Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
This week's winning image comes from David Johnson, whose striking capture at Gunyarra, south of Proserpine, perfectly embodies this week's theme, "Bare Trees." Standing stark against the landscape, the leafless tree is a reminder that beauty can be found even in nature's simplest forms, as well as the rural background echoing the Whitsundays country style. A big congratulations to David and thank you to the members of the Whitsundays Amateur Photographers Facebook group for continuing to share such fantastic images from across the region. Now it's time to turn your lens towards next week's theme, "Fences." Whether it's a weathered cattle fence, a classic white picket, or something creative, we're looking forward to seeing your unique perspective.
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31st July ABH: Ed Sheeran Tribute Show, 7pm-10pm Grand View Hotel Bowen: Zed Charles Band, 8pm onwards Sorrento: Kaedan McCarthy, 4pm-7pm KC’s Bar & Grill: Andrew Baldanio, 8pm-10pm 1st August ABH: Geed’up, 2pm-5:30pm ABH: Ed Sheeran Tribute Show, 7pm-10pm Sorrento’s: Filippo, 4pm-7pm KC’s Bar & Grill: Retro Joe , 8pm-10pm 2nd August ABH: Geed’up, 2pm-5:30pm, ABH: Paul Fergus Morris, 6:30-9:30pm Sorrento’s: Kieran McCarthy , 4pm-7pm. Garden Bar: Kaedan McCarthy, 1:30pm-4:30pm KC’s Bar & Grill: Retro Joe , 8pm-10pm 3rd August Sorrentos: Will Heta, 4pm-7pm KC’s Bar & Grill: Paul Fergus Morris, 8pm-10pm 4th August Sorrentos: Will Heta, 4pm-7pm KC’s Bar & Grill: Louisa Taylor, 8pm-10pm 5th August Sorrentos: Will Heta, 4pm-7pm [Text Wrapping Break]KC’s Bar & Grill: Michael Hayes, 8pm-10pm 6th August ABH: Aaron Saxon, 6:30pm-9:30pm Sorrentos: Lucy Rose, 4pm-7pm KC’s Bar & Grill: Bear Brewer, 8pm-10pm
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The Proserpine Historical Museum welcomed extra visitors this Saturday, with locals discovering just how much history is tucked away inside one of the town's most treasured community attractions. Held as part of the museum's free Open Day marking 25 years on Main Street, the event gave visitors the chance to explore the extensive collection while learning about the Proserpine Historical Museum Society, which has spent more than four decades preserving the district's stories. Displays highlighting local identities and inventions proved particularly popular, with visitors fascinated to learn about figures including Sidney Cotton and Billy Sing, as well as the Proserpine connection to the invention of the louvre window and the story behind the town's giant bowl. Children kept busy searching the museum for handcrafted animals hidden throughout the displays, following a special activity worksheet created around pieces made by a former volunteer. Others enjoyed sitting in the museum's original theatre seats while classic films played on screen. The foyer featured a rolling presentation celebrating the 40 years of the Proserpine Historical Museum Society, alongside displays showcasing the volunteers' work and artwork by local artists. The visit was not complete without a stop for tea, coffee and homemade slices baked by volunteers using recipes from the society's Tried and True Recipe Book. Photo captions: Museum Day brought together a social crowd.
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Dale Last MP is reminding Bowen residents and the wider Burdekin electorate that the Play On! initiative is set to help more than 2,200 children across the region be a part of local sport through the Sports Vouchers program. Accessible across the Whitsundays, the initiative aims to reduce the cost of junior sports for families, and will see 2,256 vouchers redeemed through 50 registered activity providers across the Burdekin during the previous round. With the latest round of Play On! Sports Vouchers opening this week, the funding arrives as winter sporting competitions are underway and families continue to juggle the cost of participation. “Despite soccer, rugby league and netball holding the highest number of voucher participants across the state, with Burdekin’s 50 listed sport clubs, there are certainly plenty of opportunities for kids to get involved in a summer or winter sport,” Mr Last said. “Basically, if a child is aged between 5 and 17, and is named on a Medicare card then they are eligible.” The program has also been given long-term certainty, with the Queensland Government committing $62.5 million a year over the next four years to continue supporting grassroots sports participation in regional communities. “By providing this real cost of living relief, the Crisafulli Government is getting more kids playing sports and a continuation of the success the Burdekin has already seen on the national and international sporting stages,” Mr Last said. “This is a real cost of living relief that is getting kids active, supporting local clubs, and backing families in our community.” Photo caption: Photo caption: Dale Last MP and Former president for the Bowen Seagulls, Darren Piggott.
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Proserpine Mill processed 75,870 tonnes of cane for the week ending July 18th, with throughput above budget and bringing the season total to 347,316 tonnes. Average weekly CCS came in above budget, at 14.24 units.The highest CCS sample for the week was 16.35 units, from a rake of Q208 plant cane in the Lethebrook productivity district. Last week saw a welcome rise in bin weights with a weekly average of 9.52 tonnes, with Thursday recording an average of 9.72 tonnes of cane per bin for the day’s loading. Motorists are reminded to look out for cane trains and only cross cane rail lines at designated crossings.
