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Residents of the Greater Whitsunday Region are no stranger to the burden of box jellyfish. They have no brain; they pose a deadly threat and have been nearly impossible to detect in the water – at least until now. Growing up in Bowen, Dr Scott Morrissey’s passion for marine life was fostered by the town’s beautiful beaches and the opportunities they provided for underwater exploration. “I spent as much time as I possibly could underwater. I wanted to learn as much as I could about what I was seeing,” Scott said. With a robust education courtesy of Bowen State High School, Scott was able to foster his passion for marine life. Hig “Chemistry is okay but it’s like cooking to me. Physics was too much math. Biology was what I really enjoyed. It’s about building an understanding of how everything works together and why things are happening in the environment. It’s great learning biology because you can go outside and apply what you’ve learnt immediately. It definitely resonated with me.” Scott’s classic North Queensland grievances towards the threat of box jellyfish influenced a unique study path that eventually led him to producing groundbreaking research. “Box jellyfish are a huge pain in the backside, especially in summertime when you want to snorkel. The more I looked into jellyfish, the more I realised we actually know very little about them considering the threat they pose. So thought it would be a pretty cool place to start asking questions.” Following his undergrad studies at James Cook University in Townsville, Scott pursued further studies through a PhD leading to monumental research breakthroughs in the realm of jellyfish. “Jellyfish are basically invisible in the water. We know very little about what causes them to appear, when they’re going to appear and how many of them will be there. I wanted to try and create a new way to be able to detect them.” Scott applied general characteristics of biology to investigate the phenomena further. “When animals move through an environment, they leave behind their DNA in the form of things like skin, snot or blood. It’s like how forensic scientists scan for DNA at a crime scene. Our method is quite similar. We take two litres of water and filter it down, leaving us with a soup of DNA that’s been left behind by all animals in the area. We search through that and look to see if there is any jellyfish DNA and we use that as a means of detection.” This research will aid in risk management and monitoring safety around beaches. “The more we understand about them and what they’re doing – the better equipped we are to assess and manage risk. With normal species there is so much information related to population figures and movement that we don’t have with jellyfish. If we’re able to fill in that gap of knowledge, then we will have a complete understanding so that we can actually forecast likelihood of jellyfish in the area with greater accuracy.” The research is will also have broader application on both national and international levels. “We’ve been working with another group in Western Australia. They also have really nasty Irukandji jellyfish that love to sting tourists. We’ve been able to apply the technology to that species and it’s starting to be picked up internationally. There’s work being done in Thailand. The hope is we can continue the research and start looking at things such as are box jellyfish moving South.” Scott shows no signs of slowing down as he continues to consolidate his work. “I would love to be able to conduct our lab work on site to reduce delays. If we can test the water straight away, then we can get an answer on site in three hours as opposed to the three to four days it would take in a lab. I would love to get the process down to an hour or even 45 minutes. It would be great to even develop some sort of user-friendly tool that anyone could use.” Scott expressed gratitude to the support he’d received for his work. “I need to say thanks to Lions Australia, they fund 99% if this research.” The Bowen and greater Whitsunday community look upon Dr Morrissey with pride and keenly anticipate the amazing work he will no doubt continue to do. Captions Scott AKA Dr Morrissey – hard at work. Photo supplied
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Mark the calendar. On July 25th and 26th the Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival will return to the region, and this year the stakes are higher than ever. For 25 years, athletes have been pushing their limits against a backdrop that most people only see on postcards: The Whitsunday Islands. Clear water, warm air and a finish line that makes the long distances worth it. This is what destination racing looks like. After claiming runner-up status among Australia's premier triathlon events in 2025, this year Airlie Beach Triathlon will be vying for the top spot. Following last year’s recognition came a milestone 25 years in the making: this year, for the first time, the event is proudly supported by the Queensland State Government, and by Tourism and Events Queensland. That backing signals what the region already knows. This event is serious, and so is its impact on the local economy. Hotels, restaurants, hire companies, local operators — the ripple effect of hundreds of athletes and their supporters showing up in the Whitsundays is significant. The 2026 edition also carries new weight on the national stage. AusTriathlon, the governing body for triathlon in Australia, has included the Airlie Beach Triathlon as one of Australia's official World Qualifying events — meaning age group athletes competing here have a direct pathway to represent Australia on the world stage. That's a game-changer for competitors and for the event's profile. The professional field is shaping up to match the occasion. Australian Olympic and Commonwealth Games representatives have already entered, raising the bar for what promises to be a standout weekend of racing. Race registration is now open. If you've been thinking about it, don't wait. Visit airliebeachtriathlon.com.au to register Volunteers are the backbone of this event, and the team is looking for good people to be part of it. Contact Val Kimpton on 0438 717 819. A small number of sponsorship partnerships are still available for businesses wanting a seat at the table. Reach out to Michael Kimpton on 0417 717 818. Contributed with thanks to the Airlie Beach Triathlon team.
