Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Whitsunday’s own Karen Jacobsen is bringing her remarkable story to the stage at the Adelaide Fringe Festival this March. Originally from Airlie Beach, Jacobsen has built an international career that spans music, motivational speaking and a claim to fame she is the voice of Australian Siri. A New York City audition years ago led to her speaking voice being embedded in more than a billion devices worldwide. Now, the Whitsundays-raised performer is premiering a new one-woman show that blends live music with storytelling and inspiration. The production explores her journey from regional Queensland to New York, charting the highs of global success alongside deeply personal challenges, including chronic anxiety and financial hardship. Described as part concert and part motivational experience, the show weaves Jacobsen’s original songs with behind-the-scenes stories about becoming “the voice with an answer for everything” and what it takes to find your own voice in the process. Community members with ties to the Whitsundays may feel a special sense of pride as one of the region’s own takes to the Adelaide stage, sharing a story that proves big dreams can come true. CAPTION: From Airlie Beach to Adelaide! Karen Jacobsen will dazzle audiences at the Adelaide Fringe Festival this March! Photo supplied
Read more
Friday 27 February Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm) Grandview Hotel: Mike Duff (from 8pm) KCs: Phoenix Revival (from 8pm) Sorrento: Kaedan McCarthy (1pm – 5pm) Saturday 28 February Airlie Beach Hotel: Bon Jovi (2pm – 5.30pm) Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm) Grandview Hotel: Sam McCann (4pm – 8pm) KCs: Phoenix Revival (from 8pm) Sorrento: Josiah (4 – 7pm) Sunday 1 March Airlie Beach Hotel: Bon Jovi & Foreigner (2pm – 5.30pm) Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30pm – 9.30pm) Coral Sea Marina Resort: KCs: Sam McCann (from 8pm) Coral Sea Marina Resort: DJ Dan Ahri (2pm – 6pm) Monday 2 March KCs: Paul Fergus (from 8pm) Sorrento: Will Heta (1pm – 5pm) Tuesday 3 March KCs: Paul Fergus (from 8pm) Sorrento: Will Heta (1pm – 5pm) Wednesday 4 March KCs: Bear Brewer (from 8pm) Sorrento: Will Heta (1pm – 5pm) Thursday 5 March Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm) KCs: Josiah (from 8pm) Sorrento: Lucy Rose (1pm – 5pm)
Read more
Tourism Whitsundays has officially joined the Destination Think Collective, a global network of forward-thinking destinations committed to building a more sustainable future for tourism. The Collective includes regions such as Auckland, Banff, Copenhagen, Queenstown, Hawai’i and Aruba. Together, they share the belief that when tourism evolves to meet modern challenges, it can become a powerful force for good, supporting communities while protecting the natural places visitors come to experience. For The Whitsundays, joining the Collective reflects our ongoing commitment to caring for the Great Barrier Reef and the broader region. As custodians of one of the world’s most recognised natural assets, sustainability is not a trend here, it is a responsibility. Tourism Whitsundays CEO Tim Booth said the move is about collaboration and shared learning. “By joining the Collective, we’re strengthening our commitment to safeguard what makes this region special while connecting with destinations around the world who are on the same journey.” The Collective aims to build a tourism industry that benefits local communities, supports resilient economies and protects the planet. It also recognises that travel can inspire positive change, with visitors experiencing sustainability initiatives firsthand and taking those lessons home. Across The Whitsundays, operators, community groups and citizen science projects are already setting a strong example in environmental stewardship. Membership in the Collective allows the region to share that leadership while continuing to learn and improve for the future. Contributed with thanks to Rosanagh Gallivan, PR & Social Media Manager, Tourism Whitsundays.