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By Georgia McDonald Let’s play a game of musical chairs – the hot seat edition. Each week, I will pull up a chair with one of the talented local musicians who keep the Whitsundays singing, dancing and coming back for one more. This week, I sat down with soloist Andrew Baldino, known locally as Baldi, who first began performing in the Whitsundays 16 years ago, in fast-paced 10-day trips from Adelaide that would leave him feeling like he needed a holiday from his holiday. The clock would strike 11pm, the crowd would begin to gather and Andrew would take the stage with his band to play into the early hours at Paddy's Shenanigans in Airlie Beach, before getting up the next day to do it all over again. Over time, something changed. What started as a regular work trip became something more. The Whitsundays became more than just a pit stop to perform. Weeks spent here turned into whole winters as it became clear that Airlie Beach was somewhere Andrew could build a life around the music he loves. Today, Andrew still has his calendar full with bookings, but in-between gigs, he enjoys morning swims and time spent with his dog, having found a balance that allows him to enjoy days in nature, as well as nights in the bars. "I redid my relationship with the Whitsundays. I never used to completely understand when people called this place paradise," Andrew reflects. "But now I get it." After sixteen years of returning to the Whitsundays, Andrew has become a familiar face in the local music scene. He now plans his calendar months in advance, returning each winter to perform across venues throughout the region. Andrew notes that one of things that keeps many musicians like him coming back is that unlike many parts of Australia where gigs can be confined to weekends, the Whitsundays offers musicians daily opportunities to perform. While love for the place, and for the music, constitute major parts of the equation, Andrew has always approached music as a profession – because to make it work, you’ve got to be willing to hustle. Success, he says, comes from building a broad repertoire, gaining as much performance experience as possible and learning to “read the room” and understand what each audience needs before playing the first song. It’s advice that he now passes on to young musicians: "Don't just play songs you like. Think about who's in front of you.” His advice is reflected in the songs he chooses to perform, which bring together generations. When it comes to getting a crowd going, Andrew says there a few songs he can always rely on such as The Pina Colada Song, Valerie and Walking on Sunshine. Andrew credits much of his musical influence to one band - The Beatles. “I listened to a heap of The Beatles when I was younger. They are probably the most important to me as far as diversity and what they did, and of course, the amount of times I might refer to them in my brain.” As for what he is listening to himself, Andrew says in the last year, he discovered American country singer Don Williams. “He's very well known in the country scene, but I feel like he filled a massive gap in my country music knowledge. His songs are very simply beautifully crafted songs about love and life. So I'm a Don Williams fan at the moment.” You can catch Andrew this weekend: Friday 31st July – Magnums 3-6pm & KC’s 8pm onwards Saturday 1st August - Lola’s Bar 7:30PM Andrew’s Song Recommendation For The Week: ♫ Tulsa Time – Don Williams ♫
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Airlie Beach's Main Street will burst into colour, creativity and community spirit when the Club Whitsunday Street Parade returns as a highlight of this year's Cruise Whitsundays Great Barrier Reef Festival. From 5pm on Saturday 1st August, thousands of locals and visitors are expected to line the streets as spectacular floats, dazzling costumes and energetic performances celebrate the festival's 25th anniversary with a vibrant reef-inspired birthday party. This year's theme, 25th Birthday Celebration, invites participants to combine the magic of the Great Barrier Reef with a splash of silver to mark the festival's milestone year. Festival organisers are encouraging schools, sporting clubs, businesses and community groups to let their imaginations run wild, creating floats and costumes inspired by everything from colourful coral gardens and tropical fish to turtles, sea creatures and underwater party scenes. Whether marching in costume, performing, or showcasing a creative float, participants will help transform Airlie Beach into a moving celebration of reef life, with plenty of surprises along the way. The annual parade has become one of the Whitsundays' most loved traditions, bringing the community together in a colourful display of local pride while celebrating the natural wonder that makes the region famous. Those entering the parade will also compete for cash prizes and bragging rights across categories including Best Business Entry, Best Not-for-Profit Entry and Most Creative & Wacky. For spectators, the parade promises an unforgettable evening of entertainment, with the best views available from anywhere along Main Street or from the cafés, bars and restaurants lining the route. Whether you're taking part or simply cheering from the sidelines, this year's silver anniversary celebration is set to deliver one of the biggest and brightest street parties the Whitsundays has ever seen. What: Club Whitsunday Street Parade When: Saturday 1st August, 5pm Where: Main Street, Airlie Beach CAPTION: Proudly brought to you by Club Whitsunday, for one spectacular afternoon, Airlie Beach Main Street will transform into a giant 25th birthday celebration by the reef. Photo source: Great Barrier Reef Festival
