Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Immediately prior to 1930, Long Island was held by Mrs Frances Altmann under a special lease but following her death in 1930, the island was subdivided into three sections and offered for sale. The central section (240 acres) was bought by William Lewis Grant who eventually sold it in 1935 to Mr Timothy Croft. The following is an extract from “The Queensland Annual” (November 6 1934) On the western boundary of glorious Whitsunday Passage is a dot on the map which close at hand becomes an island five miles long running almost due north and south, separated from the coast by a stretch of water about a mile wide for the most part and as calm as broad river – Long Island and its Sound. Early in October 1931, a steamer called at the island, and from it disembarked W.L. Grant and the folk he had chosen to help him. A motor launch, a flattie, building materials, tools and provisions were unloaded also, and the steamer went on her way. Grant often smiles now when he looks back on the seriousness with which he tackled the problems of those few first weeks. He had got himself a long lease of a rich scrub area on Clear View Bay, and now faced the job of building an island home. In those first few months, he lived some of the chapters of the Swiss Family Robinson. They chopped a clearing in the scrub; built a temporary shack; planted paw paws, tomatoes and vegetables and they started to grow prolifically. Grant decided that was one department that would run itself. But he was no vegetarian, and days of more hand blistering and muscle wearying toil followed in the scrub, as young saplings were cut and hauled to the beach. They were to be part of the fish-trap and had to be sturdy to carry the heavy gauge wire netting. “It’s a lot of work and expense,” Mr. Grant says, “but a trap is a good investment, for we have had plenty of fish of great variety, and we always keep a stack of smoked fish which is our standby when spring tides prevent our getting fish.” Days slid into weeks, weeks into months. Each day had its problems, each its discoveries, each its triumphs. The man whose life had been lived at the grueling pace set by modern business slowed his gait. The pocket handkerchief of a clearing expanded to a green tablecloth upon which stood all manner of trees and scrubs and vines – bananas, custard apples, figs, mulberries, jackfruit, pomegranates, avocados, Queensland nuts, lychee nuts and citrus; sweet and English potatoes and a dozen other vegetables, maize and kaffir corn. Another clearing was made, and netted, a thatched shelter was built, and one day from opened crates two score Leghorns and Orrington emerged. In the beginning, all effort had to be concentrated on food and shelter, but once assured, attention was turned to flowers. The story of the orchard was repeated and Clear View Bay became Clear View Gardens. Roses, hardy annuals, ferns, coleus, hibiscus, frangipani, aralia, asparagus, poincianas, crotons, regia, bougainvillea and scores of others flourished side by side. In time, the island home began to pay its way as cultivated acres yielded ever increasing surpluses which the coast would buy. The idealist in W.L. Grant was strong enough to sever the bonds of humdrum life – the businessman in him organised his own romance. Some of that camping party on Nor-West Island had shaken their heads in doubt, but Grant knew that it could be done – and he did it! Story sourced from “The Queensland Annual” (November 6 1934) and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum Society. Captions Mrs Croft holding Keith Holmes and Pam Holmes at Clear View Gardens Long Island in the late 1930s
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Cannonvale Cannons swimmers have achieved outstanding success, with 15 athletes selected to represent North Queensland at the Queensland Representative School Sport Championships in Brisbane. Selection in the North Queensland team is a significant achievement, with the region spanning from Proserpine to Ingham and west to Charters Towers. Competing outside of club swimming, this pathway brings together the very best school-aged swimmers across the region. The 13–19 years team featured Jax Clayworth, Hamilton Anflous, Tyler Bennett, Thomas Ganter, Tora Delac, Celeste Orenshaw and Roxanne Groom. Coach Kate and committee member Jane Delac also supported the team as managers, while Tora Delac was named Team Captain, an honour reflecting her leadership and commitment. Jax Clayworth delivered a standout performance, claiming silver in the 200m Butterfly and bronze in both the 400m Freestyle and 400m Individual Medley, along with two additional top ten finishes. Thomas Ganter secured a top ten placing in the 200m IM, while Roxanne Groom placed 8th in the 200m Breaststroke. In the 10–12 years division, Lucas Korosec, Miller Eaves, Mackenzie Bennett, Eloise Chegwidden, Maeve Dichiera, Zane Clayworth, Alex Trefz and Harris Delac all represented the region with pride. Eloise Chegwidden was crowned Queensland State Champion in the 50m Breaststroke, swimming a personal best 39.75. Lucas Korosec achieved personal bests in 10 of his 11 events, earning bronze in the 50m Backstroke and three top ten finishes. Miller Eaves impressed with a 15-second personal best in the 200m IM. The Cannons also celebrate recent North Queensland Age Champions: Miller Eaves (10 years), Eloise Chegwidden (10 years), Jax Clayworth (12 years) and Tora Delac (15 years). A fantastic achievement and a strong finish to the season, with only the 2026 Australia Age Championships in April remaining on the calendar. Contributed with thanks to Jade Korosec Captions 1 - 15 Cannonvale Cannons swimmers have been selected to represent North Queensland. Photo supplied