Read more
BMA CQ Rescue has released its 2026 Community Report, revealing 2025 as the busiest year in the lifesaving service’s history, with crews responding to hundreds of missions across the Whitsundays and wider Central and North Queensland. Over the past 12 months, BMA CQ Rescue flew more than 339,000 kilometres, responded to 778 missions and provided urgent aeromedical care to 834 patients. The missions ranged from inter-hospital transfers to primary response and search and rescue operations across some of the region’s most remote and challenging terrain. Chief Executive Officer Tim Healee said the figures highlight both increasing demand and the vital role community support plays in keeping the service operational. “Behind every one of those 778 missions is a person facing one of the hardest days of their life. A family waiting. A community counting on help to arrive in time,” Mr Healee said. “2025 was our busiest year yet, but it was also a year of extraordinary progress. With two state-of-the-art AW139 helicopters and our own Air Operator Certificate, BMA CQ Rescue has become one of the most capable and independent aeromedical providers in regional Australia.” The report also marks a milestone year as the service celebrates 30 years of operation, including the arrival of its second AW139 helicopter in June 2025 and continued investment in crew training and community engagement. General Manager Lisa Martin said the report focuses on the human impact behind the statistics. “This report is about more than numbers. It is about lives saved, families reunited, and communities supported,” Ms Martin said. “When floodwaters isolated North Queensland communities last year, our crew stepped forward without hesitation. When our community needs help, we will always be there to deliver lifesaving support when every second counts.” Operating 24 hours a day, BMA CQ Rescue services the Mackay, Whitsunday and Isaac regions, remaining free for patients thanks to the ongoing support of local donors, businesses and volunteers. CAPTION: Bowen, Dysart, Moranbah, Proserpine, Townsville, Clermont, Collinsville, Hamilton Island, and Nebo were among BMA CQ Rescue’s top serviced locations in 2025. Photo supplied
Read more
On Sunday 22 February, a group of writers, readers and thinkers gathered at the Whitsunday Sailing Club to explore how the Writers Festival could be improved for further iterations. Being held on 13 September, the festival has seen great success in the past, and with a passionate focus group committed to planning this year’s event, the community can expect great things, including a strong spotlight on the talent and creativity that makes up the region. Although smaller compared to larger cities, the Whitsundays has always punched above its weight when it comes to celebrating culture and creativity, and the Writers Festival is a clear sign of that. With various prompts put to the team, including a core discussion theme of What makes literary festivals important? ideas were enthusiastically thrown around. Its evident that a current priority is to consider how the festival can be geared towards children, as with the rise of technology, it is more vital than ever that children can maintain engagement with literature. Further matters were deliberated on and discussed such as: Australian, Queensland or regional local authors that people would like to see present at the festival Ideas for types of sessions and how they could be carried out Ways the festival could best celebrate and involve the unique stories, history, and people of the Whitsundays and North Queensland Little touches, surprises, or special experiences that could be added to make the festival feel unique and memorable In addition to the Writers Festival, the Whitsunday Literary Hearts Awards was also discussed. This festival contains a number of exciting categories – unpublished manuscript, short story (adult and under 18), book cover and curated publication – encouraging locals to put their work out there. The festival is committed to being a leading regional literary event on the national calendar, celebrating Queensland and Australian stories whilst championing the authors who bring them to life. This meeting represents a great start to the year, as the team will continue to discuss, plan and brainstorm ideas. These types of festivals are vital in stimulating cultural growth in the region. The region contains so many wonderful, artists, musicians, poets and general creatives and it is important to see their efforts recognised. Captions Writers, readers and thinkers gathered to discuss ideas ahead of this September's Writers Festival. Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi
Read more
When most people think about Council’s Budget, they think about June — that’s when it’s adopted and when headlines tend to appear. But what many don’t see is that the real work starts months earlier. Councillors have now formally begun work on the 2026/2027 Budget, and I want to reassure our community that this is a careful, staged and considered process. Budgets are not put together overnight, and they’re certainly not decisions made on a whim. This year we are holding a series of Special Budget Meetings, allowing Councillors to work progressively through the draft Budget in detail. Each session focuses on different areas — revenue, operational costs, capital works, service levels and long-term financial impacts. It is methodical, deliberate work. At the adoption of last year’s Budget, I was upfront in acknowledging that our General Fund had developed a structural deficit over previous terms of government— a position that is not sustainable over the long term. Since then, we have been working to reset Council’s financial settings so we can restore balance in a measured and responsible way. As Mayor, I believe we have a responsibility to address that rather than doing nothing and passing the pressure to future councils and future generations. In practice this means examining expenditure, challenging assumptions and testing long-term impacts to ensure Council lives within its means. That doesn’t mean cutting for the sake of cutting, but it does mean being disciplined and responsible with public funds. That work will inevitably involve making choices about priorities, timing and how services are delivered so they remain sustainable into the future. We also understand that many households and businesses across the Whitsundays are feeling cost-of-living pressures. That reality reinforces the importance of Council operating efficiently and ensuring every dollar delivers value to the community. Our goal is to deliver a responsible and sustainable Budget that maintains essential services, provides value for money and strengthens Council’s long-term financial position. The final Budget will be adopted in June, but the foundation is being laid now. This is deliberate work aimed at strengthening Council’s financial position while maintaining the services our community relies on. As Mayor, I can assure the community that we are approaching this task with care, transparency and a clear focus on long-term financial sustainability.
