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Collinsville is gearing up for one of its biggest community events of the year, with the 2026 Collinsville Bacon Busters set to take over the Collinsville Football Grounds this Saturday 22nd August. Celebrating “A Decade of Boars, Bands & Bikes”, this year’s event promises a full day and night of competition, entertainment and community spirit, with festivities kicking off from 9am. At the heart of the action will be the much-anticipated Bacon Busters boar competition and weigh-in, alongside a packed program featuring the popular bikekhana, touch football competition, dog jump, ute competition and iron man events. Market stalls, food, a licensed bar, entertainment and activities will keep spectators busy throughout the day, while younger attendees can also get involved through rides and a colouring competition. Entry for spectators is just a gold coin donation, helping organisers keep the event affordable and accessible for the wider community. Behind all the fun is an important cause, with Bacon Busters organised as a not-for-profit event by the Collinsville State High School Parents and Citizens Association. For the past nine years, Bacon Busters has served as the P&C's major fundraiser, raising more than $300,000 to help broaden educational opportunities for students at Queensland's smallest standalone high school. Funds raised over the years have supported school camps and excursions, sporting equipment, outdoor seating, air conditioning, computers, the senior learning centre and the school's positive reward program. In 2026, fundraising efforts will continue to support the needs of students and staff, with a particular focus on technology. Beyond supporting the school, Bacon Busters has grown into an event that brings the wider Collinsville community together for a day of friendly competition, entertainment and plenty of local pride. Those wanting to compete in the boar competition or bikekhana are encouraged to register ahead of Saturday, with bikekhana entry costing $5. What: 2026 Collinsville Bacon Busters When: Saturday 22nd August, 9am Where: Collinsville Football Grounds, Collinsville CAPTION: Collinsville Bacon Busters returns this Saturday 22nd August, for another action-packed day of boars, bikes, entertainment and community spirit. Photo supplied
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A touch of Australian musical stardom is coming to Airlie Beach, as 80s rock favourite Wendy Stapleton and chart-topping husband Paul Norton turn back the clock for two afternoons revisiting the songs that filled Australian radios and dancefloors. Taking over the Airlie Beach Hotel across the final weekend of August, Wendy Stapleton will bring two very different shows to the stage. Saturday will see Wendy step into the world of Dusty Springfield, taking audiences through the life and music of one of the 60s, 70s and 80s most pronounced voices, with a show that has travelled stages across Australia, New Zealand and the UK. “That show takes you on a journey through Dusty’s life,” Wendy said. Then on Sunday, she’ll take the audience back to The Swinging Sixties, with classics from some of the decade’s favourite female artists, including Diana Ross and The Supremes, Petula Clark, Lulu, The Ronettes and, of course, Dusty Springfield. “We have a lot of fun, and of course we costume it so that we’re in wacky ’60s,” Wendy said. Both afternoons will then change gears for the final set, with Wendy and the band stepping switching to a collection of their favourite pop-rock songs. These shows have been getting crowds moving for decades, with the Dusty Springfield show first beginning as a musical theatre production in Melbourne in the mid-1990s, before Wendy later created The Swinging Sixties around 15 years ago. Long before stepping into the shoes of Dusty Springfield, Wendy had already made a name for herself in Australian music as the frontwoman of Wendy and the Rocketts. Formed in the early 1980s when signed by Mushroom Records, Wendy and the Rocketts made their mark on Australia’s pub-rock scene, with singles Reputation, Your Place or Mine? and Wendy’s self-penned Play the Game all hitting the charts, while their debut studio album Dazed for Days broke into the Australian Top 30. Their success eventually took Wendy well beyond Australian stages, with Wendy and the Rocketts heading overseas and touring through Europe alongside some names that would become giants of rock, including Bryan Adams and ZZ Top. After years in rock and roll, Wendy eventually found her way back to musical theatre, something that wasn’t entirely new territory for a performer who had first appeared professionally on stage as a child. As Wendy puts it, her career has simply been about continuing to move with the times. “You’ve just got to keep rolling with the changes, keep reinventing yourself,” she said. While the Dusty show originally grew from Wendy’s return to musical theatre in the mid-1990s, The Swinging Sixties was a creation of her own, born from a desire to bring together the female voices that helped define the decade. Joining Wendy on stage will be Angie Stapleton, Ally Mac and John Arthur Grant, with live guitar and keyboard accompanying the vocals and dancing. Angie performed in the original Dusty production, while Wendy’s daughter Ally joins her cousin as one of the show’s singer-dancers. Completing the line-up is another name Australian music fans might remember, Wendy’s husband and chart-topping musician Paul Norton. Paul got his start playing bass as a teenager before helping form Melbourne band The Runners, who built a strong following on the pub circuit and signed with Mushroom Records in 1981. The band went on to release singles including Sure Fire Thing and Endlessly, along with their 1983 album Hitting the Wall, while touring heavily throughout the early ’80s. After The Runners, Paul spent time playing with Wendy and the Rocketts and Steve Hoy and the Hoy Boys before launching his solo career in 1988, again signing with Mushroom Records. His biggest break came with Stuck On You, which received strong radio play and climbed to #2 on the Australian charts. The success was followed by a trip to London to record I Got You and his debut album Under a Southern Sky, before he later worked with American musician and producer T-Bone Wolk on his second album, Let It Fly. These days, much of Paul’s work happens away from the rock stage as Musical Director for the Australian Shakespeare Company, writing music for theatre productions in Australia and abroad. “I’ve always been a songwriter, so I’ve always loved to do that,” he said. Paul has joined Wendy for the shows over the past couple of years when time allows, and in Airlie he’ll return to his rock roots for the final set, performing a few of his own songs, including his hit Stuck On You. “If I’m in the audience and I go and see an act that I really like, you kind of want them to do the hit songs that they’re known for,” Paul said. What: Dusty Springfield Tribute and Swinging Sixties shows When: Saturday 29th & Sunday 30th August, 2pm-5.30pm Where: Airlie Beach Hotel Photo captions: Photo 1- Wendy Stapleton, Ally Mac and Georga Byrne. All photos supplied by Wendy Stapleton. Photo 2- Wendy and the Rocketts. Photo 3- Paul Norton.