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Sophia Cross of Shute Harbour Marina Sales is bringing energy, expertise and a genuine passion for the region to the Whitsundays property market. Originally from Perth, Sophia and her family relocated from New Zealand, where they managed a large-scale sheep and beef farm, to embrace the tropical lifestyle and opportunities of the Whitsundays. Alongside her two energetic young boys, she has quickly immersed herself in the local community. Before entering real estate, Sophia built a strong professional foundation in civil and structural drafting and electrical estimating. Her experience spans a range of projects in Perth, from smaller developments through to major landmarks such as Fiona Stanley Hospital and Perth Arena. This technical background has given her a keen eye for detail and a solid understanding of construction and development. In early 2020, Sophia made the move into real estate and hasn’t looked back. Combining her engineering knowledge with her growing industry experience, she has found her niche in project sales, playing a key role in the Shute Harbour Marina Resort development. The position has proven to be a natural fit, allowing her to guide clients with confidence and insight. Sophia is passionate about contributing to the continued growth and revitalisation of the Whitsundays. She is committed to delivering the high level of service the Taylors name is known for, while helping both locals and newcomers find their place in this vibrant coastal community. Captions Photo sourced
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The days may be getting shorter, but the standard of bowling at the club continues to improve each week. Tuesday afternoon saw 20 bowlers competing, with Lyn Graham and Sue Dakin taking out the winners’ prize. Stacey Hadlow and Sue Walker claimed second place after an entertaining and skilful session. On Wednesday (25/3), 17 bowlers took to the green in a day superbly run by Mervyn Stewart. The standout team was Warren Mills, lead Duncan Smith, and second Terry Clarke, who delivered an impressive 27–10 victory. Wednesday night Corporate Bowls continues to be dominated by “Girl Power,” with Maureen Barnard, Gail Simms, Sue Dakin, and skipper Cathy Russell remaining unbeaten after eight straight wins. Flame Tree, represented by Craig Kennedy, Brendan Rock, and Ben Dooland, sit in second place. A new competition will begin after schools return in April. The Men’s Pairs over the weekend produced outstanding performances. In a thrilling final, Manny Isgro and Luke Kinnear defeated Harry Quad and Andy McDougall 19–16 in a match that kept spectators on the edge of their seats. In the Ladies Fours final, Elaine Kippen’s team—Sandra Argo, Dawn Dowell, and Kathryn Remmeswaal—played strongly, but Joan McGrath, Lyn Graham, Vicki Spann, and Ladda Purdie proved too consistent and claimed victory. Scroungers Round 5 will be held on Easter Saturday (9:30 am start), with Social Bowls on Easter Sunday at 1 pm (names in by 12:30 pm). Don’t forget: Tradies vs Non-Tradies begins in June. Captions Skipper Joan McGrath with lead Lyn Graham , Vicki Spann, Ladda Purdie who relentlessly wore down their competitors for an outstanding performance of skilful bowls Photo supplied
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On Tuesday a single Stableford competition was played in difficult soggy conditions which was reflected in the low point scoring. Congratulations to the ladies winner Leanne Alexander (second week in a row) and Craig McLean (runner up last week) for the men. RESULTS LADIES Winner: Leanne Alexander 29 points R/Up: Elspeth Scotford with 26 points Rundown: Lyn Muller (26), Heather Luvis (25) and Paula McQuat (23) MEN Winner: Craig McClean 30 points R/Up: John Roser with 29 points Rundown: Mark Richards also with 29 points on a count back, Louis Neethling, John Oates and John Wallace all with 27 points PIN SHOTS Ladies: A Grade - Lyn Muller, Elspeth Scotford and Heather Luvis B Grade - Tiina Randmae and Paula McQuat Men: A Grade - John Roser and Craig McClean B Grade - Barry Mortimer and John Oates CHIP INS Trevor Peroz, Barry Mortimer and Vic Feldman (x2) NAGAs For a ball each Jenny Hounsell and Wilf Herweg DRAWS: MEMBERSHIP jackpots to $20 next week WEEKLY RAFFLE $50 to Robyn Whitham UPCOMING EVENTS: Next week 31/3/26 - MARCH 2026 Monthly Medal and count your putts DITTY There are 3 roads to ruin: gambling and golf. The most pleasant, the quickest but the surest is with golf Contributed with thanks to John Roser. 1 – Winners, Craig McLean and Leanne Alexander
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On Tuesday afternoon the elusive jackpot that has been accumulating from last year finally went off in the game between Lindy Suann Robyn Stitt and Alby Vigar who defeated Stumpy Adams Sue Shearing and Ron Hyde. In the other game it couldn’t have been any closer with a draw between Bron Tolcher Shirley Jones and Maureen Hyde against Andy Nayland Skin Querro and Deb Retchless. Club Competition is now underway. In the Men’s A Singles A Rolfe defeated S Jeal and K Daniels defeated M Drummond. Consistency for the Ladies C Jeal defeated T Willshire and L Scells defeated M Hyde. Winners for Sunday afternoon were Gordon Querro Maureen Hyde and Kennedy Whitton defeated Toni Bowen Cliff Queero and Pat Tracey, In the other games Andy Nayland Ron Hyde Greg Colquhoun defeated Penny Warren Alby Vigar and Allan Rolfe and Teresa Willshire Gavin Charles and Kevin Daniels drew with Deb Rethchless Graeme Read and Stuart Jeal. The jackpot number did come out but players decided to build up the bank. Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren 1 - President Deb Retchless with Stumpy Adams, Sue Shearing, Ron Hyde, Alby Vigar and Lindy Suann.