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ANZAC Day is one of the most important days on our calendar as a time for us, as a community, to pause, reflect and come together. Across the Whitsundays, services will be held in towns and communities from Bowen to Proserpine, Airlie Beach to Collinsville, and in our smaller rural areas. These gatherings are a chance for all of us to stand side by side and honour those who have served our nation and those who never returned. As Mayor, I have the privilege of representing our community at these services, but ANZAC Day belongs to everyone. It belongs to the families who have carried the legacy of service through generations. It belongs to the veterans who continue to serve our community in different ways. And it belongs to every resident who takes a moment to remember the sacrifices that have shaped the freedoms we enjoy today. Here in the Whitsundays, service and sacrifice are not distant concepts, they are part of our local story. From Gallipoli to the Western Front, from the Pacific to more recent conflicts, generations of Australians have answered the call to serve including men and women from right here in our region. This year, we also recognise the theme “Women in Service” acknowledging the vital role women have played, and continue to play, in defending our nation and supporting our communities. Among them are people like Commander Natasha Burney, who has ties to the Whitsunday community and served in Afghanistan — a reminder that the ANZAC spirit lives on in people from communities just like ours. Their stories remind us that the ANZAC spirit is not something distant, it is part of who we are as a community. ANZAC Day is also about connection. Standing shoulder to shoulder at a dawn service. Watching the march. Sharing a quiet moment with family, friends and neighbours. These traditions matter. They ensure that the service and sacrifice of past and present servicemen and women is never forgotten and that future generations understand the cost of the freedoms we often take for granted. Bring your family. Bring your children. Help pass on the meaning of this day to the next generation. Because remembrance is not just about looking back, it’s about ensuring those stories and values continue into the future. This ANZAC Day, let’s stand together as a community, united in respect and gratitude. Lest we forget.
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A new fuel status feature has been activated on the Whitsunday Disaster Dashboard. This live filter option provides real-time updates on the availability and price of fuel across the Whitsunday Region when you need it the most. Head to disaster.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au/Dashboard and choose ‘Fuel Supplies’ from the top banner or check fuel status in the filter options before clicking on your preferred service station.
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Last week, the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry represented the region’s business community at a roundtable with the Queensland Minister for Small and Family Business, Steve Minnikin, alongside the Queensland Small Business Commissioner, Queensland Cross-Border Commissioner, peak state and national industry bodies, and regional Chambers of Commerce. The roundtable provided an important opportunity for knowledge exchange, bringing forward real-world examples and discussing targeted, practical interventions to address both the short- and long-term impacts of the current fuel situation. The Chamber’s focus was clear: ensuring a strong regional perspective was part of the conversation. Being at the table means more than representation, it’s about shaping outcomes. By engaging directly with decision-makers, the Chamber ensures local priorities are heard, understood, and acted upon for the benefit of the entire Whitsundays community. Chamber President Allan Milostic said it was critical the region remains at the forefront of discussions. “These conversations are where real advocacy begins. Being part of these discussions ensures the concerns of our region are not only heard but can be elevated at both state and federal levels where decisions are made,” he said. Data from Business Chamber Queensland highlights the scale of the issue, with 95% of Queensland businesses reporting impacts, and more than 70% experiencing major or severe challenges. Allan said the situation is rapidly escalating for regional communities. “We are hearing from businesses experiencing supply chain challenges more significant than those during COVID lockdowns. Flights into the region are being reduced, impacting both tourism and freight. At the same time, consumer confidence is being reported lower than during