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Mackay residents will soon have another option for grocery shopping, with Queensland-owned supermarket brand Fresh & Save announced as the first tenant for the Mackay Airport Milton Precinct development. Preliminary works are underway at the site, with the new supermarket expected to open in mid-2027, and provide an additional grocery shopping option for residents as the region continues to grow. Mackay Airport Chief Executive Officer Richard Barker said the supermarket would form an important part of the emerging precinct, which is located near key growth areas including the Bakers Creek community zone. The Milton Precinct development is expected to bring additional services and facilities to the area, supporting the needs of a growing Mackay community. “We are pleased to support greater grocery affordability, choice and convenience for our community,” he said. “Fresh & Save is well known for its strong value offering, market-style produce, and bulk-buy savings.” Mr Barker said the new supermarket would invigorate further commercial development at Milton Precinct. “Fresh & Save will be positioned within a central, 5,700 square metre site. It will attract significant customer volumes and serve as a catalyst for ongoing business activation at Milton Precinct,” he said. “The first stage of Milton Precinct has already unlocked almost 28,000 square metres of development-ready lots with new roads and a network of civil services. The overall precinct will span 200,000 square metres, enabling a range of service providers to co-locate in a single, integrated hub. “Milton Precinct will support local operators, new industries and employment while offering convenience for customers. Having direct access to the airport, Bruce Highway and rail line is also highly attractive for businesses who need a fast, affordable and reliable supply chain.” According to the brand, its warehouse-style stores feature production butcheries, bakery departments, extensive produce sections, and a range of chilled foods and grocery items. Stores are already located in a range of suburban and regional areas around Queensland and New South Wales, including suburban Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast, Maryborough, Hervey Bay and Grafton. The Milton Precinct development is expected to deliver significant economic benefits for the Mackay region, with the project estimated to contribute $134.1 million to the local economy within its first 10 years of operation. Businesses operating from the precinct are expected to generate $42.5 million in output each year. Mackay Airport is investing $32 million into key infrastructure at the site, with the development also supported by a loan from the Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility (NAIF), which requires projects to demonstrate public benefits including job creation and regional economic growth. The precinct is expected to create more than 200 construction jobs, with businesses at the completed development forecast to support an additional 280 onsite jobs. The Milton Precinct will be developed in stages over a 10-year period, with commercial operators progressively opening as the precinct expands. For more information, visit miltonprecinct.com.au. Mackay Airport’s Milton Precinct is set to expand with a new supermarket announced as its first tenant, bringing a new grocery option, jobs and future commercial opportunities to the region. Image and Photo supplied by Mackay Airport
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OPINION PIECE by Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox Seniors who spent decades working hard, paying taxes, and saving to fund their own future have earned the right to stability and security in their retirement. You expect your government to respect that lifetime of contribution. You do not expect it to target your retirement savings the moment you turn 65. Yet that is the harsh reality facing tens of thousands of seniors across Dawson under a policy shift by the Albanese Labor Government as part of its latest budget cash grab. Starting in April 2027, the government will abolish the extra private health insurance rebate built specifically to keep healthcare affordable for retirees on fixed incomes. Right now, older Australians receive a higher rebate tier to offset the loss of a regular wage. Labor is scrapping that support to help cover its own budget deficit. The financial penalty is severe. Support drops from 28.1 per cent down to 24.1 per cent for people aged 65 to 69; for anyone 70 or older, it plunges from 32.2 per cent to 24.1 per cent. In real dollars, this decision forces a massive annual price hike on vulnerable members of our community on fixed incomes. On average, this adds up to around $807 more for singles and $1,614 more for couples on comprehensive cover. Under a Labor-created cost of living crisis where the price of basic necessities are rapidly rising, adding around $1,600 a year to a retiree’s healthcare is not insignificant, it is a heartless and brutal blow to locals who are already struggling under record electricity, grocery, and insurance costs. Labor ministers can spin this as a routine adjustment, but internal department documents obtained under Freedom of Information expose the ugly truth. Federal health bureaucrats knew exactly what this cut would trigger: pensioners skipping meals and medicines, downgradingtheir protection, or dropping private cover entirely to join endless public waitlists in severe pain for joint replacements. And while this policy directly punishes seniors for self-funding their healthcare, the fallout will be felt by every family in our region. Nearly half of all Age Pensioners make significant personal sacrifices to maintain private health cover because prompt treatment matters. Forcing them out of private health does not make their medical needs vanish, a failing heart or damaged joint still requires surgery. The only difference is that these patients will be shifted directly into local public hospital queues, piling unsustainable pressure onto doctors, nurses, and beds throughout our hospitals in Dawson. The economics behind this decision are completely backwards. Independent analysis confirms that for every single dollar the Federal Government saves by stripping away this rebate, our public hospital system will absorb $1.20 in extra emergency admissions and surgeries. It is a short-sighted cost-shift that treats local retirees like cash machines, will push state hospitals to breaking point, and has the real potential to blow out surgical wait times across the region. The Coalition firmly believes that if you take responsibility for your own healthcare, your government should support you, not penalise you. Seniors who built our communities deserve dignity and stability in retirement. I want to hear directly from you about how this budget decision will impact your household. I have set up an online petition to gather our community's voice: if you are able, please fill it out at http://lbr.al/89sk. If you cannot access a computer, you can contact my office directly on (07) 4944 0662 or pop in to see us at Level 2, 47 Gordon Street, Mackay. The Coalition will fight this unfair health tax every step of the way in Parliament to protect our retirees and defend our regional health services.
