Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
We talk a lot about communication in the workplace, but when a conversation might upset someone, expose a problem, or produce an outcome we can't control, for many - their communication skills tend to disappear. Currently, I’m seeing avoidance of feedback, ignoring team tensions, and performance discussions so watered down that nobody actually understands there is a performance problem. Your team-members are not mind-readers, and honestly, most of them are too busy to pick up on your ‘hints’. Not having authentic discussions is a ‘you’ problem, not a ‘them’ problem. The uncomfortable truth is difficult conversations trigger our human instincts. We are hardwired to be social, and potential loss of relationships, status, or belonging can feel like a threat. Our fight, flight or freeze response doesn't exactly make rational conversation easier, because the more we stress, the lower our IQ becomes. Stepping into difficult discussions becomes easier when we prepare for them. Here’s my go-to list: What is the outcome I need? Start at the end. Change of behaviour, termination, more self-awareness – if you haven’t worked out what the objective is of the conversation, you’re not ready to start it. What are the fears & threats the team-member may have when I ask to speak to them? If I can’t identify and help manage them in the discussion then their ability to listen openly and objectively is greatly diminished. They are just waiting for the threat to appear in the dialogue rather than hear all the details. What are the emotions attached to this discussion? Embarrassed, angry, frustrated, confused – by identifying validating someone’s emotions we can help de-escalate and move the conversation forward. “I can understand how this would be frustrating” doesn’t mean we agree, it means we understand how it feels for them. What is the outcome everyone wants? The team-member, the organization, the rest of the department – what will work for everyone? How do I ensure this doesn’t happen again? Be curious about how this came about and discuss how you could all do better moving forward. Different processes or different phrasing of instructions can be a big help ( Sometimes people’s definition of phrases and words can be all it takes to create conflict.) Avoiding a difficult conversation doesn't ever make the problem disappear, it simply gives you short-term relief while it gets quietly packed into the team-members ‘backpack of resentment’, to be lugged around until eventually creating a much bigger problem later. Honest, authentic conversations combine curiosity, effective listening, accountability, understanding perspectives, managing emotions, and finding mutual purpose. Start with authenticity and good intent: “I might not have this right, but something doesn't feel right, and I think we need to talk about it.” Photo caption: Judy Porter. Photo supplied
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This week’s winning photograph is a picture of serenity, captured amongst the perfect calm of Lake Proserpine by Megan Weir. Submitted under the theme of Landscapes, this is a photo you could step right into, and float on a lilypad across waters so reflective you don’t know which way is up. Thank you and congrats, Megan! This the theme is “Aromas in Focus,” AKA things that smell nice – so get snapping, and submit your photos via the Whitsundays Amateur Photographers Facebook group.
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In the time before radio and television and when gramophones and records were very basic and quite expensive, residents yearned for entertainment outside the home. Occasionally, travelling vaudeville groups and pantomime companies visited the town. From very early days, concerts were staged as both church and community fundraisers as well as providing a social outlet. The Tivoli Hall was a regular venue for these occasions. Opened in 1913, the Tivoli Hall/Theatre was situated in Chapman Street. It had earlier been known as Oddfellows Hall which hosted a variety of functions. Before transitioning to the showgrounds, exhibits for the annual show were displayed in the Oddfellows Hall. In 1910, the inaugural Proserpine Show Ball was held there and the “Bowen Independent” April 11th 1911, reported, “The ladies of the R. C. Church are holding a Euchre Party on Easter Monday night in the Oddfellows’ Hall.” In an advertisement on April 15, 1911, Mrs G Taylor announced that she intended holding “A series of Assemblies in the Oddfellows Hall … every fortnight …Bright and up-to-date music.” The Tivoli, managed by Mr RAT Morrison, served as the town's initial venue for moving picture screenings and events before entertainment shifted to larger venues such as the Eldorado Picture Company run by Mr J Johns in the Alexandra Hall on Main Street. A boy was employed to ring an auctioneer’s bell in the main street announcing, “Pictures tonight!” Twice weekly, silent movies were screened at the Tivoli. Typical programmes presented a feature film, a comedy and a serial episode. Serials such as “The Iron Test” and “Elmo the Fearless” often ran for up to twenty episodes, each ending with an unresolved crisis - usually placing the heroine in danger to encourage audiences to return. Programmes sometimes included live acts such as “Frank Sidney - Trick Cyclist and Vaudeville Artist with his Singing Dog” and “Mr Dickenson who Specialises in Irish Songs”. Life for the cinema proprietors had its difficulties. Because of unreliable transport, films often failed to arrive, and equipment breakdowns were a perpetual worry, so old programmes had to be re-shown, or the proprietors cheerfully held a dance instead. In 1918, the Tivoli’s screening of the 5th episode of the great picture, “Gloria’s Romance” was thrilling audiences. Seats were a bit cheaper at the Tivoli than Alexandra Hall. Canvas chairs were 1/8; front seats 1/4. I Edwards was manager at this time. The “Bowen Independent” reported positively on the Tivoli pictures. February 18, 1919 – “Last Saturday night the Proserpine Branch of the Tivoli was packed to its utmost to see “Zara”, and the management was well thanked for the grand paramount program.” October 21, 1919 – “An enormous crowd witnessed the screening of that wonderful picture, ‘The Better Ole’” During the severe influenza epidemic of 1919, when restrictions on indoor entertainment were imposed, the community was fortunate to have the Tivoli’s open-air skating rink providing an alternative venue for their entertainment. The First Annual Military Ball was held at the Tivoli on Anzac night, 1919. This event was greatly anticipated as a commemoration marking the anniversary of the Anzac campaign. Circa 1927, the Tivoli held its first skating Fancy Dress Ball. In 1934, the Tivoli ceased to operate and was converted into a plumbing business. After suffering severe damage during Cyclone Debbie in 2017, structural assessments determined that the then 104-year-old building was beyond repair and could not retain its heritage façade. It was subsequently removed from the Queensland Heritage Register. And so ended a grand chapter of our district’s history. Story and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum Society. Photo caption: Back Left - Bud Rogan, Arthur Rasmussen, Lionel Rogan and Dick Ironside