COVID, affecting discretionary spending and travel commitments, with a noticeable shift toward online purchasing,” he said. “The high cost of living and high cost of doing business existed before the fuel crisis, they are now being amplified.” Locally, the impacts are being felt across all sectors, with flow-on effects for businesses, workers, and the broader community. The Chamber is encouraging practical, community-led responses: Shop local first to keep the regional economy viable. Take a measured approach to fuel purchasing to avoid unnecessary strain on supply. Maintain critical services such as public and school bus networks. Support young people, trainees, and apprentices to access transport to work. For businesses to seek professional financial advice and be cautious of predatory lending or quick loan offers. The Chamber is also reinforcing key advocacy priorities, including: Fuel security — addressing both pricing and supply, including sovereign capability and international supply chains, to ensure certainty for agriculture, tourism, health, and transport sectors. Access to reliable, real-time information — including clear, centralised public reporting to support informed decision-making at a regional level. Have Your Say To strengthen its advocacy, the Chamber is calling on regional businesses to share their experiences. Businesses are invited to complete a short survey to help inform ongoing advocacy efforts and ensure the real impacts of the fuel crisis are clearly communicated to all levels of government. Contributed with thanks to the Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry
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On ANZAC Day 2026, the Bowen Cenotaph (War Memorial) will commemorate 100 years since it was unveiled. The Cenotaph rises from Herbert Street, with its sandstone digger standing sentinel over a memorial, erected by the people of Bowen a century ago to remember those who died in World War One. The memorial was unveiled on 25 April 1926 by Mr Forgan Smith M.L.A. Additional names were added at a later date to remember those killed in World War Two and the Vietnam War. According to ANZAC Square, the plaque lists the names of 53 WWI soliders, 28 WWII soldiers and 4 Vietnam War soldiers. It was built by A.L Petrie & Sons. The memorial has been restored and the original marble plaques have been replaced by black granite plaques. It originally featured a clock tower, however the clocks were damaged in a cyclone in 1958 and have not been replaced. The front inscription states: Erected by the citizens of Bowen, In honour of those who fell in the Great War 1914-1919. Their name liveth for evermore. We shall remember them.
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Last week, local conservation group Eco Barge took a turtle named Regina into their care following months long surveys from dedicated Hayman Island staff. Regina caught a free ride on the ferry and came into the care of the Whitsunday Turtle Rescue Centre. Regina is currently suffering from float, a disorder in which turtles are unable to submerge properly and become stuck floating at the surface of the water. She is also recovering from a partially healed but visible boat-strike injury to her shell. Regina is the largest turtle in Eco Barge’s care and carries great wisdom from her 50 years of living. “A massive thank you to all the helping hands from Hayman Island Staff that went to great lengths to rescue Regina and bring her into care,” the team shared. “We’ll give Regina some rest and refuelling in our centre and hope to have her swimming back around the beautiful Hayman Island in no time.” Here’s to a speedy recovery for this wonderful animal.
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The Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC) is the peak body for Queensland’s tourism sector, acting as the ‘Voice of Tourism’. It advocates for tourism, hospitality, and event operators, focusing on policy development, research and business mentoring to ensure long term sustainability is achieved. QTIC celebrated 25 years of advocacy on the 14th April supporting the Tourism Industry. This milestone was marked by a sell-out luncheon at the Emporium Hotel South Bank, Brisbane. This special networking Event celebrated the people, partnerships and dedication that have helped shape the Queensland tourism and events industry. There were many inspiring speeches by our tourism leaders including the Hon Andrew Powell MP. The Q & A segment chaired by their CEO, Tash Wheeler and formerly CEO of Tourism Whitsundays, was one of the highlights. The Whitsundays were well represented by our CEO of Tourism Whitsundays, Tim Booth, Tourism Whitsunday Board members Elizabeth Hackett, Daniel Gschwind and Tom Young together with members Michael and Val Kimpton representing the award winning Airlie Beach Triathlon in the Whitsundays. Contributed with thanks to Michael Kimpton