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Council budgets are complex; we work on small margins, but at their heart they are about balancing affordability for ratepayers with the need to maintain essential services, renew ageing infrastructure and plan responsibly for a growing community. This year’s budget highlights the significant cost of delivering services across the region. Employee costs for about 1200 staff are budgeted at $124.932 million, with materials and services at $149.189 million. These include everyday essentials such as contractors, electricity, insurance, gravel and other consumables that keep council operations running. Council will also pay about $4.9 million – $970K in annual interest on loans and $3.479 million on the unwinding discount on rehabilitation provisions, while depreciation on assets including buildings, roads and underground pipe systems is $107.892 million. While depreciation is not always visible, it reflects the ageing of essential infrastructure residents rely on daily. Capital expenditure is budgeted at $127.352 million, including new infrastructure such as the Northern Beaches Community Hub and renewals of existing assets. These investments are needed as our region grows and ageing infrastructure must be repaired, renewed or replaced. Council has worked hard to keep rates lower than many Queensland councils over the past decade. That has helped households, but it also creates pressure. Like a family on a tight budget, council must make careful choices, look for savings and avoid spending beyond its means. Remembering wants versus needs. In some areas, council has had to reduce activities, services or delay work. I believe we now need to focus strongly on getting core services back to where they should be, while being clear about wants versus needs. At the same time, the community rightly expects investment in places to live, gather, play and connect. The Northern Beaches, now home to more than 20,000 people, is a clear example of why long-term planning matters. Community infrastructure can take many years to move from an idea and business case through planning, design, funding and construction. Rate increases are never easy, but they are necessary to meet rising costs, protect essential services and build for the future. My commitment is to keep asking questions and seeking answers about how council can approach future budgets differently. If we keep doing the same thing, we will get the same result. Before the real number crunching begins later this year, we need to be clear about what the next budget should look like and how we can deliver positive change for a liveable, connected and growing region.
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The future of one of North Mackay's best-known parks is now in the hands of the community, with residents invited to share their ideas for John Breen Park and Centenary Place. Mackay Regional Council is developing a long-term vision for the 11-hectare park along Goosepond Creek, with the plan guiding its future over the next 20 years. Mayor Greg Williamson said the park has a proud history within the region. “The original North Mackay Recreation Reserve was opened in 1940 by the former Pioneer Shire Council and has played host to everything from greyhound racing cycling to tennis, vigaro and cricket,” Mayor Williamson said. “The park has always been a hive of activity and it’s clear this is an important and much-loved part of the region,” he said. “What we are doing through this master planning process is ensuring that it continues to meet the needs of the community.” Residents can share their ideas from August 10th to August 23rd through Connecting Mackay or at a pop-up event at John Breen Park from 2pm to 5pm on Saturday, August 15th. A draft Master Plan will then be developed, with further community feedback expected from October. Photo source: Mackay regional Council
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Acclaimed Sunshine Coast artist Simone Eisler is inviting the community to explore a captivating story of family, migration and transformation through her latest public art installation. Titled How Does Your Garden Grow? the work is on display as of Friday 7th August, and uses the symbolism of gardens to reflect on heritage, change and the connections that shape our lives across generations. Ms Eisler is an artist with a national and international profile whose sculptural, public art and multimedia practice investigates themes of transformation in nature and human society. Her work explores ideas of gardens, species evolution and family history, revealing how change occurs through journeying, cross-pollination and adaptation. Ms Eisler said How Does Your Garden Grow? focused on her own family history and her ancestral connections to Mackay. “After doing some research, I discovered my paternal great-great grandfather, Francis (Frank) Henry O’Reilly, had emigrated from Ireland to Mackay around 1870,” Ms Eisler said. “He became the proprietor of The Working Men’s Store at 8 Sydney Street, which many people would know until recently as The Paper Chain,” “I found that the shop had stunning stained-glass windows, which inspired me to transform this imagery into portals to the past, where insects, birds, flowers and leaves carry stories, maps and memories from other places and times.” Ms Eisler’s process involved creating linework imagery based on the actual leadwork of the windows, which she then used to frame her digital photographic design. The installation continues a body of family history work previously exhibited at the State Library of Queensland and Noosa Regional Gallery. Mayor Greg Williamson said the building and its beautiful stained-glass windows represented an important historical part of Mackay’s history. “This building is one of the oldest surviving structures at this end of Sydney Street, with many destroyed during the 1918 Mackay Cyclone,” Mayor Williamson said. “The old timber building, with its verandah over the footpath, and its beautiful stained-glass windows give us a glimpse into what our city looked like during our early days,” he said. “Ms Eisler’s artwork depicts not only this significant building, but also the journey of the people who have moved here to make the region what it is today.” The series combines historical references with contemporary digital photographic collage, creating visually striking works that invite audiences to reflect on family connections, movement and belonging. Ms Eisler worked with Mackay Regional Council Libraries’ Heritage team at the Dudley Denny City Library to obtain images of Sydney Street and information about her ancestor and his store. She also worked with Genealogical Society of Mackay, who by coincidence, were preparing a profile of him for their records. Sunshine Coast artist Simone Eisler has explored her Mackay ancestry to create her latest work, How Does Your Garden Grow?, which is on display at the Dudley Denny City Library. Photo supplied by Mackay Regional Council