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In case you missed it, there are currently a number of incredibly exciting writing competitions seeking enthusiastic writers across the region. The Whitsunday Writers Festival is hosting competitions in both poetry and prose with cash prizes up for grabs. Here is the list of competitions you should know about. Flash Fiction Competition The flash fiction competition tests writing in highly controlled circumstances. Writers are encouraged to craft an original story of no more than 250 words with the prompt: Something unexpected washed ashore on Whitehaven Beach. The competition is open and will close at 11:59pm April 3rd. Entries must be submitted online via the Whitsundays Writers Festival website. The winning writer will receive a $100 cash prize along with a free day pass to the 2026 Whitsundays Writers Festival. Stanza Bonanza Writers are encouraged to submit to an original poem of up to 20 lines, inspired by the prompt: A Whitsundays postcard from 100 years ago, or 100 years from now. The poet will receive a $100 cash prize along with a free day pass to the 2026 Whitsundays Writers Festival. This competition closes at 11:59pm, April 3rd. Entries must be submitted online via the festival website. Short Story Competition This competition is being run as part of the Whitsunday Literary Heart Awards. It contains both an open age and Under 18 Division for original fiction of up to 3,000 words. The first prize is $1000 and the runner up will receive $500. Submissions close Friday 17 July 2026 and $20 entry applies. See the website for more details. The winners will be announced at the Writers Festival on 13 September at the Whitsunday Marine Club in Airlie Beach. Poetry Prize This competition is also run as part of the Whitsunday Literary Heart Awards. This competition is open to all for poems of any form, topic and length. The first prize is $1000 and the runner up will receive $500. The winners will be announced at the Writers Festival in September. For all competitions, the organisers have made it clear that the submission must be the writer’s own work. There will be AI usage checks in place to ensure integrity across all submissions. Festival Director and author of nine novels Richard Evans, says the competition is designed not only to discover new voices, but to also celebrate the enduring role of storytelling in shaping community and culture. “Stories connect us. They challenge us, entertain us, and help us understand the world around us. The Heart Awards are about encouraging writers of all ages to put their imagination on the page and share it with an audience”, he said. The festival organisers have presented some wonderful opportunities to showcase the best writing talent across the region. Don’t be shy – you could be the next literary hero of the Whitsundays. https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/portrait-woman-laptop-on-beach-blog-2461990395?trackingId=d10da3e8-d2c3-40b7-8641-27cd0ee8bbb8&listId=searchResults Captions Photo source: Shutterstock
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Ingredients: • 45ml spiced rum • 15ml cinnamon sugar syrup (recipe below) • 60ml fresh apple juice • Ice cubes • Slice of lemon, for garnish Cinnamon Sugar Syrup: 1. Combine ½ cup sugar, ½ cup water, and 1 tsp ground cinnamon in a small saucepan. 2. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. 3. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes, then remove from heat. 4. Cool completely before using. Store any leftover syrup in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Instructions: 1. Fill a short glass with ice. 2. In a shaker, if you have one, combine spiced rum, cinnamon sugar syrup, and apple juice. Shake briefly to chill. No shaker? Serve on the rocks. 3. Strain into the prepared glass. 4. Garnish with a slice of lemon or orange to your preference. Spice up your Easter weekend with this warm, lightly sweet, and refreshing cocktail perfect for poolside evenings! The cinnamon sugar syrup adds a comforting, baked-goods taste reminiscent of hot cross buns – with no baking required.
