The completion of the Whitsunday Healthy Heart Project (WHHP) was celebrated at Mantra Club Croc, last week with dozens of local participating businesses in attendance to commend the success of the overall intiative. The WHHP is a four-year program funded by the Great Barrier Reef Foundation and Whitsunday Regional Council as part of the Reef Islands Initiative Whitsundays Project, aiming to drive and facilitate greener, more sustainable business practices in the Whitsundays tourism sector, inc
Read more
A huge thank you to everyone who attended the combined Tourism Whitsundays and Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce end-of-year networking event at the Airlie Beach Hotel. It was a great night with everyone enjoying the mixed company and relaxed format, and to support the silent auction with all proceeds going to Eco Barge Clean Seas. The event reminded us that the silly season is upon us. Are you ready? No matter what business you’re in, now is the time to prepare for the next few months. Regular st
Read more
In the 2023/24 financial year, Whitsunday Regional Council hosted 28 events across the region, attracting approximately 8,127 attendees. These events brought the community together, providing opportunities for connection, entertainment and engagement throughout the Whitsundays. From cultural festivals and community celebrations to educational workshops and family-friendly activities, these events aim to enrich the community spirit and add vibrancy to life in the region.
Read more%20(1).JPG)
It was a privilege to be at Shingley Beach in Cannonvale on Tuesday to officially unveil one of four Red Benches in the Whitsunday region as part of the Red Rose Foundation – LGAQ Walk Against Domestic Violence campaign. Council is installing four red benches across our region—in Airlie Beach, Cannonvale, Proserpine, and Collinsville—as a visible commitment to ending domestic violence. These benches will be placed at Lions Park, Collinsville; Case Park in Bowen, Shingley Beach, Cannonvale and
Read more
Alita DeBrincat was recently celebrated as the Queensland Touch Administrator of the Year at the 2024 Queensland Touch Football Awards which was held in the Gold Coast on Monday 2 December. Alita has held the position of President of the Whitsunday Touch Association for the past three years and was recognised as Touch Football Australia’s Volunteer of the Month in June for her continued commitment to the club. “It takes every single member in our club to make it great, and we’re so lucky to hav
Read more
As summer heats up in the Whitsunday region, so do your cars. Leaving children or pets in the car, even for a quick errand, may seem harmless, but it can have serious, potentially life-threatening consequences. Recently, Whitsunday community members have raised concerns on social media after spotting individuals leaving children or animals unattended in vehicles locally. One Facebook post on the Whitsunday Chat group captured the growing frustration: “Nothing is so urgent that you need to pay
Read more
This Christmas, Pets Domain Bowen is partnering with Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue Inc. to bring some extra holiday cheer to rescue animals in need. Pets Domain Bowen invites the community to visit the store and explore the stories and photos of the incredible rescue pets currently available for adoption. To participate in the Secret Santa initiative, simply choose a name from the board. Then, purchase a toy, treat, or other special goodies for that furry friend! Gifts will be wrapped and placed
Read more.jpg)
The Bowen Community Centre, in partnership with Sally the Support Worker and Kristy from MADEC, hosted a lively social inclusion event that brought the community together and showcased local services. The event featured pop-up shops from various agencies, offering resources, giveaways, and engaging activities with attendees welcoming Housing Older Women Support Services (HOWSS) and Footprints, who provided chocolates and essential housing information. OT4U Occupational Therapy offered practical
Read more
The Proserpine Museum’s journey began with a small but passionate group of local history enthusiasts who stored their growing collection of artifacts in private homes around Proserpine. Over time, this collection found a permanent home in the museum’s original building, where it continues to be housed to this day. The museum officially opened its doors to the public in 2001, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by Mayor Demartini, who unveiled a commemorative plaque. This event marked the beginni
Read more
This Friday festive shoppers from across the region are invited to participate in the sparkling returning of the Twilight Christmas Markets which are due to take over the main street of Proserpine. Discover a variety of market stalls, delicious food, and live entertainment. Kids can enjoy free face painting and complimentary train rides, while Santa Claus makes a special appearance. Plus, try your luck with the Ham Wheel and enter the fun Christmas raffle for a chance to win great prizes! Th
Read more
The Bowen Tourism and Business staff and volunteers got into the festive spirit last week when they went to the Big Seafood Bash at Bird’s Fish Bar in Bowen. It has been a big year for the team as they welcomed a record number of visitors in 2024. Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said the 17 volunteers were an integral part of the organisation. “They greet every visitor with a smile and are passionate, friendly, and knowledgeable,” she said. “We are looking forward to
Read more
Messi is a sweet, shy little girl who may take some time to warm up and feel comfortable in her new surroundings, but once she does, she becomes an incredibly affectionate companion. At 5 years old, she’s past the kitten stage, but still full of charm and personality. She loves nothing more than cosying up for cuddles on the couch. Her tiny meows are her way of asking for attention, and she’ll often curl up beside you for a nap. Messi has a special way of showing her affection, whether it’s with
Read more
From the beginning of the first settlement, Proserpine had the convenience of several hotels; houses of hospitality where weary travellers of the early 20th century could find refreshments and rest. One of these establishments is the recently reopened Palace Hotel which has seen many changes in its appearance and ownership in its 126 year history. In 1898, the prospects for the town were looking good. A new hotel, the Palace Hotel, was being built by Mr August Schumaker. It was the first two-s
