Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
The recent severe weather may mean you see some more slithery friends hanging about in unusual places, trying to find shelter. While snakes have garnered themselves a bit of a reputation, they are actually vital to our ecosystem and play an essential role in controlling rodent and pest populations, and therefore it is important to our environment that we protect and conserve them. Knowing how to identify what snakes you may come across can help you stay safe and appreciate these fascinating re
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The Great Barrier Reef is facing a very uncertain future. Global warming is pushing water temperatures up, causing more intense and more frequent mass coral bleaching events. Reducing global greenhouse gas emissions is the most important action to minimise the impact of climate change on the Reef. Yet the science is clear; warming ocean temperatures are locked in, with emissions reductions too little and probably too late. The Reef now needs our help to survive We can help through the process
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Janet Erricker found a life of purpose in helping her community, devoting her time and energy to numerous organisations. When she saw a need, she set about fulfilling it, inspiring others through her generous, happy nature and wonderful example. Born in Brisbane February 19, 1931 to Stanley Robinson and Edna Betsey Holloway, Janet took on the responsibility of a lot of the household chores at an early age as her older sister suffered chronic health problems and her father was a shift worker. Ja
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As a local of The Whitsundays, I’m always on the lookout for great places to recommend to visiting friends and family – and Waterview Airlie Beach is one I’m always happy to share. This boutique apartment complex, nestled in the heart of Airlie Beach, offers a perfect blend of comfort and convenience, with stunning views of the Coral Sea and Whitsunday Islands. Waterview features just six stylish apartments, each with its own private balcony or porch, making it a peaceful and intimate spot for
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Last week, The Whitsundays wrapped up the face-to-face workshops for the Whitsundays Welcomes You Program, complementing the online training with an engaging, hands-on session. It was fantastic to see over 45 passionate locals come together, share their pride for the region, and learn how to create unforgettable guest experiences. So, what makes us proud of the Whitsundays? Is it the friendly people, the laid-back country-coastal vibe, or the stunning blue ocean? Maybe it’s the live music, fres
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Bowen’s foreshore is one of our region’s greatest assets, and we now have an exciting opportunity to shape its future together. Council is inviting the community to help co-design the Bowen Foreshore Masterplan—a bold vision to revitalise the waterfront, enhance public spaces, and attract investment over the next 15 years. This Masterplan builds on the momentum of the $68 million Bowen Wharf project, expected to commence in 2027, and ensures that future upgrades benefit both locals and visitor
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The phrase “teamwork makes the dream work” was evident in abundance at Saturday’s ‘Team Whitsundays Dancing CEOs’ Masquerade Gala Ball, which raised $85,000 for Women’s Legal Service Queensland (WLSQ). Kate Purdie (Coral Sea Marina), Candice Crossley (Whitsunday Transit), Julie Telford (SeaLink Whitsundays), and Dr Alice Harriott (Whitsunday Family Dental), said it had taken not just a village but an entire community of people and businesses to pull the event off, and extended a heartfelt “than
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When Network 10’s Brendan Smith and Epic Hair Design’s Brendan Mann initially created the ‘Epic Walk for DV’, little did they know that in just four years it would spread its wings from New Farm Park in Brisbane to the Coral Sea Marina Resort in Airlie Beach. “This year we’re hoping to raise $300,000 for Women’s Legal Service Queensland (WLSQ) across our three walks in Brisbane, the Gold Coast, and now the Whitsundays, and ultimately we hope that it becomes a regular fixture on the charity cale
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The Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry is excited to introduce one of their new Board members – Asher Telford of SeaLink. “We are always grateful to our members who step up and volunteer their time and expertise in shaping our strategy and being great ambassadors for the Whitsundays business community” said Chamber President Allan Milostic. Asher Telford is SeaLink’s General Manager Whitsundays which also includes Red Cat Adventures and Whitsunday Jetski Tours. “As General Manager,
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More than 50 business owners, staff and volunteers attended workshops in Airlie Beach and Bowen last week as part of the “Queensland Welcomes You” initiative. Bowen Tourism and Business was well represented at the Bowen workshop at the Grand View Hotel. The Chair of the committee, Jenn Honnery and the Manager, Leanne Abernethy, both attended the workshop along with three other committee members and three volunteers. They were joined by local tourism operators, a representative from Tourism Wh
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Beautiful Astra was rescued from death row at Charters Towers Pound and is now patiently waiting for her forever home. This delicate girl is slender and graceful, much like a little damselfly, with a quiet charm that’s hard to resist. Astra is a sweet and gentle soul who absolutely loves a chat. She’s always up for a conversation and will happily respond when spoken to, making her a lovely little companion to share your day with. One of her most endearing features is the adorable white tips on
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Proud parents, teachers, and friends gathered last week to celebrate the achievements of the students during Whitsunday Christian College's Primary Assembly. The event was a wonderful opportunity to recognise the hard work, dedication, and character of pupils across the school. The highlight of the assembly was the presentation of the Student of the Week certificates. Each recipient was congratulated for their achievements. This weekly celebration not only rewards individual achievement but al
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This week, Bowen State School gathered to celebrate the outstanding efforts of students recognised as Positive Behaviour for Learning (PBL) Achievers for Week 7. These students have shown exceptional commitment to upholding the school’s four core values: Be Responsible, Be Respectful, Be Safe, and Be a Learner. Each of these values is central to the school’s approach, helping pupils develop not only as successful learners but also as responsible and respectful members of the school community. T