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The Whitsundays Writers Festival has named its shortlist for the 2026 Whitsundays Literary Heart Award Short Story Prize, narrowing the 20-story longlist down to just eight finalists as judging enters its final and most closely contested stage. The shortlisted stories were drawn from a national field of 94 entries and represent the very best of what this year’s competition had to offer: a mix of crime, historical fiction, contemporary drama, speculative fiction and more, judged anonymously and assessed purely on the strength of the writing. “The standard this year has made every stage of judging genuinely difficult,” said Festival Director Richard Evans. “Narrowing the field to these finalists wasn’t about finding fault with the stories that didn’t make the cut, it was about identifying the small number that stood out even among very strong company. That’s a great problem for a regional prize to have.” The eight shortlisted stories will now progress to the final stage of judging, with finalists coming from five states and territories across Australia. Queensland has two finalists, Janet Humphries and Jessica McLaren, while Victoria is represented by Fergal Bannon, Christopher Mitchell and Matthew Southwell. Kat Ryan represents Western Australia, Lesley Boland the ACT and Bon Henry-Edwards South Australia. Next, The judging panel will now undertake its final assessment of the shortlisted stories to determine the 2026 winner and runner-up. The Open Age Short Story Prize carries a $1,000 first prize and $500 runner-up prize. The winner and runner-up will be announced at the Whitsundays Literary Heart Awards ceremony at the 2026 Whitsundays Writers Festival, held on Sunday 13 September at the Whitsunday Marine Club, Cannonvale. A free community afternoon celebrating local writing This year’s festival puts local authors front and centre, with a free community afternoon open to everyone, no ticket required. Locals and visitors are invited to swap a book at the community book swap, browse book stalls from more than 20 regional authors, enjoy live music and watch local artists at work, and grab a snag at the community sausage sizzle. “The Heart Awards bring a national spotlight to the Whitsundays, but this festival has always been about our community too,” Richard said. “The free afternoon is our way of making sure everyone can be part of it, whether you’ve read every local author book or you’re just here for the sausage sizzle.” What: Whitsundays Writers Festival When: 3pm-4:30pm Sunday 13th September 2026 Where: Whitsunday Marine Club
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21st Hamilton Island Race Week Short Race, Winward/Leeward Race, & Around the Islands Race, ALL DAY, Hamilton Island 21st 2026 Flametree Gathering, ALL DAY, Lake Proserpine, 66 Station Road, Lake Proserpine 21st 74 Islands Cocktail Club, 4pm-10pm, 74 Islands Distillery, 24 Mount Whitsunday Drive, Airlie Beach 22nd Hamilton Island Race Week Around the Islands Race & Presentations, ALL DAY, Hamilton Island 22nd 2026 Flametree Gathering, ALL DAY, Lake Proserpine, 66 Station Road, Lake Proserpine 22nd Bowen Netball Association Super Saturday Grand Final, 9am, Woodlands Road, Bowen 22nd Cocktail Playground, 12pm-4:30pm, 74 Islands Distillery, 24 Mount Whitsunday Drive, Airlie Beach 22nd Soundz Good Music Festival, 2pm, Bowen Sporting Complex, Bowen 22nd Queen Rhapsody Australian Queen Tribute Show, 2pm-5:30pm, Airlie Beach Hotel, Airlie Beach 23rd 2026 Flametree Gathering, ALL DAY, Lake Proserpine, 66 Station Road, Lake Proserpine 23rd Queen Rhapsody Australian Queen Tribute Show, 2pm-5:30pm, Airlie Beach Hotel, Airlie Beach 25th Sailability Whitsundays. 27th FREE Salsa & Bachata Social, 7:30pm-9pm, Hog’s Breath Café, Airlie Beach 28th 74 Islands Cocktail Club, 4pm-10pm, 74 Islands Distillery, 24 Mount Whitsunday Drive, Airlie Beach 29th Cocktail Playground, 12pm-4:30pm, 74 Islands Distillery, 24 Mount Whitsunday Drive, Airlie Beach 29th Dusty Springfield Show featuring Wendy Stapleton, 2pm-5:30pm, Airlie Beach Hotel, Airlie Beach 30th Swinging Sixties featuring Wendy Stapleton, 2pm-5:30pm, Airlie Beach Hotel, Airlie Beach
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21th August ABH: Andy Mammers, 7pm-10pm Sorrento: Kaedan McCarthy, 4pm-7pm KC’s Bar & Grill: Phoenix Revival, 8pm-10pm Grand View Hotel Bowen: DJ night, 8pm onwards Flametree Musical Gathering, 5pm-10:30pm 22nd August ABH: Queen Rhapsody, 2pm-5:30pm ABH: Andy Mammers, 7pm-10pm Sorrento’s: Sam McCarthy, 4pm-7pm KC’s Bar & Grill: Phoenix Revival, 8pm-10pm Grand View Hotel Bowen: B Doubles, 8pm onwards Flametree Musical Gathering, 8am-11pm 23rd August ABH: Queen Rhapsody, 2pm-5:30pm, ABH: Paul Fergus Morris, 6:30-9:30pm Sorrento’s: Ash Smith, 4pm-7pm. KC’s Bar & Grill: Graham Rix, 8pm-10pm Grand View Hotel Bowen: Zed Charles, 1pm-5pm Flametree Musical Gathering, 8am-6pm 24th August Sorrentos: Will Heta, 4pm-7pm KC’s Bar & Grill: Paul Fergus Morris, 8pm-10pm 25th August Sorrentos: Will Heta, 4pm-7pm KC’s Bar & Grill: Tiffany Grace, 8pm-10pm 26th August Sorrentos: Will Heta, 4pm-7pm [Text Wrapping Break]KC’s Bar & Grill: Sam McCann, 8pm-10pm 27th August ABH: Chris Booroff, 6:30pm-9:30pm Sorrentos: Lucy Rose, 4pm-7pm KC’s Bar & Grill: Andrew Baldino, 8pm-10pm
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Whitsunday residents are being asked to get behind a push for a mobile blood bank service, with more than 1,300 people already adding their names to the campaign. The push has been underway since October 2025, with campaigners arguing a region of more than 40,000 people should have an easier way to roll up their sleeves and donate. For anyone in the Whitsundays wanting to give blood has to travel to the nearest permanent donor station, which is in Mackay. That means setting aside a decent amount of time just to donate, something campaigners say can be difficult between work, family and everyday commitments. They have even offered to financially contribute towards bringing a service to the region, but say Australian Red Cross Lifeblood advised them it is government funded and does not accept monetary donations for the purpose. The calls come as Lifeblood continues to seek more donors, with blood supplies recently falling to a 12-month low. Blood also cannot simply be stored away for when it is needed, with red blood cells having a shelf life of just 42 days. Campaigners believe the Whitsundays has plenty of people ready to donate if given the chance to do so closer to home. “If our region is ready to think BIG, we need this facility,” Michael and Val said. “It should be a priority.” They have also pointed to Proserpine Hospital’s reliance on blood supplied from Mackay, raising concerns about how readily blood could be accessed locally during a major emergency. The campaign has been taken to state and federal politicians as well as local councillors, but those behind it say they now need more voices to get behind the cause. So far, 1,338 people have signed a Change.org petition calling for a mobile blood bank service in the Whitsundays. For the campaigners, the next step is getting decision-makers to listen and giving Whitsunday residents a realistic opportunity to donate closer to home and contribute to boosting our local supply. This push comes amid a critical time for donations, with Lifeblood Chief Customer Officer Cath Stone saying winter colds and flu wipe out potentially thousands of people from donating on a national scale. “Nationally we’re seeing up to 1,600 donation appointments sit empty every day, with many more people cancelling or rescheduling appointments,” Cath said. “Even mild symptoms such as sniffles, sore throats, and headaches make people temporarily ineligible to give blood, and this can severely impact the availability of donors during winter months. “Patients in critical situations will always get the blood they need, but full fridges are essential to ensuring blood is available for everyone who needs it, when they need it,” she said. “This includes cancer patients, new mothers, people undergoing surgery, and many other patients including children who need donated blood to save their lives. “We’d all want blood to be there if it was someone we knew or loved who needed it.”