Read more
Reef Side Buyers Agents is an independent property buying service based in the Whitsundays, dedicated to helping people purchase homes and investment properties with confidence. Working exclusively for buyers, the team provides end-to-end support from property search through to settlement, ensuring clients feel informed and supported at every stage. The business was founded after more than 20 years in the building and housing industry, alongside extensive personal experience as long-term property investors. After relocating to the Whitsundays with their young family, founders Rachael and Tyson experienced first-hand how challenging it can be to navigate the local market — particularly for interstate buyers and first-home purchasers without on-the-ground support. Reef Side Buyers Agents was created to help bridge that gap. Services range from full search-to-settlement support for clients seeking a completely hands-off experience, to targeted assistance with property research, negotiation, and auction representation. The focus is always on honest advice, strong local market knowledge, and personalised service aligned with each client’s lifestyle and financial goals. The Whitsundays continues to attract strong interest from interstate families relocating for lifestyle reasons, as well as investors seeking long-term growth. In a competitive market, buyers are increasingly looking for trusted local guidance rather than relying solely on online listings. Access to off-market opportunities has also become increasingly valuable. As a newer local business, building relationships with agents, developers, and industry professionals has been a key priority over the past year. By actively engaging in the community and delivering consistent results, Reef Side Buyers Agents has quickly established strong local insight. Their advice to fellow business owners is simple: be present in your community, listen closely to your clients, and prioritise long-term relationships over short-term gains. As Chamber members, they value the opportunity to connect, collaborate, and contribute to the region’s continued growth. Contributed with thanks to the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry Captions Rachael and Tyson Griffiths Photo supplied
Read more
One of Queensland’s most destructive pest animals are being targeted under a new management action plan and more boots on the ground with Member for Burdekin Dale Last welcoming news that Whitsunday farmers and landholders will also benefit. Mr Last said the release of the draft Queensland Feral Pig Management Action Plan 2026 –2031 was a chance for landholders, stakeholders and industry to have their say on the state’s coordinated approach to tackling feral pigs. “In the space of one year it was estimated feral pigs caused $95 million in production losses and direct control costs including over $4 Million in the Whitsunday’s horticulture crop alone,” Mr Last said. “The damage these animals do and risk to human health cannot be understated which is why it is crucial we have a feral pig management plan that recognises the individual needs of each region, including Bowen.” “Feral pigs do not just damage crops, they have been known to degrade waterways, carry infectious diseases and kill young stock and native fauna.” Mr Last said the draft plan had been developed through regional workshops, consultation and stakeholder input but now was the chance for local landholders and industry groups to also have their say. “Having a management plan is about delivering real solutions with the funding needed to take meaningful action on the population of feral pigs across Queensland and in Bowen,” Mr Last said. “Already the Crisafulli Government is delivering an additional 100 biosecurity officers added to the front line and investing in innovative techniques and control tools within six priority regions.” “The better the engagement now, the better the outcome for everyone so it’s important every stakeholder takes the time to have their say. By working with landholders, regional groups and industry we ensure this plan actually works effectively on the ground.” Contributed with thanks to Burdekin Electorate Office.
