deaths by suicide are men.

Whitsunday Regional Councillor Michelle Wright also joined the Bowen Neighbourhood Centre team, assisting with each of the services and supporting the day.

“It is always a great event, with each service stepping up and helping out,” Cr Wright said.

The Whitsunday Regional Council is a strong supporter of the Bowen Neighbourhood Centre, having supported the R U OK Day celebrations for the last four years.

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Julie Hall said Council have been a proud financial supporter of the Bowen Neighbourhood Centre R U OK Day event for more than four years.

"In our Whitsunday community, we believe that mental health matters every day, and that's why we're proud to stand with local groups on R U OK Day to help foster conversations that can change lives,” she said.

"As a Council, we are proud to support R U OK Day because it aligns with our community values of caring for one another. Together, we can create a culture of openness and support.

"The power of conversation is so important to break down barriers, reduce stigma, and offer hope to those who may be struggling.

"R U OK Day reminds us that a small conversation can have a big impact.”

‍

Mark Steen, Stephanie Cora, and Whitsunday Regional Councillor Michelle Wright

Stephanie Cora and the Bowen Neighbourhood Centre team

Liberty Rural Team rocking TradeMutt mental health shirts

Hillery Group making fresh cinnamon donuts and promoting Real Mates Talk

Stella Life Care sharing mental health within individual support. Photo Credit: Bronte Hodge

Forward-thinking and proactive, Year 10 student Jayla Battis has taken her future into her hands, following her week of work experience led by Bowen State High School.

During her work experience week with real estate agency LJ Hooker, Jalya approached both the business and the school, proposing a school-based traineeship and Certificate III in Business.

“I was looking into real estate,” Jayla explained.

“Another student started a traineeship and I thought that was really cool, and I wanted to get into that.

“I started the work experience, and I was so nervous, but I absolutely loved it.”

Completing the traineeship alongside her school work, Jayla has a newfound appreciation for school.

“It’s made me want to go to school more, because I have something to look forward to. The rest of the week just flies by.”

“I’m loving it so much. It’s definitely an eye opener.”

By the time she graduates Bowen State High School, in two short years, Jayla will have her real estate license and a Certificate III in Business.

“My ultimate goal is to open my own real estate agency, but first I want to go overseas and work in a real estate agency overseas.”

Jayla’s proactiveness has impressed Bowen State High School principal, Robert Harris.

“We offer career expos, work experience opportunities and connections with industry for students and parents to engage with, but to have a student be so forward thinking is exciting,” he said.

“We talk how things won’t just come to you, you have to reach out, and through Jayla’s work experience, she has reached out. That confidence and forward-thinking is really cool.”

Raylene Doyle, Office Manager and Business Owner of LJ Hooker said that the system is fantastic, putting students ahead before they even graduate Year 12.

“Jayla is the youngest trainee I’ve had, and she is mature, keen, and committed. At this stage, she will be certificated by mid-Year 12, and be ahead of her classmates.”

‍

Bowen State High School student Jayla Battis with Raylene Doyle of LJ Hooker Bowen. Photo supplied

Fire dancers, crab races, Hawaiian food, and plenty of barefoot dancing on the sand – the upcoming Tiny Homes Project fundraiser, Get Lei’d Hawaiian Party at Cape Gloucester Resort, is shaping up to be an entertaining event for the whole community to enjoy.

Emceed by comedian Brad Elliot, the whole evening is guaranteed to be full of hilarious moments that will make raising money for such a worthy local cause even more fun.

There will be plenty of auction items up for grabs and other opportunities to donate, such as raffles and party-themed merchandise.

Tiny Homes Project is raising money to help with the construction of four tiny homes in Proserpine dedicated to housing homeless women over 55.

With the help of government grants, Whitsunday Regional Council donated land and Whitsunday Housing, who is the driving force behind the charity, the team are ready to begin building at the end of the year.

Every cent raised at the Tiny Homes Project fundraisers goes straight into the pot, helping the overall project reach its goals quicker.

Guests at the upcoming Get Lei’d fundraiser will enjoy not only a wonderful evening of dancing and merriment, but also the knowledge that every cent they spend is going to a worthy cause.

Each guest will be greeted by a cocktail on arrival and are encouraged to come along in their best Hawaiian-themed attire – the most flamboyant tropical shirt or a colourful straw skirt – and the best dressed will be celebrated with special awards for both Best Hawaiian Male and Female Outfit.