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Lenny Pennell photo suppliedBeyond the Exhibition: Where Artistic Journeys Begin Last year, Lenny Pennell entered the Great Barrier Reef Festival Art Exhibition for the very first time. Twelve months later, she returned to win the People's Choice Award with Beauty in Creation. In just one year, her artistic career has grown dramatically, with new collectors discovering her work, increased online attention and exciting opportunities that continue to unfold. Lenny's journey is a wonderful reminder that an exhibition can be much more than four days of displaying artwork. It can be the beginning of something extraordinary. "Being selected as a finalist last year gave me the confidence to believe in my work and to keep creating. The opportunities that have followed have been incredible, and winning this year's People's Choice Award has taken that journey to another level.” said Lenny. “If you're thinking about entering but you're not sure if your work is good enough, just do it. Entering the Great Barrier Reef Festival Art Exhibition changed my artistic journey." Lenny's story is exactly why Creative Connections Whitsunday is passionate about presenting this exhibition. This year we welcomed several artists exhibiting publicly for the first time, along with an exciting group of finalists aged just 16 to 18. Every established artist was once a first-time exhibitor, and providing a platform where emerging artists can exhibitalongside experienced creatives builds confidence, creates opportunities and strengthens our region's creative future. None of this would be possible without the generous support of our sponsors. Their investment helps us deliver a professional exhibition, provide meaningful prize opportunities and, most importantly, create experiences that can genuinely change an artist's future. Through the Great Barrier Reef Festival Art Exhibition and the Creative Connections Community Art Gallery in Proserpine, we're proud to provide local artists with opportunities to exhibit, sell their work and continue growing their artistic careers throughout the year. If you've ever wondered whether your work is good enough to enter, take Lenny's advice and give it a go. You never know where that first exhibition might lead. Celebrating local creativity, connection, and community Whitsundays Writers Festival Richard Evans Festival Director and President hello@whitsundayswriters.com Book your ticket now for the 2026 Whitsundays Writers Festival, 13 September at whitsundayswriters.com/2026-programme-speakers Creative Connections Whitsunday Glenda Brown President info@creativeconnectionwhitsunday.com Creative Connections Whitsundays supports and celebrates the region's arts community by creating opportunities for artists to connect, exhibit, learn, and thrive through partnerships, cultural events, and creative programs. Get in touch! If you would like to submit a poem, creative writing piece, profile suggestion, event information, or share your creative story, please contact hello@whitsundayswriters.com Give the Gift of Local Art Looking for a gift that is thoughtful, unique and supports local artists? The Creative Connections Whitsundays Community Gallery in Proserpine offers plenty of inspiration, with an ever-changing collection of original artworks and locally made gifts. Among the artists featured is Margaret Burgess, whose handmade jewellery has plenty of character. Her collection includes sea glass earrings, bracelets and earrings made from reimagined cutlery, and distinctive pendants – each piece with its own story. Desma Munroe’s hand-painted watercolour greeting cards have also been proving popular. Each card is individually created, making it a small piece of original art that is almost too beautiful to give away. For something sculptural, take a closer look at the ceramics and sculptures of Linda Forrester. A multidisciplinary Whitsundays artist, Linda creates hand-built pieces that explore form, balance and texture. Her work evolves through experimentation and a hands-on connection with the materials. And if colour and light catch your eye, Libby Humphrey’s stained-glass creations are well worth a look. Inspired by the natural beauty of the Whitsundays, Libby combines heritage, reclaimed and contemporary glass to create distinctive pieces that have been popular with gallery visitors. Not sure what to choose? A Creative Connections Whitsundays Community Gallery Gift Card allows the recipient to select their own special piece from the gallery’s collection of artworks, jewellery, ceramics, prints, handmade gifts and more. It’s a gift that supports local creativity while giving someone the pleasure of choosing something they genuinely love. Community Gallery 192 Main Street, ProserpineMonday–Friday: 9am–4pm Saturday: 9am–1pm Pop in, browse the collection and discover something made right here in the Whitsundays. Artists to Take Their Creativity Outdoors at Stories by the Sea Visual artists will have the opportunity to create alongside writers when a new Plein Air Challenge becomes part of the 2026 Whitsundays Writers Festival’s free Stories by the Sea community event on Sunday, 13 September. The challenge will see Creative Connections Whitsunday members create an original work on location at the Whitsunday Marine Club, responding to the coastal setting and atmosphere of the day. Festival-goers will be able to watch the artworks take shape throughout the challenge before viewing the completed works later that afternoon, and then be invited to vote for their favourite, with the People’s Choice Award announced at 4pm during the festival’s closing celebrations. The completed artworks will also be offered through a silent auction, with 100 per cent of sales going directly to the participating artists. Whitsundays Writers Festival Director Richard Evans said the challenge reflected the festival’s commitment to celebrating creativity in all its forms. “Stories aren’t told only through words. Artists capture the places, people and moments that shape our communities just as powerfully,” he said. Creative Connections Whitsundays President Glenda Brown said the challenge would give artists an opportunity to create, connect and engage with the community. “Plein air painting is about responding to a place in the moment. It encourages observation, creativity and connection, and we’re delighted to bring visual arts into this year’s festival.” The Plein Air Challenge is part of Stories by the Sea, featuring more than 20 regional authors, book sales and swaps, children’s activities, live music, open mic readings, a gold coin BBQ and refreshments. Plein Air Challenge: 11am–3pm, Sunday 13 September People’s Choice Award announcement: 4pm Where: Whitsunday Marine Club, Cannonvale