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Every time I’m in Bowen at the moment, I seem to notice something else happening. A new home going up, another project getting underway, work happening on a community facility or a local business investing in something new. It’s great to see, because when you put all those individual projects together, there’s a real sense of momentum building across Bowen. And importantly, it’s not being driven by one big project. We’re seeing activity across housing, health, industry, community infrastructure and our public spaces. Housing is a big part of the story. New homes are being built, medium-density housing is progressing on King Street and approved development is starting to move at Whitsunday Paradise. Council’s $30 million Bowen South sewer project is also expected to start in coming months, providing the essential infrastructure needed to unlock around 360 new homes by 2028 and potentially more than 2,000 over the next decade. Elsewhere, construction is underway on the $16 million expansion of Maroona Gardens, while new GP and pharmacy facilities have recently opened in George Street. We’re also seeing investment in Bowen’s industrial areas, restoration work underway at the historic Bowen Courthouse and continued improvements to community facilities and public spaces. At Horseshoe Bay there are new amenities, we’re improving facilities along the foreshore and at the Bowen Pool, and more improvements are coming at Mullers Lagoon. Then there are the opportunities ahead. Planning and approvals are progressing towards construction of the new Bowen Jetty, while master planning at Queens Beach and Bowen Harbour is looking at how we can make more of these important waterfront areas. The Abbot Point State Development Area also has enormous potential to attract new industries and jobs to Bowen over the longer term. There is still plenty to do and plenty we need to keep advocating for. But Bowen has strong foundations and people willing to invest in its future. That matters not only for Bowen, but for our whole Whitsunday Region. Strong towns make a strong region, and whether it’s Bowen, Collinsville, Proserpine or our coastal communities, our job is to keep building on the strengths of each community. Right now, Bowen has some genuine momentum and it’s exciting to see what comes next.
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Markets are part of what makes the Whitsundays tick – supporting local businesses, giving visitors a taste of the region, and bringing people together. Over the past 12 months, the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry has managed the Airlie Beach Cruise Ship Markets in partnership with Airlie Events and has now added back-office support to Tarnia Patton and Ambi Ford for the popular Proserpine Community Markets. Together, the markets create opportunities for local traders to showcase what they do, reach new customers, and contribute to the wider community. A place to start, test and grow For many stallholders, markets are an important part of doing business – whether they’re starting out, testing an idea, or reaching new customers. Makers, growers, home-based businesses, and food vendors can meet customers face-to-face, build their profile, and generate income without the overheads of a traditional shopfront. For hobbyists, a market can also be a way to share a passion and see where it might lead. The Airlie Beach Cruise Ship Markets provide the added opportunity to connect with thousands of visitors, many who stay connected long after they leave the Whitsundays. Supporting the people behind the stalls For Cruise Ship Market stallholders, the past year has brought more support, clearer systems, and a stronger voice in the market’s future. Regular stallholder meetings, weekly updates, online registration and site allocation, and a dedicated Stallholder Sub-Committee make it easier for traders to stay informed and help shape the market. The Chamber has also worked closely with Council on practical improvements to support stallholders and visitors, while Chamber’s $99 Market Vendor Subscription provides discounted fees, promotional opportunities, and access to business resources, education, and networking. Local money, local causes Both the Airlie Beach Cruise Ship Markets and Proserpine Community Markets contribute to the Whitsundays Chamber Community Fund, which provides grants to eligible local not-for-profits, community groups and volunteer organisations. Keeping Proserpine’s local character The Proserpine Community Markets have been built over more than five years by founder Tarnia Patton around a simple idea: run by locals, for locals. That local character remains, with Tarnia continuing as on-site Market Manager while the Chamber provides back-office support. The next Proserpine Community Market is at the Proserpine Show Grounds on Sunday 6th December, with makers, growers, bakers, food vans, retailers, home businesses, services and community groups welcome to apply. The Proserpine Twilight Christmas Fair will also bring another opportunity for local businesses and community groups, running from 5pm to 8pm on Friday 11th December. More than a market day “The Chamber is here to back our market stallholders. Behind every stall is a person, a product and often a small business, and we want to help create opportunities for all of them to connect, trade and grow,” said Chamber Portfolio Manager Cait Fleming. Contact the Chamber to learn more about our markets via portfolios@whitsundaycoastchamber.com.au