During the evening, there will also be live music from GForce and ViVa Acoustic, both bands made up of talented local musicians who always get people off their seat and the dancefloor packed.

Other entertainment includes the Crab Races, which are sponsored by KC’s Bar & Grill who are well-known for hosting exciting crab races at their lively bar in Airlie Beach and cannot wait to bring this special event to the fundraiser.

With the fire dancers twirling their flames, the live music packing the dancefloor and the crab races getting the crowd pumped, the event is set to be both thrilling and fun.

Free buses are departing Airlie Beach, Cannonvale, and Proserpine, whisking partygoers to the event which starts just before sunset at 5pm.

With the event coming to a close at 10pm, the free buses will escort everyone home safely.

For those that wish to stay, there are camping options available nearby.

Celebrated as one of the best locations for a beach party, Cape Gloucester Resort is looking forward to welcoming partygoers from across the region.

The Tiny Homes Project would like to thank their sponsors, Airlie Fitness, D & C Mechanical Electrical, Whitsunday Transit, Cape Gloucester Resort, Fierce Signage and Airlie Events.

‍

Cape Gloucester Resort will host the Get Lei’d Hawaiian Fundraiser. Photo supplied

‍KC’s Bar & Grill are sponsoring the evening’s Crab Races. Photo supplied

Fire dancers will entertain the crowd. Photo supplied

‍

One of our earliest pioneers and one of the first women in Queensland to vote

Born Eliza Jurgens in Bowen on October 5, 1886, she was raised by her maternal grandparents after her mother died aged only twenty-four.

When the family lost their cattle in the 1896 drought, they moved to Proserpine, arriving the day the first cane was cut.  

They took up land on the Gregory River, but their grandfather soon abandoned the selection before taking up fencing.

He then took up land at Breadalbane but felt he was too old to start farming so he did casual work on local farms.

Eliza’s grandmother, “Granny” Jurgens, was a trained midwife, called in for all kinds of sickness and accidents.  

Eliza married Arthur Fuller on December 16, 1903, aged only seventeen.

Their wedding day was not without drama.

Upon leaving the church, they learned the river was in flood so would not be able to reach the groom’s Strathdickie home for the feast.  

But all was not lost.

Being close to Christmas, everyone was able to pitch in. Someone had a chicken; another a bottle of wine; there was bread and butter and the bride’s grandmother “donated” her Christmas cake.

There was no cutlery however someone found a fork for the bride.

The couple was able to cross the river that afternoon and a few days later, the wedding guests joined them. Eliza again put on her wedding dress, fresh food was cooked and the formal wedding feast was eventually held.

They first lived in a thatched cottage on a small hillside farm in Strathdickie before moving to their Breadalbane farm in 1913.

Life on the farm was hard and conditions somewhat primitive but Eliza and Arthur adapted to the rough conditions and though the returns were sometimes poor and uncertain, Eliza stated that they “got a lot of satisfaction and fun from life.” (Proserpine Guardian December 22 1948.)

They had ten children – six sons and four daughters.

Sadly, Arthur died suddenly in 1938.

When women in Queensland gained the vote, Eliza was one of the youngest women to do so.

Just how did this come to pass?

A policeman doing the rounds to ensure all who were eligible to vote were enrolled asked Eliza’s grandfather about Eliza.

When he replied that she was only 18, the policeman dismissed him saying – “She’s married, ain’t she?”

And put Eliza’s name on the roll.

In later years, Eliza took an intelligent interest in watching politics on television.

Over her 86 years in the district, Eliza saw Proserpine grow and change.

Transport was one such change.

As a ten-year-old, she travelled eleven hours along a wild bush track from Bowen to Proserpine sitting in the sun in an open coach and later, when married with a family, she was no stranger to making the trip to Mackay via Bowen to catch a boat to their destination.

In later years, although the thought of plane travel terrified her, there was no way she was going to pass up the opportunity to try it – and she did!  

Eliza had a profound faith in God and her prayers to others were an inspiration to all who knew her.

Church services were held at their home until Arthur joined the Strathdickie School committee and secured the use of the school for Sunday School and church services.

Eliza Ellen (Granny) Fuller passed away on February 7, 1983 aged 96 years.

The stories of her life provide a wonderful glimpse into our past. Stay tuned for some of these stories in future editions.

Story and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum

‍

Staying and playing in luxury has never been easier, with Mirage Whitsundays catering for guests’ every whim and desire.