Read more
The Bowen Turf Club is excited to announce it has been allocated an additional race day for 2026. This now means there will be a total of seven race days for the 2026 calendar. This is incredibly exciting news for all involved. The dates are listed below: Sat 11th April - April Race Day The first race day of the 2026 season - family friendly, free entry, Filby's vehicle display, kid's activities, bar, jumping castle, face painting + more!! Sunday 10th May - Mother's Day Race Day A TAB race day, celebrating all the mothers in the Whitsunday region!! Sat 30th May - Whitsunday Cup Race Day Join the club in celebrating the iconic region for the annual "winter" race day!! Sunday 21st June- Sunday Race Day Saturday 15th August - Ben Bolt Cup Celebrating the track namesake, and the local horticulture industry with additional human races (melon and tomato) plus kids events alongside country thoroughbred races. Tues 15th September - TAB mid-week Race Day Sat 10th October - Filby's Motors Bowen Cup 2026 Aka - "The Race That Stops Whitsundays", packed with racing action, marquees, Fashions on the Field and more!! The Bowen Turf Club are looking forward to another fantastic season of country racing in the Whitsundays and hope to see you trackside!!
Read more
The Bowen Visitor Information Centre, next to the Big Mango, is continually expanding the range of merchandise and souvenirs available – and have now added “Spotto” Books to the range. An extension of the game “I Spy” or “Spotto”, often played in the car on long trips to eliminate boredom, the newly released Spotto Books have taken the joy of the classic pass time and transformed it into an educational and fun activity for the whole family! There are several books in the series including the Classic edition but also Coastal, Queensland, Australia and “Big Things”. Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy, said the Big Mango was featured in the Big Things edition, so the team decided it was a great idea to stock them at our very own iconic big thing. “We have only just added them to our range of merchandise, and they are already proving popular,” she said. The creator of the books, Jess, is an experienced tour guide who originally created them for her own kids as she wanted them to relax on long road trips, so she could relax. According to the Spotto Books website, Jess was frustrated that her kids weren’t looking out the window at the beautiful landscape and unique animals. The website states that she created a Spotto Book filled with animals, plants, vehicles, iconic locations and Big Things to spot and tick off. When she saw how well they worked at entertaining her kids, and how excited they became when they spotted something in the book, she decided to create them for everyone. The business won two NSW Tourism Awards last year. Call in to the Big Mango and grab some books for the kids – and check out all the other merchandise and local produce while you are there. Contributed with thanks to Bowen Tourism and Business. CAPTION Bowen Tourism and Business team member Julieanne Firmin with the Spotto books now available at the Big Mango. Photo supplied
Read more
As regional communities continue to navigate workforce shortages and rising living costs, access to a driver’s licence remains one of the most significant barriers facing young people. In Bowen, one local program is working to remove that barrier, but it urgently needs more volunteers to keep the wheels turning. The PCYC Queensland initiative, Braking the Cycle (BTC), is currently seeking volunteer mentors in Bowen to support young learner drivers who are unable to complete the mandatory 100 hours of supervised driving required to gain a Queensland licence. Delivered locally through PCYC Bowen, Braking the Cycle is designed to assist young people facing barriers such as financial hardship, limited access to a suitable vehicle, or a lack of a licensed supervisor. Without support, many of these young people remain unable to obtain their licence, limiting their access to employment, training and education opportunities. The program matches learner drivers with trained volunteer mentors and provides a safe, fully insured vehicle for lessons. Mentors play a practical role in helping participants develop safe driving skills and positive road safety behaviours, while also offering encouragement and a supportive community connection. The benefits of the program extend beyond the individual learner. Research consistently links supervised mentoring programs with improved safe driving behaviours, reduced crash risk and stronger community engagement. Locally and statewide, Braking the Cycle reports that around 70 per cent of graduates move into employment or further education within three to six months of obtaining their licence. However, the program’s