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The gold sitting in your jewellery box or tucked away in a drawer may be worth considerably more than you realise. At Airlie Beach Gold Buyers, the team regularly sees customers bring in old jewellery, coins and unwanted gold without knowing its current value. Some pieces might appear to be little more than sentimental keepsakes or forgotten odds and ends can have significant value based on their gold content. Owner Jesse Robinson said that this is the beauty of the business. “It's the feeling. When you see an old lady come in and expect $200 for a gold and you say ‘Oh, its really worth $10,000 plus!’ “Because we go off live prices, there's no ripping anyone off. They can do their maths before they come. “I've had ladies go to throw out coins, and it turns out, that coin there's worth $1,500. They’re like: ‘Oh, we thought it was junk. We didn't know what gold's worth these days.'” Others come in knowing exactly what the market is doing- but everyone gets a fair and honest price. Airlie Beach Gold Buyers uses live market pricing, with gold and silver weighed and tested in front of customers before a valuation is provided. Customers can check the price, ask questions and decide for themselves whether they want to sell, with no obligation. Jesse suggested that now’s the time to get your valuation, with the price of gold having almost tripled in the last five years. And the next big thing? Silver. As an investment, Airlie Beach Gold Buyers say that gold and silver is just as good as buying a house, if not better. “You can't fake gold,” Jesse said. “You can't print gold.”
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From footy fields and swimming pools to community events, schools, arts projects and local businesses, more than $300,000 generated through Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine has been invested back into the Whitsundays community over the past seven years. That is the difference a local bank can make. Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine was created because local residents wanted banking that could deliver more for the community they called home. The journey began in 2009, when locals raised $800,000 to establish the Community Bank. Today, that same community spirit remains at the heart of the business, with a percentage of the branch’s profits returned to the community through sponsorships, grants and community initiatives. Chair Mark Henry said it was the branch’s “profit-with-purpose” model that made the Community Bank different. “Our success is based on our profit-with-purpose model, which sees a percentage of profits invested back into the community,” Mark said. “We see every day how local organisations contribute to the strength of our community, and we’re proud to be able to support the people who are making a difference.” Over the past year, the branch has provided financial support to a wide range of Whitsunday organisations, from grassroots sporting clubs and local schools to arts and culture, community wellbeing, environmental initiatives and local business. Alongside this funding, the branch’s Community BBQ Trailer gives local clubs and community groups access to practical equipment for their own events, including BBQs, gas bottles, cooking utensils, marquees, tables, chairs and a portable PA system. Branch Manager Amanda Anderson said community impact starts with the customers who choose to bank locally. “We’re here to have conversations with our customers, understand what they’re trying to achieve and help them find the right solution,” Amanda said. The Cannonvale branch provides full banking services, including home loans, personal banking, insurance, business and commercial lending, equipment finance, merchant facilities and wealth services. Senior Business Relationship Manager Luke Sheppard also works with local businesses across their banking and finance needs. It is local banking creating local impact, helping keep more of the benefits of banking right here in the Whitsundays. Community sponsorship applications are currently open. Contact secretary@whitsundaycel.com.au to find out more. Your town. Your bank. Everything you need. Visit Amanda and the team at Whitsunday Plaza, Cannonvale (07) 4948 3599 | cannonvale&proserpinemailbox@bendigoadelaide.com.au
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Local Queensland Police Service personnel came together with council and community members at St Martin’s Church in Cannonvale on National Police Remembrance Day to honour the courage, service and sacrifice of officers who lost their lives in the line of duty. Representatives from the fire and ambulance services and Airlie Beach PCYC were also in attendance. “The 13 names read during today’s service were a sobering reminder of the people behind the uniform - those who have served, those we have lost, and the families and colleagues who carry their memory forward,” shared Mayor Ry Collins. “To every police officer who puts on the uniform each day: thank you for your courage, professionalism and commitment to keeping our communities safe. “Your service often comes with sacrifices the rest of us don’t see, and it should never be taken for granted. “Today, we remember those who served and did not return, and we stand alongside the wider policing family.” The event echoed other services taking place across the country. “Every day, police put on their uniform knowing they may be called upon to face situations that most people never will. They do so with courage and an unwavering commitment to keeping Queenslanders safe,” said QPS Acting Commissioner Brett Pointing Acting Commissioner Pointing. “Today, we not only remember those we have passed, but we also stand with the families who continue to carry that loss. “Their names are etched into our history, but more importantly, they remain part of the Queensland police family. We remember them today, tomorrow and always.” Captions: 1 - Local emergency services personnel, councillors and community members came together at St Martin’s Church in Cannonvale on National Police Remembrance Day. Photo supplied
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Parking in Airlie Beach just got a whole lot easier thanks to an additional 300 free carparking spaces designed to encourage visitors and locals to head into town without worrying about the added expense of parking fees This is good news for locals, workers, visitors and business owners as the newly surfaced Waterson Way Car Park now open and offering free parking spaces conveniently located close to the heart of Airlie Beach. Council says the majority of the line marking is complete and the motorists can now start using these spaces. The new car park also includes six accessible parking spaces and several motorcycle bays to cater for a range of users. “There are still a few finishing touches to come, including lighting, signage and some wheel stops, with the final area to bring more than 300 free spaces once complete,” said a Council spokesperson. “Motorists are required to follow all instructional signage and take care while the remaining works are completed.” ✅Free extended-stay parking ✅More than 300 spaces when complete ✅Easy walk into the heart of Airlie Beach Caption: The newly sealed Waterson Way Car Park is now open. Photo supplied: Whitsunday Regional Council