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Hollywood Superstars Film in Whitsundays The Whitsundays is set to provide the backdrop for a new film starring Jake Gyllenhaal and Kevin Costner, who are rumoured to be on Hayman Island this week. Screen Queensland has announced the production of a romantic comedy titled Honey with Harry. The film is described as an emotional drama-comedy based on the novel by Bart Baker. It follows Todd (Gyllenhaal), whose life unravels when his fiancée dies just two days before their wedding. He ultimately embarks on his honeymoon with her father, Harry (Costner). According to the organisation, filming will take place in both Brisbane and the Whitsundays. Costner was spotted in Brisbane only a few weeks ago, signalling that production is underway. Meanwhile, reports suggest potential co-star Sarah Pidgeon and singer-songwriter Rita Ora were seen at Brisbane Airport departing for Hamilton Island on 20 April. They were also reportedly joined by Shaggy, though his role or involvement has not yet been confirmed. The production of Honey with Harry is expected to contribute an estimated $51 million to the state’s economy and employ around 215 people. While details remain limited and tightly guarded, anticipation is building as the region prepares to welcome a wave of Hollywood talent. The filming of a Hollywood movie in Queensland is expected to contribute an estimated $51 million and employ around 215 people. Photo supplied
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The announcement of a government-funded removal of boat debris strewn across the Whitsundays by Ex-tropical Cyclone Koji caused controversy last week, with locals calling for transparency as to why local towing companies were not consulted by Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ) to take away the vessels. When out-of-town corporation Clayton’s Towing announced they had been engaged to remove the vessel 7 Wonders from where it had been decaying on Bowen’s Rose Bay, locals sparked into conversation, asking the question: Why was a local business not called upon to take care of the refuse? Darren Foster from Whitsunday Moorings & Marine Construction explained his frustration. “During the last cyclones, the locals got a lot of work.” He said. “Debbie, Louie, you know, all the big ones, the locals worked together. We got the job done. And it's just very unusual that, for whatever reason, there was no consultation with any of the local providers at all.” “Generally, there's two ways that tenders go out. One, they go out for public tender, and it's just listed on a public tender site. When the tenders go out, we put in a price, and depending on whether or not we're competitive, we get it. In this case though, it appears that it went out to a very closed group of tenders. “There are local companies perfectly capable of undertaking the lifting and removal of those wrecks. After an event like [Ex-tropical Cyclone Koji], we all suffer financially because of the loss of tourists in the area. And when there's less tourists in the area, our clients have got less money to pay us, so we suffer as well. “MDive, the company that have secured a lot of the work, are a Gladstone based company, who are looking to establish themselves here in the Whitsunday. We don’t hold any problem with that. However, a fair playing field would be a nice place to start.” David suggested this wasn’t the first time local companies had lost out on work within the region. “I personally assisted local senior parks rangers to develop the terms of reference to allow the Great Barrier Reef Marine Parks Authority to release the maintenance of the Whitsundays Public Moorings to private companies for tender. “Not once in 16 years has a local company won that tender. Despite the fact that the local tender was cheaper and had very high experience in moorings repairs and maintenance.” David Edge from David Edge Marine Contracting added to the conversation, calling on the government to explain the salvage decision. “Overlooking local operators has happened in the past with MSQ, [for example] a vessel lodged in the mud at Cannonvale a few years ago, where MSQ gave the job to a Townsville company to salvage at a cost of $1.7 million with no tender issues, which we were more than qualified to perform,” he alleged. “Before the state became involved, we quoted the vessel’s owner $90,000 to float the vessel.” At the time of print we are waiting for a comment from MSQ. 1- The wreckage at Rose Bay is to be cleared by an out-of-town contractor this week after months of local volunteer action.