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The Great Barrier Reef Festival will wrap up in spectacular style when the much-loved Recyclable Regatta returns to the Airlie Beach Foreshore on Sunday 2nd August, bringing a splash of creativity, friendly competition and plenty of laughs to the water. Following a morning of free entertainment and reef-inspired activities at the Tasman Holiday Parks Family Fun Day, festival-goers can head to the shoreline to cheer on teams as they paddle homemade rafts around the course using nothing but recyclable materials and determination. One of the festival's most popular traditions, the regatta challenges schools, community groups, tourism operators, businesses and groups of friends to design and build seaworthy rafts from recycled items before racing them around the foreshore in front of cheering crowds. From quirky raft designs and pirate costumes to dramatic sink-or-swim moments, the event is known as much for its humour as its ingenuity, with creativity often proving just as important as speed. This year, festival organisers are encouraging even more local businesses to join the action, turning the regatta into the ultimate team-building challenge where bragging rights are on the line alongside prizes. The competition features divisions for children, teenagers, adults and local businesses, making it an event the whole community can enjoy, whether on the water or watching from the beach. The regatta follows the popular Family Fun Day, which offers interactive reef-themed activities, educational displays, games, circus workshops, face painting and live entertainment, ensuring there's plenty happening across the foreshore before the racing begins. With colourful costumes, imaginative creations and plenty of community spirit, the Recyclable Regatta promises a fun-filled finale that perfectly captures the festival's celebration of the Great Barrier Reef, sustainability and the vibrant Whitsundays community. What: Recyclable Regatta When: 2nd August, 1pm Where: Airlie Beach Foreshore, Airlie Beach CAPTION: Get ready to build it, float it, and race it the Recyclable Regatta on 2nd August at the Airlie Beach Foreshore! Photo source: Great Barrier Reef Festival
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The magic of the Great Barrier Reef will come to life in the heart of Airlie Beach when the much-loved Immerse Art Installation returns as part of this year's Great Barrier Reef Festival. Running from 31st July to 2nd August, the free installation, sponsored by Ergon Energy, will transform the Airlie Beach Foreshore into an enchanting underwater wonderland, inviting visitors to wander beneath glowing corals, colourful marine creatures and spectacular light displays inspired by one of the world’s greatest natural treasures. Centred beneath Airlie Beach's iconic fig tree and stretching along the foreshore, Immerse has become one of the festival's signature attractions. What began as a single reef-inspired display has grown into an immersive experience, with themed zones including the popular Great Eight Tree and Estuary, alongside animated projections lighting up the Heart Hotel and artistic lanterns illuminating the foreshore entrance. Created by a talented team of local artists, the installation showcases stunning sculptural corals, fish, turtles and other reef life, all handcrafted from recycled plastics and marine debris. The striking works not only celebrate the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef but also highlight the importance of protecting it by giving discarded materials a second life. Festival organisers say the artwork reflects both the creativity of the Whitsundays community and a shared commitment to caring for the environment. Conceptualised by Art Director Margie Murphy the installation has been created by local and regional artists and members of the community, with pieces added annually since its inception in 2021. The core team of artists are Margaret Burgess, Anita Pender, Brigitte Peel and Liz Knight with Donna Maree Robinson creating the reef-themed animated projections. Whether visitors are admiring the intricate sculptures by day or experiencing the colourful illuminated displays after dark, Immerse promises a unique celebration of art, community and the natural beauty of the Great Barrier Reef. As the foreshore is transformed into a glowing marine wonderland, the installation offers the perfect opportunity for families, photographers and festivalgoers to explore, discover and experience the reef in a whole new light. What: Immerse Art Installations When: 31st July-2nd August Where: Airlie Beach Foreshore, Airlie Beach CAPTIONS: Children can explore the glowing reef-inspired sculptures during the Great Barrier Reef Festival's much-loved Immerse Art Installation, which transforms the Airlie Beach Foreshore into a vibrant underwater wonderland each evening. Photo source: Great Barrier Reef Festival Families can wander through the illuminated Immerse Art Installation from 31st July. Photo source: Great Barrier Reef Festival Visitors can admire the intricate reef-inspired sculptures during the day, with the Immerse Art Installation showcasing handcrafted artworks made from recycled plastics and marine debris along the Airlie Beach Foreshore. Photo source: Great Barrier Reef Festival
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After Beach Music winds down and the festival fireworks light up the night sky on Friday 8pm, the celebrations are set to continue. Bloom Festival will keep the party bouncing beachside, with the Reef Bar hosting a special DJ packed event in partnership with Bomba Events. The lineup includes Spanish techno DJ Jorch Jungle, who is currently touring Australia, and hard techno and bounce DJ Zuero. Adding to the experience, E.Motion will present Hypno Mandala and Buugeng Flow performances, while Inertia will showcase a mix of flow arts and movement. Things slow down on Sunday afternoon with the SOLLOS Sunday Session, running from 2pm to 6pm on the Airlie Beach Foreshore. Hosted by SOLLOS, the tropical Queensland agave farm that has grown Australia's first commercial Blue Weber agave, the session is a chance to relax by the water with live music and the farm's signature Australian Margarita. Whitsunday musicians Pluto Tango and Chris Booroff will bring the afternoon's entertainment with cool acoustics. Pluto Tango's mix of blues, folk, rock and contemporary music offers an easy soundtrack for a Sunday afternoon on the foreshore. With soulful vocals and a relaxed style, the Whitsunday act has become a popular choice at local venues and events. With years of performing around the region, Chris Booroff has become one of the Whitsundays' best-known local musicians. His blend of blues, rock and roots, paired with warm vocals and an easy stage presence, makes him a natural fit to help round out the festival weekend. Closing out the Great Barrier Reef Festival weekend, Australian indie favourites The Jungle Giants will bring infectious anthems to Magnums Hotel for the official Sunday night after party. Renowned for energetic live performances, the Brisbane band has built a loyal following with hits including She's a Riot, Heavy Hearted and Feel the Way I Do. Their appearance promises a memorable finish to the 25th annual festival weekend. Photo Captions: Photo 1- Loui Battour of Pluto Tango. Photo 2- Chris Booroff. Photo 3- Jungle Giants a few years ago at Love signs. Photo sourced: Jungle Giants Facebook.