continued success relies heavily on volunteer support. BTC Bowen is currently running critically low on mentors, placing pressure on its ability to meet demand from young people eager to complete their driving hours. For those with time to give, even a few hours a week can make a measurable difference. In regional communities where public transport options are limited, a driver’s licence is often the key to independence, employment and connection. As demand for the program continues, BTC Bowen’s call for volunteers highlights a broader truth: community-based initiatives rely on community participation. Without additional mentors stepping forward, some young people may face longer waits to access the support they need. Residents interested in attending the morning tea or learning more about volunteering with Braking the Cycle are encouraged to contact PCYC Bowen for further information. Captions Photos supplied
Read more
The start of the new year offers a unique opportunity to reset the energy, focus and engagement of your team. After the Christmas break, people return with a mix of emotions — refreshed, distracted, pumped!, or still carrying the mental load of last year. Try to avoid jumping straight back into deadlines and deliverables and focus on reconnecting your people to purpose, priorities and each other. Why? Because research shows investing time in connecting your team increases productivity, job satisfaction, and staff retention. All the things a small business needs! Regardless of how small your team is - start your year with an honest conversation about highlights, challenges and lessons from the previous year. It helps teams draw the line on one ‘era’ before starting the next. People are more engaged when we validate their experiences and align it to how they make a difference. Then shift the focus forward. Be clear about what success looks like in the months ahead, what will be different, and what the real priorities are. Then focus on connection. Team cohesion dips after a break so use this discussion to re-establish best ways of working, communication preferences, reinforce shared values and behaviours and give feedback as to how they made a difference last year. February is also the time to be intentional about leadership development. Rather than relying on ad hoc, reactive training, step back and plan for the challenges ahead — managing change, difficult conversations, creating a better workplace culture, managing time (and let’s be honest there is always simple fixes to gain more time) or building resilience. Map your needs early and show your team they’re supported with the training (and real-world application) they need to succeed. When leadership growth is planned, visible and ongoing, it sends a strong message to your team – you care! Finally, check the capacity of your team. The new year often starts with big ambitions, but the long year ahead requires realistic pacing. Discuss workloads, potential stresses and challenges early on and identify simple support strategies. And if you can’t really change anything, just be honest – at least they feel heard which always increases engagement and productivity. Don’t avoid these discussions. Having honest, authentic team chats means you’re always informed of what’s really happening for your team and your business. It’s a risk assessment which also shouts, “we care”. Too many of us think because “we’re just a small team - everyone knows how I feel about them”. Not so! By scheduling time for this you’re sending a strong signal “I value you!” which results in a workplace culture or ‘vibe’ that no-one wants to leave. Contributed with thanks to Judy Porter
Read more
Feb Month 9–Contract Reviews Before you sign anything, send it our way. Just because it’s "standard" doesn’t mean it’s safe. Whether it's a business contract, a private agreement, or anything with a signature box, it’s worth having us take a look. We’ll flag anything risky, explain your obligations in plain English, and make sure you’re protected.
Read more
Is Your Property Ready? Queensland Sotheby’s International Realty is launching the Whitsundays’ most prestigious ever auction event, with campaigns commencing 30 March and culminating in live and online auctions on 10 May 2026. A curated collection of prestige properties will be presented under one unified campaign, supported by national print placement, strategic public relations and access to our international buyer network. Sellers may choose between a live auction on Hamilton Island or a structured 30-day online auction, ensuring the most appropriate pathway for each property. Participation in this inaugural event is limited, with campaign commitments closing 6 March. If you are considering selling in 2026, we invite you to contact us to discuss whether your property is suited to Auction Week.