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Bowen’s longest serving entrepreneur Ben De Luka turned 90 this September, and the much-loved local personality says keeping busy at the Bowen Summergarden Cinema is one of the main reasons for his longevity. “I love my customers, I think they’re God’s gift to any donkey like me!” shared Ben. “They’re always grateful to see me still standing up and see the place still going... “All my friends of yesteryear, they’re all gone because they retired too early!” Known for his charm, quick wit and kindness, Ben can still be found welcoming customers at Summergarden Cinemas in Bowen most days. Beginning as a trainee projectionist 74 years ago, Ben has been part of the iconic cinema since the age of 16. Within 10 years, he purchased the business and has operated it successfully for almost 65 years. Over this time he has seen significant change. “It used to be dirt floor down the sides and bitumen in the middle,” he recalls. “Everyday we used to hose the dirt lightly so it couldn’t make a dust storm! “It was an open air cinema when I first started and there was a section out the back with an army supply of tarps – customers could run back there when it rained and get cover under a tarp. “It was a circus!” When Ben purchased the business, he saved money to eventually complete a full roof, something the previous owners had started. The cinema was a popular place for viewing movies but also live entertainment. One of Ben’s favourite memories was hosting Slim Dusty shows, something he did for 38 years. “By the end we were good friends,” said Ben. Another significant moment was the filming of Australia in 2008. Ben met Nicole Kidman, Hugh Jackman and the rest of the cast, forming long-lasting friendships with many. Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy, said Summergarden Theatre was a great tourist attraction. “Many of our visitors go to the theatre, not just for the movies but to check out the memorabilia and to admire the old building,” she explained. “Ben is always very welcoming whenever we recommend our visitors go to the theatre. “We all wish Ben a very happy 90th birthday – what a fantastic milestone.” After welcoming in his 90th year on the 18th September with a surprise birthday party organised by his wife Phyl, Ben says he is looking forward to many more years to come. And, when asked if he will retire soon, Ben says “no way!” Caption: Ben De Luka has been the face of Bowen Summergarden Cinemas for also 75 years and turned 90 last month. Photo credit: Mackay and Whitsunday Life Newspaper
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The Proserpine Art Exhibition of Established and Emerging Artists 2026 was celebrated as a resounding success over the weekend, attracting more than 50 attendees and showcasing the remarkable talent of both experienced and up-and-coming artists from the region. The exhibition, coordinated by long-time art educator Dawn Pearce, highlights the importance of nurturing the next generation of creative talent. With 35 years of experience as an art teacher, Mrs Pearce has dedicated many years to supporting emerging artists through exhibitions and community programs. "These young artists are the future of our creative industries," Mrs Pearce said. "They will become the graphic designers, illustrators and professional artists of tomorrow, and they are the ones who will help keep our galleries thriving for years to come." The exhibition provides a valuable platform for developing artists to display their work alongside established practitioners, giving visitors the opportunity to recognise and encourage artists at the beginning of their creative journeys. Mrs Pearce believes art competitions and exhibitions should continue to create dedicated opportunities for emerging artists, helping the public appreciate both their talent and potential. Guests enjoyed an evening of art, community connection, and celebration, with the diverse range of artworks receiving enthusiastic support from attendees. The exhibition will remain on display at the Proserpine Museum until the end of October, with a selection of artworks available for purchase. The organisers extended their sincere thanks to the Proserpine Museum for its ongoing support and assistance in hosting the event, helping to create a welcoming space for local artists to share their work with the community.
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More than 50 volunteers removed 1,574 kilograms of marine debris from remote beaches and bays along 9 kilometers of the Cape Upstart coastline earlier this month. Much of the debris is believed to have been associated with the North and Far North Tropical Low event earlier in 2025. Volunteers were joined by Juru Enterprises Limited (JEL), the Juru owned business and the Eco Barge Clean Seas team over four days of hands-on marine debris removal. “This clean-up was about much more than removing debris. It brought people together to care for a coastline and the marine life that depends on it. Every item removed was one less threat in the ocean, and every person involved helped show what a community of care can achieve.” Libby Edge, Founder, Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc. Teams worked across identified debris hotspots, while protecting sensitive habitats and respecting cultural protocols. Marine debris within designated transects was collected, sorted, counted and processed to capture and report on key insights to help build understanding of marine debris sources and storm impacts. The clean-up also provided a clearer picture of the debris affecting the Cape Upstart coastline. Across the four days, teams collected debris from designated transects to be further analysed, with the most common debris types –plastic fragments, bottles and oil drums among the most frequently recorded. The Cape Upstart Marine Debris Removal Project forms part of the Environmental Cleanup and Local Conservation Program and is jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland governments under the Disaster Recovery funding Arrangements.