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BY GEORGIA MCDONALD This week, I sat down with local musician Simon Briley to chat about his musical journey, from growing up in the United Kingdom surrounded by music to finding his way to the Whitsundays and sharing that passion with others. With a pianist for a dad, a drummer for a mum and uncle, and equally musical siblings, some would say Simon’s fate was set. It didn’t take long before he began finding his own place within that musical world. In primary school, a teacher recognised his love of singing and introduced him to a national choir. At the age of nine, Simon began doing what many of us did as children – pestering our parents for things to play with. For Simon, this was a drum kit – a parent’s worst nightmare. So, naturally, they gave him a guitar and put him in piano lessons instead. But with persistence, by the age of 11, Simon finally got his drums and never looked back. The guitar, however, was a different story. After a few lessons, Simon found that he didn’t quite connect with his teacher and put the instrument aside until he was 16. “I think it is a massive thing with learning any instrument, that if you have someone that inspires you as a mentor, then you’re going to want to pursue it a lot more,” Simon explains. After forming original band Bandicoot with a group of school friends, Simon and the band were signed and began touring around Asia. While playing in Cambodia, they met two Australian event organisers who invited them to come over and play. The band went home, sold all their stuff and came to Australia. And just like that, a new chapter began. It wasn’t long before Simon found his way to the Whitsundays. “When I first came here, it was just that sort of awestruck-ness of the beauty of the place,” Simon reflects. Now an Australian citizen, he has spent years performing around the region. But he’s also found another way to share his love of music with the local community - through teaching. Teaching was Simon’s first job. After completing his drum grades, his own drum teacher hired him. Then, teaching continued to be a massive part of Simon’s life, from working as a maths teacher to working with young offenders and in special educational needs. So, combining 3 things that he loves - music, teaching and the Whitsundays - only made sense for Simon. This led to the creation of Whitsunday Music Academy. “It’s great to give back to a community and to build that community space,” he says. With around 15 students already on his books, ranging from a 5-year-old learning to sing through to adults, Simon is hoping to continue growing the academy and bring more local musicians and teachers into the mix. And it seems the academy is giving Simon something he didn’t quite realise he was missing. “I’m actually finding it a little bit more fulfilling than the gigs,” he admits. For Simon, the value of music goes far beyond learning an instrument or getting up on stage. He describes creating music as a “cathartic, therapeutic” experience, giving people a way to express something that might otherwise stay inside them. And for anyone thinking about starting their own musical journey, Simon’s advice is simple: “Try and find what your truth is.” Where to catch Simon this week: Thursday 20th August – Boaty’s 4:45pm Friday 21st & Saturday 22nd August – Hamilton Island Race Week SONG RECOMMENDATION OF THE WEEK Home Again – Michael Kiwanuka
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At Collinsville State High School, being a small school means we can do things differently - including pioneering School-Based Education Support traineeships in our region. Through traineeships, community partnerships and working with off-site registered training organisations, our senior students access pathways that work for them. We asked some of our Year 11 and 12 students to share their experiences… Pheobe Murphy (Year 12 student) Years 11 and 12 at Collinsville State High School have looked different for everyone in my classes. There are various opportunities provided for students at this school, from online courses for certificates to school-based traineeships to travelling for TAFE courses. For me, senior secondary has looked like spending Wednesday's bonding with students and staff at Collinsville State School and building confidence in the workplace while I completed a Certificate III in School-Based Education Support with a school-based traineeship. It's been an incredible opportunity to introduce myself to work and allowing me to understand what I want to do in the future, and earning a Certificate III. Mckenzie Grosskreutz (Year 12 Student) My traineeship at Collinsville State School has been a valuable experience while completing my Certificate III in Education Support. I have worked with students in Year 5/6 and have recently transferred to Prep/Year 1 which is giving me experience across different age groups and learning needs. This experience is helping me develop my communication, classroom support and behaviour management skills. It has also given me a better understanding of the role of an education support worker and will help prepare me for my future career as a primary school teacher, working in schools and supporting students. Holly Maher (year 11 Student) One of the experiences I have valued this year is studing a Certificate III in Agriculture through Charters Towers School of Distance Education. The course has provided me with the chance to acquire new skills and knowledge, as well as offering opportunities to obtain hands on experience. Our class recently visited Wambiana Station where we engaged in various activities like branding, drafting, spraying and fencing. We also gained an insight into artificial insemination in cattle, learning how this breeding technique can be used to selectively improve herd genetics and assist producers in achieving desirable traits within their cattle. It was a great experience and gave me the chance to learn outside the classroom and put my knowledge into practice.”
