Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Some friendships take a little time to blossom, and for six-month-old Paisley, the reward is well worth the wait. This beautiful calico rescue cat may be shy when meeting new people, but it doesn't take long for her gentle personality to shine through. Once Paisley feels at home, she's happiest curled up beside her favourite person, earning her the title of the ultimate "Velcro cat." Paisley has done well around older children and is searching for an indoor-only home where she can continue to grow. At just six months old, she's becoming more curious by the day and is ready to spend her kitten months exploring, playing and building lifelong bonds with her new family. Desexed, vaccinated, microchipped and up to date with her veterinary care, Paisley is ready to find the forever family she deserves. If you think Paisley could be the perfect addition to your home, contact Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue by direct messaging your name, phone number and "Paisley" to begin the adoption process. Photo caption: Six-month-old calico Paisley is searching for a patient family. Photo supplied: Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue.
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Fleetwood Mac's legacy of soaring harmonies, heartfelt lyrics and timeless songs will take centre stage when TUSK brings the band's greatest hits to local audiences. Stevie Nicks fans won't have to rely on Dreams alone. Leading the show is Penni Jones, whose portrayal of the rock icon captures both the vocals and free-spirited stage presence that made Nicks a household name. “I’ve spent years studying her voice, her phrasing, the way she moves, her mannerisms and the emotion she brings to every lyric,” Penni said. “My goal is to honour what makes her so special while still bringing my own personality to the performance.” Music has always been part of Penni Jones' life. From singing into what she called her toy "mickle phone" as a toddler to joining bands at 18, she knew performing was what she was born to do. After spending the 1990s in Melbourne cover bands and touring as a backing vocalist for The Go Show concerts, Jones built a career in the tribute music scene before founding TUSK eleven years ago. Although she had long been compared to Stevie Nicks, Jones said she waited until she had the experience to do the role justice. "Fleetwood Mac is a band you can't get away with doing half-hearted," she said. "You have to commit all in." Backing Penni Jones is a seasoned lineup of performers, each bringing their own experience to Fleetwood Mac's iconic sound. James Towers steps into the role of Lindsey Buckingham, while veteran bassist Grant Canterbury keeps the rhythm moving with his energetic stage presence. Renowned vocalist Dalys Timpanaro takes on the role of Christine McVie, with Martin Grech, formerly of Australian rock band The Androids, behind the drum kit. From Dreams and Go Your Own Way to Little Lies, Gypsy, Landslide, Rhiannon, Edge of Seventeen and Don't Stop, audiences can expect more than two hours of singalong favourites celebrating over 50 years of Fleetwood Mac and Stevie Nicks' music. “It's super high energy and much like a big celebration,” said Penni Jones. “We don’t just play Fleetwood Mac songs, we recreate magic, emotion and energy.” Jones said audiences can expect more than a night of Fleetwood Mac hits, with the show designed to get people out of their seats and singing along from start to finish. "We’re also doing a 3rd set of dance classics, so make sure you do your stretches and warm up before you arrive," she said. Where: Airlie Beach Hotel When: Saturday 15th & Sunday 16th August What: TUSK – Fleetwood Mac Tribute Show Photo captions: Photo 1- Tusk will have audiences like this by the end. Photo supplied: Penni Jones. Photo 2- Penni Jones. Photo 3- Tusk – Fleetwood Mac Tribute Show.
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Why do so many memorable Australian novels begin in a small country town, an isolated beach community or somewhere beyond the city limits? Award-winning Townsville author Rachel Armstrong believes place is never just a backdrop—it's a character in its own right, shaping the people within a story and the challenges they face. She'll explore that idea as the 2026 From the Heart keynote speaker at this year's Whitsundays Writers Festival. Rachel believes regional Australia offers unforgettable settings, authentic communities and stories shaped by resilience, connection and a strong sense of place. "The rural and remote Australian landscape is both beautiful and unique in the conflict it offers for storytelling," she said. "In a small town, everyone knows everyone, and secrets don't stay secret for long. That closeness creates instant stakes. "Remoteness raises the cost of everything — help is further away, choices are harder to walk back, and characters are pushed to rely on themselves and each other. "Most of Australia is regional. When we set stories there, we're not writing about the margins—we're writing about the majority experience of this country, and that deserves to be at the centre of our literature, not the edge of it." Having spent many childhood holidays in the Whitsundays, Armstrong chose the region as the setting for her debut novel, making her keynote appearance a homecoming. Festival Director Richard Evans said regional stories have never been more important. "Australia's literary landscape shouldn't be defined solely by our capital cities," he said. "Some of our most distinctive voices come from regional communities. They tell stories grounded in real places, real people and lived experience — stories that reflect the diversity of Australian life and help shape our national identity." Alongside Rachel Armstrong's keynote, the festival will also feature panel discussions, the presentation of the Whitsundays Literary Heart Awards, and Stories by the Sea — a free community celebration bringing together more than 20 regional authors, live music, book sales and swaps, children's activities, art demonstrations and a community barbecue. What: Whitsundays Writers Festival When: Sunday, 13 September 2026 Where: Whitsunday Marine Club, 7 Altmann Avenue, Cannonvale Tickets and the full program are available through the festival website.