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One of Mackay’s most distinctive charity events has passed a major milestone, with Flagon & Dragon now raising more than $2.3 million for local children and families. The invitation-only 2026 Flagon & Dragon raised $300,000 when Mackay’s business community gathered at Mantra Mackay on Friday, July 31st. First held at The Oriental restaurant more than three decades ago, the biennial event combines fun and fundraising to support sick Mackay children and their families. Guests entered an elaborate China-themed setting featuring lanterns and a large traditional dragon, while Certificate II in Hospitality students from Mackay North State High School and Mackay Northern Beaches State High School worked alongside Mantra staff to deliver the two-course function. The unpaid placement helped students fulfil course requirements while gaining practical experience in food and beverage service, event preparation, set-up and pack-down. Mantra Functions Supervisor Zoe Livermore said the students had grown significantly in confidence and capability from their first placements to now, becoming more independent and willing to take initiative. “They get great reviews from the guests as well,” Ms Livermore said. North High students will continue building their experience in coming weeks, including at the Mackay Hospital and Health Service Awards Gala and a major fundraiser for the Trudy Crowley Foundation, both hosted at Mantra. Flagon & Dragon Committee Chair Scott Jamieson thanked long-time sponsor McDonald’s Mackay, the full sponsor lineup, Mackay’s business community, the volunteer committee and attendees for making the event “truly special”. “The reason so many are so willing to give generously is because Flagon & Dragon is more than just an event,” Mr Jamieson said. “All profits go towards providing crucial equipment to Mackay children in need. Our aim is to provide support for local families when they are going through a tough time, so the family can stay here in Mackay to get the treatment and care they need.” More information and the full sponsor list are available at flagonanddragon.com.au. Hospitality students from Mackay North State High School gained practical event experience while helping Mantra Mackay deliver the 2026 Flagon & Dragon charity function. Photo supplied by North Mackay State High School
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The Rotary Club of Mackay has marked a major milestone, celebrating 100 years of service to the community with the unveiling of a commemorative plaque and a mural honouring the organisation's rich history and far-reaching impact. Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson attended the unveiling on Tuesday evening, where the plaque was installed at the site where the club's founding members first met to discuss establishing a Rotary club in Mackay. The plaque has been placed on the wall of the former Imperial Hotel building in Victoria Street, thanks to the support of Brown and Bird's Andrew Duck and Chris Wright. Visitors can scan a barcode on the plaque to learn more about the club's history. The story of the Rotary Club of Mackay dates back to July 1926, when Brisbane Rotarian Tom McWilliam travelled to Mackay to investigate whether a local chapter could be formed. Following a series of meetings, including a preliminary gathering at the Imperial Hotel on July 27th the club was officially established, with its charter granted later that year. As part of the centenary celebrations, artist Martin Jegou, of Gwada Murals, created a mural reflecting Rotary's local and international contributions over the past century. The artwork highlights the club's support for youth programs, healthcare initiatives, homelessness services, domestic and family violence prevention, reconciliation projects and environmental efforts. Over the decades, the club has contributed to projects throughout the Mackay region, across Australia and internationally, including work in Vanuatu and Timor-Leste, while continuing to uphold Rotary's enduring commitment to service above self.
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A 46-year-old man from Beaconsfield has been charged following investigations into a break and enter at an East Mackay residence on 18th July. Police will allege the man unlawfully entered a retirement facility on McIntyre Street between 2pm and 4.30pm on 18th July, stealing multiple items from the residence of a 95-year-old woman. The stolen property allegedly included jewellery, identification and cash. As part of ongoing investigations, police executed a search warrant at a Bellavista Court address in Beaconsfield on 28th July, where several items of jewellery were allegedly located. The 46-year-old has been charged with enter dwelling and commit, and possessing dangerous drugs. He has been remanded in custody and is due to reappear before Mackay Magistrates Court on 3rd August. The investigation forms part of Operation Yankee Forge, a six-month, district-led statewide initiative targeting high-harm and high-volume offences, including unlawful use of motor vehicles, unlawful entry and robbery. The operation is designed to strengthen community safety by enhancing policing activities across Queensland, with officers undertaking coordinated disruption operations aimed at reducing victim numbers and holding offenders accountable. Supported by specialist squads, police regions will focus on crime prevention through increased visibility while preventing, disrupting and investigating offences, with particular emphasis on unlawful use of motor vehicles, robbery and unlawful entry. The initiative is locally led and centrally coordinated, drawing on the knowledge and experience of officers within their communities. Reference number: QP2601392813 Can You Identify This Trailer? Sarina Police are seeking the public's assistance to help identify the owner of a trailer seized during a search warrant at Armstrong Beach on 2nd July. The trailer, pictured, was seized by Sarina Police during the execution of the search warrant. Anyone with information about the trailer or its contents is urged to contact Sarina Police on 4964 8444 or report information at any time via Policelink. Reference number QP2601281517 Image source: Queensland Police Service, Mackay & Sarina
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A proposed McDonald's restaurant for Marian has been approved by Mackay Regional Council, despite attracting dozens of community submissions, a petition and ongoing concerns about its location on the banks of the Pioneer River. The proposed 24-hour food and drink outlet will be built at 230 Anzac Avenue, with council confirming it was legally required to assess the application against the Mackay Region Planning Scheme and the State Government's Planning Act. Council received 52 public submissions and a petition opposing the development, with many residents raising concerns about traffic, pedestrian safety, environmental impacts and the loss of valuable riverfront land. Mayor Greg Williamson said council understood the concerns raised by the community but was bound by legislation when determining the application. "Based on the amended plans, supporting reports and State Government approval now before council, the proposal was determined to largely satisfy the applicable assessment benchmarks. Where non-compliances were identified, these were able to be dealt with via conditions and have been approved subject to a number of conditions, including conditions designed to limit its impact on neighbours," Mayor Williamson said. Council Chief Executive Officer Gerard Carlyon said while many residents opposed the proposal, the site had been zoned for mixed-use development since 2017. "While council appreciates a number of community members are opposed to a McDonald's in that location, the reality is that the land was zoned for mixed use development, including commercial development back in 2017 and the site has been available for McDonald's or any other suitable commercial development since that time," Mr Carlyon said. Under Queensland's planning laws, the application was assessed as a code assessable development, meaning council was required to determine it against the planning scheme rather than public opinion. While community submissions were