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Sometimes a photograph’s beauty lies not in the grandeur of the subject, but in the intricate details revealed by looking a little closer. Michele Shea captured this week’s winning photograph with a beautiful close-up of a waterlily in bloom, bringing the flower’s delicate petals and natural symmetry into sharp focus. It is a peaceful, yet wildly beautiful frame that makes for a great example of this week’s “Macro” theme. Congratulations, Michele, your photograph will have us all giving things a closer look! For next week’s Photo of the Week, the theme is “Landscapes”. Thank you once again to everyone in the Whitsundays Amateur Photographers Facebook group for sharing another wonderful collection of images.
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Local tourism operators are expressing concern toward troubling times ahead, with the federal government’s new visa restrictions set to shrink the backpacker workforce that drives seasonal operations. The Federal Government’s proposed cuts to Working Holiday Visas have raised concerns across two of the Whitsundays’ biggest industries. Bowen farmers warned that fewer backpackers could leave crops unpicked, and now tourism leaders in Airlie Beach have added that the same cuts could leave local businesses scrambling to find workers that aren’t there. At Airlie Beach’s Heart of the Great Barrier Reef sign, Tourism Whitsundays CEO Tim Booth and Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins spoke about what the proposed changes could mean for a region that relies heavily on tourism. “We can't have Airlie Beach named Australia's top tourism town in the small category and then have the knees cut out from us by federal policy,” Tim said. The proposed changes form part of the Federal Government’s effort to reduce migration, a topic that has been of hot debate by all three parties that Mayor Ry Collins believes the working holiday visas should be separated from. “Obviously the federal government is really coming in with broad brushstrokes to try and address the publicly perceived issue around net overseas migration (NOM),” said Mayor Collins. “Some of the dialogue I heard last week in Canberra was actually taking that working holiday maker class completely out of the NOM calculation. “I think that's a fair and reasonable way that they can make the numbers look as good as they want but it won't affect the actual number of workers that are here to support our industries.” The new restrictions look to cut the second-year extension on Working Holiday Visas from 57,000 to 45,000 slots, and 3rd year extension from 31,000 to just 5,000. According to Tourism Whitsundays, the Whitsundays hosts about 3,500 backpacker workers at any given time of the year. “I think for regions like the Whitsunday’s unemployment rate is lower than the national average by 0.9%, so at a 3.5% unemployment rate, we just don't have the workforce there that can pick up these roles that the working holidaymaker delivers for our communities,” Tim said. According to figures released by Tourism Whitsundays, in the year ending March 2026, domestic visitors spent $959.1 million in the region and international visitors spent a further $271.8 million. This spending was made possible by the abundance of workers delivering those experiences. “[Working holidaymakers] do a terrific job already in delivering world-class experiences, particularly here in the Whitsundays,” said Mayor Collins. “We do see working holidaymakers really take up that mantle, particularly in areas like customer service roles, hospitality roles, housekeeping roles... “What we're asking for is that we can stay strong as an entire tourism industry.” Having just returned from Canberra, the pair said raising regional and statewide voices is crucial to persuading the Federal Government to reconsider how the proposed restrictions would apply. “And then at a federal level, obviously through our federal member Andrew Wilcox, but we've also engaged with the members of the Labor Party around that as well. “But unfortunately it's starting to feel like a number of issues that we're campaigning on…along with things like disaster recovery funding arrangements which was one we linked into last week.” Photo caption: Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins and CEO of Tourism Whitsundays, Tim Booth. Photo credit: Zach Houtenville
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Contributed with thanks by Sue Hazledine BOWLS North Mackay Ladies Bowls held its Consistency Final on Wednesday 16th September, with Cheryle Corbett taking on Brenda Trannore for the title. The final produced a closely contested display of precise and consistent bowling, with both players putting in a wonderful effort throughout the game. After a strong contest, it was Cheryle who emerged victorious, finishing the match as the Consistency winner to the delight of her fellow North Mackay ladies. Congratulations were extended to Cheryle on her win, with Brenda also acknowledged for her efforts in reaching the final. Winner Cheryle Corbett and Runner up Brenda Trannore. Photo supplied