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The Airlie Beach Foreshore is set to host an evening of live entertainment as Beach Music returns on Saturday 1st August as a part of the Great Barrier Reef Festival. Kicking off from 6pm, the $10 entry event will feature a mix of local favourites and touring acts, giving festival-goers another reason to stay in town after the parade winds its way through Main Street. Headlining the event is rock-country band Kingswood, whose roots span Melbourne and Nashville. Founded by Fergus Linacre and Alex Laska, the pair and their “Family Band” have been making music together since they were 11 and have since toured extensively throughout Australia and overseas. “We like to go little bit wild on stage. We've been around for a while and have done a lot of different genres so there's a bit in there for everyone,” Fergus said. Touring has become a way of life for Kingswood. After the COVID-19 lockdowns, the band even built its own tour bus to help tackle a run of 100 shows across the country. Airlie Beach holds a special place in their heart, with the group relishing the chance to perform in front of a Whitsunday crowd and spend time near the Great Barrier Reef. “Really it doesn't matter who's in front of us, we'll cater our set to make sure they have the best time of their life,” said Fergus. Bringing a change of pace to the evening is Mackay band Alchemunk, whose funk-inspired sound blends tight musicianship with an infectious stage presence. Expect driving basslines, and plenty of feel-good grooves. Kicking things off at 6pm is another Mackay based band, Founder, whose relaxed indie sound provides the perfect start to the evening. The four-piece band is known for catchy melodies, with a knack for leaving first-time listeners wanting to hear more long after the final song. Completing the lineup is Townsville singer-songwriter Chris Baker, a seasoned performer with nearly two decades of experience at venues and festivals across Australia. Drawing inspiration from artists including the Eagles, AC/DC, Metallica and Guns N' Roses, Baker blends rock, blues, country, indie, funk and soul into a versatile performance. Over the years, he has shared the stage with Pete Murray, You Am I, Clint Boge and Phil Emmanuel, performing both as a solo artist and with his band. Fans won't have to call it a night when Beach Music wraps up, with the Chris Baker Band keeping the festival atmosphere alive at Paddy's Shenanigans at the official after-party, giving revellers one more chance to dance well into the night. Adding a new element to this year's event, aerial performer Kara Enigma will wow audiences with two performances across the evening. The Whitsunday Foodservice Eat Street will return alongside the popular Reef Bar, which will keep drinks flowing from its foreshore location. Playing on Friday night on the main stage will be local youth band Category 5, four-piece outfit that has become a familiar face on the Whitsundays live music scene. Featuring Amber Hinschen, Declan Davy, Liam O'Neill and Ava Buckley, the band has spent the past four-and-a-half years performing at festivals, community events and venues across the region, with this being there fourth time performing at the Great Barrier Reef Festival. “It just feels like home, we love performing for the locals here and bringing more to the music scene in Airlie,” said Amber. The Young Whitsundays Got Talent 2024 and Fast Track Talent Quest 2025 Winners mix a playlist of indie rock, rock and pop covers to give festivalgoers a chill and up-beat drink. Photo captions: Photo 1- Kingswood. Photo 2- Alchemunk. Photo 3- Founder. (IF too cut, I’d do this one first, then just top to bottom) Photo 4- Chris Baker Band. Photo 5- Category 5.
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Living in the Whitsundays, we all know natural disasters are a matter of when not if. Whether it's a cyclone, flooding, bushfires or severe weather, we've proven time and again what our community is made of. We roll up our sleeves, look after our neighbours and get on with the job of rebuilding. That's the Whitsunday way. Last week I joined five other Queensland mayors in Melbourne to deliver one simple message on behalf of our communities: don't weaken the disaster funding arrangements regional Queensland relies on. Between us, we travelled more than 16,000 kilometres because this matters. The Whitsundays is one of Australia's premier tourism destinations. Tourism keeps local businesses open, puts food on family tables and supports thousands of local jobs. It's also why recovering quickly after a disaster is so important. Repairing roads, parks and public facilities is only part of the job. Just as important is restoring confidence. We need people to know the Whitsundays is open, safe and ready to welcome them back. If confidence disappears, visitors stay away. If visitors stay away, businesses hurt and local jobs are put at risk. The current disaster recovery arrangements have helped communities like ours bounce back after events such as Cyclone Debbie and, more recently, Cyclone Kirrily. They allow councils to restore essential infrastructure quickly and help communities get back on their feet sooner. That quick recovery is becoming even more important as we look ahead to our role as the Home of Olympic and Paralympic Sailing for Brisbane 2032. The world will be watching our region over the coming years, and we need to know that when the next disaster comes, and it inevitably will, we have a recovery system that gets us back on our feet quickly. This isn't about politics. It's about standing up for regional Queensland and making sure communities like ours aren't left worse off because of where we live. I'll always back the Whitsundays and continue working alongside councils across Queensland to protect the funding that helps our communities recover, supports local businesses and keeps people in local jobs. Because when disaster strikes, getting back on our feet quickly isn't just important, it's essential. That's what our community deserves, and that's what I'll keep fighting for.
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The new permanent swimming enclosure at Dingo Beach is now open, welcoming locals and visitors back to one of the Whitsundays' favourite coastal destinations. Rebuilt after being damaged during Cyclone Kirrily in 2024, the new enclosure was shaped by more than 600 community submissions and provides year-round protection from marine stingers. The project also pays tribute to Dingo Beach's history, with the original enclosure built by local residents in the 1960s.
Read moreRunning a business means there is always something competing for your attention – customers to serve, teams to support, problems to solve and decisions to make. So why take a day away from the business? Because the right conversations, ideas and connections can help you work on your business, not just in it. The 2026 Whitsunday Business Conference has been designed for business owners and leaders who want practical insights they can take back to the workplace – from improving cash flow and building stronger teams, to using technology smarter and creating opportunities for growth. Rather than theory or presentations that sit on a shelf, the program focuses on real challenges businesses are facing right now. For businesses navigating workforce pressures, Creating Teams That Speak Up, Contribute & Innovate session with Michele Tocci will explore how leaders can create workplaces where people feel confident to contribute, share ideas and perform at their best. Attendees will gain practical strategies to strengthen trust, engagement, and retention. For owners who feel like they’re working harder than ever but not seeing the return, Busy but broke? Profitable on paper but short on cash? With Gus Walsgott from the Small Business Financial Counselling Service North Queensland will unpack the financial traps that can catch out even successful businesses. The session will explore cash flow warning signs, profitability, and simple strategies to build stronger financial foundations. Looking to improve your visibility and attract more customers? Your Brand in Action, featuring Tolita Dukes (8 Seconds) and Melissa Ardern (The Creek Whitsundays), will share practical insights into marketing, AI, visibility and what is currently working for regional businesses. The day will finish with the Conference Long Lunch, proudly supported by Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine – an opportunity to step away from the day-to-day, connect with other business owners, discover new suppliers, and explore resources that can support your business. Featuring business exhibitor showcases, activations and networking opportunities, the Long Lunch is designed to create valuable conversations beyond the conference sessions. If you’re looking for practical ideas, fresh perspectives, and connections that can help your business move forward, the 2026 Whitsunday Business Conference is a day worth making time for. Event Details What: 2026 Whitsunday Business Conference When: 8:30am-3pm Thursday 27 August Where: PCYC and Club Whitsundays Full program and tickets online: https://www.whitsundaycoastchamber.com.au/whitsundays-business-conference/ Photo captions: Photo 1- Michelle Tocci. Photo’s supplied: Julia Evans. Photo 2- Gus Walsgott. Photo 3- Tolita Dukes. Photo 4- Melissa Ahern.