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From the playground to cooking, painting or having a laugh, St Catherine’s Catholic College’s oldest and youngest students are proving the gap between Prep and Year 12 isn’t quite as big as you’d think. Through the College’s annual Buddy Program, every Year 12 student is paired with a Prep student, building friendships that give the school’s youngest learners someone to look up to, while offering the graduating class their own opportunity to become mentors. “With those buddy programs, I guess it’s kind of building that relationship between our junior students and our senior secondary students,” said Assistant Principal Bruce Laguna. “It gives them that extra bit of purpose and leadership here at the College.” The program gives each pair plenty of opportunities to bond, whether through cooking, painting, moulding Play-Doh or heading out to the soccer fields, while also giving the Year 12s a chance to lend a hand in the classroom. “I really enjoy it, to be honest. I think it’s great that we get to build connections throughout the whole of the College,” said year 12 student, Finlay. The project culminates with a new tradition at the school, which will see the prep students walk their year 12 students down the aisle for graduation. “Starting some traditions are really valuable and important, so that way we’ve got something significant for our future graduating students.” Photo caption: Finlay Farrell and his prep buddy, Hendrick Travis. Photo supplied
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Bowen State High School is excited to welcome students, staff, families and the wider Bowen community to its 2026 Arts Showcase. This event will celebrate the outstanding talents of both students and staff across a range of artistic disciplines. From instrumental music, drama and vocal performances to short films and visual art displays, the evening promises to be a memorable celebration of creativity and talent. Throughout 2026, students and staff in the Arts Department have been developing works inspired by a variety of themes. These performances and art pieces reflect the dedication, imagination and artistic skill of Bowen State High School’s talented students. With no school musical being staged this year, the Arts Showcase provides a wonderful opportunity for students to present their work and share their artistic achievements with the school and wider community. Audience members can look forward to performances by the concert band, a series of short films, scenes from Macbeth, the premiere of a new school song, and much more. “We have a talented group of staff and students who are passionate about the arts, drama and music,” said Bowen State High School Principal, Robert Harris. “Their passion is inspiring, and I always enjoy attending these events to see their work come to life. I invite our school and wider community to come along and support them.” The school encourages everyone to attend and enjoy an evening showcasing the creativity and hard work of Bowen State High School’s Arts community. Contributed with thanks to Principal Robert Harris. What? Bowen State High School Arts Showcase When? Friday 28th August 2026, Doors open 5:30pm, start time 6pm. Where? McKenna Hall
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Contributed with thanks to QUANTUM Wellness QUANTUM Wellness was born from the vision of two dedicated local Whitsunday practitioners who built their dream of a centre offering a new level of wellness in their region, using advanced, state-of the-art biohacking and recovery technology services coupled with personalised coach guidance. WHAT MAKES OUR CENTRE UNIQUE? – first of its kind in the Whitsundays, it’s not a spa, not a gym, not a clinic – QUANTUM is an advanced performance, recovery and wellness centre using elite European technology, to provide luxury experiences and science-backed recovery systems that offer personalised one-on-one coaching and direction for your wellness journey. WHAT IS BIOHACKING? – Do-it-yourself approaches to optimize health, performance, and longevity through lifestyle tweaks, biology, and technology. QUANTUM offers: 3D Body Scan, Cryotherapy Chamber, BodyRoll Studio, Infra-red + Collagen Red Light Therapy, Variable Vacuum Therapy, Functional Contrast Therapy, Local Cryo + LED Facial, DEPS Body Sculpt, and PEMF Longevity Lounge. HOW CAN I BENEFIT? QUANTUM’s non-invasive wellness tech services are designed to support your body’s natural processes and aim to reduce inflammation, pain & stiffness, stimulate circulation & metabolism, promote mobility & flexibility, and build aerobic endurance & strength, assist recovery & rehabilitation, enhance energy levels, support stress management, sleep, relaxation and overall well-being. If old injuries are slowing you down, you’re feeling puffy or bloated, taking longer to recover after exercise, struggling with brain fog, or simply feeling flat and heavy, it may be time to give your body a little more support. Instead of asking, “How do I push harder?”, perhaps the better question is, “How can I help my body work better?” That’s what QUANTUM is all about. By supporting circulation, inflammation and the body’s natural detox pathways, cellular-level therapies may help you feel lighter, clearer and more energised. The future of wellness has arrived in paradise. THE SCIENCE: Our equipment and devices are engineered to support mitochondrial energy production, nervous system regulation, detoxification pathways, circulation and oxygen delivery, deep muscle activation, recovery and cellular renewal. When cells function efficiently, your entire system improves – you begin to look and feel better, slowing down the aging process. THE FOCUS: We offer a holistic approach that combines physical, mental, emotional and energetic wellbeing. Our QUANTUM Coaches and practitioners are trained to guide and help you overcome limitations and deliver targeted solutions, not matter your fitness level. CUSTOMIZATION – Every experience at QUANTUM is tailored to your specific needs, whether your goal is to reduce the appearance cellulite, facilitate lymphatic drainage or focus on muscle toning and growth. Our clientele include athletes and the fitness conscious, tradies and physical workers, office staff, people who stand all day, as well as complete beginners or those who lead a sedentary lifestyle. QUANTUM has something to suit every body. WHERE DO I BEGIN? Simply call us, view our website or visit us to learn more and discuss the best way to start. We offer Wellness Journeys which allow you time to sit with a coach and discuss your goals and health concerns, so that we can recommend what services are best suited to you. CURRENT OFFER: Call us to book using code: WHITLIFE08 for 20% OFF Photo caption: 1- Body roll classes and solo sessions. Photo supplied: Quantum Wellness Whitsundays. 2- 230 Shute Harbour Rd, Cannonvale QLD.
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As part of National Tree Day, Whitsunday Regional Council sprang into action, planting around 350 native trees across the region to help make the Whitsundays a little greener. The effort looks to give local areas more natural shade, better support local wildlife and add to the region’s natural beauty, with trees planted at Whitsunday Lakes, Darcy Munro Park in Collinsville, Bowen Cemetery, Proserpine Cemetery and selected road reserves. “We’re lucky to live in one of the most beautiful parts of Australia, and we want our parks and public spaces to be places our community is proud of and enjoys spending time in,” said Mayor Ry Collins. “Our outdoor teams do a fantastic job every day keeping our parks, gardens and public spaces looking their best, and National Tree Day is another great example of that work.” The project also aims to make the region’s parks and public spaces more enjoyable, inviting and accessible. “Our parks and open spaces are there to be used and enjoyed,” Mayor Collins said. “We want to see kids getting outside and playing, families spending time together, people walking the dog, exercising or just finding a shady spot to relax.” “The more inviting we can make these spaces, the more people will use them, and planting more trees and creating natural shade is a simple but really important part of that.” Photo caption: Photos supplied.
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Meet TarrynFrom Whitsunday Glow Co. The face behind the glow, Tarryn Jack is a proud local Whitsundays spray tan artist with over 10 years experience in the beauty industry, providing mobile and in studio services to make customers feel their best. “I truly love helping people feel confident, beautiful, and comfortable in their own skin,” Tarryn says. “Every spray tan is carefully customised to suit your skin tone, your style, and the occasion - whether it's your wedding day, tropical holiday, special event, or simply because you deserve to feel amazing.”Creating a relaxing, welcoming experience, Whitsunday Glow Co. is all about giving you the opportunity to take a little time for yourself, and leave with a natural, flawless glow you'll love.