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Mackay State High School celebrated a successful day at the 2026 T2S Barefoot Touch Carnival, with two teams competing throughout the event. The school’s Traffic Cones team got the day off to a strong start, claiming victory in the Relay Race. Supa Tuff Dudes then battled through the touch competition to reach the Grand Final, where they faced Northern Beaches State High School. The Mackay State High School side secured the win to be crowned the 2026 T2S Barefoot Touch Carnival champions, bringing the shield back to the school. Both teams represented Mackay High with pride, teamwork and great spirit throughout the day. The school also thanked Mackay Youth Justice and the T2S team, particularly Hiali and Sophie, for putting together an enjoyable day for the young people involved. Photo source: Mackay SHS
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Members of the club who wished to walk in the perfect weather available last Sunday were able to choose, and seven opted for the beach, while another eight decided to rise to the challenge and face a day of serious climbing in the Homevale National Park. Ken Fihelly escorted his group out to the Mt Addar Road for the start of the assault on Clarke’s Pinnacle which is about 3 km NNE of Sydney Heads. Most of the morning was taken up climbing a long steep ridge with an elevation of 350m. Saplings, vines and rock obstacles made for hard going which was rewarded by spectacular views across a wide deep valley to Clarke’s Pinnacle, which was the destination. Lunch was taken at a lookout with Sydney Heads, Mt Britton, Mt Fort Cooper and the Marling Spikes all in sight. The ascent of Clarke’s Pinnacle itself led to views of Kinchant Dam and parts of the Pioneer Valley, followed by a steep descent down a dry gully. It was a hard but rewarding walk and the journey back to the cars involved trying to avoid lantana. Mandy Nimmo’s group assembled at Illawong Beach at 11 am to suit the tide, as Shellgrit Creek had to be negotiated early on after walking for a short distance along the beach. The destination was the mouth of Bakers Creek, and a clear blue sky and a gentle breeze made for excellent walking conditions. The offshore islands were outlined crisply, and soldier crabs were out in their hundreds. The serious photographers in the group found lots of interesting subjects, and a shady, grassy spot was found for lunch. Most of the group completed the entire distance of about 11km, and with the mountains to the south, the sparkling ocean, and the perfect conditions, a great day was had. For more information on upcoming kayaking, cycling and walking activities, phone 0429 363 929. Contributed with thanks by Carole Weekes
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Contributed with thanks by Therese Russell. Four Mackay Rowing Club Masters competitors took on the world’s best at the 2026 World Rowing Masters Regatta, held on Lake Bled in Bled, Slovenia, from September 9th to 13th. The small Mackay club recorded a number of strong results across the regatta, including two gold medals. Therese Clancy claimed gold in the WG1x before teaming up with Jane Deguara to win gold in the WG2x. Therese also recorded a third-place finish in the WF1x, while partnering with Richard McGrath to finish fourth in the Mixed F2x. In the Mixed G2x, Therese and Lachlan McDonald finished second. Mick Wohlfahrt and Lachy McDonald also secured a second-place finish. The Mackay contingent added further podium finishes in the Mixed F4x, finishing third, while the Mixed G4x crew placed fourth. The results marked a strong showing for the Mackay Rowing Club at an international masters event. Mackay Rowing Club Masters competitors delivered a strong showing at the 2026 World Rowing Masters Regatta in Slovenia. Photos supplied
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Well done to everyone that played Season 3 Morning and Evening Fixtures. Season 4 will commence on the 6th October and please contact Donna or Steve if your interested in being part of a team. Evening Fixtures celebrated Finals night with Division 1: Cheetahs (Goncalo Serra, Allan Edwards, Janice Kent) defeating Jaguar (Mick Ruhl, Graeme Walker, Syed Hossain) 6-2, with no 5 set matches, Janice was to strong for Graeme (10,-9,2,10). Division 2 was not so 1 sided Cod (Delma Knight, Steve Mathieson, Darryl Ross) snuck home 6-5 over Dolphins (Mark Stam, Ricky Zhan, Mark Bowerman), some very good matches but Steve fought back from 2 sets down to win an incredible 5 sets to beat Mark S (-3,-12,7,5,14). Tuesday Morning players took part in the “Jan Meng Memorial Doubles Competition”, this is a fantastic doubles competition that combines all divisions together. The top ranked player teams up with the bottom ranked player, which means we always pair up with someone different. This year was very tough but a big Congratulations to George Camilleri and Sharon Muller getting home in the final against Judy Zahn and Coral Morgan (5,-10,6,4). Contributed with thanks by Andrea Payne Photo is of the finalists for "Jan Meng Memorial Doubles Competition" - (L-R) Runners Up - Coral Morgan & Judy Zahn join the Winners - Sharon Muller & George Camilleri. Photo supplied