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Whitsundays businesses came together at Club Whitsunday last Thursday morning to hear practical tips on managing workplace issues and reducing risk. Hosted by the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry as the final Business Breakfast of the year, the event brought local professionals together to network and hear from workplace investigator Jason King, Director of Regional Queensland Investigations. Drawing on decades of investigative experience, Jason is a former Australian Federal Police Federal Agent and Victoria Police officer. Throughout his career, he has investigated workplace misconduct, fraud, bullying and harassment complaints, corporate risk, cyber-related matters and other sensitive organisational inquiries across both the public and private sectors. Jason outlined the stages these matters typically progress through, covering escalation, early warning signs, common mistakes, procedural fairness and evidence, when issues should be handled internally or referred externally, and the steps organisations should take in the first 24 hours. Using real Queensland case studies, he showed how seemingly minor workplace issues can quickly escalate when handled poorly, highlighting the value of acting early, documenting concerns properly and making decisions based on evidence rather than assumptions. Jason said businesses are better off dealing with concerns early, encouraging workplaces where staff feel comfortable speaking up before small issues become bigger ones. Photo captions: Photo 1- Allan Milostic, Gus Walsgott, Adrian Bram and Clay Bauman. Photo Credit: Zach Houtenville. Photo 2- Julia Evans, Jason King, Allan Milostic and Trish Jandt. Photo 3- Giulian Grasso, Sue Birch, Marlene Reiffel, Sheri Flynn and event guest. Photo 4- Fiona Erquiaga & Cait Fleming. Photo 5- Event guest and Mary-Anne Sullivan.
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Ocean Rafting Hamilton Island celebrated their first birthday with an afternoon of food, drinks and entertainment alongside the people who helped make the milestone possible. Held at The Palms, Hamilton Island, the event brought together staff, industry partners and supporters to celebrate the business's first year of operation after acquiring the location from Hamilton Island Watersports. Guests enjoyed a plethora of great food, drinks, live entertainment, a mid-party joyride as the Ocean Rafting team thanked those who have supported the venture since its launch. “I think it's absolutely awesome,” Ocean Rafting CEO Cole Claxton said at the party. “Having everyone here mingling, our staff are all here to support us… It's a beautiful winter evening, it's really nice.” With a first year on Hamilton Island now complete, the team is looking forward to building on the success of the past 12 months while continuing to deliver the Ocean Rafting experience that has become a Whitsundays favourite over the past 28 years. "It's our first birthday on Hammo, but we've got 28 years of experience behind us in Airlie," Cole said. "I really think we've shaken it up a bit and brought our own signature to Hamilton Island. “It's exciting to be able to do what we do from such an amazing place, and we're looking forward to seeing where it goes from here." Photo captions: Photo 1- Ocean Rafting Team. Photo credit: Zach Houtenville. Photo 2- Dan and Josh from Happy Travels chilling with Charles form Sailing Whitsundays. Photo 3- The heads of the family business, Peter and Jan Claxton. Photo 4- Julie Young, Sue Baker and Roxy Miller.
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Nearly three decades after Bowen woman Dianne Angwin was murdered in her home, detectives have renewed their search for information, doubling the reward to $500,000 as a cold case review and new forensic testing breathe new life into the investigation. Dianne Angwin moved to Bowen from Victoria in 1995. Following the breakdown of her marriage, she moved in with her friend Edith “Edie” Lay. Just over 2 years later, around 12.30am on December 2nd, Edie reported being woken by an unknown man standing over her bed with one hand covering her mouth and a knife in the other. Dianne appeared at the bedroom doorway before running from the intruder, who chased after her. Moments later, she was fatally stabbed in the neck. A neighbour rushed Dianne to Bowen Base Hospital, where she was pronounced dead on arrival. What followed was an investigation that saw police obtaining over 100 witness statements. A closer look at the home left police with no signs of forced entry or disturbance, with no property reported stolen. The reward for information leading evidence for who might be responsible has increased from $250,000 to $500,000. Detectives from the Homicide Cold Case Investigation Team have begun new forensic testing on evidence collected from the scene and will re-interview witnesses and persons of interest in Bowen, Cairns and Victoria. “Dianne’s housemate, Edie, died in 2022. As part of our review, police have identified witnesses who Edie confided in, confirming she knew the identity of the man and had not told police at the time of the offence as she was scared for her own safety,” Detective Senior Sergeant Kentwell said. “We would also like to speak to anyone who has information regarding a relationship Dianne was involved in with a local married man, who had been seen at her unit. “Information suggests that around the time of Dianne’s murder, she was actively encouraging him to leave his wife so that they could overtly continue the relationship. “There are people out there with information. Relationships and loyalties change, and I would encourage anyone with information, big or small, to contact police. Bowen residents with information relevant to Dianne’s Murder are encouraged to attend mobile police facilities and talk with investigators. Anyone with information should contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au. Photo Captions: Photo 1- Dianna Angwin. Photos supplied: Queensland Police. Photo 2- Dianna with her daughter. Photo 3- The Unit where the crime happened in 1997.