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The Whitsunday Sailing Club was thrilled to host this year’s Simon & George Industry Dinner event - an invitation-only industry gathering held just once a year, bringing together chefs, restaurateurs, and hospitality managers from across the region. While the event naturally brings industry professionals together, it’s also a chance to showcase what a venue can truly deliver - from food and service through to the overall guest experience, while sparking fresh ideas and inspiration across the hospitality community. Set across the Club’s terrace and balcony, the evening made full use of the venue’s best assets. Guests were welcomed with Mumm Champagne and Aperol Spritz as canapés circulated, before flowing into a relaxed shared dining experience overlooking the water. It was a great example of how a coastal venue can offer something elevated without losing that easy-going, Whitsundays feel. Chef Rick and his team delivered a menu that reflected exactly that - refined yet approachable, with a strong focus on quality, mostly local produce, and confident execution. Highlights included fresh oysters and standout seafood elements like Hiromasa kingfish, cold-smoked octopus and cuttlefish, alongside generous shared mains such as Cape Grim eye fillet and hibachi-grilled reef fish, all rounded out with clean, well-balanced desserts. The approach was simple: let great ingredients and attention to detail do the work. For the Whitsunday Sailing Club, hosting the event was both a privilege and an exciting opportunity to showcase the direction the venue is heading. It also gave the team a chance to step into a more premium, experience-led style of dining ahead of the launch of their monthly Supper Club starting in May - an exclusive, ticketed event that will build on the ideas presented during the evening. The best part for locals is that elements of the menu and overall approach are already starting to make their way into the Club’s offering—bringing a more refined dining experience while keeping the favourites everyone knows and loves. Captions Photos supplied
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On May 19th Whales of the Whitsundays and Whitsunday Marine Conservation will be hosting its Whale Heritage Area Information night, an event that spreads awareness about the whale population in the region. The protected waters of the Whitsundays have been recognised as critically important mating and birthing ground for the Eastern Australian Humpback Whale. Thanks to the advocacy of the Whales of the Whitsundays program the Whitsunday Region has become a Whale Heritage Listed Area with whales due to arrive within weeks. The Whitsundays is only the second site to be designated in Australia and first to be designated inside the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. It is also the only site in the world to be in a UNESCO World Heritage Area. The event will feature special guest speakers from the Great Barrier Reef Marine Authority, who will cover topics such as interesting humpback whale facts, how citizen whale sightings help contribute to science and updates on Whitsundays Whale Protection Area special regulations. The event will convey what a great privilege it is to live in an area where we are able to sight some of the world’s most magnificent and beautiful creatures. The event is open to all locals, tourism crew and recreational boaties. Go to the link to register: https://forms.office.com/r/w5M5p9M4xD . WHAT: Whales of the Whitsundays – Whale Heritage Information Night WHEN: 19th May, 6.30pm WHERE: Whitsunday Sailing Club Captions Whale Heritage Information Night to shed light on the magnificent creatures that inhabit our waters. Photo source: Facebook
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An elderly couple received a surprise gift at the newly opened Aldi in Cannonvale this week, when an anonymous do-gooder left $100 at the register to pay for their groceries. “My mum rang me crying saying what a difference it made for them this week,” their daughter Claire reported. “They would like to say thank you and, if you are reading this, how much it meant to both them and myself.” The community responded with similar appreciation for the secret donor. “How very wonderful that humanity is alive & well,” Kerry wrote. “Thank you beautiful humans in our wonderful community.” Jenni added: “99% of people are genuine, kind and compassionate. Sharing kindness should be natural, but is hard these days. Well done to that kind person. I hope it comes back to you in kind, ten fold.” Locals’ gratitude went out to those in our community who do good, spread joy, and bring smiles, without expecting anything in return.