With lush, decadent facilities and beautiful grounds, Mirage Whitsundays is an oasis for the soul, perfect for families, couples and special occasions.  

“We have 104 units in total, and each is private and intimate,” explained Mirage Whitsundays General Manager, Michael Quigley.

Having been with Mirage Whitsundays for coming on six months now, Michael is excited by the gold standard that Mirage Whitsundays holds.

Ensuring that each and every guest is happy, Michael and his team strive to create the best experience, whether it be it in their apartments, at Whisper Restaurant and Gin Bar, or in their Day Spa.

The resort also boasts a mammoth 40 private pools located within the some of the exclusive apartments and villas, one large lagoon style pool adjacent to the bar and restaurant, and another for guests aged 18 and over only.

Michael and the Mirage team even have breakfast covered, with a premium buffet breakfast offered to all guests at no extra charge.

“Having the breakfast included is great value added, this is a rare inclusion for self-contained apartments,” explained Michael.

“This means guests can have hotel amenities in an apartment setting.”

Noted for its large and spacious layouts Michael says each apartment has been designed with opulence in mind.

“We have the largest rooms available in the Whitsundays, our smallest apartment, which has three bedrooms, is 175 square metres, bigger than most residential apartments and some homes.” he said.

To learn more, or book your next holiday, visit miragewhitsundays.com.au

‍

Making the move from just south Sydney in New South Wales to Queens Beach, just north of Bowen, was something Jennie and Peter Greer never expected, however five years ago, they now love living in North Queensland.

Taking over Queens Beach Tourist Village in 2019, Jennie and Pete set out to establish the park as a favourite destination for visitors to the region.

With 23 cabins and 140 powdered caravan sights available, the park is able to cater for almost every sort of traveller.

“We are perfectly designed for tourists,” explained Jennie.

Now just stepping off the back of peak traveller season, the couple and their dedicated team are taking the time to refurbish all 23 cabins, fine-tuning the creature comforts offered to all their guests.

Taking on a holiday park was not foreign to the couple, having owned and operated a tourist park in Inverell.

“It’s not about us, though. Without our team, we wouldn’t be nearly as successful as we are,” Pete said.

Creating a community within the park, Queens Beach Tourist Village has become a hive of activity.

“During peak season, we have an entertainment night every second fortnight, with proceeds going back to the Bowen Country Women’s Association,” said Jennie.

“Those have been great, as other local business have signed on and supported the evenings.”

It is clear that the team behind Queens Beach Tourist Village are proud of their work and the visitors they look after.

“We’re grateful,” Jennie said.

“It’s just fantastic to see people’s smiles; that’s the end result we’re looking for.”

‍

Peter and Jennie Greer, Gerry and Mark Tomsett, the dedicated team behind Queens Beach Tourist Village. Photo credit: Bronte Hodge

Unique Tours Offered from the Hinterland to the Great Barrier Reef

It has been 16 years since Nicole and Jeremy Graham purchased their first vessel and just this year, they have welcomed their fourth tour while simultaneously rebranding the company to Iconic Whitsunday Adventures.

Back in 2007, Nicole and Jeremy came across the old War Canoe that was anchored in Pioneer Bay. They knew the Harvey family, who owned the vessel from Hamilton Island. Nicole and Jeremy approached them and sealed the deal to acquire the vessel.

Following a massive refurbishment, Sundowner has since become the most popular experience for both visitors and residents alike.

“She’s fun, she’s social, she connects people and provides the perfect evening or private charter experience,” explained Nicole.

Lady Enid, the couple’s second vessel, has a similar backstory when Nicole and Jeremy found her moored and mothballed in Ballina, NSW.

“She is a beautiful yacht, and we were thinking ‘how can we do something a bit different and unique?’”

That’s when the couple decided to create the only 18 and over tour in the Whitsundays offering luxury sunset cruises and full-day trips to Whitehaven Beach and snorkelling aboard Lady Enid.

“Lady Enid is a stunning timber yacht, we provide an experience that no one else offers,” Nicole explained.

The third offering is the Coastal Explorer Bus Tour, taking visitors to some of the best spots in the region, including Cape Gloucester and Frog Rock.

The fourth tour to join the group is Viper, the newest vessel to the fleet, with the Rolls Royce jets and offshore hull, capable of visiting the outer Great Barrier Reef and Whitehaven Beach in one day, no one else can do this.