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By Ruandi Van der Merwe Alinta Energy has officially pulled plans to build wind turbines across the southern zone of its proposed Mt Challenger Wind Farm project, marking a major turning point for the local community after nine months of intense advocacy. Following six months of LIDAR wind monitoring in the southern area of the proposed project, Alinta Energy have concluded that the wind resource in this area is not strong enough to support turbines, ultimately causing the cancellation of the plans. "The southern part of the Mount Challenger wind farm does not have sufficient amount of wind in order to progress with the project development in the southern part of the project around Kelsey Creek," Alinta Energy General Manager Development Andres Maasing stated. “And what that would mean is as a result of those assessments and studies we will be focusing all of our efforts for the wind farm on the northern part.” Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP has welcomed confirmation from Alinta Energy that proposed wind turbines will be removed from the southern portion of the Mt Challenger Wind Farm project, having advocated for the Whitsunday Wind Farm Action Group over the previous months. Ms Camm described the decision as a significant win for Kelsey Creek residents and the wider Whitsunday community. “This outcome belongs to the residents, landowners and neighbours who came together, raised their concerns and refused to let their voices be ignored,” Ms Camm said. “While assessments are continuing for the northern area of the Mt Challenger project, today’s announcement demonstrates the importance of genuine community engagement. “I will continue to stand with our community and advocate for renewable energy projects to be placed in appropriate locations - with proper consideration for local residents, productive agricultural land and our environment.” Ms Camm is inviting members of the community to celebrate the removal of the southern section of the proposed Mt Challenger Wind Farm with a community BBQ on Sunday, 2nd August at the Peter Faust Dam BBQ area. Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox also praised the dedication of local residents standing together to protect the region’s natural landscape. “This outcome is a testament to the incredible strength and unity of our local community,” Mr Willcox said. “When everyday people stand up, attend meetings, and demand better for their area, energy proponents and governments are forced to listen.” While welcoming the removal of turbines from the proposed location, Mr Willcox noted that Alinta Energy is continuing feasibility assessments on the northern portion of the site. “While we celebrate this victory today, we cannot afford to be complacent,” He stated. Alysha Lee, a local farmer whose property sits adjacent to the scrapped southern site, has been leading the community action group opposing the wind farm. She described the news as a massive milestone for families who felt blindsided when the project was first unveiled last year. "This is a very significant deal for our community today," Ms Lee said. "Our family was two weeks away from moving back into our renovated farmhouse when we got this letter in the mail telling us about this elusive Mt Challenger wind farm. “We haven't enjoyed a single day in our newly renovated house without the threat of a wind farm encroaching on our home." The community campaign gathered more than 6,000 petition signatures and secured backing from local, state, and federal representatives. "The community has had to fight incredibly hard over the past nine months to make sure our voice was heard," Ms Lee added. "To have local advice tell us to strap in for two to three years, and to achieve this in nine months, is huge. It's a moment to take a breath and breathe." Alinta Energy will continue with its ongoing assessments for the northern area of the Mt Challenger proposal, and has stated it will listen closely to the Whitsunday community throughout the feasibility stage of the project. What? Wind Farm Removal Celebration: Community BBQ hosted by Amanda Camm MP When? Sunday 2nd August, 11.30am Where? Peter Faust Dam BBQ Area The Whitsunday Wind Farm Action Group with Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox. The group campaigned against wind farm projects proposed close to Proserpine, some of which are still ongoing. Photo supplied
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The tragedy that forever changed the Whitsundays was honoured this Sunday 26th July, as a permanent memorial to the four Australian Army soldiers killed in the Bushman 83 helicopter crash was unveiled at Shute Harbour lookout before their families, Defence personnel and the wider community. The Bushman 83 Memorial stands overlooking the waters where the Australian Army MRH-90 Taipan crashed during Exercise Talisman Sabre on July 28th 2023, claiming the lives of Captain Danniel Lyon, Lieutenant Maxwell Nugent, Warrant Officer II Phillip Laycock and Corporal Alexander Naggs. The unveiling, dedication and blessing of the Memorial brought together representatives from each of the four soldiers' families. Alongside them was Governor of Queensland Her Excellency the Honourable Dr Jeannette Young AC PSM, Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox, State Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm, Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins, veterans, serving defense personnel, first responders and members of the wider Whitsunday community. “It was an incredibly moving moment that puts into perspective the immense, lasting sacrifice borne by the families left behind,” said Andrew Willcox MP on Facebook. Operation Pilgrimage group approached the Whitsundays Regional Council over a year ago, in hopes of placing the memorial in its rightful home. "The location is symbolic, it's in the Whitsundays, which is where the accident happened,” Allan said. “If we put it down in Canberra or somewhere over the aviation hangar in Sale, Victoria, forget it." Operation Pilgrimage was established more than 30 years ago by former military personnel with the aim of preserving Australia's military heritage and those who have been lost, permanently cementing their memories in places of historical significance. The Bushman 83 Memorial is the group's 45th project, with Allan and the team making multiple reconnaissance trips to the Whitsundays to select the site. While he commended the council for its cooperation and teamwork in bringing the project to life, he said his foremost priority was ensuring the memorial did justice to the four soldiers and the families who continue to carry the weight of their loss. “I've met all of them, spoken to them all and they all knew what I wanted to do,” Allan said. "One of the things that you can't control is how things are with the relatives, the wives, the fathers, that was a real concern." Considerable care was also taken to ensure each of the four soldiers was given equal prominence on the memorial, regardless of rank. Allan said the men had lives and responsibilities beyond their military service. “They were not only career soldiers, but they were family men,” he said. “They had children, they had a house, they had all the normal things that every young couple has.”