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A local couple have expressed immense joy and gratitude after winning Set for Life. The lottery winnings mean the couple will receive $20,000 per month for 20 years. They held a mere single division one ticket in draw 3885 and now will be taking home $4.8 million in monthly payments. Although the couple nearly missed the call, they were ecstatic when they heard the good news. “Are you kidding me? I’m going to cry”, the wife said. The couple plan to use their money to support their family, travel and call it a day for work. It’s a remarkable win that will undoubtedly transform their lives in meaningful ways. Captions Photo source: Facebook
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By Christian Kruse Running a business in the Whitsundays today comes with a major challenge: finding the right people. At Pacific Centre, much of our work focuses on supporting local businesses that want to access international talent but feel overwhelmed by Australia’s complex migration system. My background is in hospitality, where I worked as a hotel manager and learned firsthand how important good staff are to the success of any business. During my time in Australia, I also experienced the migration system personally and saw how confusing it can be without the right guidance. Those experiences shaped the way I approach my role today as Business Manager at Pacific Centre. Hospitality teaches you how to listen, understand people quickly and solve problems under pressure. Pacific Centre Director Karolina Ferenc explains the focus of the business: "It is our privilege to work with some of the biggest and best businesses in the Whitsunday region. To strengthen those relationships even further, we appointed Christian to focus on building closer connections with the local business community." Regional Australia continues to face labour shortages, and industries such as hospitality, tourism and services often rely on international students, backpackers and overseas professionals to fill critical roles. However, businesses that want to sponsor workers quickly discover that the process can be complex, highly regulated and time-consuming. Our role is to help guide them through that system. Migration is an area where the smallest details can make a significant difference, which is why our team works closely together. My role is often the first point of contact with businesses, while our migration specialist and director Piotr brings extensive legal expertise and experience navigating Australia’s migration framework. One of the things that makes this work particularly meaningful is the impact it has on both sides. A business gains the staff it needs to grow, and a worker gains the opportunity to build a life in Australia. At Pacific Centre, we believe migration works best when it strengthens local communities — and that starts with supporting the businesses that drive those communities forward. If you want to know more about us, you are more than welcome to go to our website www.visatoaustralia.net.au Captions Christian helps people navigate Australia’s complex migration system, supporting people looking for work whilst providing businesses with stronger employment opportunities. Photo sourced
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When you bank with Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine, you’re doing more than managing your money – you’re helping build a stronger Whitsundays. Community Banks offer the best of both worlds: the products, technology and security of a major bank, combined with the personalised service and local investment of a community-owned model. The difference is simple – profits don’t leave town. Instead, they’re reinvested into local schools, sporting clubs, events, and community initiatives, creating a cycle of support that benefits everyone. Established in June 2012, the Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine branch was made possible by local shareholders who raised $800,000 to bring a bank to the region. That effort began in 2009, when a passionate group of locals rallied community support through public meetings, newsletters, and grassroots campaigning. “Our success is based on our profit-with-purpose model, which sees a percentage of profits invested back into the community,” said Chairman Mark Henry. “Our customers and the Whitsundays community are the real winners.” Over the past eight years, the branch has invested more than $250,000 into local schools, social programs, sporting groups, arts and cultural events, and conservation initiatives. Locals will also recognise the Community Bank’s popular BBQ trailer, which is regularly seen at community and sporting events across the region. Fully equipped with cooking facilities, marquees and a PA system, the trailer is available for community groups to use as part of the bank’s ongoing support. Led by Branch Manager Amanda Anderson, the Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine team offers a full suite of personal, business and wealth banking services, delivered face-to-face by people who understand local needs. Customers can access everything from home loans and everyday accounts to agribusiness lending, equipment finance and financial advice. The branch also supports local businesses through dedicated expertise, with Senior Business Relationship Manager Luke Sheppard regularly visiting the region to work directly with business owners. Sponsorship applications are now open for local not-for-profit organisations, with funding and Community Trailer bookings available. Applications are competitive, so groups are encouraged to apply early. For more information, visit the branch at Whitsunday Plaza Cannonvale or contact secretary@whitsundaycel.com.au. Your town. Your bank. Located: Whitsunday Plaza Cannonvale Call: (07) 4948 3599 Email: cannonvale&proserpinemailbox@bendigoadelaide.com.au
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The Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry is pleased to announce that the 2026 Whitsunday Business Conference will be held on Thursday 27 August, across Club Whitsunday and PCYC Whitsunday in Airlie Beach. Following the success of last year’s sold-out event, the Conference will once again bring together business leaders, industry experts, government representatives, and professional service providers for a day of practical insights, fresh ideas, and meaningful conversations about the future of business in the region. Call for Speakers Now Open The Chamber’s Conference Committee is currently designing a dynamic and engaging program featuring keynote presentations, interactive workshops, and thought-provoking panel discussions. Expressions of Interest are now open for speakers and workshop facilitators who can deliver practical, relevant sessions that help businesses navigate challenges, seize new opportunities, and work smarter. The Committee is particularly interested in presentations that showcase real-world examples of innovation, including the use of technology and artificial intelligence to improve efficiency, enhance decision-making, and drive business growth. Whitsundays Chamber President Allan Milostic said the Conference