considered, the application had to be approved if it complied with the planning requirements or could be made compliant through conditions. Because Anzac Avenue is a State-controlled road, the Queensland Government was responsible for assessing traffic, road access and pedestrian safety. That approval was granted on June 30th and included conditions requiring a dedicated right-turn lane, a centre median with a pedestrian refuge and improved pedestrian connections. The outcome has disappointed members of the Pioneer Valley Community Alliance, which had campaigned for the proposed McDonald's to be relocated to a more suitable commercial site rather than the Pioneer River frontage. Campaign spokesperson Karla Costello argued the proposal was not appropriate for a venue specifically designed to attract children and families. "McDonald's is actively designing this venue to attract children, birthday parties and family groups, yet it has not demonstrated that those families can safely park, cross the road and reach the restaurant," Mrs Costello said. The group also questioned the proposal's impact on the Pioneer River frontage, pedestrian access and parking, while a Change.Org petition opposing the location attracted more than 1,500 verified signatures available via www.change.org/p/stop-mcdonald-s-from-being-built-on-the-pioneer-river. Although the campaign acknowledged Marian could support a McDonald's restaurant, it maintained the business should be built within the established commercial precinct rather than on the riverfront. Council has now approved the development subject to conditions. CAPTION: The proposed site for the approved McDonald's development at 230 Anzac Avenue, Marian. Photo source: Mackay Regional Council
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Mackay & Sons House Removals and Demolition is hitting the road for a cause, joining this year's Queensland MACK Muster Charity Convoy to help raise vital funds for two Queensland charities supporting families through some of life's toughest challenges. Proudly organised by the Woodford Lions Club, the annual convoy brings together truck owners and operators from across the state, with all proceeds split equally between the Jackson Hepner Foundation and Get Yourself Checked. Established in memory of Jackson Hepner, the Jackson Hepner Foundation provides practical and emotional support to young people battling cancer and their families through care hampers, financial assistance and community support. Meanwhile, Get Yourself Checked is dedicated to raising awareness of men's health, particularly prostate cancer, encouraging regular health checks and promoting the importance of early detection. Mackay & Sons is calling on the community to get behind its fundraising efforts, with every dollar donated going directly to the two charities. "Every donation, big or small, helps these amazing organisations continue their life-changing work," the team said. To support Mackay & Sons' Queensland MACK Muster fundraising campaign, visit the Queensland MACK Muster website and sponsor the team's trucks. CAPTION: Mackay & Sons House Removals and Demolition is taking part in this year's Queensland MACK Muster Charity Convoy to raise funds for two deserving Queensland charities. Photo source: Mackay & Sons House Removals and Demolition
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Powerful conversations about healing, accountability and respectful relationships took centre stage in Mackay when the Zonta Club of Mackay hosted two She Is Not Your Rehab events featuring internationally recognised speaker Matt Brown. Bringing together frontline workers, educators and community members, the events encouraged honest reflection on trauma, personal responsibility and the importance of breaking harmful cycles for future generations. Held with the support of local organisations and volunteers, the free sessions highlighted the Mackay community's commitment to creating safer, stronger and more connected communities. Through storytelling, shared experiences and practical tools, attendees were reminded that meaningful change often begins with a single conversation.
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The Great Barrier Reef Festival marked 25 Years with a bang last weekend, transforming Airlie Beach into one big party as fireworks popped overhead. Parades, markets, fun-days and concerts brought families, tourists, businesses and locals out in force to celebrate and advocate for the reef, whilst sea life-inspired art once again appeared in the fig trees across the foreshore.
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Whitsunday United enjoyed another busy weekend of football, with several standout junior performances highlighting mixed results across the club. The U13 Premier side produced a commanding 8–0 victory over Dolphins FC. Tommie Spratt and Calvin Murphy gave WUFC a two-goal halftime lead before Jack Reynolds completed a hat-trick in a dominant second half. Connor Miller scored twice, while Addie Sanders converted from the penalty spot. Jace Hickey, Oscar O'Sullivan and goalkeeper Kye Land anchored another clean sheet. The U14/15 Division 1 team continued its outstanding form with a 7–0 win over Mackay Lions. Kobe Marjoram scored four goals, while Mason McDowall, Alex Draper and Sam Crosby also found the net. The U14/15 FQPL side earned a 2–2 draw with Mackay Rangers, thanks to goals from Sam Hazleton and Austin Kelly. The Whitsunday Women showed encouraging signs despite a 4–0 loss to Magpies, with goalkeeper Veneesha Robertson, Taigen Marks and Karlee Goodin among the standout performers. Senior men's results were mixed. Division 2 produced a much-improved second half in a 4–0 loss to Sarina. Division 1 cruised to a 22–1 victory over Magpies, while the Under 23 Men settled for a 0–0 draw with Mackay Rangers after controlling much of the match. The Premier Men pushed Mackay Rangers all the way, with Ethan Rose scoring in a spirited 2–1 defeat after a missed second-half penalty proved costly. Contributed with thanks to Joscelyn O’Keefe. Photo caption: U14 team. Photo supplied: Joscelyn O’Keefe.
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Cannonvalley Pony Club hosted its Official Showjumping and Jump Equitation competition over the weekend, welcoming riders for two days of competition in beautiful winter weather. Strong displays of horsemanship, sportsmanship, and determination made for a successful event, with riders producing impressive performances across the weekend. The weekend concluded with Payton Hills aboard Winchester Royale (Mackay North Pony Club) claiming the Overall Champion Rider title, following a series of standout performances across the competition. Mia Formilan, riding Where's Wally (Ayr Pony Club), finished a strong second to be named Reserve Champion Overall Rider. Congratulations to both riders and to everyone who competed, capping off another successful weekend of competition. The club extends its sincere thanks to the officials and the many volunteers who assisted with the countless tasks that ensured the event ran smoothly. Their time, dedication, and willingness to lend a hand made the weekend possible. The club also acknowledged the continued support of its sponsors, thanking Anaconda Airlie Beach for providing the Champion prizes, along with silver sponsors Warren Transport, BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort and Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine for their ongoing backing. Contributed with thanks to Kate Van Dalen. Photos: Photo 1- Champion overall rider Payton Hills riding Winchester Royale. photo credit: Zoe Townsend, Pink Lady Photography.