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August 7th Whitsundays Festival of Sailing Airlie Beach Race Week, ALL DAY, Alive Beach 7th Bowen Business Networking Event, 7:30am-8:30am, Le Sorelle Coffee House, Bowen 7th Proserpine Community Centre FREE Community Lunch, 11am-12:30pm, 36 Gardenia Street, Proserpine 7th Room on the Broom, 1pm-2pm, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, Proserpine 7th 74 Islands Cocktail Club, 4pm-10pm, 74 Islands Distillery, 24 Mount Whitsunday Drive, Airlie Beach 8th Whitsundays Festival of Sailing Airlie Beach Race Week, ALL DAY, Alive Beach 8th Cocktail Playground, 12pm-4:30pm, 74 Islands Distillery, 24 Mount Whitsunday Drive, Airlie Beach 8th Australian Eagles, 2pm-5:30pm, Airlie Beach Hotel, Airlie Beach 9th Whitsundays Festival of Sailing Airlie Beach Race Week, ALL DAY, Alive Beach 9th Light and Laughter for Lucy Family Fun Day Charity Event, 9:30am-12pm, Jungle Zoo, 2623 Shute Harbour Road, Mandalay 9th Australian Eagles, 2pm-5:30pm, Airlie Beach Hotel, Airlie Beach 9th A Taste of Ireland, 4pm-6pm, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, Proserpine 10th Whitsundays Festival of Sailing Airlie Beach Race Week, ALL DAY, Alive Beach 10th Layday Lunch, 1pm-4pm, 74 Islands Distillery, 24 Mount Whitsunday Drive, Airlie Beach 11th Whitsundays Festival of Sailing Airlie Beach Race Week, ALL DAY, Alive Beach 11th Stranded in the Whitsundays Performance, ALL DAY, InterContinental Hayman Island Resort, Hayman Island 12th Whitsundays Festival of Sailing Airlie Beach Race Week, ALL DAY, Alive Beach 13th Whitsundays Festival of Sailing Airlie Beach Race Week, ALL DAY, Alive Beach 13th FREE Salsa & Bachata Social, 7:30pm-9pm, Hog’s Breath Café, Airlie Beach
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7th August ABH: Andy Mammers, 7pm-10pm Sorrento: Andrew Baldino, 4pm-7pm KC’s Bar & Grill: Bear Brewer, 8pm-10pm Grand View Hotel Bowen: DJ Night, 8pm onwards 8th August ABH: The Australian Eagles, 2pm-5:30pm ABH: Andy Mammers, 7pm-10pm Sorrento’s: Kaedan McCarthy, 4pm-7pm KC’s Bar & Grill: Jason Bull, 8pm-10pm Grand View Hotel Bowen: B Doubles, 8pm onwards 9th August ABH: The Australian Eagles, 2pm-5:30pm, ABH: Paul Fergus Morris, 6:30-9:30pm Sorrento’s: Ash Smith, 4pm-7pm. KC’s Bar & Grill: Jason Bull , 8pm-10pm Colonial Palms Motor Inn: Nick Di Gregorio (Guitar/Voice), Elliot Blackler (Bass), Tim McClelland (Drums), 1pm-4pm Grand View Hotel Bowen: Zed Charles, 1pm-5pm 10th August Sorrentos: Will Heta, 4pm-7pm KC’s Bar & Grill: Graham Rix, 8pm-10pm 11th August Sorrentos: Will Heta, 4pm-7pm KC’s Bar & Grill: Sam McCann, 8pm-10pm 12th August Sorrentos: Will Heta, 4pm-7pm KC’s Bar & Grill: Sam McCann, 8pm-10pm 13th August ABH: Aaron Saxon, 6:30pm-9:30pm Sorrentos: Lucy Rose, 4pm-7pm KC’s Bar & Grill: Retro Joe, 8pm-10pm
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By Georgia McDonald Last week I caught up with one of the Whitsundays’ established musicians. This week, the spotlight turns to a newer face who is winning over the local community one gig at a time. In the musical hot seat this week is Filippo Cantele. Born and raised in Piedmont, Italy, Filippo never imagined the singing lessons he began as a 13-year-old boy would one day lead to him pursuing music in the Whitsundays. He arrived in Airlie Beach with one goal: complete his 88 days of regional to extend his visa. Here, he found a community that embraced his sound and a place he fell in love with. Filippo is no stranger to the stage. Before arriving in Airlie Beach, he busked on the Gold Coast and even took part in The Voice Italy in 2019. Yet his musical journey is still evolving, having only taught himself guitar within the past year. Filippo admits that his biggest challenge entering the Whitsundays music scene was a lack of confidence. That changed when local musician Josiah Samuel invited him to join him on stage during a gig at Paradiso. “At the beginning, I was a little bit shy,” Filippo recalls. “But then Josiah said to me, ‘Jump on stage with me, do half my gig with me and see how it goes.’ He was my biggest reason I got back up onto the stage.” Whilst Josiah gave him that first step, Filippo credits his friends and housemates for keeping him going, saying they followed him to every gig and supported him every step of the way. For Filippo, those moments on stage have become some of his favourite memories of living in the Whitsundays. “I am living the best period of my life right now,” he says. “Every time I drive over the hill into Airlie Beach and I see the ocean, the colour of it when the sun is reflecting on the water. That’s it for me.” Filippo also credits the local community for making his experience so special. “Music is very big in this town, people have heard a lot of musicians. So if someone comes back or gives me a compliment about it, that means a lot.” For Filippo, music has always been about more than the performance itself; it is about creating a connection with the audience. When describing his sound, Filippo simply says: “Emotional. Deep.” For him, music is about creating a feeling and giving something back to the people listening. He recalled a moment from his busking days when a listener became emotional after hearing him perform Tennessee Whiskey. “She started crying. She came to me and hugged me and said, ‘Please keep going,’” Filippo remembers. The moment reflects exactly what Filippo hopes to achieve through music. He remembers first listening to Chris Stapleton’s Tiny Desk performance of When The Stars Come Out and being moved by the raw emotion behind it. This is an experience he hopes to recreate for his own audience. “If I can give something to people and let them feel their own way of emotion, that’s my main goal,” Filippo says. “If someone comes to one of my gigs and feels something about themselves, or their lives, I am singing for them. For me, that’s the only reason I sing.” You can catch Filippo the next coming week at: Mulligans - Sunday 9th August 4PM – 7PM The Pontoon Platform, Great Barrier Reef – Tuesday 11th August & Wednesday 12th August Filippo’s Song Recommendation For The Week: When The Stars Come Out – Chris Stapleton (Tiny Desk Performance)