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What was meant to be a 42-night holiday in Bali has turned into a months-long fight for recovery and a way home for 72-year-old Cannonvale local John Lyle, after a sudden loss of mobility left him unable to walk. John and his partner Kate arrived in Bali on April 10th for what was a normal holiday, continuing a tradition of travelling each year. While visiting the Gili Islands in May, the holiday took a frightening turn after John suffered a few falls, including stepping down from a high footpath and having the step of a horse-drawn cart break beneath him. Despite initially being able to continue walking, days later John began experiencing numbness in his legs, with his mobility rapidly deteriorating from needing support to walk, to using a walker and eventually losing the ability to walk altogether. “Day by day, his mobility, he lost a little bit more,” said Kate Lemke, John’s partner. “Then he woke up one morning and the mobility was gone.” After seeking medical treatment, John was diagnosed with two nerve entrapments affecting his spine. He had to undergo surgery, beginning what has since become a lengthy road to recovery. Following the surgery, John remained in hospital, but his condition left him completely reliant on others for his care. His recovery was further complicated when he developed pneumonia and, with his immune system compromised, Kate was advised that a prolonged hospital stay carried further risks. She eventually moved John into an accessible villa, hiring a pressure mattress, hoist and nursing support to manage his day-to-day needs. John now undergoes regular physiotherapy and neurological treatment, both at the hospital and from the villa as they work to regain whatever movement may be possible. The question is, why haven’t John and Kate flown home? A major factor has been their travel insurance claim, which Kate said was rejected on the grounds that John’s spinal condition was pre-existing. The insurer pointed to a 2016 MRI that indicated a back issue, along with his history of chiropractic treatment, in making its decision. Kate disputes the finding, arguing John remained active for years afterwards and was never advised that the results required further investigation. “How can you say that that’s pre-existing?” Kate said. “This man worked after that MRI, I had photos and videos of him at the gym. “If we knew that he had some sort of back injury, we would have got follow-up, but we weren’t even recommended to follow up.” The rejected claim has left the couple funding John’s treatment and care themselves, while returning to Australia would also come at a significant cost, with an air ambulance quoted at around $150,000. A GoFundMe has been established to support John’s ongoing recovery and help the couple eventually return home to Australia. Kate is also calling on anyone travelling from the Whitsundays or Mackay to Bali to help bring over a lightweight wheelchair for John, with dwindling funds and freight costs that she says could reach 200 per cent of the wheelchair’s value making it difficult to secure a more practical way to get him around. To donate, scan the qr code below:
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There are few better times to be in the Whitsundays than August, when our waters come alive with some of the best sailing in Australia. We’ve just enjoyed another fantastic Airlie Beach Race Week, bringing sailors, families and supporters from across Australia and beyond to our region. This week the attention shifted across the water for Hamilton Island Race Week, once again showcasing the Whitsundays as one of the world’s great sailing destinations. These events are much more than a great spectacle on the water. They bring thousands of visitors into our region who stay in our accommodation, eat in our restaurants and cafes, visit our shops, book tours and support local businesses. That flow-on spreads well beyond Airlie Beach and the islands, supporting jobs and our broader regional economy. It’s also another reminder of why the Whitsundays is such a logical home for Olympic and Paralympic sailing in 2032. The Queensland Government identified the Whitsundays as its preferred location for sailing more than a year ago and, while the formal field of play and infrastructure planning processes continue, Council certainly hasn’t been sitting back waiting for every box to be ticked before making our case. Since then, that momentum has continued to build. I’ve signed a Host City Deed and been appointed to the Brisbane 2032 Host Mayors Advisory Group, while Council continues to work closely with government agencies and Games planners to advocate for the Whitsundays and the legacy investment our region deserves. We are advocating strongly and confidently because successful advocacy starts well before the final decisions are made, and opportunities like this don’t come along very often. For me, 2032 has never been simply about hosting several days of Olympic and Paralympic competition. The real prize is the legacy it can leave behind. That means global exposure for the Whitsundays, but importantly it also means advocating for investment in infrastructure and facilities that our community will benefit from for decades. We already know we can host world-class sailing events. Every August, events like Airlie Beach Race Week and Hamilton Island Race Week prove that. Between now and 2032, our job is to keep building on that reputation and make sure the Whitsundays receives the lasting benefits that should come from being part of the biggest sporting event on the planet. For now, congratulations to everyone involved in another successful Airlie Beach Race Week, and a warm Whitsundays welcome to everyone arriving for Hamilton Island Race Week. It’s a pretty special time to call the Whitsundays home.
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Being a responsible dog owner helps keep our parks safe and enjoyable for everyone. Dogs must be on a leash in parks, reserves and foreshores across the Whitsunday region, unless in a designated off-leash area. Even off-leash, dogs must remain under your effective control. Please remember to pick up after your dog and to be mindful of other people and pets. Fines apply for dogs off-leash where prohibited and for failing to properly dispose of dog waste. For designated off-leash areas, visit Council’s website or call 1300 972 753.
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Reef Side Buyers Agent is built around one simple goal – delivering far more than a standard property search. By working exclusively for the buyer, the business ensures every recommendation, negotiation and decision is made with the client’s best interests at the centre. Unlike traditional selling agents who represent the seller, Reef Side Buyers Agent provides independent advice and support throughout the entire purchasing process. Its complete Search to Settlement service combines strategic property sourcing, access to off-market opportunities, detailed market research, property inspections, due diligence, price negotiations, and settlement support into one seamless experience. By managing every stage of the buying journey, Reef Side Buyers Agent helps clients save valuable time, reduce stress, and make confident decisions when navigating one of the biggest financial decisions they will make — securing the right property at the right price. The business is seeing continued demand from interstate buyers relocating to the Whitsundays for lifestyle, employment, and investment opportunities. As coastal property markets remain competitive and housing supply remains limited, buyers are increasingly seeking expert guidance to identify value, understand local market conditions, and avoid costly mistakes. While technology has made property research more accessible than ever, Reef Side Buyers Agent believes local expertise and trusted relationships remain critical. Having an experienced advocate on the buyer’s side provides valuable insight into market trends, property opportunities, inspections, negotiations, and due diligence. Over the past 12 months, one of the key challenges facing the business has been navigating limited housing supply and strong competition for quality properties. In response, Reef Side Buyers Agent has continued to strengthen relationships with local selling agents, expand access to off-market opportunities and refine its research and negotiation strategies. The business has also invested in digital education and communication, helping buyers better understand the value of independent representation and the benefits of having professional support throughout the property journey. For business owners, Reef Side Buyers Agent believes success comes down to three key principles: building trust, communicating consistently, and focusing on long-term relationships rather than short-term wins. Being part of the Chamber business community aligns strongly with these values, providing opportunities to build local connections, collaborate with other businesses and contribute to a stronger regional business community.