Read more
Donations raised at Life Publishing Group’s sold-out Enchanted Garden fundraiser in October 2025 are now being distributed, with a total of $56,000 shared among eight charities doing vital work across North Queensland. In the first handover, a cheque for $8,000 was presented to Ailen Lord, President of Fauna Rescue Whitsundays. The funds will go to vital medical equipment, food and provisions for native wildlife rescued from our region, as the non-profit organisation rehabilitates injured, orphaned and sick animals with a goal to send them back to the wild. Ailen would like to thank the community for their kind donations that evening. “At first I didn't believe it,” she said. “I was like, No, it can't be $8,000… then I went and read the email. We were really overwhelmed and very thankful because we normally don't get that much money to help us, and mainly, people don't even know what we're doing... It's just so nice. “So, thank you so much everyone. And I know you don't actually see the impact you put towards donating this money. But it's huge, so I'll try to share some photos so you guys can see where that money goes and how the wildlife gets back out there thanks to this. So thank you so much, everybody.” With the charity currently spending $10,000 on vet bills alone, and another $10,000 a year on food, the donation will go far to help the volunteers sustain the amazing work they do. With a baby pinky brush-tailed possum tucked into her shirt as she accepted the cheque, it’s clear that Ailen and the team care deeply for the wildlife that surrounds the Whitsundays, and will continue to put their all into the cause. Other animals the organisation rescues and rehabilitates include rock wallabies, birds, reptiles and native frogs, with a specialised frog hospital located in Mackay. Ailen said plans are underway to establish additional outdoor enclosures for recovering wallabies, which can be difficult to house in volunteer homes. With continued community support, the team hopes to expand its facilities and make an even greater impact in the year ahead. 1 – Ailen Lord accepts $8,000 raised by last year’s fundraiser, with Life Publishing’s Rachael Smith and Trish Jandt. Photo: Suzanna Mcloughlin. 2,3,4 – Some of the cuties saved by Fauna Rescue Whitsundays. Photos: Facebook.
Read more
Investment in skills and training is continuing to support local jobs and inclusive employment across the Whitsundays, with the Skilling Queensland for Work initiative helping community organisations deliver practical training and pathways into employment. The program supports community-based organisations to provide training, mentoring and hands-on work experience for Queenslanders looking to enter or re-enter the workforce, while also delivering real benefits to local industries and communities. Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm said the program was helping create meaningful opportunities across the region. “Programs like Skilling Queensland for Work are creating real pathways for people in our community to gain skills, build confidence and move into meaningful employment,” Ms Camm said. “In regional areas like the Whitsundays, investing in local training and workforce development is essential to supporting businesses and strengthening our economy.” In Cannonvale, Endeavour Foundation continues to support people with disability through tailored training and employment programs that build independence and job-ready skills. “Endeavour Foundation does incredible work supporting people with disability to develop confidence and practical workplace skills,” Ms Camm said. “These programs help ensure everyone has the opportunity to participate in the workforce and be part of our community.” Local industry groups, including Canegrowers, are also benefiting from workforce initiatives aimed at supporting the future of Queensland’s agriculture sector, helping build a pipeline of skilled workers for the region. Ms Camm said continued investment in skills and training would deliver long-term benefits for the Whitsundays. “By supporting local organisations and industry to deliver training and employment pathways, we are creating opportunities for individuals and building a stronger future for our region,” she said. Captions Amanda Camm with the Endeavour Foundation in Cannonvale Photo supplied
Read more
Renewable Energy Partners have withdrawn their proposal for the Proserpine Wind Farm, a 166-turbine project put forward in 2022. The project had reached final stages of planning before being dropped this month. Renewable Energy Partners had pitched that the farm would generate enough renewable energy to power roughly 640,000 houses a year, whilst creating 250 jobs. Their plans, however, created controversy amongst some locals who raised concerns about the impact of the farm on the environment, health, and the area’s liveability. Protesters from the Whitsunday Wind Farm Action Group stated: “Today’s news that the Proserpine Wind Farm is not proceeding has understandably lifted spirits across the community.” However, they highlighted, other ongoing wind projects remain on their radar – namely the Mt Challenger Wind Farm, a turbine development proposed by Alinta Energy. This