Read moreThe Proserpine Golf Club Open Championships were the headline event of another active week on the course, with members and visiting golfers battling it out across the grades. Saturday's Haymans Electrical-sponsored stroke event crowned Clay Coles Men's A Grade champion after a winning round of 65 nett, one shot clear of Tony Goss. Ken Lovett produced the best score of the day, claiming B Grade with an outstanding 64 nett, while Russell Lakes finished runner-up on 66. In the women's event, Paula McQuat claimed the title on a countback after carding 76 nett, narrowly edging Tropics Golf Club's Christine Barkle, with Robyn Whitham finishing third. The club welcomed some of the region's rising golfers for Sunday's Junior Open. Pioneer Valley Golf Club's Jonty Laing stole the show with a brilliant 63 nett to win the event, while Chorus Andrews secured second on countback from Bowen Golf Club's Tamsyn Carus after both returned 70 nett. Earlier in the week, Tuesday's stroke competition saw Chris Gurdler finish with the best overall score of 66 nett, while Leanne Alexander won the ladies' event before adding the Veterans Closed Championship A Grade gross title to her week. Larry Muller claimed the men's A Grade gross honours. Thursday's Stableford produced matching winning scores of 41 points, with Josh Mansley taking out A Grade and Harvey Mason leading the way in B Grade. Briony Smith rounded out the week's competitions by winning Friday's Metropole Hotel-sponsored nine-hole event with 24 points. With the course in outstanding condition thanks to the work of the club's grounds crew, members are now preparing for another busy stretch of golf as the winter calendar continues. Contributed with thanks to Tiina Randmae.
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The Cannonvale Cannons Swimming Club has plenty to celebrate, with an incredible 38 swimmers selected in the Swimming North Queensland Achievers' Squad following their outstanding performances last season. The selected swimmers have earned invitations to attend a Swimming North Queensland Stroke Clinic, led by respected Swimming Queensland coach Barry Prime. Selection in the Achievers' Squad recognises dedication, consistent improvement, and strong performances throughout the season, making this a fantastic achievement for the club. The Cannons congratulate the following swimmers: Gold: Hamilton Anflous, Mackenzie Bennett, Tyler Bennett, Eloise Chegwidden, Jax Clayworth, Miller Eaves, Billie Jamieson, Lucas Korosec and Zach Trefz. Silver: Zane Clayworth, Thomas Ganter, Ruby Harland, Ruby Lawson, Nelson Malady, Celeste Orenshaw and Alex Trefz. Bronze: Harris Delac, Declan Dichiera, Maeve Dichiera, Liam Filewood, Roxy Groom, Matilda Nicholes, Koa Harland, Andie Reynolds, Indi Smith and Levi Smith. Blue: Evie Doherty, Wilson Hounsell, Gracie Laguna, Pippa Laguna, Eric Mulliss, Leo Mulliss, Miranda Palmero, Addie Sanders, River Shields, Finn Temple, Caleb Woolston and Zavier Woolston. The weekend also provided a wonderful reminder that swimming is a sport for life. Much-loved adult swimmer Kay Corskie celebrated her 80th birthday. Kay continues to inspire everyone by swimming two to three times each week, proving that staying active is the key to staying young at heart. To mark the special occasion, the adult squad completed an impressive 80 × 25-metre swim challenge in her honour. Congratulations to all Achievers' Squad members and a very happy 80th birthday to Kay—your enthusiasm and commitment continue to inspire the entire Cannons family. Contributed with thanks to Raylene Rasmussen. Sunday’s Swimming. Photo supplied: Raylene Rasmussen.
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Young Australian of the Year Nedd Brockmann swapped record-breaking runs for a community jog down by the marina last week, encouraging locals to take the first step towards their goals. The run formed part of the CommBank Tour, which is travelling through regional Australia to promote financial wellbeing, scam awareness and community connection. “I think connecting with any community is important, but obviously especially for regional and more remote communities,” Nedd said. “I’m fortunate to be supported by CommBank and then support what they want to do is get around, help with scam safety, help with financial fitness and I'm all about it.” Before becoming one of Australia's most recognisable endurance athletes, Nedd grew up in the regional New South Wales town of Forbes, where he worked as an electrician before taking on the challenge that would change his life. In 2022, Brockmann captured the nation's attention by running nearly 4,000 kilometres across Australia in just 47 days to raise money for homelessness. His determination and resilience earned him widespread recognition, including being named Young Australian of the Year in 2026, with his message of discipline, community and taking the first step continuing to inspire people across the country. Airlie Beach was the sixth stop on the CommBank Tour, with Nedd leading locals and tourists on a 6km run along the foreshore. “It's been really cool too, especially because the big cities get all the attention and get all the help,” Nedd said. One of the biggest hurdles for many people, according to Brockmann, is simply getting started, but he believes consistency is far more important than motivation. Drawing parallels between running and everyday life, he said both have their highs and lows, and learning not to let emotions dictate your actions is key. "Sometimes it's hard, sometimes it's easy, it's just about being level through it all," he said. "When motivation's there, that's great, but when motivation's not there it doesn't really matter because we're getting into it." Photo caption: Nedd Brockmann and the Symington Family post run. Photo credit: Zach Houtenville.
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Airlie Beach Bowls Club welcomed visiting bowlers from across Australia alongside local members for another week of competitive action on the greens. Tuesday's social bowls welcomed Perth visitor Terry Cranswick, who impressed with a comfortable victory alongside Sue Dakin and Lyn Graham. Cranswick continued his winning form on Wednesday afternoon, teaming up with Janet Jacometti and Keith Bates to claim top honours in a field of 34 bowlers. Wednesday evening also saw another strong turnout for the club's popular Business House Bowls competition, organised by Yvonne and Bob Spees, with Round 3 standings to be released next week. On Thursday, students from Whitsunday Christian College, Elliana Langshore, Miranda Jackson, Pazel Davis and Ollie Webb, continued developing their skills under the guidance of coach Betty Whitehorn. Friday's coaching session with Endeavour Foundation participants highlighted the progress being made by members Kathy and Michael, with the latter continuing to impress with his accuracy and determination. Round 3 of the Scroungers competition was played on Saturday under the direction of Nilo Ballance, with results to be published next week. Sunday's social bowls attracted 21 players, including visitors Peter and Linley MacArthur from Outram Bowls Club in New Zealand, Peter Whitlock from Moama Bowls Club in Victoria, Bruce Whitlock from Henty Bowls Club in New South Wales and returning traveller Rick Galea. Tony Whitehorn and Alan Pershouse claimed the pairs victory, while Shane Spann, Joan McGrath and Vicki Spann won the opening round of the Mixed Triples. Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson. Sunday pairs winners Tony Whitehorn and Alan Pershouse.