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Whitsunday Criminal Investigation Branch detectives have charged a 43-year-old Cannonvale man following investigations into an alleged sexual assault at a Cannonvale medical practice on 11th July. Police allege the man sexually assaulted a woman at the business during the course of his duties as a general practitioner. Following investigations, detectives executed a search warrant at the business on 7th August. The 43-year-old man was subsequently arrested and charged with one count of rape and one count of sexual assault. He is due to appear before Proserpine Magistrates Court on 24th August. Mackay Whitsunday Detective Inspector Emma Novosel said police were urging anyone with further information, or who may have experienced interactions of a similar nature, to come forward. “Police have zero tolerance for any person who commits criminal acts of this nature,” said Detective Inspector Novosel. “These offences are a serious breach of trust, and police are committed to seeking justice for victim-survivors and hold perpetrators to account. “We acknowledge the victim-survivor for her bravery in coming forward, and want to reassure any victim-survivors that you are not alone, and support is available. “We encourage anyone who has information to contact police.” Investigations remain ongoing and police are providing support to the woman. Anyone with information can contact Policelink via the online suspicious activity form, available 24 hours a day, or report information anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. Sexual assault can be reported by calling Triple Zero (000) in an emergency, contacting police by phone or in person at a police station, or through the Queensland Police Service's online sexual assault reporting form. Alternative Reporting Options are also available. For confidential counselling and support, the State-wide Sexual Assault Helpline can be contacted on 1800 010 120, while 1800RESPECT provides 24-hour support. Quote reference: QP2601404002.
Read moreSeveral community projects are progressing across the Whitsunday region, with new facilities opening and construction moving ahead from Collinsville to Cannonvale and Shute Harbour. At Shute Harbour, upgrades to Snows Beach Park and Lion’s Lookout are set to get underway this month. Snows Beach Park will receive a new shelter complete with picnic settings, an electric barbecue and lighting, replacing the existing shelter and tables. Nearby at Lion’s Lookout, the existing fence along the top of the hill will be replaced with a new aluminium fence. Works are expected to begin in mid-August and wrap up by the end of September, weather permitting. Sections of both areas will be temporarily fenced off while construction is underway. Elsewhere in the region, residents and visitors can now make use of newly completed public amenities at Dingo Beach and Collinsville Cemetery, with both projects recently completed as part of Council’s ongoing investment in community facilities. Meanwhile, one of the region’s biggest community projects is beginning to take shape at Galbraith Park in Cannonvale. Construction is continuing on the new $30 million Cannonvale Community Hub, with crews spending the past month completing bored piers, preparing footings and progressing water, stormwater and other underground infrastructure. The next stage will see the development begin to emerge above ground, with concrete footings, ground beams and column plinths to be poured and blockwork commencing. Once completed, the hub will bring several important community services under one roof, including a modern library, Council customer service centre, meeting rooms and flexible community spaces connected with the surrounding Galbraith Park precinct. The project is jointly funded, with the Australian Government contributing $15 million alongside funding from Whitsunday Regional Council. With projects both large and small progressing across the region, the latest works aim to provide improved public spaces and facilities for Whitsunday communities now and into the future.
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Meet Elliot, the three-month-old puppy who’s ready to steal your heart and probably a few socks as well. This Sharpei x Staffy pup has plenty of classic puppy energy on show, but at just three months old, he’s still got plenty of growing and learning ahead of him. Elliot is sweet, cuddly, playful and confident around people. He gets along well with other dogs and children, though at just three months old, he’s still figuring out his puppy manners so just keep an eye peeled. He’s currently showing plenty of curiosity around cats and other livestock, with his young age giving him a good chance to learn how to live alongside other animals. Elliot is microchipped, has received his first vaccination, while also being up to date on heartworm prevention, flea, tick and worming treatments. Whether it’s a home with a yard or apartment living, Elliot is ready to find a family with plenty of time for play, cuddles and maybe the occasional pup cup every now and then. If you think Elliot could be the perfect addition to your home, contact Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue by direct messaging your name, phone number and "Paisley" to begin the adoption process.
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After 20 years learning the blinds and awnings ropes through his family's business, a North Queenslander spotted an opening in the Whitsundays and decided to fill it himself. Launching his mobile business six months ago, Len Melville brought Queensland-made blinds and awnings to the area, using his locally honed eyes to help residents find the best fit for their homes. “I’m born and bred in North Queensland, so I know the weather conditions well and I know what’s suited for here,” Len said. “I’ve sold these particular products for the last 20 years and I know they’re good quality products.” Len’s knowledge of the trade was built over two decades working in his family business in Townsville, where he learnt the industry from his former father-in-law, who had already spent 25 years managing a North Queensland blinds and awnings business. “He trained me in everything from going out, measuring, quoting, running the factory, ordering, quality control, dealing with reps and administration,” Len said. Len’s range covers plenty of options inside and outside the home, set to add flair, shade or a little extra comfort, from roller blinds, vertical drapes and panel glides to fabric and aluminium awnings, fixed louvres and polycarbonate hoods. With summer rolling in, Len stressed the importance of thinking ahead, whether that means adding some extra shade or better preparing your home for storm season. “I realise now that we’re coming into summer, so it’d be a good time for people to start to think of their, especially their external awnings, to keep out the sun and the heat,” Len said. After two decades in the industry, Len’s drive to start something fresh comes from his love of meeting new people and using his knowledge to improve something they take plenty of pride in, their home. “Every job’s a new experience. I love to meet people,” Len said. “You meet some great people, you try and solve problems for them or make their home more usable and livable.”
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By Zach Houtenville Four community groups across the Whitsundays have received a funding boost of up to $10,000 each, as Alinta Energy announces the first recipients of its Mt Challenger Wind Farm Community Fund. From protecting the Whitsundays’ marine environment and educating the next generation to getting locals active and improving sporting facilities, the grants will support projects from the Whitsunday Conservation Council, Eco Barge Clean Seas, Healthy Kids Project and Bowen Golf Club. “They will help people explore and better understand the region’s natural environment, learn more about protecting our seas, get active together and enjoy improved community facilities,” said Alinta Energy’s Head of Power Development (East Coast), Amanda Weston. “We’re pleased to be able to give these organisations a hand to turn their ideas into action.” The funding will support a number of specific projects across the four groups, including the Whitsunday Conservation Council’s Heart of the Reef Discovery Trail, the Healthy Kids Project’s Sugar2Sea run/walk event, a new fridge for Bowen Golf Club and upgrades to Eco Barge Clean Seas’ Reef Room Community Education Facility. “This is really beautiful to help us keep going with our mission of cleaning the islands, protecting turtles, and educating on how we best protect our Sunday marine life from the threat of marine debris,” Libby Edge, the founder of Eco Barge Clean Seas. “It's good to see that they are giving back to the community, I do know the community is very concerned - so they should be. “But look, if this funding is going to help us promote, support and educate on how we all care for the reef, that's wonderful support to us.” Ms Weston said the range of applications received highlighted the work already being carried out by community groups across the region. “Local organisations understand what matters to their communities because they are part of them,” Ms Weston said. “We saw thoughtful, practical proposals from groups committed to making the Bowen and Proserpine region an even better place to live, work and visit.” However, the grants come with some mixed reviews, as some community members continue to protest the company’s Wind Farm proposal, with the Whitsunday Wind Farm Action group labelling the donations ‘disingenuous’. “I believe it is inappropriate for Alinta to offer community grants while the proposed Mt Challenger Wind Farm is still at the feasibility and engagement stage, according to Alinta Energy’s project website,” said Sandra Mitchell, a Whitsunday Wind Farm Action, who lives near the northern end of the project still being proposed. “Our community should be able to assess the project on its merits and express its views without financial incentives being introduced before approval is granted. “Alinta still needs to significantly improve its community engagement, many residents in Bowen are still unaware of the proposed project and its potential impacts.” Applications for the next round of grants will open in early 2027, as part of the organisation’s continued efforts to build stronger connections with the local community. “While we couldn’t support every application in this round, we appreciate the time, care and local knowledge that went into each one.” Photo 1- Eco Barge. Photo supplied: Libby Edge.