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A growing pattern of holiday dumping has left residents at their wits’ end after yet another abandoned vehicle was left at Adelaide Point Boat Ramp, just south of Bowen town centre. Over the long Easter weekend, residents woke to find that instead of chocolate eggs, someone had dumped an abandoned, rusted fibreglass boat at the ramp, stripped of parts and filled with old, worn-out tyres. "I was very disappointed to discover somebody had dumped a boat and old tyres at the creek landing during the night - this is vandalism,” expressed Adelaide Terrace resident, Lyndy McCathie. An eyesore to say the least, the vessel joins another abandoned vehicle dumped over the Christmas and New Year holiday period, which, despite being reported to authorities, remains at the boat ramp. Jamie Volker, who has lived on Adelaide Terrace for several years, said he’s frustrated by the ongoing issue and believes installing an additional skip bin could help curb the amount of rubbish being left along the road, noting that some people travel from Bowen and Airlie Beach to dump waste instead of taking it to the tip. “Very little action has been taken and we’re frustrated and annoyed,” said Mr Volker. “I’ve personally cleaned up rubbish that has been dumped at the end of Adelaide Point Road as well as the boat ramp several times and all this illegal dumping makes our little community look bad.” Concerns have also been raised regarding the potential environmental impact, with dumping materials such as tyres and fiberglass posing risks to local waterways and marine life. Whitsunday Regional Council confirmed they’re aware of the abandoned vehicle, and Council’s Local Laws Officers conducted two official inspections on both Friday, 10 April and Monday 13 April. A request has since been made for a towing contractor to remove the vehicle to Whitsunday Regional Council’s impound yard. “Once a vehicle or vessel is deemed abandoned, Council coordinates removal to the impound facility where it remains until they are either reclaimed by the owner or disposed of in accordance with Council’s Abandoned Vehicle Auction process,” said a Whitsunday Regional Council spokesperson. “At this stage, aside from the vehicle, there is no evidence of unlawful dumping occurring in the area. Council encourages the community to report any suspected illegal dumping as soon as possible so action can be taken promptly.” Residents are urging those responsible to be held accountable and are calling for stronger action to prevent further dumping at the popular local spot. CAPTIONS: Abandoned and left to rust. Residents say this vehicle is just one example of ongoing dumping issues at Adelaide Point Boat Ramp. Photo credit: Kari Ravizza The boat abandoned over the Easter long weekend has since been removed. Photo credit: Kari Ravizza
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The Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network (WSPN) will be bringing back it’s highly regarded Legends Night and this time it will hit the shores of beautiful Bowen. The community are encouraged to gear up for an unforgettable black-tie evening of inspiring stories as handpicked ‘Guest Legends’ take to the stage to share their story. This year features the wonderfully talented Michael Kimpton and McQuility ‘Coco’ Qurike with music from Zed Charles to fill out the night. The event will take place at 360 On the Hill with further details via info@wspn.org.au. The Legends Night has seen immense success in the past, facilitating unforgettable nights of connection, resilience and community spirit. It is a meaningful occasion, lending an opportunity for community heroes to share powerful stories around mental health and suicide prevention. “WSPN’s goal is to raise vital funds to continue the work within the community and raise awareness that we exist and are here to help,” said WSPN President Matt Stokes. “A massive thank you to Jen Lowcock from Lowcock Builders who has been the driving force behind planning this years’ Legends night. Which I am sure will be the best one yet!” Guest speaker Michael Kimpton expressed his gratitude and excitement for the event. “The Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network led by Matt Stokes and his team are remarkable. Their work in awareness and prevention of suicide and support for the community is so vital,” he said. Michael’s talk on the night will centre around the theme ‘My Journey’ – as he will reflect on important life changing experiences that he needed to overcome. “The first was a horrific motorcycle accident that left me compromised and the other was meltdown following my retirement. We can recover physically but we also need to cope with our mental resilience to ensure our wellbeing.” Legends Night promises to be a wonderful evening of great conversation and joy. WHAT: WSPN Legends Night WHERE: 360 On The Hill, Bowen WHEN: 5.30pm, Saturday 13th June Captions Legends Night has seen great success over the years with important funds raised for those in need
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The Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) has given approval for another set of traffic lights in Cannonvale, 500 metres from where the last set was installed on Shute Harbour Road near Whitsunday Plaza. Councillor Clay Bauman took to Facebook this week, reigniting the traffic light vs roundabout debate. “We all know traffic volumes have increased as our region continues to grow. The question now is whether the solutions being delivered are the right ones for long term safety, flow and liveability.” A Council spokesperson stated that ultimately this is a TMR decision although the topic will come before Council for debate and a vote in the coming weeks.
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A simple act of kindness has highlighted the quiet generosity that exists within the local community, after a Jubilee Pocket woman was helped home by a stranger when she needed it most. Jacqueline Brooks found herself stranded at the Friendly Grocer in Jubilee Pocket with a flat phone and no way to organise transport. It was then that a kind-hearted woman stepped in, offering her a lift home without hesitation. Despite the stressful situation, Jacqueline said the woman’s willingness to help ensured she made it home safely. “I haven’t been able to retrieve her contact information. If you are this beautiful woman, I would just like to say thank you so much,” she said. The thoughtful gesture has left a lasting impression, serving as a reminder of the strength of community spirit in the region. Though the woman remains anonymous, her actions speak volumes, offering help not for recognition, but simply out of kindness.