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A waterfront dining experience overlooking the Coral Sea has earned national recognition, with Airlie Beach's Coral Sea Pavilion named one of OpenTable's Top 25 Hotel Restaurants in Australia for 2026. The Coral Sea Resort restaurant is one of just five Queensland venues to make the prestigious list, standing alongside acclaimed dining destinations in Brisbane, the Gold Coast and Sanctuary Cove. Compiled from more than 190,000 verified diner reviews and hospitality metrics collected over the past year, the annual list celebrates Australia's highest-rated hotel restaurants, recognising exceptional food, service and overall dining experiences. The accolade comes as new OpenTable research reveals Australians are increasingly choosing hotels for what's on the menu rather than simply where they sleep. Nearly one-third of Australians have booked a hotel stay specifically because of its restaurant, while almost every respondent surveyed said they had dined at a hotel restaurant without staying overnight. Perched on the waterfront at Coral Sea Resort, Coral Sea Pavilion has become a favourite among both visitors and locals, pairing panoramic Whitsunday views with a menu showcasing fresh local seafood, premium Australian produce and modern coastal cuisine. The recognition reflects a broader shift in Australia's dining culture, with hotel restaurants evolving into sought-after culinary destinations in their own right. OpenTable Australia General Manager Drew Bowering said the days of hotel restaurants being seen as a convenient option for weary travellers were well and truly over. "Hotel restaurants across Australia have officially shed their reputation as solely a convenience option for tired travellers," Mr Bowering said. "Australians are proving you don't need a room key to enjoy world-class hospitality." Research released alongside the awards also found half of Australians have enjoyed a staycation in their own city or region, while 42 per cent have chosen travel destinations based primarily on the local food scene. Located just a short stroll from Airlie Beach's main street, Coral Sea Resort has long been recognised for its absolute waterfront setting, luxury accommodation and iconic oceanfront pool. The latest accolade places its restaurant firmly among Australia's best, adding another reason for locals and visitors alike to experience one of the Whitsundays' standout dining destinations. CAPTION: Coral Sea Pavilion at Coral Sea Resort has been recognised among OpenTable's Top 25 Hotel Restaurants in Australia for 2026, cementing its place as one of Queensland's premier dining destinations. Photo source: Coral Sea Resort
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Some desserts simply end a meal. Others become a highlight of it. The Chocolate Lava Cake at The Garden Bar is firmly in the latter category. Served warm to the table, this house-made dessert's delicate sponge gives way to a rich molten chocolate centre with the first touch of a spoon. It's deeply chocolatey and undeniably decadent, yet beautifully balanced - sweet enough to satisfy without overwhelming the palate. It's the kind of dessert that invites you to slow down. Perhaps you order one all to yourself, settling back with an espresso as the afternoon fades into evening. Or perhaps it's the final course of a romantic dinner, shared across the table with someone special as the sun sets over Coral Sea Marina. However you choose to enjoy it, every element is designed to be savoured - from the rich aroma of warm chocolate to the contrast in texture of the delicate sponge and velvety molten centre. For those who appreciate a classic pairing, the Chocolate Lava Cake is equally at home beside a freshly brewed espresso or a glass of full-bodied red wine. The bold flavours beautifully complement the richness of the chocolate, creating a finish that's both comforting and sophisticated. At The Garden Bar, the setting is already unforgettable - waterfront views, tropical gardens and relaxed Whitsundays hospitality. The Chocolate Lava Cake simply provides the perfect excuse to stay a little longer. Because sometimes the final course becomes the one you remember most. Photo caption: Garden Bar Airlie Beach Chocolate Lava Cake.
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While hundreds of sailors battle it out on the water, there'll be just as much happening ashore during Airlie Beach Race Week, with live entertainment, food, family activities and special events ensuring the regatta offers something for everyone. From daily live music and the Festival Village to Lay Day celebrations and the traditional presentation dinner, the week is as much a community celebration as it is a sailing event. "The onshore activities are open to all of the sailors, plus any of the locals and any visitors can come along, get the vibes and have a beer,” Terry Archer said. Throughout the week, the Whitsunday Sailing Club precinct will come alive with a packed entertainment program. Ash Smith will open the festivities on Thursday before performances from The Fox, Two Fires, The Hillbilly Goats, Paul Fergus Morris, Sam McCann and Viva Band keep the energy pumping through the week. Alongside the live entertainment, there'll be daily race presentations, Friday Night Movies in the Park, the Whitsunday Sailing Club Restaurant and Bar, and a fireworks display to close out the week. Those heading to the 74 Islands Distillery Changing Courses Lunch on Lay Day will be greeted with a Summit Spritz before settling in for an afternoon of live music, roaming canapés and food stations at Elementa. Back in the Festival Village, the distillery will be pouring its range of locally crafted spirits alongside frozen cocktails throughout the week. Also on Lay Day, Jeanneau Australia, presented by Mooloolaba Yacht Brokers, will invite visitors aboard a Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 455. The open boat experience gives both sailors and first-time visitors the chance to step aboard the popular cruising yacht and get a closer look at life on the water. Meanwhile, Festival Village sponsor Northside Marine will have its Highfield Sport 800 out in action for the duration of Race Week. But Archer said the company's contribution goes well beyond the showcase, with Northside Marine supplying the regatta's official camera boat and rapid response vessel, both of which play an important role in delivering the event safely. Archer said the success of Race Week comes down to the combined efforts of its sponsors, volunteers and local businesses, whose support has helped the event continue to grow year after year. "We've been so lucky this year, as without our sponsors we just couldn't do it," he said. "Six or seven years ago, we were struggling to get a naming rights sponsor. “Now we're having to go to our sponsors and say, 'Hey, would you mind sharing it? Because we've got two that we'd like to do.' It's just fantastic." When: 1pm-4pm, Monday 10th August Where: Elementa Whitsundays What: Lay Day Lunch at 74 Islands Distillery When: 9am-11am, Monday 10th August Where: Port of Airlie, Arm 1 What: Open Boat Experience by Jeanneau Australia Photo caption: Photo credit: Vampp Photography.