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Hello Everyone, Yesterday, I received an anonymous text message. It said: “I would like to thank you for keeping us all updated on local news and events and for adding the extra puzzle page!” At the time, I was standing in the middle of our office in Cannonvale, navigating a particularly tough set of deadlines. The whole team was under a lot of pressure, and we were all doing our best to get the papers to print on time. Receiving a message like this, at that exact moment, was an absolute ton
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The Bowen Neighbourhood Centre are pleased to announce the grand opening of the new and improved Bowen Community Op Shop! The shop will be open from 8am to 2.30pm on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. All proceeds from the shop go directly back into supporting the Bowen community, ensuring that the funds raised help local programs and initiatives. Since its inception 15 years ago, the Bowen Community Op Shop, also known as the Shed Shop, has raised vital funds for 83 organisations and communi
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Friday 21 March The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm–10pm) Grand View Hotel: Chris Webbe (4pm–8pm) Saturday 22 March The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Australian Eagles Tribute (2pm–5:30pm) The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm–10pm) Grand View Hotel: Ash Smith (4pm-8pm) Coral Sea Pavilion: Live Music & Chill DJ Session (1pm–6pm) Sunday 23 March The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Australian Eagles Tribute (2pm–5:30pm) The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6:30pm–9:30
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Thirty-one players took part in a Four Ball Best Ball event. Unfortunately, despite the best efforts of participants, the game had to be abandoned with only a few holes left to play due to worsening weather conditions. As a result, the competition was scored as a Stableford over the first nine holes, which led to some lower scores than expected. In the ladies' division, Rehab Hull emerged victorious with 18 points, while Paula McQuat also finished with 18 points but was edged out on a countback
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This month marks the five-year anniversary of the Horseshoe Bay Café, a beloved spot in Bowen that has become known for its great food, welcoming atmosphere, and stunning location. What started as a memorable spark, has blossomed into a thriving café at the heart of this coastal community. It was a serendipitous moment during a sailing trip in the North Atlantic that sparked the idea of taking over the café. “I was in an art gallery in Antigua and came across a book about mangoes,” recalls Jill
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20 Women & Girls Come and Try, Airlie Beach Bowls Club, 5pm-6pm **21 Harmony Day ** 21 Pram Pushers, Bowen Neighbourhood Centre, 9am-10:30am 21 Seniors Computer Program, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9am-2:30pm, Bookings Required 21 Waldorf Playgroup, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 10:30am-13:30am, Call Emily: 0499 594 943 21 Drop-in Baby Clinic & Baby Play, Cooinda Family Centre, 10am-12pm 21 Adult Roller Skate Class, PCYC Whitsunday, 6pm-7pm 21 Alcoholics Anonymous, Whitsunday Neig
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The Whitsunday Touch Football Club is calling for more females to join and experience the fun, camaraderie, and community of touch footy. It’s easy to learn and get involved, whether you're a beginner, returning after a break, or a girl who's rocked the touch footy world for years, the Club is the place for you. All the teams are mixed and sorted by grades, so you may even find yourself playing against your father like Sylvie who has been with the club for 2 years; “Dad was always playing touch
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The winners of Tuesday's social bowls were Damien R and Alby Vigar, who defeated Sharina R and Mark Drummond. In the other game, Irene Laird and Marg Wilson emerged victorious against Deb Retchless and Robyn Stitt. Unfortunately, the jackpot did not go off. On Sunday afternoon, Alby Vigar and Mark Drummond triumphed over Robyn Stitt and Graeme Read in their match. Meanwhile, in the triples game, Sugar Brunker, Isobel Wheeler, and Pat Tracey won on the final end, defeating Lindy Suann, Deb Retch
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The wet season has arrived across Queensland, including here in paradise, which meant bowls was intermittent this week. On Monday morning, 48 ladies participated in the annual Autumn Carnival and PAH celebration, marking 38 years of women’s bowls in our community. It was a great start to the day before the rain arrived, with only one game being played in the tournament. Many thanks to Ladies President Carol Crosbie, Vice President Wendy Pomeroy, Games Controller Lyn Graham, and invited guest Ma
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Cannonvale Cannons swimmers enjoyed an exciting Club Night last week, highlighted by record-breaking achievements and strong performances in the pool. The night was particularly special as the club recognised two outstanding swimmers for their new records set during the Club Championships. Seven-year-old Harry Chegwidden set three new club records with a time of 1:48.26 in the 100m Individual Medley, 25.90 in the 25m Breaststroke, and 43.08 in the 50m Freestyle. In the 11-year-old category, Jax
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On Saturday, 8th March, the Proserpine Lions and Lion Ladies held their first International Women’s Day event, with over 90 women attending at the Proserpine R.S.L., who generously donated the use of the venue. They were thrilled by the success of the event! Proserpine Meals on Wheels and Proserpine Food Bank will each receive $2,200 from the proceeds. The Lion Ladies baked and prepared a fabulous High Tea, with the service efficiently carried out by Mia and Bella from Proserpine High School. T
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Proserpine State High School is proud to present their energetic school production of Disney’s Newsies – The Broadway Musical. With more than 100 students and staff bringing this entertaining musical to life on their Performing Arts Centre stage, and many months of hard work spent perfecting lines, dance routines, and musical scores, it promises to be a show to remember! Based on the real-life Newsboy Strike of 1899, this Disney musical tells the story of Jack Kelly, a rebellious newsboy
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