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Hundreds of community members gathered in Mackay’s city centre on Saturday for the official unveiling of three life-sized bronze statues honouring Maltese pioneers who helped shape the region’s history. The statues of Emmanuel Camilleri, Sam Bezzina and John Vassallo now stand proudly on the corner of Wood and Victoria streets – a location long known locally as “Maltese Corner”, where migrant businessmen would regularly gather to talk, support one another and build their futures in Mackay. The project, delivered by the Maltese Corner Fundraising Group Inc, recreates a historic photograph capturing the men meeting at the site, symbolising the spirit of collaboration that helped generations of migrants establish themselves in the region. On Friday, 17th April, a day prior to the official unveiling, Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson said the statues recognise the enduring contribution of Maltese migrants to the region’s identity and economy. “Tomorrow we are unveiling three magnificent statues here on the corner of Victoria and Wood Streets,” he said ahead of the event. “This particular corner was where the Maltese guys sat around, just like a little piazza in Malta. They sat here waiting for the banks to open – probably waiting for the pub to open as well – while their wives went shopping and they did their business.” Mayor Williamson said the tribute reflected Mackay’s long-standing connection with Maltese settlement. “Mackay is recognised as the heart of Maltese settlement in Australia,” he said. “The Maltese have done a fantastic job in our community for decades and decades, and this is a tribute to those who helped build our sugar industry and our region.” The project has been largely community-funded, with the Maltese Association raising more than $250,000 towards the statues, supported by about $45,000 in council grants. For Carmel Baretta, president of the Maltese Corner Fundraising Group, the unveiling marks a rather emotional sentiment. “In 2001, a friend and I published a book on the Maltese pioneers of Mackay,” Ms Baretta said. “While we were working on that book, I was aware of Maltese Corner and asked a photographer to quietly capture a photograph of the men meeting here because they gathered regularly.” That image later became the inspiration for the statues. Ms Baretta said the corner held significant historical meaning for the community. “The greatest significance is that these people helped others become established,” she said. “And it wasn’t only Maltese helping Maltese,” Ms Baretta said. “Some Italians were involved, some returned soldiers were helped, and some local people from Mackay as well.” The initiative also honours the legacy of the Mosta Building Society, established in 1966 as a result of the cooperative financial support that began on the corner. The statues themselves were created by local sculptor Kay Payton, chosen after extensive research into bronze works across North Queensland. “We decided Kay Payton was the ideal person, primarily because she was local and because she is so gifted,” Ms Baretta said. “She was just absolutely fantastic to work with.” With the statues now permanently installed, organisers hope the site will encourage residents and visitors alike to pause, reflect and learn more about the community stories that helped build Mackay. 1 – Mayor Williamson, Carmel Baretta, and Leo Baretta. 2 – A huge crowd turned-out to see the unveiling of the new brass statues. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
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With ANZAC Day approaching, locals gathered at Proserpine Cemetery on Saturday 18th April to pay tribute to the nearly 400 service men and women laid to rest there; a local tradition organised by Lyn Burke which is now in its eleventh year. The event saw flags placed beside the graves of veterans, including Boer War veterans, Gallipoli survivors, Rats of Tobruk, Prisoners of War, Commandos & many more.