Read more
At the end of November, I swapped the swimmers for a scarf and headed off to London for Tourism Australia’s Biannual Australia Marketplace, the largest international Australia Marketplace event in the calendar. Over the course of three days, I met with 116 front-line travel agents and 58 product managers from the United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, France, Belgium and the Netherlands. The international agents spoke keenly of their clients’ incredible experiences in our region, and the countless en
Read more
Earlier this week, Tim and Cait headed out to Collinsville to engage with the Collinsville Tourism Advisory Group. They left just after 8am, making perfect timing to stop at the Bowen Visitor Information Centre for breakfast – a refreshing Mango Sorbet made from Bowen’s famous mangoes. Any ice cream for breakfast is a win, but this one was next level! The scenic drive through lush paddocks and rolling hills, thanks to last weekend’s rain, was a beautiful way to start the day. Their first stop in
Read more
Lace up your dancing shoes and find a crown because SOS will transform the Airlie Beach Hotel into Dancing Queen central across three free shows this December! One of the nations most treasured and celebrated ABBA Tribute Shows, SOS, will grace the stage of the Airlie Beach Hotel once again to perform iconic tunes like Chiquitita, I Have a Dream, Gimme! Gimme! Gimme! and of course, Dancing Queen. In September of this year, SOS ignited the Airlie Beach Hotel with their energetic and captivating p
Read more
The festive spirit shone brightly on Saturday, December 7th, as Murroona Gardens hosted its much-anticipated 2024 Community Christmas Carols. Held at the Murroona Gardens Wellness Centre in West Lane, the event brought together families, friends, and locals for a magical evening filled with music, community, and holiday cheer. The atmosphere was nothing short of enchanting as attendees gathered to celebrate the season. The night featured a wonderful selection of carols, festive activities for a
Read more
Get ready for the ultimate holiday celebration! Christmas Actually, the five-star festive smash, returns to the Proserpine Entertainment Centre on December 14th and 15th, promising to be the perfect start to your Christmas season. Led by Australian cabaret legend Libby O'Donovan OAM, this all-star cast brings the beloved holiday film Love Actually to life with an unforgettable mix of music, comedy, and charm. Relive the magic of Christmas with iconic songs by Mariah Carey, The Beatles, Joni Mit
Read more
Friday 13 December The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers(7pm–10pm) Grand View Hotel: Scotty Wilson (4pm–8pm) Saturday 14 December The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Sex & Chocolate (2pm–5.30pm) The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm–10pm) Grand View Hotel: Sam McCann (4pm–8pm) Coral Sea Pavilion: Live Music (from 1pm) Coral Sea Pavilion: Chill DJ Session (2pm–6pm) Sunday 15 December The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Sex & Chocolate (2pm–5.30pm) The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris
Read more
December 13 FREE Adult Christmas Craft Workshop, Cannonvale Library, from 10am 13 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Arthur Christmas & Fred Claus, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm 14 Book Launch, Beach Book Boutique, Airlie Beach, from 11am 14 Christmas Actually, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7.30pm 15 Bowen Community Sunday Market, Hansen Park, from 8am 15 Christmas Actually, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 2pm & 6.30pm 18 Mada’s Magic Marvels, from
Read more
The Cannonvale Cannons wrapped up their 2024 club night season with a series of remarkable achievements and festive fun, cementing a fantastic year for the team. The season concluded with several notable upgrades, including Liam Filewood and Zane Clayworth advancing to the 100m Butterfly, Miller Eaves to the 200m Freestyle, Lucas Korosec to the 200m Individual Medley, Alex Trefz to the 100m Breaststroke, Eloise Chegwidden and Tyler Bennet to the 200M Backstroke. These accomplishments reflect the
Read more
As summer settles in and Christmas approaches, members of the Airlie Beach Bowls Club are embracing the festive spirit while keeping up with their love of the game. Despite a few interruptions, the week was filled with camaraderie, competition, and some impressive performances. The Ladies’ bowls session on Tuesday took a break, but for good reason — the Ladies Christmas Luncheon at the Jubilee Tavern. While the games were on pause, the gathering was a highlight for the week, and many would have
Read more
Wet weather halted last Wednesday’s bowls at Proserpine Bowls Club, but the rain hasn’t dampened spirits or stopped preparations for a busy festive season. On Friday and Saturday, members Andrew, Dave, and Mike dedicated their time to dethatching, scarifying, and maintaining the green, ensuring it’s in top condition to make the most of the anticipated rainfall. The club also played host to two lively Christmas parties over the weekend. On Saturday 7 December, the Council Sewerage and Water Dep
Read more
A strong turnout of 32 players gathered for the final competition of 2024, with some competing for the prestigious Men of the Month (MOM) 2024 title. The results, along with the Monthly Medal (MM) for December, will be announced at the presentation lunch next Tuesday at the Midge Point Tavern. This competition also served as the qualifier for the MOM for 2025. The scores were tight throughout, making for an exciting finish, and congratulations go to all the winners. This marked the final compet
Read more
The year is winding down, but it’s been a busy and rewarding time for members of the local bowls club. Tuesday’s social bowls winners were Lindy Suann, Sue Shearing, and Robyn Stitt, who defeated Gavin Charles and Margaret Wilson in a well-fought match. While the jackpot didn’t go off, players will have one final chance to claim the prize on Tuesday, December 10. If unclaimed, the tidy sum will carry over to next year. Behind the scenes, members have been hard at work harvesting and freezing man
Read more