continues to grow as a key platform for the region’s business community. “The Whitsunday Business Conference has quickly become a flagship event for our region, bringing together businesses to share ideas, build connections, and focus on practical outcomes. We’re excited to build on this momentum in 2026 and continue supporting our business community to grow and thrive.” Conference Committee Chair and Chamber Vice President Jannah Baker said the locally driven approach remains central to the program’s success. “We’re proud to design a program that reflects the real needs of local businesses. By opening expressions of interest for speakers, we’re inviting our community to be part of shaping the conversation – ensuring sessions are relevant, practical, and grounded in real-world experience.” Submitting an Expression of Interest is quick and easy, requiring only a short response to a series of key questions. Those interested in contributing to the 2026 Conference are encouraged to apply and be part of shaping this important annual event for the Whitsunday business community. Conference Themes Do you have a presentation or workshop idea that aligns with one of the themes below? The Future Workforce – Hiring, keeping, and motivating great people. The Numbers That Matter – Pricing, profit, and cashflow in the real world. Your Brand in Action – Digital marketing, social media, and standing out online. Future-Ready Business – Systems, tools, automation, and AI. When Things Go Wrong – Respond, recover, and build stronger for what’s next. Other Ways to Get Involved Not up for presenting? There are still plenty of ways to be part of the conference. Businesses can provide a special conference offer or contribute a prize or giveaway. A detailed sponsorship prospectus will be released soon, highlighting additional opportunities to partner and be part of the 2026 Conference. Express Your Interest Now! Please complete the Expression of Interest form below by 5:00pm Friday 17 April 2026: https://www.whitsundaycoastchamber.com.au/2026-whitsunday-business-conference-eoi/ Conference Details What: The 2026 Whitsunday Business Conference When: Thursday 27 August 2026 Where: Club Whitsunday and PCYC Whitsunday, Airlie Beach Registrations open in May. Contributed with thanks to the Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry
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On Friday 27th March, the Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network hosted its monthly barbeque in Cannonvale, bringing people together to raise awareness of a vital issue. President Matt Stokes hosted the event, signifying the importance of transparency and communicating with others when we feel down. The morning featured two guest speakers, Jai and Sophie from Dynamic Chiropractors. They spoke of the difficulties of work-place injuries, highlighting how chronic pain can contribute to isolation and dark thoughts – demonstrating the necessity to communicate with others in times of great need. These breakfasts are part of a crucial ongoing initiative which seeks to bring community awareness and ensures that no one has to suffer alone. What: Next WSPN BBQ Where: ShirtFront Solutions, Macarthur Drive, Cannonvale When: Friday 24th April, 6:30am Captions 1 – All are welcomed to attend the Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network monthly barbeques on the last Friday of every month. 2 – The event focused on the importance of transparency and communicating with others when we feel down. 3- Guest speakers, Jai and Sophie from Dynamic Chiropractors spoke highlighted how chronic pain can contribute to isolation. Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi
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Whitsunday Prosocial Support Services have been supporting tourism within our region by providing care and support for Airlie Beach holidayers with additional needs. “Our commitment to providing accessible tourism in the Whitsundays continues to flourish as our latest guest from interstate joined us for their holidays.” They shared. “You may have seen our recent collaboration with Whitsunday Tourism where our amazing participants and team showed off to Australia and the world how easy it is to have a holiday in Airlie Beach with the right support team in place. “We are excited to say we have facilitated many independent travellers and families visiting the Whitsunday Islands, Whitehaven Beach and Great Barrier Reef as well as providing quality daily living and respite supports at hotels across the region.” The latest visitors, siblings Master and Miss, enjoyed two wonderful days at the lagoon with their WPSS Support team, Mile, Zak, Millie and Carly. “This was a return visit for the family and their third time being supported by our team during their holidays. We were thrilled to have the family join us again.” Whitsunday Prosocial shared. Through this ongoing work, the team at Whitsunday Prosocial Support Services are not only supporting individual visitors but also strengthening Airlie Beach’s reputation as a welcoming and accessible destination for all. 1,2 - Recent interstate visitors Airlie Beach, Master and his family, were supported by Whitsunday Prosocial Support with informed, professional care. Photo source: Facebook
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The Bowen community have shown their gratitude to the local men’s shed for their incredible generosity and craftmanship. They recently donated a portable puzzle board and puzzle drawer to selectability – the local mental health service provider. The donation is already making a huge difference, allowing participants to transport puzzles without destroying them. With the portable puzzle drawer, the puzzles can be moved to different events and activities within the hub, maintain progress and preventing puzzle pieces from getting lost. It is wonderful to see community support for those in need – donations like these may seem small, but ultimately, they can make a world of difference to someone. Captions Photo source: Facebook
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A family in Bowen have been left saddened by the removal of flowers from a loved one’s grave in Bowen cemetery and are calling out for any information as to the culprit. The grave of Gregory Ronald Edward Roisster, who passed away at just 3 years old in 1964, featured artificial blue flowers in a vase to honour his memory. The flowers and vase were taken and replaced with yellow ones. This is reportedly the second time the flowers have been tampered with. On March 28, older sibling Donna Rossiter took to Facebook to condemn the person who had committed the act. “If you could please leave his grave alone and let this little boy rest in peace our family will be pleased.” Community members took to the comments to show their support. Many criticised the act for its indecency and cruelty, whilst others put forward theories as to how the flowers could have been mistakenly or purposefully switched. If you know anything – don’t hesitate to get in contact with the relevant authorities. Captions The blue flowers and vase were taken and replaced with yellow flowers. Photo source: Facebook
