Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
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Hi Everyone, It's crazy to think that this time six months ago I moved from Sydney to the Whitsundays to start my new life out here all on my own. I remember how I felt at the time, and the day before I was leaving, worried about making new friends, sad about leaving the friends I had made in Sydney, and apprehensive about whether this regional area would be for me. Despite the fear, deep down I was excited to see where this new path would lead. Now, fast-forward six months from the nervous R
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One local resident who has been through serious trauma this year is a whole lot happier after receiving the news that Whitsunday Regional Council is organising her family to visit over Christmas. Michelle Wardrope tragically lost her leg following a seemingly innocent fall on her driveway in April this year. The mum of one received a gash to her leg when she slipped on her driveway and went to hospital where the wound was cleaned and stitched before she was sent home. It was later that night
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Proserpine Youth Space marked an incredible 25 years of making a difference in the community with a spectacular celebration last Friday. The event was bursting with energy, featuring everything from trampoline fun and face painting to delicious sausage sizzles and cake. Locals of all ages gathered to celebrate this milestone, reflecting on the Youth Space’s vital role in the community. Mayor Ry Collins highlighted how, beyond the fun, the space provides essential support for young people facing
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A brand-new artisan distillery has opened in Airlie Beach to rave reviews, producing premium handcrafted gin and vodka with a distinctly Whitsundays twist. 74 Islands Distillery, nestled within the stunning Elementa Whitsundays venue in Airlie Beach, is distinguished by its unwavering commitment to exceptional quality and craftsmanship. What truly sets it apart is its dedication to the art of drinking well, elevating the experience with the use of reverse osmosis water and a showstopping copper
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Road users are reminded to take care when navigating areas where road re-sealing is underway at various locations over the next four months. The $7.8M road re-sealing project commenced this week at the Whitsunday Coast Airport Road and will continue to be rolled-put on specific roads across the region until March 2025. Council urges motorists to take care, stay alert and be considerate to others: “Please note, that as re-seals occur, line marking cannot be completed for approximately three we
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Earlier this week a new Red Bench was unveiled by Mayor Ry Collins at Shingley Beach in Cannonvale, as part of the Red Rose Foundation LGAQ Walk Against Domestic Violence campaign. It is one of four Red Benches that will be central places for reflection in the Whitsunday region. Other locations are set to include Lions Park, Collinsville; Case Park in Bowen, and Ken McPherson Park, Proserpine. Zonta Club of Whitsundays oversaw the installation of the Red Bench at Shingley Beach. The local not-f
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A spate of vehicle crimes over the weekend has prompted some local residents to reach out on social media to warn others and raise awareness. Technology has worked in the favour of one Mackay business owner who was able to track his stolen car to the Whitsundays and use the on-board GPS tracking device to help identify potential future locations where he suspects car thefts might occur. “We have followed it from Mackay to the place where it is now located,” said the post which was published on
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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
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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
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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.
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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