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It was B Grade Men's Champion Neale Chittenden's turn to represent the club at the Men's District Champion of Champions over the weekend. Neale recorded wins over Ayr and Suburban before narrowly going down to Thuringowa in the final to finish runner-up. Congratulations, Neale, on a fantastic achievement. The club's ladies also impressed at the District Premier Cup at Thuringowa, winning six of their 10 games to finish fourth overall. Thuringowa claimed the title with eight wins. Monday's self-selected triples saw Leon Fox, Max Ritchie and Debbie Gorin defeat Bruce Thompson, John Hellas and R Symmons, while Ron Willman, Don Barnett and Joe Paynting were runners-up after defeating Graeme Read, Maureen Hyde and Ron Hyde. The jackpot remained unclaimed. Tuesday's winners were Di Hallas, Les Jackson and Ron Boska, with Ian Colenso, Col Parker and Bruce Thompson finishing runners-up. Again, the jackpot did not go off. Friday Night Barefoot Bowls continues to attract a great crowd. Anyone keen to join in is welcome to head to the club from 5.30pm. Saturday's lone competition game saw Denise Wallace, Penny Warren and Allan Rolfe defeat Kevin Daniels, Maureen Hyde and Ron Hyde. On Sunday, Jack Stamp, Alby Vigar and France Wilman claimed victory on Rink 6, while Carol Bellingham, Col Parker and Bob Dykstra took the runners-up prize. Good luck to Denise Wallace and Penny Warren, who will contest the District Champion of Champions Pairs Zone 8 playoff at Silkwood this weekend for a place in the State finals. Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren. Photo caption: Tuesday winners, Les Jackson President Deb Retchless Di Hallas and Ron Boska. Photo supplied: Penny Warren.
Read moreIt's another busy period for Proserpine Bowls, with one Champion of Champions event wrapping up and another just around the corner. Last weekend, the club's Champion Fours team of Harry Craig, Marcus Craig, Toby Craig and Nathan Harriott travelled to North Mackay for the Champion of Champions Fours. After receiving a first-round bye, they defeated RSL 30-12 on Saturday afternoon to book a place in the semi-finals. On Sunday, they came up against Souths Suburban but were defeated 21-10, ending their campaign. Souths Suburban advanced to the final, where North Mackay claimed the title with a 16-13 victory. Attention now turns to the Champion of Champions Pairs at Airlie Beach this weekend, with David Ling and Andrew Bell set to represent Proserpine. The pair also received a first-round bye and will open their campaign against Mackay Club on Saturday afternoon. The club wishes them all the best. Wednesday also saw Heather Brown crowned Club Championship Singles winner after defeating Henny Tattam in a thrilling final. Heather made the stronger start before Henny fought back, with the match remaining undecided until the final end. Heather secured the title 28-24 and will now represent Proserpine at the Champion of Champions Singles in North Mackay on Tuesday, August 18. Social bowls continued throughout the week, with visitors from Germany, New Zealand, Swan Hill and St Georges Basin joining local members on the greens. Wednesday featured a 7-all draw in one match, while other winning teams included Alen Sanderson, Arthur Griffith and Lindsay Flood, Kate, Philip Brown and Sandy Daffara, and Arthur Griffith, Alen Sanderson and Nev Smith. On Sunday, winning combinations were Alen Sanderson and Philip Brown, Carol Smith and Mike Harrison, who claimed two victories, and Trevor Parsons and Sandy Daffara, rounding out another enjoyable weekend of social bowls. Contributed with thanks to proserpine bowling club.
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One of Bowen's greatest sporting success stories has officially hung up the boots, with NRL premiership winner Corey Jensen announcing his medical retirement after an eight-year career at the top level of rugby league. The former Bowen Seagulls Junior leaves behind a legacy that extends well beyond the football field, inspiring generations of young athletes in his hometown. “On behalf of the Bowen State High School community, thank you Corey for inspiring the next generation to dream big and chase their goals,” said Principal Robert Harris on behalf of Bowen State High School. “You have represented our school and community with humility and pride throughout your career.” With 153 games under his belt for the North Queensland Cowboys and Brisbane Broncos, Corey proved strength and determination against the demand of the game, earning accolades like Cowboys Rookie of the Year and taking part in a premiership-winning performance against the Melbourne Storm just last year. Jensen's retirement comes after he was diagnosed with a pulmonary embolism, or blood clots in the lungs, after not feeling quite right during Round 7 of the NRL season. "After receiving medical advice and speaking to specialists, it's clear that it's no longer safe for me to play rugby league," Jensen said in comments published by the ABC. While he will remain on blood-thinning medication for the rest of his life, Jensen said his overall health is good and he has been able to return to training, although contact sport is no longer an option. "I leave with absolutely no regrets," he said. While Jensen's playing career has come to an end earlier than expected, the Bowen-raised star has plenty to look forward to. A qualified sports scientist with a Bachelor of Sport and Exercise Science from James Cook University, he has already prepared a foundation for life after rugby league. Reflecting on his career, Jensen described himself as a "late bloomer", crediting former North Queensland Cowboys coach Paul Green for giving him his NRL debut in 2017. "I was a bit of a late bloomer, so I'm grateful they took a punt on me, and I have to acknowledge how much the Cowboys did for my career," Jensen said. Photo captions: Photo 1- Corey Jensen, a sporting star and inspiration to his community. Photo source: Mayor Ry Collins
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The Whitsundays might still be enjoying cool mornings and dry days, but the tropical wet season will be here before we know it. While there's no need to rush into storm preparations, spring is the ideal time to get ahead on the jobs that are easier to tackle in mild weather. Start by checking your roof for loose screws or damaged sheets, trimming back overhanging branches and making a note of any gutters that need cleaning before the first heavy rains arrive. Spreading these jobs over a few weekends now can save a last-minute scramble later in the year. It's also a good time to give the garden some attention, before it’s forced to hold its own against the elements. Pull weeds, top up mulch and prune back plants so they'll be ready for the warmer months ahead. Outdoor furniture can be cleaned and checked for signs of wear before barbecue season gets underway. Inside the home, consider servicing your air conditioner before the heat returns. A quick check now can help avoid long waits once demand increases heading into summer. The last thing you want is to be boiling over a broken system. Whether you're preparing your family home or an investment property, tackling a few maintenance jobs during spring can help your property weather the tropical months ahead while making the most of the region's pleasant winter conditions.