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Last Saturday, the Bowen PCYC Youth Leadership Team worked together on their monthly beach cleanup, spending an hour and a half tackling the shores of Rose Bay. The group weren’t afraid of getting their hands dirty, getting into every nook and cranny to find rubbish trapped between the rocks. Along the way, they had plenty of fun, connected to the environment, and enjoyed each other's company. The monthly beach cleanups were put in motion by the youths themselves. “They started it,” said Community Development Officer Kymbellie Butler. “They came up with the idea and I just made it work for them. “It helps them to create a healthier and more sustainable community while inspiring others to care for their environment, which they would love to do. That's their goal.” The PCYC’s next cleanup will take place next month at Mellon's Lagoon, as they continue to make a difference and inspire more locals to roll up their sleeves and help keep Bowen's beautiful coastline clean for generations to come.
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The 2026 Mayor's Charity Ball brought together faces from across the community to raise money for BMA CQ Rescue. Held at Proserpine Entertainment Centre, this year's Whispers of the West theme celebrated the region's rural roots, with guests embracing western-inspired fashion. Bolo ties, broad-brimmed hats and tweed jackets were paired with flowing prairie dresses, fringed garments and polished cowboy boots, in a stylish nod to country fashion. “It looks pretty fantastic here,” Mayor Ry Collins said at the event. “A lot of people probably forget that we are 95% rural here in the Whitsundays. “We have a lot of rodeos every year, there's really cowboy culture and it’s really nice to celebrate that here tonight.” While the evening was filled with fun and celebration, its lasting impact came through its purpose, raising vital funds for BMA CQ Rescue. The community-funded rescue helicopter service operates around the clock, providing lifesaving care, search and rescue missions, and emergency response across Central and North Queensland. “Of course, the underlying purpose of the night is that we help each other out,” Mayor Collins said. “Anyone who has lived here for a period of time has seen that helicopter go over and what that means is they're out trying to save someone’s life. “It’s important work, in the central Queensland region, we see more visits from CQ Rescue then any other region. “That could be from saving a mine worker, a truck rolling over on a farm, a tourist in distress on the islands, they do real important work when someone' s at their worst, so it’s something really worth supporting.” Mayor Collins also acknowledged the event's sponsors and the local business community for their ongoing support, crediting them with helping make the annual fundraiser a success. So proud that our business community in particular, and such a wonderful range of sponsors are here to support. A highlight of the evening was the charity auction, where some of the region's most generous supporters dug deep to bid on a range of exclusive items. The auction featured regional artwork, a signed and framed Cowboys jersey, a private tour of the BMA CQ Rescue base, dinner with Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP at Parliament House, and many other unique prizes. Following dinner, guests were treated to a whip-cracking performance, a spectacular fireworks display and an evening of dancing, with many trying their hand at square dancing as the celebrations continued. By night's end, the Mayor's Charity Ball had once again showcased the Whitsundays' strong community spirit, bringing people together in support of a service that saves lives across the region. Photo caption: The Who’s Who of the Whitsundays Wild West. Photo supplied: Mayor Ry Collins.
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Runners get ready for the start of Jo’s 61 steps in very cool but sunny conditions. Photo supplied Local runners took on the Mackay Road Runners Jo's 61 Steps event on Sunday morning, tackling challenging 5km and 10km courses through the steep streets of Mt Pleasant. Despite the event's name, organisers joked it had since been confirmed there were actually 70 steps, with good-natured blame placed on the absent club president for the earlier miscount. The course wound through Annie Wood Avenue, Pollock and High streets, and Norris Road, starting from Gordon White Library. Fresh from the Gold Coast Marathon, Alana Knezevic was the first runner across the finish line after opting for the 5km course as she prepares for the Sydney Marathon in five weeks' time. Congratulations were also extended to local athletes who competed in the Airlie Running Festival, where ideal conditions greeted runners in the Whitsundays. Sunday 26th July Make this your must-do event next weekend, with all participants welcome—there's no need to be a member of the Mackay Road Runners or Mackay Cycling Club. Events include the M-Test Open King & Queen of the Mountain (6.4km), the Podiatry Mackay/Laura Pettifer Inspirational Under 18 Junior King & Queen of the Mountain (3km), and the Torque Tyres & Trailers Cycle Race(6.4km). All events begin at 7am, following a one-minute silence in memory of talented triathlete Laura Pettifer, who tragically passed away in 2008 following a downhill cycling training ride. The course starts at Netherdale and finishes at the Eungella Chalet. Runners must register online by 6pm on Saturday 25th July, while cyclists should refer to the registration link for contact details. Organisers look forward to welcoming participants to the challenging but rewarding annual event, with post-race celebrations at the Eungella Chalet, where breakfast will be available for purchase. A special thank you was also extended to Tess and the team for their hospitality. Contributed by Janelle Tilse
