Airlie Beach has won Bronze in the Small Top Tourism Town category at the Australian Top Tourism Town Awards in Canberra on Wednesday 3 September. This is a huge award on the national scale and Bowen was also a nominee for the Top Tourism Town. Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor was in Canberra for the announcement and said he was incredibly proud to see Airlie Beach recognised as the third best Small Tourism Town in the nation at the 2025 Australian Top Tourism Town Awards. “This award is more
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Good Deed Feed In the spirit of community connection, Bowen Meals on Wheels received some extra helping hands this week as part of National Meals on Wheels Day. Whitsundays Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins, Councillors Michelle Wright (Deputy Mayor, Whitsunday Regional Council), John Finlay (Division 6) joined Christine and the rest of the Bowen Meals on Wheels team to assist with meal deliveries across town. The group spent the day delivering warm meals, friendly smiles, and cheerful convers
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Hi Everyone! I’m back from my travels around Western Australia and the Northern Territory and I’m excited to get stuck in again. The trip was nothing short of incredible. There were plenty of long drives, but even more unforgettable views, gorges, towns and people. I feel so grateful to have had the chance to see more of this beautiful country and to experience a true Aussie road trip. Along the way I picked up plenty of travel stories, tips and advice that I can’t wait to share in Ruth2Reef
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At around midday on Sunday 31 August the Queensland Fire Department were made aware of a fire near Shute Harbour Road, Airlie Beach. A smoke issue was given but Queensland Fire Department announced on Facebook that no properties were at risk, but the smoke should be avoided. “Stay inside and close windows and doors as smoke could be harmful.” Was the advice given on the Facebook page. A Queensland Fire Department spokesperson confirmed the fire was put out at around 4:05pm on Sunday 31 August
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Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue is urging for more foster carers to step forward. Unfortunately, they have been left in the position where they have been turning away animals. With every foster home already full, the rescue centre is struggling to keep up with desperate requests even for animals facing euthanasia. The rescue centre covers vet work, food, and ongoing support, while foster carers provide love, safety, and a temporary home. Every time someone fosters, it means one more dog or cat
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The Bowen Gumlu Growers Gala Dinner and Awards was held last weekend, bringing together the people who power the region’s vital agricultural industry. Among those in attendance were Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins and his wife Mel, who joined local growers, industry leaders and special guests for an evening of recognition and celebration. The event highlighted the hard work, innovation, and commitment of the farming community, with several individuals and businesses acknowledged fo
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Last weekend the Queensland Police force deployed two horses to the streets of Airlie Beach. Sergeant (Sgt) Ben Bassingthwaighte said the Brisbane based Queensland Mounted Police unit were in Airlie Beach and the surrounding areas in relation to high visibility controls, with the main focus of being visible in the community and being able to offer support. “Horses are still relevant, even amongst modern technology, in that they're highly visible,” he said. “They're there to provide safety for
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At the Whitsunday Regional Council Ordinary Meeting on Wednesday 27th August Mayor Ry Collins and Councillors voted 5–2 against the proposed Dinosaur Activity Centre development in Airlie Beach. Mayor Ry Collins said the proposed mini golf activity was refused for a variety of reasons, including aesthetic, parking concerns, and a community petition that was heard by council. “We all want to see new land-based activities come into Airlie Beach that give locals and visitors something fun to do,
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A rare opportunity is now on the market, with just 13 hillside lots offering sweeping views of the iconic Whitsundays, priced from $495,000. With premium coastal land across the Whitsundays becoming increasingly scarce, buyers are turning their attention to Airlie Summit, one of the region’s last elevated masterplanned communities offering sweeping ocean views and a rare chance to build in a blue-chip location. The Panorama Release, nestled within Alder’s $60 million hillside community, has alr
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It has been a big few weeks for Bowen, with our community well and truly kicking goals on both the agriculture and tourism fronts. Two very different but equally important parts of our economy have been in the spotlight and both have done us proud. Last weekend I attended the Bowen Gumlu Growers Gala Dinner and Awards, a fantastic celebration of the people who drive our agriculture industry. It was a great opportunity to spend time with many of our Whitsunday region’s leading growers, and to h
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As part of Bendigo Bank — Australia’s most trusted bank — Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine delivers the products, technology and security of a big bank while staying true to what matters most: personalised service and reinvesting profits back into our community. Unlike many financial institutions, we are independently owned and operated with one clear mission — to support the Whitsundays. Over the past seven years, we’ve proudly contributed more than $249,000 into local schools, social prog
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When it comes to recycling, keeping it loose makes all the difference. Bagged recycling can’t be properly sorted at recycling facilities; in fact, it can damage the sorting equipment and can sometimes mean the whole load is sent straight to landfill. By placing your hard plastics, steel, aluminium, glass, paper and cardboard loose in the yellow bin, you’re helping make sure these items get recycled into useful new products, like park benches and planter boxes. Keeping your recycling loose is a
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Tourism Whitsundays is proud to showcase local operators leading by example in environmental responsibility, proving that world-class experiences and conservation go hand in hand. Over at Daydream Island Resort and Living Reef, the Living Reef team is literally growing the future. Their coral restoration program sees new life planted into Lovers Cove, where guests can snorkel among thriving reefs they've helped create. Wings Sailing Charters has earned Advanced Eco certification, ensuring ever
