In today's digital world, online security is more important than ever. We all love the convenience of online banking, but it's crucial to be aware of the potential risks and take steps to protect ourselves. Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine is committed to keeping your money and information safe. We are focused on helping you bank online safely and have 24/7 fraud monitoring and multi-factor authentication, secure pay online and payee check in place. But there are also things you can
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Schools, businesses, organisations and community groups across the Whitsundays will soon begin gearing up for Clean Up Australia Day, with many calling for locals to get involved in the fantastic initiative. Scheduled for Sunday the 2nd of March, this year will mark the 35th anniversary of the vital environmental event, which has been making a positive impact on Australia’s environment, one piece of litter at a time. What began 35 years ago as a simple idea from Ian Kiernan who wanted to clean u
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The Bowen Community Centre excitedly announced the successful completion of this year’s Adopt a Family program, a heartwarming initiative that brought much-needed joy and relief to 25 deserving families across the Whitsunday community. Through the collective efforts of local organisations, businesses, and individuals, this program has once again proven the power of community spirit and generosity. This year’s program saw families nominated by a number of local community services, including Cooin
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74 Bowen district households received “Christmas Cheer” support through the Salvation Army this Christmas. The support included a gift card, toys, Christmas and non-perishable foods, household items and fresh produce said Gwen Marshall, Community & Ministry Manager – Salvation Army. Many in the community are struggling with homelessness and the cost of living, are living in tents, couch surfing or have medical/mental health needs for themselves and their families. The number of household’s recei
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We are excited to announce that planning is well underway for the 2025 Whitsundays East Coast Roadshow. Running from 16–20 February 2025, the Roadshow will visit Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, with updates from Tourism Australia and Tourism & Events Queensland along the way. Trade engagement activities like these are crucial for ensuring The Whitsundays remains top of mind for travel agents both in Australia and overseas. By maintaining strong connections and promoting the region’s unique offer
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For an end-of-year Christmas celebration to remember, the Tourism Whitsundays team ventured out on Whitsunday Crocodile Safari for a day that turned into a truly memorable adventure. Though the weather brought some rain and an impressive display of lightning, it only added to the thrill of the day. Cruising the calm waters of the Proserpine River, we eagerly kept our eyes peeled to sight one of the many Estuarine crocodiles who have established themselves here. Our expert guide shared captivati
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Visitors have been flocking to our region in the past week to enjoy their holidays over Christmas and New Year. At the Bowen Visitor Information Centre next to the Big Mango, the team has been very busy, welcoming more than 1000 visitors in the three days immediately after Christmas. The Centre was closed on Christmas Day and Boxing Day. When it re-opened on Friday, more than 400 people called in on one day. Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said most visitors were from
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With wet season well and truly upon us, this month’s Ask An Expert article with the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry asks: How can I look after my business during storm season? Chamber members Kapow Interactive and Porters Mitre 10 Mackay and Whitsundays respond. To effectively assist our customers in preparing for seasonal weather events and potential disasters, Porters Mitre 10 Mackay and Whitsundays offer expert advice and a wide range of essential products. From storm prepar
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(An extract from “Proserpine Guardian” Thursday 31 December 1953) Christmas 1953 can be regarded as one of the brightest and happiest ever held. This was not unexpected because of the splendid season the district has enjoyed. Money was plentiful as a result, and everyone set about having a good time. The extent of the season can be gauged from the fact that the mill expects to crush 385,000 tons of sugar cane - the previous best was about 257,000 tons in 1950. Despite the excessive heat, Proserp
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One of the most difficult parts of a healthy lifestyle is maintaining it. Here are 5 top tips on how to make sure you stay on track this new year: 1. Prep fruits and veggies in advance Cut up fruits and vegetables ahead of time, store them in airtight containers in the fridge, and keep them covered with a damp towel. This can save time and make healthy eating easier. 2. Meal prep snacks Plan your snacks to avoid mindless eating and overeating. Prepare 3-5 days’ worth of healthy, easy-
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As we step into 2025, there's no better time to embrace healthier eating habits. With the holiday season behind us, now is the perfect time to swap those tempting Christmas treats for nourishing snacks that support your health goals and help prevent weight gain. Here are 5 delicious and nutritious snack alternatives to keep you on track: 1. Seasonal Fruits: Think mangoes, peaches and lychees. These nutritious fruits will help satisfy your sugar cravings. 2. Homemade Fruit Ice Blocks:
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What better way to kick off the New Year than with a bright, refreshing salad that’s bursting with sunshine and nutrients? This vibrant dish not only looks like a celebration on a plate but also offers a healthy, energizing start to 2025, helping you feel your best as you begin the year with a focus on wellness and fresh flavors. Ingredients • 1 head purple cabbage • 3 carrots • handful of cherry tomatoes • 1 cup mixed herbs. EG: cilantro, parsley, basil, and mint • 1/2 cup s
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Start your New Year off on the right foot with a nourishing smoothie that's packed with essential nutrients. This wholesome blend is the perfect way to kickstart your day, giving you the energy and vitality you need to power through your morning and set a positive tone for the day ahead. Whether you're rushing out the door or taking a moment to savour your breakfast, this smoothie will fuel you for a productive and vibrant day and year ahead. Healthy Brain Smoothie Ingredients What you will nee