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Contributed with thanks by Joy Block The 2026 Club Teams Championship was played last Saturday. Twelve teams competed over two sessions with the Holewa Team of Max & Diane Holewa, Noel Bugeia and Terry Sheedy being this year’s winner. The Airlie Beach Red Point event was held Wednesday, with sixty-four members from across our Whitsunday Zone taking part. Weekly Result Monday 14 September 2026 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points N/S E/W 1st Jan Harris / Helen Van Den Breok 1st David Ting / Eric Goodchild 2nd Barbara Tait / Margaret Lane 2nd Griffin Bancroft / Gwen Liddell 3rd Edward Kliese / Diane Stokes 3rd Anne Lutz / Joy Springer 4th Margaret Lane / Barbara Tait 4th Monica Darley / Joy Block Tuesday Evening 15 September 2026 – 6 Table One Winner Green Points 1st Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan 2nd Helen Van Den Broek / Terry Sheedy 3rd Mick King / John McGee 4th Martin Pearce / Glen Cocup Wednesday 16 September 2026 – 4 Table Mitchell Green Points 1st Kath Poole / Monica Darley 1st Robert Carless / Joy Robinson 2nd Debbie Ludkin / Geoff Taylor 2nd Victor Mason / John Ludkin Thursday Evening 17 September 2026 –-4cTable One Winner Green Points 1st Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless 2nd Griffin Bancroft / Mick King 3rd Adrian Westcott / Louise Renton Friday 18 September 2026 –- 11 Table Mitchell Green Points 1st Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix 1st Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia 2nd Max Holewa / Diane Holewa 2nd Ming Ting / David Ting 3rd Alan Brown / Frances Brown 3rd Diane Cox / Christine Nice 4th Josie Crowley / Victor Mason 4th Eric Goodchild / Sandy Patterson 5th Faith Hutchinson / Monica Darley 5th Jewel Schmidt / Annette Howe Saturday 19 September 2026 –-11 Table Mitchell Green points 1st Annie Lynch / Sandra Morris 1st Monica Darley / Nancy Martin 2nd Ming Ting / David Ting 2nd Jan Harris / Andrew Canavan 3rd Susan Wright / Faye Wright 3rd Martin Pearce / Patricia Garner 4th Sue Mayer-Miller / Geoffrey Patterson 4th Kay Jones / Dianne Cook 5th Mary Rose Ramsden / Christine Nice 5th Ken Seaniger / Joy Robinson Mary Rose, Christine, Debra & Eric - Airlie Beach Winners, Red Points. Club Team Winners Terry, Noel, Max & Diane. Photos supplied
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Contributed with thanks by B. Trannore and S. Hazledine Ladies Master Singles was played at Mackay Club over the weekend, and it was another exciting event in the Ladies Bowling Calendar for 2026. Congratulations to Lois Deguara from North Mackay Club defeating South Suburban player Karina Dunn 25-18 in a very exciting Final. Well done to all those who played in this wonderful event. (L) Event Winner Lois Deguara with Runner up Karina Dunn. Photo supplied
Read moreIn this world of AI and other technological advancements, you don’t want to be the person who wanders around the office like a big old clumsy Tyrannosaurus Rex bumping into all the youngsters and stepping on their laptops and other devices. It’s one of the challenges of our times; getting the balance right in business in a world that is increasingly controlled by AI, robotics and a rapidly changing IT environment. I remember, some years ago now, when older family members had refused to embrace computer technology and mobile phones etc. They were really left behind and felt excluded in a world that had moved ahead without them. I’ve got a 19-year-old son who doesn’t have to think about it. Current and evolving technology is part of his life and, like others in his age group, he is completely at ease with something that is just part of his make-up and comprehension of the world around him. The trap you can fall into is letting the kids do all the IT stuff for you. My son set up our old TV with all the streaming services etc, which was the easy option for me, but I find it’s important to get involved and do it yourself otherwise everything will move ahead and you won’t be able to do things for yourself. But I am still stuck in some of the old ways. If I am ordering a takeaway meal I still ring the restaurant and go and pick it up. The old T-Rex wanders into the Thai or Indian joint and picks up his plastic bag of goodies, pays, and drives home. There aren’t many of us left. Uber Eats baby. Everyone has embraced it. My wife and daughter were having dinner together in Brisbane recently and my daughter noticed that her stockings or tights had “run” or a ladder in them. My wife suggested she jump in the car and drive to a nearby supermarket and get another pair. But my daughter ordered a new pair to be delivered to the restaurant by Uber. They were there in a jiffy and the night continued without the pesky interruption of having to leave the restaurant to buy them. It’s a great example of the modern world making things easier and how many of us need to ensure we are adjusting and understanding how things can now be done. There is another side to the coin, however. People have told me that I should get AI to write my columns. They say I could give it some examples of columns I have written and give it an idea for a new column and tell it to knock out 600 words on my chosen topic in my style of writing. It’s something I would never do. Apart from the fact that it would somehow seem like I was cheating, it would also not be authentic. I feel that however boring or pedestrian my stories and comments are, at least they are mine. They have come from my noggin, my experiences. It is my take on the world, not something that has been cobbled together by artificial intelligence. It’s similar in the world of real estate and, I’m sure, business generally. You need to embrace the technology, use it when it creates a better service, a superior experience for buyers and a better result for sellers. But there is still a place for picking up the phone and calling buyers, following up from open homes, doing the hard work that needs to be done as an agent. In a world of AI, robotics and Uber Everything the human element, the person-to-person connection still needs to happen to deliver good service and create the best result for clients.