proposal involves two separate project locations at Mt Challenger and Crystal Brook/Kelsey Creek with plans for up to 30 industrial wind turbines, each reaching approximately 240 metres in height. Several of the proposed turbine locations are close to existing rural homes and properties, with some situated within 1.5 kilometres of residences and less than 9 kilometres from Proserpine. Alinta calls the project “a powerful opportunity for the region”, which is “committed to making a positive impact in communities.” According to their website: “The project is expected to bring a range of benefits, including jobs across construction, operations, and decommissioning phases; upgrades to essential services like roads and emergency response; and contributions to initiatives led by the community itself.” At time of publication, a petition against the Alinta Energy development has garnered 4,493 signatures. “This conversation isn’t over,” Whitsunday Wind Farm Action states. “We ask: If a project in a more suitably located area has been deemed unviable, and the region is already described as “chock-full” of wind proposals, why does a proposal situated closer to homes, scenic corridors and established rural communities continue to move forward?” Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, met with the group this week to hear community concerns. “We are grateful to Andrew and his team for standing with us, for acknowledging our concerns, and for committing to continue advocating on our behalf,” the group published. “This community is resilient, informed, and united — and we will continue to stand up for our homes and our future.” 1- Photo Source: Whitsunday Wind Farm Action Group
Read more
Controlled water releases were underway over the weekend at Kinchant Dam as authorities responded to ongoing and forecast heavy rainfall across the dam’s catchment. In the early hours of Wednesday, 18 February, Sunwater confirmed release rates would increase from approximately 648 megalitres per day to around 1,250 megalitres per day in preparation for further weather impacts. Sunwater warned the increased flows may contribute to localised flooding downstream, with reports of minor impacts already circulating since Tuesday, 17 February. Residents in affected areas were urged to remain vigilant as conditions continued to evolve. Excess water releases commenced at 8:45am on Wednesday after the dam reached its maximum operating level of 87 per cent. Earlier advice issued on Tuesday morning indicated the dam was likely to reach this threshold later that day, with flows expected into Sandy Creek. At that time, residents downstream of the dam — including those near Sandy Creek, Mirani and Eton — were advised to stay informed and monitor conditions closely. Water flows were expected to impact Antoneys Crossing and Curran’s Crossing, with increased flows forecast within six to 12 hours. Catchment levels have been rising steadily throughout February. On the morning of Wednesday, 4 February, Sunwater reported the dam peaked at 56.69 metres, reaching 80.30 per cent capacity. By that afternoon, levels had increased to 82.26 per cent. The most significant rise was recorded on Monday, 16 February, when levels jumped from 83.92 per cent to 87.10 per cent in just 24 hours. As of Wednesday, 25 February, the catchment was sitting at 84.68 per cent capacity, holding 61,169 megalitres of water at a height of 57.03 metres - just 1.18 metres below the dam’s spillway level. On Sunday, 22 February, after almost five days of releasing excess water, Sunwater confirmed Kinchant Dam had now returned to regular operating conditions, and releases have now ceased after the catchment recorded a capacity of approximately 84 per cent. “Sunwater’s thoughts are with any communities in Queensland who may be experiencing flooding due to extreme weather,” said a Sunwater spokesperson. “Due to recent rainfall across North and Central Queensland, several Sunwater dams are spilling or close to capacity, and minor releases from Kinchant Dam ceased on Sunday 22 February.” Earlier this week, on Wednesday, 25 February, Peter Faust Dam reached a capacity of 96.72 per cent, 16.81 per cent below the historical high recorded in late March, 2011 of 113.53 per cent. Sunwater assured they do not expect Peter Faust Dam to spill based on current forecasts, however warned conditions could change rapidly and are urging residents to prepare for potential flooding. “Sunwater is closely monitoring conditions across dam catchments and liaising with Local Disaster Management Groups as necessary. We will continue to provide updates regarding individual dams as per Emergency Action Plan requirements,” the spokesperson said. “We would urge the community to remain vigilant near rising water courses and listen to advice from councils and emergency services - and if it’s flooded, forget it.” Residents are encouraged to stay informed by monitoring Kinchant Dam storage levels, tuning in to ABC Tropical North on 101.1 FM, and checking local updates, road closures and evacuation information through Mackay Regional Council’s Disaster Dashboard. River and rainfall conditions can also be monitored via the Bureau of Meteorology. In an emergency, residents should call Triple Zero (000). For flood assistance, contact the State Emergency Service on 132 500 or through the SES Assistance QLD app. CAPTIONS: Peter Faust Dam reached a capacity level of 96.72 per cent earlier this week. Photo credit: Cr John Collins Water releases at Kinchant Dam have now ceased. Photo source: Sunwater