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Can you hear that? The siren call of the 1980s is beckoning, and it's louder than ever! The Rewind 80’s Band, Australia’s most wanted 80’s show, is coming to the Airlie Beach Hotel for two afternoons of unforgettable nostalgia, killer tunes, lively entertainment and epic fun. What’s better than big hair, neon spandex, and pumping 80’s hits? How about a live show packed with the greatest tracks from the decade that staged Madonna, Bowie, and all the iconic tunes that were played on repeat and int
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Friday 3 January The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Rock Anthems (2pm–5:30pm) The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers(7pm–10pm) Grand View Hotel: Lucy Rose (4pm–8pm) Saturday 4 January The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: The AC/DC Show (2pm–5:30pm) The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm–10pm) Grand View Hotel: Dj Night (4pm–8pm) Coral Sea Pavilion: Live Music (from 1pm) Coral Sea Pavilion: Chill DJ Session (2pm–6pm) Sunday 5 January The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Boys of Summer (2pm–5:30pm) The Pub
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Prepare for an unforgettable evening of electrifying music as Jack Jones, the two-time Platinum, eight-time Gold, and APRA award-winning singer and songwriter, takes the stage at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre on Saturday 25th January! Known for his role as lead singer and guitarist of the 90s rock band Southern Sons, Jack Jones has captivated audiences across the globe with his powerful vocals and exceptional guitar skills. Born in New York City and raised in Sydney, Jack Jones started sho
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If you want to add joy to your family, look no further than Gizmo, a sweet and affectionate 6–8-month-old kitten searching for his forever home. Gizmo is the perfect blend of playful and laid-back. He’s a champion napper, loves to curl up in cosy spots for long, peaceful snoozes. But when it’s time to play, he’s full of energy and enjoys every moment of it. His gentle nature makes him an ideal companion for families, individuals, or even homes with other pets. This sweet kitten has an endearing
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January 5 Bowen Community Sunday Market, Hansen Park, from 8am 12 Bowen Community Sunday Market, Hansen Park, from 8am 19 Bowen Community Sunday Market, Hansen Park, from 8am 24 Citizenship Ceremony, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 9:30am 26 Bowen Community Sunday Market, Hansen Park, from 8am 26 Australia Day Our Whitsunday Way, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 4pm February 2 Bowen Community Sunday Market, Hansen Park, from 8am 9 Bowen Commu
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The Airlie Beach Bowls Club has had an awesome 2024 season full of celebrations, hard work, and exciting victories, making it a memorable time for both members and the wider community. One of the highlights of the festive season was the 80th birthday celebration of one of the club's most accomplished bowlers, Andrew Noel Crosbie. Noel, who marked the special occasion on Christmas Day, was honoured by a gathering of friends and family on Boxing Day. Over the past year, Noel has enjoyed numerous
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The World Half Ironman event, held in Taupo, New Zealand on the 15th December, was an unforgettable experience for athletes and spectators alike, with stunning weather and an electric atmosphere creating the perfect backdrop for a challenging two-day competition. Representing the region, Rowena Sinclair-Smith, Megan Moa, Jodie Walker, and Michael Kimpton were all fortunate to qualify and compete at this prestigious event. The female athletes kicked off the weekend’s racing on Saturday, followed
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Saturday’s Airlie Beach parkrun was a fantastic festive success, with participants enjoying the beautiful scenery while challenging themselves in the friendly, inclusive event. Held every Saturday at 7am, the event welcomed runners of all abilities to meet at Meeting Area D, Coral Sea Marina. Top Performers: 1. Karl Ward – 20:18 (JM11-14) 2. Bryan Drennan – 20:19 (VM50-54) 3. Colin McIntosh – 20:36 (VM50-54), Thursday Morning Esplanade Running Club 4. Rachael Landers – 20:58 (SW
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Just before Christmas, 11 talented swimmers from the Cannonvale Cannons Swim Club travelled to Brisbane to compete in the 2024 Queensland Long Course Championships. The event brought together the best swimmers from across the state, providing a unique opportunity for local athletes to showcase their skills. On the first day of competition, swimmers Jacob Bell, Tiana Bell, Isaac Pisaniello, Ella Bounden, Tyler Bennett, Zach Trefz, Tora Delac, Isabella Pisaniello, Alex Trefz, and Harris Delac all
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Queensland’s beloved blue heeler, Bluey will soon make a big screen debut in an animated feature film made in Queensland. BBC Studios and the Walt Disney Company recently announced that a full-length feature film for the beloved Emmy and BAFTA award-winning animated series will land in cinemas in 2027. Written and directed by Bluey creator Joe Brumm, the film is a Ludo Studio production in collaboration with BBC Studios, and will continue the adventures of the loveable blue heeler dog and her
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With Christmas just around the corner and excitement jingling in the air, the jolly man in red is dusting off his sleigh for a special visit next week—ready to spread cheer and make spirits bright! Mount Pleasant Centre brought festive cheer earlier this month with their Santa’s Breakfast event, spreading holiday spirit while supporting a great cause. The community gathered to enjoy delicious treats from Gloria Jean’s Coffees and Donut King, with all proceeds benefiting the Mackay Hospital Found
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As we approach the end of 2024, I find myself reflecting on a year that has tested me in ways I never expected. This has certainly been the hardest year of my life. But, as with any challenge, it’s made me more determined to rebuild in 2025—stronger, wiser, and more focused on what really matters: less stress, more time with my family, and a little more 'me-time'. With a one-week break ahead, this is our final edition for the year. Looking back, we’ve covered a lot of ground in 2024—from communi
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