Investing back into the company and the region, Iconic Whitsunday Adventures continues to flourish, its tours constantly setting the pace for the broader tourism industry.

‍

Nicole and Jeremy Graham, aboard the majestic Lady Enid, on a sunset cruise. Photo supplied

Welcome to the first in a bi-monthly series of Business Highlights, introducing members of Tourism Whitsundays and showcasing the exceptional local businesses we have operating here in the region.

Tourism Whitsundays are a dedicated marketing agency that promotes the region and their members on every level – from international and national campaigns to markets right here in the Whitsundays.

Tourism Whitsundays CEO Rick Hamilton said that partnering with Whitsunday Life enables both entities to work together on features such as this, to highlight members to locals and visitors alike.

“It also helps connect members with Whitsunday Life to help share their stories with the local community,” he explained.

“It's a win win for everyone and helps us significantly in communicating with our local regions.”

Bec Timmins is Tourism Whitsundays’ Member Services and Marketing Co-Ordinator and she works alongside local operators to maximise their exposure and guide them through the benefits available to members.

“We primarily achieve this through marketing advocacy and industry development,” explained Bec.

“Becoming a member of Tourism Whitsundays has a comprehensive number of benefits, however the primary benefit is knowing that you are investing in the marketing of the region so that tourism in The Whitsundays can thrive.”

Being a member of Tourism Whitsundays allows businesses to be showcased on a global platform, backed by the professional and experienced Tourism Whitsundays team and expertise.

Becoming a member is simple, just contact Tourism Whitsundays on membership@tourismwhitsundays.com.au or call the office on 07 4948 5900.

‍

Bec Timmins, Member Services and Marketing Co-Ordinator with Tourism Whitsundays. Photo credit: Bronte Hodge

The Hidden Food Garden Of Airlie Beach

The hidden gem that is the Whitsunday Food Garden is open and ready for business.

Intimate and secluded in an off-street cove, the Food Garden is a hub for the community, a host to three food vans, making a simple and delicious eat street that is perfect for a quiet and unique meal.

Since setting up shop in the Whitsunday Food Garden just over three months ago, Let’z Waffle has seen a massive spike in popularity.

Becoming the one stop shop for waffles, both savoury and sweet, Let’z Waffle caters for every single diet, including gluten free, diary free, and vegan waffles.

Even your pet pooch is looked after, with woofles on the menu, perfect for a warm summer night.

Having begun in Western Australia over seven years ago, owner and operator Aaron Townsend set off to create a food truck that caters to his travel urge and satisfies the waffle craving that is lacking in Australian culture.

Now sitting beside the Whisper Bar and Restaurant food van and the Airlie Beach Food Truck, Let’z Waffle serves as a tasty, sweet treat for after dinner, or even a main meal for those who prefer the savoury variety.

“Since we’ve been here, the Food Garden has turned into a community spot, where people can come in and chill out. You don’t even have to buy food if you don’t want to,” Aaron explained.

“With the variety that each truck serves, it’s a great dynamic, it’s really clicked.

“We all knew the importance of getting the dynamics and energy between the three of us, but it’s really worked well.”

A recent addition to the Food Garden is the weekly Thursday night markets, with a variety of market stalls setting up shop, with live music and good vibes ensuring a great evening.

“We have alternating buskers and live music artists, and we’re looking to expand the markets to have more stalls with a greater variety of goods,” Aaron said.

Open each and every day, from 9am to 9pm, Aaron and his team are catering for the intrepid traveller seeking to get out of the hustle and bustle of the Airlie Beach main strip.

“We’re open every day, which is good, because we have breakfast and coffee,” he said.

The growth that Let’z Waffle has seen has solidified the food van as a make visit restaurant in Airlie Beach, with Aaron able to confidently bring on a full savoury menu, on top of his sweet menu.

“We’ve been growing, which is great to see. It’s been consistent, especially with the cruise ships coming,” he said.

“We used to have Mondays off, but we’ve found that it’s just too busy to not be open; Airlie Beach is just a unique transient touristy place and just got the right energy and vibe.”

‍

Aaron Townsend, Tamika Mietzel, and Emma Coral, the team behind Let’z Waffle in Whitsunday Food Garden. Photo credit: Bronte Hodge

Even your dogs aren’t missing out on this perfect treat. Photo supplied

Don’t miss this hidden gem this spring. Photo supplied