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The wait is over for one Australia's premier sailing regattas, with Airlie Beach Race Week set to welcome hundreds of sailors to the Whitsundays for six days of racing across Pioneer Bay and the Whitsunday Passages. Now in its 38th year, the iconic event combines sailing with a packed program of onshore entertainment, while delivering what organisers describe as the biggest trading week of the year for Airlie Beach. “So for Airlie Beach, it really means all the accommodation is full, all of the restaurants and cafes are full, all the shops,” said Terry Archer, President of the Whitsundays Sailing Club and Chairman of the Regatta Committee “It is the biggest economic boom for this place.” The event's success today is a far cry from its humble beginnings more than three decades ago. Airlie Beach Race Week traces its roots back to 1990, when businessman and sailor Don Algie established the Hog's Breath Cruising Classic after being inspired by Hamilton Island Race Week. Originally designed to attract visiting cruising yachts, the regatta soon evolved into a full Race Week, with a mix of bay racing and passage races through the Whitsunday Islands. Since then, the event has grown into one of Australia's premier sailing regattas, attracting competitors from around the country while remaining a highlight of the Whitsundays calendar. The regatta caters for a wide range of sailing vessels, from larger offshore yachts moored in local marinas to smaller off-the-beach classes launched by hand. This year, around 130 boats will compete across 10 to 13 divisions, with each class racing against similar boats throughout the week. The opening day of Race Week promises one of the regatta's most memorable spectacles, with every boat lining up for a dramatic mass start off Airlie Beach before setting sail through the Whitsundays. "It's absolutely spectacular, with all the 130 boats starting together out the front of Airlie Beach," said Terry. From there, the fleet will split, with larger, faster yachts sailing around Gumbrell or Armit Island, while smaller boats round the Double Cone Islands before returning to shore. Throughout the week, race officials will select from almost 30 different courses depending on the wind and tide, sending competitors through Pioneer Bay and the Whitsunday Passages. The regatta will conclude on Thursday with the traditional "Big Bay Triangle", bringing the entire fleet back into Pioneer Bay for a fitting finale ahead of the presentation dinner. Photo captions: Some of the boats from last year’s Regatta. Photo Credit: Andrea Francolini.
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No matter where you live in the Whitsundays, you should feel like your Council is delivering for your community. That's something my fellow Councillors and I are committed to, whether it's a major infrastructure project or smaller improvements that make everyday life a little better. From Bowen to Collinsville, Proserpine to Airlie Beach, and our smaller rural communities, every town has its own character, its own priorities and its own story. Our job as a Council is to make sure we're delivering for all of them. I was delighted to see the new Dingo Beach Swimming Enclosure completed after being rebuilt following Tropical Cyclone Kirrily. It's more than just a swimming enclosure to the Dingo Beach residents as it's a much-loved community asset that's been bringing families together for generations. What's even more special is that the original enclosure was built by local residents back in the 1960s using tea tree branches and netting. That community spirit is still alive today, with more than 600 people providing feedback that helped shape the design of the new enclosure through consultation. The swimming enclosure is just one of several projects currently underway across the Gloucester community. The Gloucester Avenue road upgrade is progressing well, delivering safer access and improved drainage, while construction of the new Gloucester Trail will soon provide a beautiful walking connection between Dingo Beach and Hydeaway Bay. These projects might seem small when compared with some of our major regional investments, but they're every bit as important. They improve everyday life, make our communities more connected and help showcase some of the most beautiful parts of the Whitsundays. Whether we're delivering housing-enabling infrastructure in Cannonvale, Proserpine and Bowen, building new community hubs in Cannonvale and Collinsville, or investing in communities like Dingo Beach and Hydeaway Bay, our commitment is the same—to ensure every corner of the Whitsunday Region shares in the benefits of Council investment. Because strong communities aren't measured by their size. They're measured by the pride people have in the place they call home, and that's something worth investing in.
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Nominations are now open for the 2027 Australia Day Awards! Do you know someone who goes above and beyond to make the Whitsunday Region a better place? From volunteers and community champions to sporting, arts, cultural and environmental achievers, the awards celebrate those making a positive difference in our community. Submit your nomination by visiting whitsundayrc.smartygrants.com.au by 4pm, Wednesday 30 September 2026, and help recognise our local heroes.
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The Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce & Industry is inviting businesses from across the region to step out of the workplace and into the inaugural Chamber Games 2026. Taking place from 3:00pm–5:00pm on Thursday 27th August at Club Whitsunday, the Chamber Games is a new community event celebrating teamwork, participation, and a healthy dose of friendly competition. Open to businesses, community groups, and individuals, the Games will see teams of four rotate through a series of fun, accessible challenges inspired by local sporting clubs. No specialist skills or sporting experience are needed – just a willingness to have a go. The event follows the 2026 Whitsunday Business Conference, but attendance at the Conference is not required. Whether you're joining us after the Conference or simply coming along for the Games, everyone is welcome. Teams will compete for the Gold Medal Team and the inaugural Chamber Games Perpetual Trophy, along with Silver and Bronze medals and the Best Dressed Team Award. Whitsundays Chamber President Allan Milostic said the Chamber Games was created to encourage businesses to celebrate the importance of teamwork in a fun and inclusive way. "Strong businesses are built on strong teams. The Chamber Games is an opportunity to bring colleagues together, support our local sporting community and enjoy an afternoon that doesn't take itself too seriously. It's about participation, encouragement and having fun together." Don't have a team of four? No problem. If you're keen to take part but need teammates, get in touch with the Chamber and we'll do our best to connect you with others looking to join a team. With team entry just $20 for a team of four, it's an affordable way to celebrate your workplace, build team spirit and enjoy an afternoon of fun. So gather your colleagues, choose a team name, wear your colours, bring your cheer squad, and get ready to take on the challenge. Registrations are now open. We'd love to see businesses from across the Whitsundays represented on the field when the inaugural Chamber Games gets underway on 27th August. Event Details What: Chamber Games 2026 When: 3pm-5pm Thursday 27th August Where: Club Whitsunday, Airlie Beach Register: https://www.whitsundaycoastchamber.com.au/2026-chamber-games/
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Between the check-in counters, security and departure gates at Whitsunday Coast Airport, there is one team member whose job is to bring a little more ease to passengers before they fly. Meet GJ, Whitsunday Coast Airport's four-legged therapy dog. Since joining the airport earlier this year, the chocolate Labrador has been swapping boarding passes for belly rubs, helping bring a sense of calm to travellers before they take to the skies. Trained and assessed through Therapy Dogs Australia, GJ is right at home in the busy airport environment. Whether it's a wagging tail, a gentle nudge of the nose or sitting quietly beside someone, he's always happy to brighten a passenger's day and help ease any pre-flight nerves. GJ's airport journey began after his family reached out to Whitsunday Coast Airport following his qualification as a therapy dog. The partnership complements the airport's focus this year on creating a smooth and stress-free travel experience, alongside initiatives like its free curbside assistance program. GJ's role is also set to extend beyond the terminal, with the four-legged ambassador soon joining Whitsunday Regional Council's Book Magic program, helping children build confidence and a love of reading through the calming presence of a canine companion. GJ was unable to comment on this story as he is enjoying some much-deserved annual leave this August and will return, tail wagging, come September. Photo 1- The mayor meeting his new coworker on the council, GJ. Photo supplied: Mayor Ry Collins.