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The all-day Novice X Imp Pairs Competition was played last Saturday with players attending from Townsville, Bowen and Airlie Beach, with 16 pairs competing. Outright winners were local partnership and lifelong friends Susan Ross and Vicki Howard. Susan and Vicki have known each other for over 40 years and began their Bridge life together six years ago. This was a popular win, which was celebrated by President Frances Brown, Convener Anne Lutz and all in attendance. Susan and Vicki are great contributors to the club and also bring laughter and joy along with their wonderful culinary skills. Congratulations Susan and Vicki, Well Done! Weekly Results Monday 13th July 2026 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points NWP N/S E/W 1st Ming Ting / David Ting 1st Mary Rose Ramsden / Patrick Rasmussen 2nd Edward Kliese / Diane Stokes 2nd Joy Hold / Rodney Miles 3rd Helen Van Den Breok / Jan Harris 3rd Karen Caldwell / Sue Mayer-Miller Tuesday Evening 14th July 2026 – 4 Table One Winner Green Points 1st Martin Pearce / Glen Cocup 2nd Mick King / John McGee 3rd Ann Whitmore / Frances Brown 4th Susan Gibson / Karen Caldwell Wednesday 15th July 2026 – Founders Teams Week 1 of 3 – 10 Table Mitchell Green Points Team Players 1st Sheedy Terry Sheedy, Janelle Conroy, Noel Bugeia, Lorna Shuttlewood 2nd Poole Kath Poole, Josie Crowley, Monica Darley, Barbara Taite 3rd Rasmussen Patrick Rasmussen, Mary Rose Ramsden, Diane Holewa, Max Holewa 4th Ting Ming Ting, David Ting, Debra Goodchild, Eric Goodchild Thursday Evening 16th July 2026 –- 3 Table One Winner Green Points 1st Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless 2nd Julie O’Neill / Jan Harris 3rd Martin Pearce / Adrian Westcott Friday 17th July 2026 –- 9 Table Mitchell Green Points 1st Helen Van Den Breok / Christine Nice 1st Richard Wix / Geoff Taylor 2nd Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia 2nd John McGee / Mick King 3rd Ming Ting / David Ting 3rd Nancy Martin / Kath Poole 4th Sandy Patterson / Eric Goodchild 4th Martin Pearce / Gwen Liddell Saturday 18th July 2026 – Novice X Imps Pairs 8 Tables 16 Pairs Red Points 1st Vicki Howard / Susan Ross 2nd Glen Cocup / Ian Vary 3rd Rod Miles / Joy Hold 4th Toni Barrel / Mary Overall 5th Linda Priday / Jill Brabon 6th Christine Fitzpatrick / Colleen Riddel Saturday 18th July 2026 –- 9 Table Mitchell Green Points N/S E/W 1st Mary Rose Ramsden / Chris Nice 1st Alan Brown / Frances Brown 2nd Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless 2nd Geoffrey Patterson / Patrick Rasmussen 3rd Anne Lutz / Geoff Taylor 3rd Ken Seaniger / Diane Morgan 4th Barbara Tait / Patricia Garner 4th Susan Wright / Lorna Shuttlewood Contributed by Joy Block Anne with Winners Vicki, Susan and President Frances. Photo supplied
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Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton visited Mackay Pony Club on Monday 20th July, to highlight the upcoming second round of the Queensland Government’s Play On vouchers, which provide financial support to help children aged five to 17 participate in sport and recreational activities. The $200 vouchers can help families cover costs such as registration and membership fees, uniforms, equipment and personal sporting gear. According to Mr Dalton, more than 9,300 children across the Mackay and Whitsunday region have already benefited from the program, with the next round opening on Monday, 27th July. The initiative aims to make sport more accessible for families facing rising costs, while encouraging children to step away from screens, get active, socialise and build friendships. “It’s a really great opportunity,” Mr Dalton said, encouraging parents to get involved in the next round as soon as possible. He said the program could help children access a wide range of activities, from pony club and golf to cadets and football. “We want to be able to give every child as much support as possible – especially in sport - because we know how beneficial it can be,” he said. Play On! Sports Vouchers have also made an impact across Queensland, with more than 293,800 children supported through the program in its first year. More than 3,750 sporting clubs across the state now accept the vouchers, with almost 2,500 also offering disability programs. Soccer, rugby league and netball were the most popular sports among participating children, while 13,917 vouchers were provided to children and young people with a disability, representing a 33 per cent increase compared with the previous voucher program. Girls also accounted for 129,050 vouchers, which has seen an increase of 30 per cent. For Mackay Pony Club Chief Instructor Tracey Camilleri, the vouchers can make a significant difference, particularly for families with more than one child involved in sport. “Sometimes it can be the difference between kids participating or not,” she said. Ms Camilleri said equestrian sport provides children with lessons in responsibility, as caring for a horse requires daily commitment and care. “There’s a deeper level of responsibility when kids are looking after an animal, and from what we’ve seen – that connection to the horse – can be really great for them,” she said. She said the benefits extended beyond competition, with children able to enjoy the outdoors, develop partnerships with their horses and find an outlet from the pressures of school and everyday life. Ms Camilleri, who has been passionate about horse-riding since she was a young girl, said: “Just being out in the fresh air, and dealing with an animal and getting a great response to learning how to build a partnership is something quite special.” The vouchers can also help young riders progress further, allowing families to put funding towards coaching, equipment and competition opportunities that may otherwise be out of reach. “Without these vouchers, some parents are sort of limited to how much they can do for their child in a sport, especially amongst the cost-of-living pressures,” Ms Camilleri said. For families interested in taking advantage of the next round, Play On vouchers offer an opportunity to help children get involved, stay active and discover a sport they can enjoy and grow with. Play On! Sports Vouchers are helping Mackay and Whitsunday children overcome cost barriers, get active and discover the benefits of sport, with the next round opening July 27th. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Read moreLast Sunday saw six bushwalkers driving about 80 km north of Mackay to access the Cathu State Forest, and then to climb to the prominent feature known as Castle Rock. The leader of the group was Ken Fihelly, who spends half of each year participating in the Mackay Bushwalkers’ Club activities before escaping south to avoid the summer heat. The walk started steadily, but soon large rocks and thick vegetation on a moderately steep slope made progress difficult. Once the ridge was reached the climb became less steep and the vegetation changed to open forest. Attractive cycads were plentiful, and the morning tea spot afforded great views looking westwards towards the top of the range. On this walk, lunch is usually enjoyed on an impressive sloping slab close to the big ‘thumb’, and this tradition was continued, with great views across the valley being presented. The descent chosen offered some steep rocky terrain, but was easier than the alternative, and after emerging from the bush the hikers had a short easy walk back to the cars. Phone 0429 363 929 for information about how to join the organisation, and upcoming walks which include Sydney Heads, Red Cliff Island and St Helen’s Creek. Contributed with thanks by Carole Weekes
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