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Hamilton Island Race Week has hit the Whitsunday waters in full force, with heavy winds and tight racing setting the tone across the opening days of the iconic regatta. Now in its 41st edition, the week-long event has welcomed more than 1,200 sailors across 194 boats from Australia and overseas, blowing last year's fleet of 145 boats out of the water. “With entries across a diverse range of classes, we're looking forward to welcoming competitors from around Australia and overseas for another outstanding Hamilton Island Race Week,” Race Director Denis Thompson said in a Hamilton Island Race Week article ahead of the event. Racing officially got underway on Sunday 16th August, beginning six days of competition around Hamilton Island and through the Whitsunday passages. The action began on Sunday with the Around the Islands Race, as trade winds topping 25 knots and with less than steady conditions, crews were immediately tested with what the Whitsundays could throw at them. Skipper Steve Girdis led the field in the 22-boat Trailer Yacht fleet, while Mark Spring and his young crew aboard Highly Sprung fought back from a difficult start to claim the opening win in IRC Rating Division One. Viva La Vida took out Hamilton Island Blue, while John Whitbread’s Kerb topped Hamilton Island Pink. “It was so much fun, and what made it especially special was having four Girdises on board, plus one honorary family member,” Girdis said. The wind showed no signs of easing on Monday, with another demanding day on the water tightening the standings across several divisions. Miyu took victory on both EHC and OMR handicaps to move into the Multihull Racing lead, while Wild Thing claimed line honours and a handicap win in Hamilton Island Blue, finishing just 25 seconds ahead of Caol Ila on corrected time. “From there, we had a spinnaker run into the finish with 22 knots blowing through the passage,” Team Hollywood tactician David Chapman said. “The finish was probably the best part of the day.” Tuesday brought rougher conditions to waters, with fresh trade winds and passing rain squalls challenging sailors during the Nautilus Marine Insurance Classic, Race Week’s premier long and medium-distance race day. Wild Oats X claimed its first IRC win of the week in Rating Division One, while Highly Sprung continued its strong form with a third consecutive TPR victory. Wednesday gave crews a break from racing for the traditional lay day, with the Balter Lay Day Beach Party taking over Catseye Beach as the action shifted on shore. It was one of several ways Race Week has stretched beyond the water, alongside a Whitehaven Beach cruise aboard superyacht Rascal, the Race Day Long Lunch overlooking Dent Passage and a sit-down with sailors Olivia Price and Cole Tapper. With Race Week heading into its final stretch, racing continues on Friday and Saturday, with the Presentation Dinner bringing the 41st edition of the regatta to a close on Saturday night. Photo caption: All Photo credits: Salty Dingo.
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By Zach Houtenville Whitsunday residents have thrown their support behind calls to reconsider a controversial State Development Bill, amassing 350 signatures on an open letter to Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm, before gathering outside her Proserpine office to express concerns surrounding landholder rights, community consultation and environmental protections. The Whitsunday Conservation Council (WCC), alongside Save Our Foreshore, organised the protest on Tuesday 18th August, ahead of the State Development and Public Works Organisation (Critical Minerals) and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2026 being debated in Parliament. The groups formally presented Amanda Camm’s office with the letter outlining their concerns in an effort to have their voices heard before next week. “If this bill passes, it'll be a very black day for Queensland in that it removes many environmental assessments,” said President of the Whitsundays Conservation Council Tony Fontes. “Amanda is a very important person in our community as our member of parliament. “She has the opportunity to vote on this bill very shortly, which is why we're here today, as we're hoping that she will vote no.” The Bill was introduced to Queensland Parliament by Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie on June 2nd, aiming to speed up and simplify decisions around major development projects, particularly in the critical minerals sector. It proposes changes to the State Development and Public Works Organisation Act 1971, including new and expanded powers for facilitating significant projects, changes to land use and infrastructure planning for resources and heavy industry, and measures designed to streamline existing approval processes. It is those expanded powers and streamlined processes that have drawn concern from the WCC and Save Our Foreshore, who fear faster approvals could come at the expense of landholder rights, community consultation and environmental protections. WCC President Tony Fontes said his concern extended beyond impacts on private land, alleging the changes could also have consequences for the Great Barrier Reef. “It basically strips away many environmental protections, which will impact not just terrestrial environments, but the Great Barrier Reef itself,” Tony said. Save Our Foreshore expressed fear the Bill would concentrate greater decision-making power with the State while reducing public consultation. “The Government exists to represent the people, not override them,” said Save Our Foreshore President Suzette Pelt. “These new laws would hand sweeping and more extraordinary powers along with unilateral unaccountable authority to the Coordinator General and single Ministers.” Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm has acknowledged the concerns raised by the groups and wider community. “I acknowledge and thank the Whitsunday Conservation Council for their continued advocacy and also many across the community who have raised concerns around The State Development and Public Works Organisation (Critical Minerals) and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2026,” said Amanda Camm MP. Ms Camm highlighted safeguards for landholders, including at least six months of negotiations before compulsory acquisition could be considered, with the powers limited to State strategic projects. She said landholders would retain rights to be consulted, object and receive compensation, while any proposal would require Parliamentary scrutiny, and advised that the bill ‘does not remove environmental approval requirements.’ “As a former farmer, I know Landholders need to be assured there are safeguards in place,” Ms Camm said. “While the committee has recommended the Bill be passed it will be debated in Parliament and I will raise the concerns of my community.” Photo captions: Photo 1- Protesters asking for a rethink outside of Whitsundays Electorate office. Photo credit: Zach Houtenville. Photo 2- WCC President Tony Fontes and Save Our Foreshore President Suzette Pelt. Photo 3- WCC officially handing in their points of Rebuttal on the bill.
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