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At Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine, we’ve streamlined the process by offering our free Home Loan Health Check service to anyone, even if they don’t bank with us. Here’s what’s involved and how you can benefit. What’s involved in a home loan health check? The process starts with a review of your current interest rate, loan structure, home value, repayment options and remaining loan term. We’ll also ask you about your goals and aspirations and any short or long-term plans you have for your lifestyle. We'll then explore options available to you. Every borrower has different needs, so a loan suitable for one person won't always suit another. Why do I need it? Keeping the same home loan for a long time can mean missing out on more favourable loan options and interest rates. Plus, as your circumstances change, you may benefit from new features, repayments, or interest rates, better aligning your home loan to your life plans. You may even unlock equity in your home to finance a renovation, dream trip, or purchase another property. Get a lower interest rate. Lower loan-to-value ratios (LVR) can sometimes secure a lower interest rate. When a home loan has been in place for a while, the LVR may have improved due to increased property value and decreased outstanding loan balance. Access more suitable features. Older home loan products may lack features suiting your current financial situation. For example, an offset account can substantially reduce interest charges. How often should you review your home loan? Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine recommends checking your home loan annually. Other signs it’s time for a review include: Your interest rate is higher than advertised rates for new customers (or you don’t know your rate!). You lack features like an offset account. Your circumstances have changed (e.g., income changes or life goals). Your fixed rate has ended (or is ending soon). You were previously on a special offer ‘honeymoon’ rate that has reverted to a higher rate. Your home value has increased. Realise your goals sooner with a home loan health check [Text Wrapping Break]Neglecting to review your home loan regularly can mean missing out on big opportunities, like accessing equity in your property or making significant savings on your interest repayments. If you have goals, a free home loan health check with Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine could unlock opportunities and get you there faster. Make a time to see the Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine Branch Manager Amanda and the team. [Text Wrapping Break]Located: Whitsunday Plaza Cannonvale[Text Wrapping Break]Call (07) 4948 3599[Text Wrapping Break]Email cannonvale&proserpinemailbox@bendigoadelaide.com.au
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The Whitsundays Suicide Prevention Network Breakfast continues to grow each month, with this month's gathering featuring generous community donations and a heartfelt motivational poem. Held on the last Friday of every month outside Shirtfront Solutions, the breakfast brings tradies, business owners and community members together over sausages, eggs and a chat, creating a welcoming space to connect and support one another. “It's really great to see the support from the community,” said WSPN CEO Matt Stokes. “These are real opportunities that if you've got a friend that's struggling you can say, hey, why don't you come along?” This past month saw an outpouring of support for the Whitsundays Suicide Prevention Network, with Justin Butler from the Whitsundays Game Fishing Club and Michael Kimpton from the Airlie Beach Triathlon Club presenting significant donations to the cause. “By joining any sort of club, you're bringing in other people that you have other conversations with, particularly when things aren't going so well,” Justin said. After the donations, attendees heard from Mike Fry from Lives Lived Well, who spoke about the link between addiction and suicide, drawing on their experience as an alcohol and other drug counsellor across the Whitsundays and Isaac region. "There's a lot of connection between addictions and suicide, they share a lot of parallel journeys," Mike said. Encouraging people to have a plan for difficult moments, Mike shared the "3Ds" strategy of delay, distract and decide. He explained that taking time to pause, find a positive distraction and lean on support networks can help people through a crisis. The presentation concluded with a heartfelt poem about hope and resilience, leaving the crowd with a powerful reminder of the importance of connection and checking in on those around us. Photo captions: Photo 1- WSPN July 2026 Brekky. Photo credit: Zach Houtenville. Photo 2- Justin Butler and the Game Fishing club. Photo 3- Adrian, Mel, Jamie and Alan. Photo 4- Justin Butler presenting his donation to Matt Stokes from the Fishing Club. Photo 5- Michael Kimpton flashing his Headlining achievement. Photo 6- Michael Kimpton presenting Matt Stokes with his big checks.
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Young artists from across the Whitsundays are getting their time to shine, with a reef-inspired student exhibition opening at the Heart Hotel during this year's Great Barrier Reef Festival. Featuring 11 artworks created by 10 Year 8 to 12 finalists from Proserpine State High School and St Catherine's College, the exhibition has more than doubled in size since showcasing just four artworks in its inaugural year. Having judged the competition, Mayor Ry Collins attended the exhibition to present the awards and congratulate the young artists. “We've got some great kids that do sport and sporting success…. but I think what we're seeing is we've got a real cultural undercurrent,” Mayor Ry Collins said. “It's great to see that we've also got a really strong arts presence as well.” Three students were recognised for their standout pieces, with Year 12 Proserpine State High School student Natalie Cooper taking first place for Guardians of the Reef. Charlize Hunter, also from Proserpine State High School, claimed second for Woodsia, while St Catherine's Catholic College Year 11 student Sabine Butler placed third with False Idol, a reflection on climate change's impact on the Whitsundays. The finalist artworks will remain on display at Heart Hotel and Gallery Whitsundays throughout August, giving the young artists the opportunity to have their work exhibited in a professional gallery setting. "I think a lot of kids are just not sure about their ability,” said Visuals Art Teacher St Cats College in Proserpine, Caz Hanks. “Giving them the push and encouragement that their work is actually amazing and worthy of being in a gallery is a great experience." Photo captions: Photo 1- Reeflections Artists with their teachers and Mayor Ry Collins. Photo credit: Zach Houtenville. Photo 2- Natalie Cooper with Mayor Ry Collins. Photo 3- Charlize Hunter with Mayor Ry Collins. Photo 4- Sabine Butler with Mayor Ry Collins.