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St Patrick’s College Reef Guardian volunteers took part in a Clean Up Australia event at North Wall Beach this week, helping remove rubbish and protect the coastline. Students and staff dedicated their time to making a positive impact on the local environment. A representative from St Patrick's College Year 7-12 Mackay said, “Thank you to the students and staff who gave their time to make a difference.” Photo source: St Patrick's College Year 7-12 Mackay
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FEDERAL Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, has welcomed the Government’s decision to halve the fuel excise for three months; a move he describes as a hard-won victory for the Australian people and a direct result of the Coalition’s relentless pursuit of a "fair go" for motorists. The announcement, which will see 26 cents per litre wiped from the price of petrol and diesel, follows intense pressure from the Liberal and National parties. Mr Willcox said this outcome proves what can be achieved when a strong Opposition holds a detached Government to account. "We have heard you loud and clear. “My office has been flooded with emails, my Facebook page has been filled with your comments, and I have seen the stress on the faces of families at the bowser across Dawson," Mr Willcox said. Mr Willcox said that for too long, the Labor Government ignored the reality of the bruising bowser, telling families to buy sixty-thousand-dollar electric cars while they were struggling to afford the drive to work. “Today, the Coalition has turned the tide; trading the Prime Minister's lectures for actual action at the pump,” he said. Mr Willcox noted that while the excise cut provides much-needed breathing space, the battle is not over. He emphasised that the current crisis is a dual challenge of both price and supply, and the Coalition remains focused on long-term energy security for the regions. The Member for Dawson also issued a stern warning to fuel retailers and oil companies regarding the implementation of the tax cut. "We remember what happened during the COVID-era excise reduction; the relief was not always fully passed on to the consumer. We cannot allow that to happen again. The task now is to ensure this 26-cent saving is felt immediately at the pumps. “Labor must ensure the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) is watching these companies like a hawk. There is no excuse for these savings to be pocketed by big corporations instead of reaching the pockets of our farmers, our small businesses, and our families." The three-month excise reduction is expected to provide significant relief to the transport and agricultural sectors in North Queensland, where the tyranny of distance makes fuel a non-negotiable cost of living. "This is a win for common sense,” Mr Willcox said. “We have forced a shift from ideology back to reality, and the Coalition will continue to fight to ensure that every cent of this tax cut reaches the people who actually keep this country moving." Contributed with thanks to the office of Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox welcomes the 26-cent fuel excise cut, a direct result of strong Coalition pressure. Photo supplied
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Mackay is mourning the loss of a young life after tragedy struck Glenella on the evening of 24th March. Eighteen-year-old Bucasia woman Mia Ryan passed away following a serious traffic crash at the intersection of Glenella Richmond Road and Holts Road, leaving family, friends, and her local dance community heartbroken. Mia, the driver of a Nissan Micra, was initially transported to Mackay Base Hospital in critical condition but sadly passed away the following day. The driver of the other vehicle, a 53-year-old Andergrove woman in a Nissan Navara, was treated for minor injuries. Police and the Forensic Crash Unit are investigating the circumstances and have urged anyone who witnessed the crash or has footage to come forward. Mia was a cherished member of the Centre Stage Dance Company. The studio shared heartfelt memories of her, saying, “Mia will always be a much-loved member of our Centre Stage family. She was always happy and always ready for fun but was also so caring and admired by so many of the dancers that she worked with as an assistant teacher on Tuesdays and Thursdays.” Having graduated from Centre Stage in 2025 after 15 years of dancing, Mia had been keen to return to the studio on some Thursdays this year. “Mia will be missed more than words can express by her Senior team, the dancers she assisted and by her teachers. Mia loved the studio and we loved her,” the dance school commented. Mackay Life extends our deepest condolences to all affected by the loss of this beautiful young soul. Photo source: Centre Stage Dance Company
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Donations raised at Life Publishing Group’s sold-out Enchanted Garden fundraiser in October 2025 are currently being distributed, with a total of $56,000 shared among seven charities doing vital work across North Queensland. This week, a cheque for $8,000 was presented to Jacquie Camilleri, founding director at the Trudy Crowley Foundation. The Trudy Crowley Foundation is a Mackay-based charity providing vital support to individuals and families affected by cancer, with a strong focus on ovarian cancer awareness. Established in 2018 in memory of local woman Trudy Crowley, the organisation is dedicated to ensuring no one faces cancer alone. Through its community centre, the foundation offers free services including access to specialist cancer nurses, counselling, support groups, and practical resources such as a wig library. By delivering holistic care and raising awareness, the foundation continues to play a significant role in supporting the health and wellbeing of the Mackay and Whitsundays community. Jacquie explained that the foundation is currently planning a new facility, and that this donation would go toward that effort. “We are trying to save desperately for our palliative care unit, and we have quite a lot of money in the bank,” she explained. “We're trying to buy some land, so then we can go to the governments, federal and state, and try and get grants from them to actually help build the building. We have now just got our project board in place.” The palliative care unit will be built with care, run on the foundation’s principal that no patient suffering with cancer, or person in their life, should feel alone. “Trudy's dream has now become our vision, and our vision is going to become a reality,” Jacquie said. “It'll be an eight bedroom facility with one room designated for children. “That's a hard thing to talk about, but it's a reality of life; we would love to get what they used to call a cold cot. They're now called cuddle cots, for the little ones that pass, so the parents can spend time with them... We're going to have a chapel, and we'd like to build a doctor's house so we can actually have the doctor on site.” These big plans are on track to become a reality; thanks in part to those who donated to support this impactful organisation, on track to change end-of-life care in our region.