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By Glenda Brown, President, Creative Connections Whitsundays As the final artworks are packed away following another successful Great Barrier Reef Festival Art Exhibition, I'm reminded that the true value of events like these extends far beyond the gallery walls. This year, artists competed for a prize pool valued at more than $9,200 in cash and in-kind awards, in addition to artwork sales throughout the exhibition. The Great Barrier Reef Festival Art Exhibition has grown into the Whitsundays' leading curated art competition. It provides artists with the opportunity to exhibit alongside their peers, receive professional recognition, connect with new audiences and, importantly, earn income from their creative practice. When people invest in original art, they're not simply purchasing something beautiful for their home or workplace. They're investing in the talent, skill and vision of the artist behind it. They're supporting local enterprise, encouraging creativity and helping build a more vibrant and connected community. The Great Barrier Reef Festival Art Exhibition continues to grow each year because of the artists who enter, the volunteers who generously give their time, the sponsors who believe in the value of the arts, and the hundreds of visitors who come through the doors to experience the exhibition. On behalf of Creative Connections Whitsundays, thank you to everyone who exhibited, volunteered, visited, voted, purchased artwork or raffle tickets, or simply encouraged an artist along the way. We look forward to welcoming you back for an even bigger Great Barrier Reef Festival Art Exhibition in 2027. Beauty Beneath the Surface Wins Best in Show Michelle Brayshaw has been awarded the 2026 Whitsunday Regional Council Best in Show Award at the Great Barrier Reef Festival Art Exhibition for her striking photographic work, Beauty is skin deep. The exhibition's highest honour carries a $3,000 acquisitive prize, with the winning artwork becoming part of the Whitsunday Regional Council Art Collection. Responding to this year's exhibition theme, Beyond Beauty, Brayshaw's work invites viewers to look beyond what first meets the eye. The photograph captures a male and female Chameleon Parrotfish (Scarus chameleon) swimming together across the Great Barrier Reef as they undergo one of nature's most remarkable transformations. Using specialised skin cells controlled by nerve and hormonal signals, these fish can change colour in a matter of seconds. While the vibrant male fades to a striking blue over a white belly, the seemingly subdued female reveals intricate patterns and vivid colourhidden beneath her exterior. Rather than presenting this fleeting transformation as a video, Brayshaw layered multiple still photographs to create a single image that freezes the moment in time. The result allows viewers to pause and appreciate a phenomenon that would otherwise pass in an instant. The work beautifully embodies the exhibition's theme by revealing that beauty is not simply what we first perceive, but what is discovered through closer observation and deeper understanding. The Best in Show Award recognises the outstanding artistic achievement represented in Beauty is skin deep and celebrates both the extraordinary biodiversity of the Great Barrier Reef and the power of photography to reveal the hidden wonders of the natural world. Next Generation Artists Shine at Great Barrier Reef Festival Art Exhibition The future of the Whitsundays' creative community is in good hands, with three talented Year 12 students from St Catherine's Catholic College recognised at the 2026 Great Barrier Reef Festival Art Exhibition. This year, Creative Connections Whitsundays introduced the Next Generation Artist Award to encourage and celebrate emerging artists aged 16 to 18. The new award reflects the exhibition's commitment to nurturing young creative talent and providing opportunities for the next generation of artists to exhibit alongside established practitioners. Six young artists were selected as finalists, with three of those representing St Catherine's Catholic College. The inaugural Next Generation Artist Award was presented to Lola Hornstra for her compelling mixed media installation, Everything Has Changed. Sponsored by R&K Kenyon, together with a $100 cash prize generously donated by Cr Jan Clifford OAM, the award recognises outstanding artistic achievement by an emerging artist. Lola's work explored themes of memory, place and personal experience through a combination of painted seascapes, suspended textile prints and driftwood. The moving translucent fabric reflected the fragility of memory, while repeated figures and familiar landscapes symbolised continuity, change and emotional connection across time. Her thoughtful interpretation of this year's exhibition theme, Beyond Beauty, impressed both the judge and exhibition organisers. Also recognised as finalists were Taylah Jade for Silent Stories and Evie Flynn for Bleached Bones. Demonstrating the exceptional standard of work produced by these young artists, both Lola and Evie also had additional artworks selected as finalists for the exhibition. Creative Connections Whitsundays congratulates Lola, Taylah and Evie on this outstanding achievement. Their selection among 85 finalist artworks highlights not only their creativity and technical skill, but also the strength of emerging artistic talent within the Whitsundays. Community Chooses 2026 People's Choice Award Winner Creative Connections Whitsundays is delighted to announce Lenny Pennell as the winner of the 2026 Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine People's Choice Award, receiving the $1,000 prize for Beauty in Creation. Unlike the major exhibition awards, which are judged by invited arts professionals, the People's Choice Award is decided entirely by the community. Every visitor to the Great Barrier Reef Festival Art Exhibition has the opportunity to vote for the artwork that resonates most strongly with them, making this one of the exhibition's most treasured honours. Proudly sponsored by Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine since 2024, the People's Choice Award recognises not only artistic excellence, but also the powerful connection between artists and the people who experience their work. Celebrating local creativity, connection, and community Whitsundays Writers Festival Richard Evans Festival Director and President hello@whitsundayswriters.com Tickets are selling fast for the 2026 Whitsundays Writers Festival, 13 September! Secure your spot now at whitsundayswriters.com/2026-programme-speakers Creative Connections Whitsunday Glenda BrownPresident info@creativeconnectionwhitsunday.com 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