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More than just a weekend of live music, the Flametree Gathering will bring together musicians, artists, and families for three days of creativity and connection. Starting on Friday, August 21, at 5pm with a night of music, the festival vibe will roll into two full days of music, workshops and family activities across the weekend. Saturday's program starts at 8am with a yoga session by the lake and continues through to 11pm, while Sunday's festivities run from 8am until the sunset finale. Founded in 2023 by travelling musician David Flower and Bronwyn Garland, this year's event marks the gathering's fourth edition and its second at Lake Proserpine. Alongside bringing people together through music, the gathering has also raised more than $10,000 for the Eco Barge Clean Seas Turtle Rehabilitation Centre over the past three years. After years of performing original music across Australia, David wanted to create an event that reflected the welcoming atmosphere of his own shows, where audiences are encouraged to feel part of the experience rather than simply spectators. Headlining the gathering is Marty Rogers, joined by acclaimed singer-songwriter Paul Green, blues artist Lecia Louise, award-winning Western Australian musician Chris Matthews, reggae performer Jesse Morris and crowd favourites Sky Eater, with a lineup spanning folk, blues, rock, roots and reggae. "All the artists will get up and play in each other's sets and jam together, so it really feels very inclusive,” said Event Organiser Bronwyn Garland. True to its name, the Flametree Gathering is about far more than what's happening on stage. Beyond the music, gatherers can take part in parasol painting and lantern-making workshops, join in an Aussie Olympics featuring thong-throwing and esky races, cheer on the returning dog parade, or unwind with camping, kayaking and sunset views across Lake Proserpine. "It's very much like you're in somebody's backyard," Bronwyn said. “It's called a gathering because what we aim to do is create that community feeling.” The program will close with one final collaborative performance as the sun sets over Lake Proserpine. Photo caption: Photo 1- The Flametree Gathering will run from August 21st-23rd at Lake Proserpine. Photo supplied: Bronwyn Garland. Photo 2- The festival will have a relaxed camping vibe.
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Bowen Meals on Wheels has received another generous boost from one of its longest-standing supporters, with Kennedy Masonic Lodge making a significant donation to help the service continue supporting local residents. The lodge has contributed thousands of dollars to Bowen Meals on Wheels over the years, most recently presenting the organisation's treasurer with another substantial donation. The contribution comes at an important time for the service, with operating costs continuing to rise while demand has nearly doubled over the past 18 months. Despite increasing expenses for essentials such as insurance, groceries and gas, Bowen Meals on Wheels has maintained both the affordability of its meals and the high standard of service it provides. The organisation says it has been fortunate to receive ongoing support from businesses, community groups and local organisations, allowing it to continue operating at a time when many Meals on Wheels services across Australia are struggling with reduced government funding and financial pressures. While financial support has helped keep the service running, volunteers remain in short supply. Bowen Meals on Wheels has made several appeals this year for more delivery volunteers and is still looking for people who can spare around two hours on Monday, Wednesday or Friday mornings. The organisation is encouraging anyone able to help, either as a driver or delivery assistant, to get in touch. It also hopes friends and family of existing clients might consider volunteering to help support some of Bowen's most vulnerable residents. Photo caption: Chris Sturrie and the Grand Master of Kennedy Lodge, Jamie Collins. Photo supplied: Chris Sturrie.
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Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP invited locals for a barbecue at Peter Faust Dam last Sunday to mark the removal of the southern section from Alinta Energy’s Wind Farm proposal, which locals protested due to its proximity to Proserpine. To acknowledge the milestone, Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP joined residents at Peter Faust Dam on Sunday for a community barbecue, bringing together those who had spent months campaigning against the proposal in the Kelsey Creek area. "The community's collective voice demonstrated the positive outcome of this project not proceeding at Kelsey Creek," Ms Camm said. "It was an opportunity to thank the community and Wind Farm Action Group for their respectful, consistent and united voice. It was through these efforts that supported my advocacy as the local member.” Wind Farm Action Group member Alysha Lee said the gathering was a chance to celebrate a small win while recognising there was still more work to do. “It was great to get together and go over what we’ve been fighting for the last 10 months, while being able to celebrate the small victory so far,” said Alysha. "We still have the northern area to think about, but we feel like we have their support as we continue trying to help the community, which is great.” Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP at the community barbecue held at Peter Faust Dam on Sunday.
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Coastal leaders from across Queensland converged on the Whitsundays this week, as mayors, councillors and senior council officers gathered to tackle the biggest challenges facing the state's coastal communities. Hosted over two days at the Shute Harbour Marine Terminal, the Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) Coastal Leaders Forum focused on key issues coastal towns face. “This event is an opportunity for them to understand what the priorities, concerns and issues are facing their sector,” said Mayor of Gladstone, LGAQ President and president of Australian Local Government Association (AGLA) Matt Burnett. Beyond the individual issues discussed, the forum provided a platform for coastal councils to share experiences, identify common challenges and strengthen their collective voice when advocating to state and federal governments. “I think obviously the other underlying thing with it is that we all advocate for our own regions respectively, but where we can find those points of commonality to really work together,” said Mayor Ry Collins. “It definitely really empowers that advocacy,” Disaster funding emerged as one of the forum's biggest talking points, following the Federal Government's proposed overhaul of the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements. Under the proposed changes, the Commonwealth would move to an equal partnership model with states and territories, reducing its average contribution from historical levels of 64–75 per cent to 50 per cent. “Communities like ours can't be worse off under the proposed arrangements," said Mayor Collins. “We really need the Federal Government to dump the dud deal they've put on the table and recognise the importance of our communities by providing assurance that we can recover from disasters when they occur. “We'll keep pushing away at that.” With councils and communities able to provide feedback on the proposed changes until August 19th, both Mayor Collins and LGAQ President Matt Burnett said the forum was an important opportunity for coastal councils to unite behind a common position. Delegates also turned their attention to several other priorities facing Queensland's coastal communities, including upgrades to the Bruce Highway, tourism infrastructure and recreational boating facilities. The forum gave local leaders a face-to-face opportunity to meet directly with senior Department of Transport and Main Roads officials, including Deputy Director-General Andrew Mahon, to discuss the future of the Bruce Highway, an issue Burdekin Mayor Dalle Cort described as "a conversation we've been having for 30 years." "The Bruce Highway is the next one that's on the agenda and something that I've advocated strongly for," Mayor Collins said. Discussions also highlighted the planned Shute Bay recreational boating facility, with construction expected to begin within the next 12 months. The project will deliver around 200 additional trailer parking spaces and four new boat ramps, helping ease congestion at the popular boating precinct. Photo 1- Bruce Highway panel with Mayor of Burdekin, Dalle Cort, Mayor of Gympie Glen Hartwig, Mayor Ry Collins and Deputy Director General Department of Transport & Main Roads, Andrew Mahon. Photo credit: Zach Houtenville. Photo 2- Photo source: Whitsundays regional council.