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After heavy analysis, Net World Sports has named Mackay’s Marina Run the third best half-marathon in Australia for elite runners. The outfit analysed 75 of the country’s most prominent races based on how technical, environmental, and logistical features align with different runner experience levels, with Mackay Marina Run cinching bronze behind second place winner, Tasmania’s Point to Pinnacle and number one The McGrath Launceston Running Festival, also in Tasmania. “It successfully delivers a balance of performance and atmosphere, combining competitive pacing opportunities with strong crowd energy that helps runners push through the later stages of the race.” Net World Sports reports. “The event scores below average for course difficulty (17.8/100). The total elevation gain is 155 metres; there are 15 sharp turns and 15 straight sections that exceed 400 metres. “Race day conditions are also moderate. There are mild average temperatures (19.6°C) and good air quality (AQI 25), meaning runners can push their pace without overheating- even though humidity sits high at 73%. “Participant feedback is very positive, driven by a sentiment polarity of 0.9, a scenery score of 10/10, a crowd support score of 9/10, and an expert suitability rating of 8/10. Together, these contribute to a Sentiment and Review Score of 92.2/100.” Contributed with thanks to Net World Sports 1- Popular Mackay half-marathon ranked 3rd in Australia. Photo supplied.
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Mackay local author Khloe Ann explores the balance of darkness and light beyond the human eye, weaving fantasy with spirituality, culture, and authentic Aussie roots in her debut novel, Proskynima. The fiction tale intertwines the mystery of Greek mythology with a foundation of Christian values, as characters navigate physical life while confronting deeper spiritual elements of light and darkness. At the centre of the story is Athena, a young woman faced with choices that test both faith and identity. Khloe Ann is a quiet achiever, humble in her ways yet wonderfully creative, and that sincerity carries through the pages of her debut novel. Remarkably, the journey into writing only began recently. “I only started writing last year,” she said. What followed surprised even her. “Before I knew it, there was 70,000 words on a manuscript, and I was like, wow, where’d that come from?” Khloe explained that the characters seemed to develop naturally as the story unfolded. Drawing inspiration from her faith, she said the story reflects the balance between good and evil that many people experience in their own lives. “There was no inspiration really other than just my own Christian walk,” she said. To build the world within the novel, Khloe undertook extensive research, particularly into the rich history of Greek mythology. “I did a lot of research and I fell in love with the town and the city I wrote about,” she said. After just one year of stepping into the writing world, Khloe has already attracted interest within the industry, with publishers expressing enthusiasm about her work and future manuscripts. A former healthcare worker at Mackay Hospital, she now balances writing with family and community life, embracing the unexpected path storytelling has opened. An active member of Australian writing groups, including the Queensland Women’s Writing and Queensland Writing Centre, her short stories and charitable entries, such as The Last Plastic Fork, have gained international attention. Despite the growing momentum, Khloe remains humble and grounded. “I’m so thankful for the support of the readers, and my family and friends.” She hopes the story will resonate with a wide range of readers, particularly those interested in faith-based themes blended with imaginative storytelling. And for readers who enjoy the first edition, she is already working on a sequel. “I’m hoping to have a manuscript by the end of the year,” she said. “It will become a series… so stay tuned!” Her advice to other aspiring writers is simply to, “Just start writing – put the words on page first – then edit.” “I’m not aiming to be big. I’m not aiming to be great. I just want to write, and I want to connect with people – that’s why I started this journey.” She hopes to connect with audiences at her meet-and-greet / book signing event in Airlie Beach on April 11, from 10am to 2pm, at the Beach Book Boutique. Fans and new readers alike are invited to meet Khloe, ask questions, and pick up a signed copy of Proskynima. For more information or to purchase a copy, visit www.khloeann.com.au or follow @writtenbykhloeann. The Last Plastic Fork is also available at www.habitatpress.com.
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