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Sunday’s winners: Penny Warren, Whitton, Billy Myers with President Graeme Read
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Whitsunday Swimming Club’s rising para-swimming talent, George Rush, has delivered a breakthrough performance at the 2026 Australian MC Age Championships, recording multiple personal bests and climbing to second in Australia in his age group for the 400m freestyle. Competing at the Gold Coast Aquatic Centre against the country’s top junior multi-class athletes, the 13-year-old showcased significant improvement across several events, underlining his rapid development on the national stage. George’s standout swim came in the boys’ 400m freestyle, where he slashed 10.7 seconds off his previous best time. The result not only highlighted his endurance and race strategy but also propelled him to No. 2 in Australia for 13-year-old multi-class swimmers in the event. George continued his strong form in the 50m freestyle, trimming 0.39 seconds from his personal best. George achieved further with a 6.08 second PB in the 200m individual medley. Across the three-day championship, George competed in both heats and finals for 5 of his 6 nominated events - 50m Freestyle, 100m Freestyle, 400m Freestyle, 50m Backstroke and 200IM, gaining valuable experience against elite-level competition while pushing his own limits. George also qualified for the 200m Freestyle, George Placed 14th overall in the 200m Free and recorded another massive personal best time. The Australian MC Age Championships serve as a key pathway for emerging para-athletes, with many participants aiming to progress to represent Australia on the international stage. For George, the combination of personal bests and a top two national ranking signals a significant step forward in his swimming journey. With the Brisbane 2032 Paralympic Games drawing closer, performances like these are helping to shape the next generation of Australian talent—and George Rush is quickly establishing himself as one to watch. Contributed with thanks to the Whitsunday Swimming Club Captions Great job George!! Photo supplied
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The Whitsunday Game Fish Club and REEFIES held their “Sweeties & Squires” Fun Family Fishing Competition last weekend ensuring a fantastic time for all. The event kicked off on Thursday evening with an informative talk and demonstration by Tristan from MSQ, covering boating safety and the proper use and maintenance of essential safety equipment. Following a short briefing on the event’s relaxed rules, all participating kids received a free rod and reel, tackle box, cap, and a backpack full of goodies. Committee member Dave Cranmer then delivered an engaging and educational presentation on fish identification, sustainable fishing practices, environmental stewardship, fish handling, and teamwork. A quiz followed, with all the kids achieving excellent results and earning prizes. 10 enthusiastic teams competed over two fun-filled days. Most fish caught were carefully released after a quick photo, with only a few kept for dinner—highlighting the club’s strong commitment to responsible and sustainable fishing practices. The weekend wrapped up with a lively presentation on Sunday afternoon, featuring a huge array of prizes for the ladies and kids, along with a couple for the “big boys,” who took on crew-only roles this time. Delicious food was enjoyed by all, adding to the celebratory atmosphere. While the Doolan family claimed top honours in a closely contested competition, the true spirit of the weekend was about bringing families together, enjoying time on the water, and creating lasting memories. Events like this play an important role in the Whitsundays community, fostering a love for the outdoors, encouraging sustainable fishing practices, and strengthening connections between families, local organisations, and future generations of anglers. The involvement of generous sponsors and the dedication of the club committee helped make the event inclusive, educational, and rewarding for everyone involved. All the kids received great prizes, while the ladies were treated to bubbles and chocolates. There were plenty of giveaways and fun prizes for all, with support from generous sponsors and the ever-enthusiastic Reefies mascot, “SAILEE,” who promised the event will be even bigger and better next year. The next club event is the Queenfish and Trevally Rally, taking place on the 16th and 17th of May—don’t miss it!
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The Whitsunday Raiders Rugby Union Club is setting its sights on an exciting international opportunity, with plans underway for a junior development tour to Japan in April 2027. The proposed tour will see a group of young Raiders players and their families travel overseas to experience a new culture, build lifelong friendships, and represent the Whitsunday region on the international stage through rugby. Club President Tim Oberg said the tour is about much more than just sport. “This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for our young players and their families,” he said. “It’s about broadening horizons, building independence, and creating experiences that will stay with them long after their playing days are over.” Oberg also highlighted that rugby union’s global reach makes opportunities like this uniquely possible. “An overseas tour like this is a real point of difference for rugby union,” he said. “It’s a truly international game, and that opens the door for experiences and connections that you simply don’t get in many other sports.” Japan has a strong and growing rugby culture, particularly following the success of the Rugby World Cup in 2019. The tour is expected to include a series of matches against local Japanese teams, as well as cultural experiences designed to immerse players in Japanese life. “For many of these families, it will be their first time travelling overseas,” Oberg said. “To do that together, as part of