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Proserpine Guardian editor Bernie Lewis. ‘Idyllic or Idle’. This question for Airlie Beach was posed in the Courier Mail. Stats quoted were that on July 25th 1,441 dole cheques were issued from a town with a 1981 population of only 1705 people. Apparently the population had doubled in the following 5 years. The last police count came up with about 4500 residents. Kelsey Creek Telephone Exchange Donated to the museum. The old 100-line switchboard had been operated for many years by Marie and Phil Fraser. Annual Proserpine Kindergarten ‘Bride of the Year’ was held at the Cultural Hall. Awards were as follows: Bride of the Year - Suzanne Spruce Debutante of the Year - Jenny Carrington Flower Girl of the year - Michelle Watson. Pentathlon For Under 16s. This will be staged by Bowen Athletics Club. Each athlete from Under Seven to Under Sixteen will receive points for performances in five events. Burnups Grand Opening Sale; in the revitalised Eldorado Theatre will herald a new era in furniture and floorcovering shopping in Proserpine, having successfully operated in Bowen for over 36 years. Piano Recital At Cultural Hall. An audience of music lovers enjoyed a recital by celebrated pianist Stephen Savage consisting of works from Beethoven and Berg. Berg’s two legends were based on St. Francis of Assisi preaching to the birds and walking on the water. He conducted a music workshop at Cannonvale School on the following day. Busy Year For Nursing Home. Although 1985/6 saw the completion, furnishing and opening of the home, the committee was still very busy conducting various fundraising activities. Mackerel Rally. Whitsunday Game Fish Club held a successful ‘mackerel rally’ with seven local teams competing. The heaviest mackerel weighing 21.3 kg was caught by Mal Draper. Day Dream Island. Stage two of the resort has begun. This stage will be 18 water-front apartments. A good response showed interest and a club was formed with $1 million. Whitsunday Gardens Club president - Dorothy Herlihy and Vice President Ray Goodwin. Patron - Ron McDowall. Wanderers Hawaiian. Audience participation was invited in the Hawaiian dancing at Whitsunday Paradise. Mardi Gras Help. Townsville Radio 4TO has made big plans for covering Airlie Fun Race weekend on Sept. 20th/21st.
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This year marks 100 years since Palm Grove School (Number Two) was opened at the location of 100 metres past the Cedar Creek turnoff. It was the second school in the area, commencing classes on January 27, 1926. The first school had operated between 1916 and 1918 until attendance numbers forced its closure. The first Palm Grove School, long known as Palm Groves, stood at what was described as “a dead end” of the settlement. Mountains and creeks made the journey much longer than maps suggested, and after its closure Conway parents spent years unsuccessfully seeking its reopening. Many children faced a six- to eight-mile trip to Bona Vista and so many did not attend. In March 1923, the building was moved to Windermere in the Cannon Valley area. On July 25, 1924, the Department of Education approved a new school. Long-term teacher Alan Crocker, who taught at Palm Grove 2 until March 7, 1949, questioned the chosen site: a ten-acre paddock on a rocky lower slope, poorly suited to a playground. He noted that “those children who rode horses to school could have walked home and back several times in the time it took to catch them.” When the school opened, there were ten students which included two sets of twins. The following week, four more students enrolled. One student, Percy Monaghan, who was a student at the first school, was fifteen by this stage but remained at the school until May 1926 to keep the attendance numbers up. When one student left later that year, another started at age four and a half years to ensure the school remained open. Imagine this happening today! The first teacher was Mr Fred Clowes who taught at the school until the latter part of 1928. This man with two artificial legs, camped in a storage room underneath the school. In Neville Smith’s book, students recalled how it would take Mr Clowes “about one hour to climb the great slab of rock to the boys’ toilet”. Alan Crocker commented that he could not understand the Education Department allowing such a transfer to take place – and rightly so! Can you envision what the unions would make of this today? Mr Clowes is pictured top right in the photograph. As in most early district schools, children wore uniforms only for athletics and usually came barefoot. They played rounders, marbles, cricket, and Dogs and Wallabies, a chase game that sent the “wallabies” racing through long grass ahead of the “dogs”. It was remarkable no child was bitten by a snake. Although the school had some interschool sporting success, preparation was inadequate as most of the training took place on the hard gravel road in front of the school - far from ideal. The end of year picnic was the social event of the year – but not just for the children. Everyone in the district, whether parent or not, went along and enjoyed the occasion. Following an afternoon of games, the festivities continued on into the night with music and dancing – until the stroke of midnight. Palm Grove School Number 2 closed in December 1951. Just as the pupils had done when the first school closed at the end of World War One, the remaining children enrolled at Bona Vista which had reopened only the year before. Mr E (Ted) Curtain, who had been the last teacher at Palm Grove Two went on the teach at Bona Vista. The wheel had turned full circle. Story and photos sourced from “Enlightened Horizons: The History of Education in the Proserpine District” by Neville Smith. Photo caption: Palm Grove School Number 2 in 1926 when it opened.
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