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The Whitsundays' thriving arts community was celebrated last Friday night as the 2026 Great Barrier Reef Festival Art Exhibition officially opened, showcasing the work of 66 artists and recognising the year's standout creatives. In its third year, the Great Barrier Reef Festival Art Exhibition showcased 85 finalist works from 66 artists through painting, photography, sculpture and mixed media. “The Great Barrier Reef Festival isn't just about the fireworks, it's not just about the rides,” said Mayor Ry Collins in a speech opening up the event. “The music, the entertainment, it's actually about creativity, culture, and the incredible natural environment that inspires us every day here in the Whitsundays.” "Creating art takes talent, dedication, and a willingness to put a piece of yourself on display, to put your heart into something, and that really is worth celebrating." Responding to this year's theme, Beyond Beauty, artists looked beneath the surface, exploring personal stories, environmental issues and the hidden beauty of the Great Barrier Reef through a range of creative interpretations. Selecting the finalist was this year's curated panel of acclaimed artist and educator Glenda Vickers, Whitsundays Regional Councillor Jan Clifford OAM and Visual Arts Teacher at St Catherine's Catholic College Caz Hanks. Once the finalist had been selected, artist, educator and researcher based out of Mackay, Glenda Hobdell assessed the finalist to decide who would be taking home the final prizes. The Award Winners Michelle Brayshaw claimed the exhibition's highest honour, taking out the Whitsunday Regional Council Best in Show Award for her piece Beauty is Skin Deep. The $3,000 prize will see the artwork added to the Whitsunday Regional Council Art Collection. Other major winners included Lyn Laver-Ahmat, whose Retreating Tide 2 received the 2D Award, Stacey Nicholas for her Reef Ballet in the 3D category, and Andrea Fabian, whose photograph The Homemaker won the Photography Award. Local and emerging artists were given a spotlight throughout the evening, with Lola Hornstra collecting the inaugural Next Generation Artist Award for Everything Has Changed, consisting of artists aged between 16 and 18, while Trudy Hastings won the Local Artist Award with her piece Tidal Form #1. Katherine Murray's Where Beauty Deepens was awarded the Reef Theme Award for best interpreting this year's Beyond Beauty theme, and the TARTS Textile Artists were recognised with the Community Creativity Award for their collaborative work Tarts Tree. Beyond the award winners, the exhibition also features three collaborative community works by Eco Barge Clean Seas, the TARTS Textile Artists and the Whitsunday Conservation Council, each exploring environmental themes connected to the Great Barrier Reef.
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Photo Credit: Lucy Seddon-Brown from Stories in Light Imagery.Airlie Beach came alive over the weekend as the Great Barrier Reef Festival celebrated its 25th anniversary with one of its biggest and most colourful programs to date. Three days packed with entertainment, markets, music and family activities helped draw the crowds back after wet weather saw attendance dip in 2025. "We went back to our prior year numbers, maybe even increased a bit," said Great Barrier Reef Festival President, Heather Batrick. Friday night alone attracted an estimated 6,000 people to the Airlie Beach Foreshore, where the milestone fireworks display gave way to a packed Bloom Festival after-party that kept the celebrations going late into the night. Saturday was packed with activity from start to finish, with the Hog's Breath Revvin’ the Reef Car Show kicking off the day before the Club Whitsundays Street Parade filled Main Street, with the live music then driving the festivities well into the night. "The street parade was amazing, I think we've had the biggest crowd that we've seen there," Heather said. "It was quite emotional for us as a committee, with St Catherine's doing the Stevie Wonder Happy Birthday with an adapted version for the festival." Sunday offered something for everyone, with the Tasman Holiday Parks Family Fun Day giving families the chance to unwind or jump into a range of games and activities. The Recyclable Regatta brought out the competitive spirit as homemade vessels took to the water, while Bait to Plate with Kevin Collins gave festival-goers the opportunity to enjoy fresh local seafood paired with fine drinks. The weekend wrapped up on a relaxed note with the SOLLOS Sunday Session, where Australian Margaritas, live music and a headline performance from The Jungle Giants brought the 25th Great Barrier Reef Festival to a fitting close. “We'd like to say a big thanks to our corporate sponsors this year, which really enabled us to keep the festival running,” Heather said. See more photos here: www.mackayandwhitsundaylife.com/social-pics/the-25th-great-barrier-reef-festival-sparks-joy-across-airlie
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As Homelessness Week shines a spotlight on Australia's growing housing crisis, the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre prepared 100 hygiene packs to help restore dignity to people experiencing homelessness across the region. The annual initiative, now in its 4th year, looks to help people sleeping rough or facing housing insecurity, while also raising awareness on the challenges many people in the community continue to face. Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre Executive Officer Rebecca Woods, who has led the organisation for the past 13 years, said the project restores a sense of dignity to people facing homelessness and housing insecurity. "Everyone deserves access to basic hygiene products,” Rebecca said. “While a hygiene pack won't solve homelessness, it can make a real difference to someone's wellbeing and dignity. “It's a simple way for our community to say: 'We see you, and you matter.’” Each pack includes practical everyday essentials, of a toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash, a 3-in-1 shampoo, conditioner and body wash, a razor, hand sanitiser, waterless body wipes, band-aids and toothpicks. Throughout Homelessness Week, the packs will be distributed by the Whitsunday Housing Company and Proserpine Community Centre, while the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre is also encouraging locals to donate travel-sized toiletries through the Cannonvale Food Bank to help replenish supplies for those in need. Photo caption: Sue Bayley-Hurren, Rebecca Woods, Lisa Sampson and Tara Tissington. Photo supplied