a team representing their community, is incredibly powerful.” Importantly, the tour is designed to be inclusive and open to all players, regardless of ability. “This is about participation, connection and personal growth,” Oberg said. “Every child deserves the chance to be part of something like this.” While the opportunity is exciting, the cost of international travel presents a significant barrier for many families. The club is committed to making the tour as accessible as possible and is now calling on local businesses and community partners to help bring the vision to life. “We want every player who wants to go on this tour to have the opportunity to do so, regardless of their financial situation,” Oberg said. “That’s why we’re reaching out to the Whitsunday business community for support.” Sponsorship opportunities are now available, with local businesses invited to play a role in supporting the next generation of athletes and ambassadors for the region. Contributions will go directly towards travel costs, accommodation, and tour logistics, helping to ease the financial burden on families. “This is a chance for businesses to invest in our young people and be part of something really special,” Oberg said. “The Whitsundays has always been a community that gets behind its own, and we’re confident that spirit will shine through again.” The tour is still in the planning stages, with further details to be confirmed in the coming months. In the meantime, the Raiders will also be undertaking a range of fundraising initiatives to support the journey. Anyone interested in supporting the Whitsunday Raiders Japan Tour can contact the club directly to learn more about sponsorship opportunities. “This is about creating memories, building character, and representing the Whitsundays with pride,” Oberg said. “We can’t wait to bring this opportunity to life.” Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Junior Rugby Union
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Flying under the radar is a little-known fishery that operates within one of the world’s most iconic ecosystems: coral harvesting. Many Australians would be surprised to learn that the Great Barrier Reef supports the country’s largest coral fishery. Each year, up to 190 tonnes of coral are removed from the Reef, much of it destined for the domestic and international aquarium trade. Among these are some of the Reef’s most unique and visually striking species—highly prized, yet ecologically vital. The Great Barrier Reef is often celebrated for its beauty and biodiversity, but it is also an ecosystem under immense stress. Climate change has driven increasingly frequent and severe mass bleaching events, while cyclones and flooding have compounded the damage. Together, these disturbances have contributed to some of the most significant declines in coral cover ever recorded. Against this backdrop, the harvesting of live coral raises difficult questions. Many of the same species targeted by the Queensland Coral Fishery are those already vulnerable to bleaching and mortality. Removing healthy corals from the ecosystem can reduce the Reef’s natural capacity to recover from disturbances, potentially undermining broader conservation and restoration efforts. This creates an apparent contradiction. Governments have invested heavily in protecting and restoring the Reef, funding initiatives aimed at improving water quality, supporting coral regrowth, and enhancing resilience. Yet, at the same time, a regulated industry continues to extract coral from the wild. To be clear, the fishery does not operate without oversight. Strict quotas, spatial zoning, and licensing conditions are in place to manage harvesting. Exceeding quotas or collecting coral from protected “green zones” can result in significant penalties. Enforcement, however, remains an ongoing challenge. In 2016, the first prosecution for illegal coral harvesting since the 2003 rezoning plan occurred in Gladstone, where divers were caught collecting coral in a no-take zone. Since then, there have been more than 20 prosecutions linked to illegal coral collection within the marine park, many involving commercial operators. Such incidents raise concerns about the industry’s “social licence”—the level of public trust and acceptance it holds. Increasingly, reef tourism operators, scientists, and environmental groups are calling for tighter restrictions, with some advocating for a complete ban on wild coral harvesting. Despite this, the fishery continues. In 2024, it received federal approval to operate for another three years. Authorities have indicated that a revised ecological risk assessment and updated harvest strategy will be completed by 2026, potentially shaping the industry’s future. That future may lie beyond the Reef itself. Aquaculture—growing coral in controlled tank environments—has long been promoted as a sustainable alternative. It offers the potential to supply the aquarium trade without removing corals from the wild, easing pressure on an already stressed ecosystem. As the Great Barrier Reef faces an uncertain future, so does coral harvesting. For many, the answer is clear: the Reef’s corals are far more valuable alive, thriving in their natural habitat, than they are as commodities. Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Conservation Council
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HERO – Whales of the whitsundays team celebrating when the Whitsundays was formally recognised as a Whale Heritage Site. Photo supplied
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This week’s poem is from Christine Pennay who lives in Collinsville ; a big fan of the paper. She has been fiddling with words since her school years, so here is one of her works. Water from the sky The smell The taste The delight Of it on my face It's cool It's wet It's delicious Running down my neck So clear So sweet So clean Washing over my feet Let it rain Let it pour Let it thrill Poet Corner - April 17th
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