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Get ready for a splash of colour and community fun at the Coral Sea Marina annual Colour Fun Run on Saturday, 13 September, as part of Queensland Child Protection Week 2025. Organised by Whitsunday Counselling & Support (WC&S), this free, action-packed event at the Marina Gardens from 9am to 12pm promises a morning full of laughter, family activities, and vibrant festivities. Participants can enjoy live music, face painting, a sausage sizzle, kid-friendly games, and the iconic colourful ‘fun ru
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Tec-NQ House grade 11 boarding student Caleb has his sights set firmly on the automotive trade, splitting his week between the classroom, paid work, and hands-on experience at the Townsville Audi and Porsche dealership just down the road from Tec-NQ House boarding campus. “I got to work on a timing belt,” said Caleb. “Each day I went to work experience, I walked because it was just up the road.” Time in a prestigious workshop has given him confidence and clarity. “I get to help the workers in
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The Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre officially opened their Food Bank on Monday 1st September, a project that has been in the works for the last 12 months. The Food Bank, funded by the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre’s op shop and sponsorship by North Queensland Bulk Ports and the Whitsunday Regional Council, is open Monday, Wednesday, Friday, 9am – 11am. Executive Officer of the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre Rebecca Woods said she anticipates more products to come in that will extend their
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In a powerful demonstration of community compassion, the Bowen Community Centre, led by Sally Roberts with support from Lauren Miller and Alison Byde of Abbot Point Operations, served 443 hot dogs to locals during a recent outreach event aimed at supporting people experiencing homelessness. The event, on Tuesday 26 August, was made possible through the generous donation of produce by Andrew, manager of Woolworths, along with the enthusiastic participation of local businesses and schools. Each h
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Friday 5 September Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm) Grand View Hotel: DJ Night (from 8pm) KC's: Bear Brewer (from 8pm) Saturday 6 September Airlie Beach Hotel: Big Stadium Rock (2pm – 5.30pm) Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm) Grand View Hotel: Daybreak (from 8pm) KC's: Chris Booroff (from 8pm) Sunday 7 September Airlie Beach Hotel: Big Stadium Rock (2pm – 5.30pm) Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30pm – 9.30pm) Grand View Hotel: Brother Hollow (4pm - 8pm) KC's:
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September 5 Don River Dash 300 Day 1, Various Along Bowen’s Don River, 4:00pm-10:00pm 3 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp. 6 Don River Dash 300 Day 2, Various Along Bowen’s Don River, 4:00pm-10:00pm **7 Father’s Day ** 7 Don River Dash 300 Day 3, Various Along Bowen’s Don River, 4:00pm-10:00pm 7 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am 9 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am 9 Tech Help, C
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Paddy may only be six months old, but this Bull Arab-x pup already has a heart full of love to give. Rescued from the pound alongside his brother, Paddy now finds himself on his own for the first time after his brother was adopted. While he’s still adjusting, this sweet boy is eager to find a forever family to call his own. If ever there was a dog who deserves a happily-ever-after, it’s Paddy. With his gentle nature and playful spirit, he’s the perfect mix of sunshine and snuggles — happy to so
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Airlie Beach has become a second home for rock performer Dellacoma Rio, celebrated for his high-energy tribute shows and as the frontman for the INXS Revived band. The acclaimed artist has developed a devoted fan base at the Airlie Beach Hotel and is once again returning on Saturday 20 September, and Sunday 21 September, from 2 pm to 5:30 pm. The shows promises to be a powerful celebration of both Michael Hutchence and the iconic INXS catalogue but also aims to recreate the band’s legendary li
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If there are two things every good tradie loves, it’s a bacon-and-egg brekkie and a yarn over a hot coffee. That’s exactly what’s on the menu when Porters Mitre 10 Whitsunday hosts the next Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry Pop Up Chamber on Friday 12 September from 9am to 11am. This free, drop-in event is all about bringing the Whitsundays business community together – no speeches, no fuss, just great food, fresh coffee from McMoon Coffee Van, a StarFM outdoor broadcast, and a chanc
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Day Of Insights, Ideas, And Connection The Whitsunday Business Conference held at TAFE Queensland Cannonvale Campus last Thursday, was a huge success. Chamber President Allan Milostic said the event was sold out and feedback was outstanding. “This year’s Conference was a sell-out, with 120 registrations representing 70 organisations across the Whitsundays. Feedback has been outstanding – more than 75% of attendees told us they loved the day, and everyone has walked away with actionable ideas t
Read moreHello everyone! After an incredible five weeks exploring the Northern Territory and Western Australia, Ruth2Reef is back! There were so many unforgettable moments on my travels, but one that truly stands out was swimming with humpback whales on the Ningaloo Reef. I joined an eco tour and was lucky enough to get so close that one almost brushed me with its pectoral fin! I’m excited to share stories, travel tips, and insights from my journey, along with the inspiring environmental initiatives I
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The humpback whales have arrived to the Whitsundays on mass and the breeding season has begun. A female who wants to mate will slap her pectoral fins on the surface and make a trumpeting noise to signal to the males. Males in the Whitsundays are often in pods of 2 - 4 males. If they hear a female signaling, they will move very fast in her direction. Often multiple groups can be seen moving towards her at speed. Once the males reach the female, they will chase her demonstrating their fitness a
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