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Maisy is a beautiful little soul who seems to understand that the very best place in the world is right beside someone she loves. She is affectionate, gentle, social and wonderfully trusting. She loves curling up on a welcoming lap, snuggling into your arms and settling close enough to make you feel as though you have always belonged together. Maisy is generous with her purrs, her cuddles and her sweet little air biscuits. She even places her paw in your hand as if to say, “I choose you.” But this gorgeous girl is not only a champion snuggler. Maisy is playful, curious and full of kitten joy. She loves exploring her toys, chasing anything that moves and turning ordinary moments into entertainment. She will happily amuse herself, but everything is even more fun when her favourite person joins in. She has that perfect combination of affection and personality, soft and loving when it is time to cuddle, and playful and bright when it is time for fun. Maisy will bring warmth to your home, companionship to your days and a little paw to hold whenever you need it. If you are looking for a kitten who will play with you, curl up with you and love being part of your life, Maisy may be the girl you have been waiting for. Maisy has been desexed, microchipped, received her first vaccination, been wormed and is litter trained. She is ready to begin her beautiful new life as a much-loved indoor companion. To arrange a meet and greet with Maisy, please call Ros on 0403 814 318.
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Tarren McAuley, Web Director and Co-Owner I remember when those AI posters started popping up – the first one looked kinda different. By the end of the week, when I’d seen 30 of them, I was much less enamoured + actively scrolled past anything that had that telltale paint smear style font. It’s not that the quality had gotten any worse between me seeing that first one + when I was sick of them by the 30th. But it was no longer novel or original. I think AI is especially susceptible to this because as soon as someone discovers a winning formula, everyone else jumps on the bandwagon, but because everyone is getting similar outputs, it gets old – quick. I think brands can fall into a similar trap. Humans are always looking for inspiration + when seeking it out, where better to look than the other players in your field. If you’re a tech company, you’re going to look at Samsung, Apple + the like. But when that happens too much, you get a feedback loop of samey-ness. For me, this is best exemplified by airline logos. Look at Qantas + Virgin, probably the two biggest brands in Australia. Both use a red plane-like icon, w/ their logo in big letters next to it. Bit cherry picked but even the other big players’ logos are similar - Emirates uses mainly red + shakes it up by having a slightly more exotic font. Jetstar ditches the red for orange + has their icon at the end but it has similar visual markers. This isn’t unique to logos, like w/ the poster example earlier – it could be your social tiles, your website or even your company email sig. Whatever it is, if you wake up one day + notice that the other businesses around you are looking a bit too similar, that should be your sign to start looking at a rebrand to shake off the rust + re-establish your unique identity. You know, until the cycle repeats again!
Read moreStress has become so woven into modern life that many of us barely notice it anymore. We move from one responsibility to the next, manage family needs, meet deadlines, answer messages and fall into bed with our minds still racing. Eventually, feeling overwhelmed can begin to seem normal. Perhaps these feelings deserve our attention. Stress is a significant and often overlooked contributor to ill health. It can influence sleep, digestion, mood, concentration, energy and many other aspects of wellbeing. Once again, the body may be sending us a message and inviting us to look more closely at what needs care. Our nervous system is designed to help us respond to challenges. In short bursts, this response can be useful. When pressures continue without enough recovery, the body may remain in a heightened state for too long. Daily responsibilities, demanding workloads, deadlines, financial concerns and relationship pressures can gradually build. You might feel tense, irritable, exhausted or unable to switch off. Even simple tasks can begin to require enormous effort. These experiences can be valuable signals that your current pace needs to change. The amount of distraction we face has also increased dramatically. Notifications, emails, social media, news and endless streams of information compete for our attention. It can become difficult to focus on the people, priorities and goals that matter most. Distraction may offer a temporary escape, yet it can also become a place in which we get lost. When our energy is repeatedly pulled away from what we genuinely want to achieve, unfinished tasks and neglected priorities can create even more pressure. A helpful direction is to develop realistic strategies that allow the nervous system to experience safety and balance. One simple place to begin is with four slow, long outward breaths. Breathe in gently, then allow each exhale to be longer and softer than the inhale. You can even add a sigh as you breathe out. This can help calm the body and support the parasympathetic nervous system, often called the rest and digest response. Stress deserves regular opportunities for release. Waiting for a holiday or an exotic retreat can leave the body carrying tension for weeks, months or even years before returning to the same demanding environment. Gentle recovery needs to become part of everyday life. Healthy Life Essentials is offering a regular group relaxation class to help you pause, breathe and practice releasing stress in a welcoming setting. These sessions create protected time for your nervous system to settle while giving you practical techniques to use at home, at work and during busy periods. Through our eight essential pillars of health, we also explore sleep, nutrition, hydration, movement, emotional wellbeing and the pressures shaping your life. Every strategy is tailored to the individual, because stress feels different for everyone. If exhaustion, overwhelm or constant distraction has become familiar, pause and listen. Your body will be guiding your attention towards an area of life that needs greater care. Contact Healthy Life Essentials to learn about our next group relaxation class and begin creating more calm, clarity and breathing space in your everyday life. Brad Baker : Healthy Life Essentials
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