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By Chelsea Ravizza Growing community opposition has emerged over the Queensland Department of Primary Industries' (DPI) trials of tunnel nets in the Whitsundays, with residents, tourism operators and recreational fishers voicing concerns about the potential environmental and economic impacts of the proposed alternative to gill net fishing. In May, more than 120 members of the Whitsundays community attended an information evening about the DPI’s trials of tunnel nets of up to 1.6 kilometres long, as part of research into alternative commercial fishing methods following the phase-out of inshore gillnets, with trials conducted in North Airlie, Double Bay, Shute Harbour, Bowen, Edgecumbe Bay and Sinclair Bay. During the meeting, organisers from the Inshore Flats Project said trial data showed the nets captured more than 30,000 fish across 17 trial deployments and raised concerns about the potential impact on fish stocks, juvenile fish habitats, dugong protection areas and popular recreational and tourism sites. Coincidingly, the Inshore Flats Project also used the meeting to launch an online petition, available via www.change.org/p/stop-a-new-tunnel-net-fishery-in-the-great-barrier-reef-world-heritage-area, opposing the introduction of a tunnel net fishery, which has since attracted more than 10,500 signatures. “A new tunnel net fishery means deploying huge nets up to 1.6 km long, which lack capture selectivity, onto our beaches, bays and foreshores, to harvest high volumes of lower-value seafood. These sites include fish nursery and protected species habitats in a World Heritage Area,” said a spokesperson of the Inshore Flats Project. “This risks depleting local fish stocks, damaging coastal ecosystems, and harming local businesses that depend on recreational fishing and tourism. Accordingly, we have asked the QLD Government to permanently cease all tunnel net trials and divert the allocated public funds toward supporting the seafood industry in better ways.” Concerns raised at the meeting also prompted questions about the level of community consultation surrounding the trials, with opponents arguing the large nets could affect popular recreational fishing areas and tourism activities, including boating, kayaking and wildlife viewing. Among those in attendance was local resident Sammantha Wood, who said she had been unaware of the proposal until the presentation and believed many others were in the same position. “I genuinely hadn’t heard about the proposal before attending the presentation, and many people I spoke to afterwards hadn’t either,” said Ms Wood. “Regardless of where people stand on the issue, I believe the community deserves to know what’s being proposed so they can educate themselves, ask questions and be involved in the conversation before any long-term decisions are made.” A Department of Primary Industries spokesperson said the trials form part of research into alternative low-impact fishing methods following the removal of gillnets, with the department highlighting the research would help build the evidence base to inform future fisheries management decisions. “The Queensland Government is committed to working with industry to identify sustainable, practical and evidence-based solutions that support the long-term future of Queensland’s inshore fishing industry as it transitions away from large mesh gillnets,” said a spokesperson for DPI. “The Department of Primary Industries is working with commercial fishers, researchers and other stakeholders to assess a range of alternative fishing gears that could support a sustainable and commercially viable fishing industry. The purpose of the trials is to collect scientific and operational information to inform future fisheries management decisions.” Ms Wood said the strong turnout at the information evening showed there was significant community interest in the proposal, with many attendees wanting more information about the potential impacts on the region. “While people have different opinions, there seems to be a common feeling that the community wants to be informed and have a voice, and the majority of people I’ve spoken to feel that this is not the right area for them.” Ms Wood said her concerns centred on protecting the region’s marine environment and ensuring any future decisions were supported by scientific evidence and meaningful community consultation. “We [the Whitsundays region] rely heavily on healthy marine ecosystems, recreational fishing and tourism, and I think it’s important that any decisions are based on robust science, transparency and genuine community consultation,” she said. “If there’s any risk of significant impacts on sensitive inshore habitats or species, I believe those risks should be carefully assessed before permanent changes are made.” Tourism Whitsundays Public Relations and Social Media Manager Rosanagh Gallivan said the organisation had not been formally consulted on the trials but was actively monitoring the issue after concerns were raised by tourism operators and intended to write to Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell to outline those concerns. “The Whitsundays is the leading destination on the Great Barrier Reef, and our pristine marine environment is at the heart of the visitor experience - it's vital that any decisions affecting it are carefully considered,” Ms Gallivan said. “Tourism operators have raised concerns with us about the proposed tunnel net trials, and while Tourism Whitsundays has not been formally consulted, we are actively monitoring the issue and will be raising those concerns with the State Government to ensure the tourism industry's perspective is heard.” Several members of the Inshore Flats Project from across the Mackay and Hinchinbrook regions have also voiced concerns about the tunnel net trials, with charter guides and recreational fishers expressing fears about the potential impact on the region's marine environment and tourism industry. North Queensland flats charter guide Clint Isaac said he could not understand why the proposal was being considered. “It blows my mind that the Queensland Government is even considering the introduction of 1.6 kilometre-long nets into the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area,” Mr Isaac said. Retired North Queensland flats charter guide John Haenke, who witnessed one of last year's tunnel net trials at Bowen, said the experience reinforced his concerns about the proposed fishing method. “What I saw at Bowen was completely unsustainable – trapped turtles and rays, plus thousands of stressed fish jammed together in a small mesh chamber, including dead and injured fish,” Mr Haenke said. DPI said the FishLIGHT program would continue evaluating a range of alternative fishing methods and technologies to better understand their operational performance, environmental outcomes and suitability for Queensland fisheries, with data collected through the trials continuing to be analysed ahead of the statewide phase-out of inshore gillnets in June 2027. “No decisions have been made about any future fisheries management arrangements,” said a spokesperson for DPI. "Any future consideration of changes would be informed by the available scientific evidence and be subject to the appropriate regulatory processes and stakeholder consultation.” CAPTIONS: Thousands of fish were photographed crowded together in the tunnel net sock during one of the trials conducted in Bowen in 2025. Photo credit: John Haenke A turtle interacting with one of the tunnel net wings during a FishLIGHT trial in Bowen. Photo credit: John Haenke
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