Read more
Local mum, business owner and soccer lover, Sonya Quod, is swimming 32 kilometres at Proserpine Pool this February to raise money for Starlight, a charity dedicated to bringing moments of joy to hospitalised children. When we spoke to Sonya on Monday, she had just five days left of the challenge and was feeling the fatigue – but not letting it get in her way. By committing to swim 22 lengths of the 50m pool every day for 28 days, Sonya has raised a whopping $5,534 for Starlight, a cause that is close to her heart. Sonya’s then 11-year-old daughter, Arista, became gravely ill after contracting mycoplasma pneumonia with a secondary mucositis infection. She initially spent some time in Proserpine Hospital before being moved to Mackay, and eventually was airlifted by the Royal Flying Doctor Service to Brisbane for life-saving treatment. Arista’s hospital stay went on several months, and for a time she wasn’t allowed visitors. When this changed the Starlight Volunteers began visiting her, bringing much-needed brightness to an otherwise difficult time. “They would come around to the rooms and do entertainment, they’d sing and dance, telling jokes and doing magic tricks,” Sonya explains. “And they also had a Starlight Room where you could go with your kids to get a break from the hospital. It’s amazing. It’s so bright and bubbly, and there’s music… They’re just amazing at what they do. Everyone walked out of there with a smile on their face, no matter how sick they were.” When Sonya saw Starlight’s Super Swim campaign on Facebook, she knew she wanted to get involved. “I've always been a water baby,” she says. “That's why I thought I could do this challenge, even being busy as a mom and running the business. I thought, I can just do some laps, and that's my way of giving back.” Alongside raising money for Starlight, Sonya says the challenge has been great training leading up to soccer season. With the pool also providing great exercise for Arista’s lungs following her sickness, Sonya’s spending even more time there, now working for Aquatic Rush, teaching little ones to swim. Sonya is proud to be one of over 13,600 swimmers supporting the cause, and has even found herself in the Top 15 on the fundraiser leaderboard. “I’d like to say a huge thank you to my family and friends for their support throughout the challenge,” Sonya says. “Some days I needed a little support crew to get me through. Also, thank you for the amazing donations – it has blown me away. It will go to the children and families doing it tough.” To donate, and find more information about how you can support the cause, scan the QR code below. 1- Sonya Quod, super mum swimming for Starlight. Photo: Suzanna Mcloughlin 2 – Arista with the starlight entertainers bringing joy to Queensland Children’s Hospital. Photo supplied. 3 – Volunteers visit children in need of a smile. Photo supplied. 4 – Starlight arrives with a song, joke, or magic trick to make the hospital a brighter place. Photo supplied. 5 – Scan here to donate
Read more
Residents across the Whitsunday and Burdekin shires, alongside the Molongle Creek Boat Club (MCBC) and the wider Cape Upstart community, are calling on the State Government to honour a long-standing commitment to provide reliable all-tide access at Molongle Creek. The Molongle Creek access channel is the only marine gateway to Cape Upstart, which is home to approximately 240 sea-access-only properties. The channel is a critical link to the mainland for residents, emergency services, visitors and fishers, with estimates showing between 15,000 and 20,000 vessels use it annually. Despite its importance, locals say the channel no longer delivers the all-tide access promised during the 2016 state election and formalised in a 2021 handover to government. “The lack of all-tide access severely restricts people’s access to their properties at Cape Upstart,” said Molongle Creek Boat Club Commodore Ken Betteridge. Built by Volunteers, Handed to Government The Molongle Creek Boat Club was formed in 1962 and spent decades developing and maintaining the facility through volunteer labour, private funding and club-owned machinery. In 2021, the club formally surrendered its lease and gifted all assets, valued at $2.84 million, to enable public funding and long-term government management. In return, the State Government assumed responsibility for maintaining an all-tide access channel, boat ramps and supporting infrastructure. However, long-time members say concerns raised during the design phase were ignored, particularly warnings that the chosen alignment would be vulnerable to flooding and sediment infill. “Molongle Creek Boat Club’s lobbying secured funding for an all-tide channel, however, due to various government departments, the placement of the channel was restricted to where it is now,” Mr Betteridge said. “The choice presented to us was a channel where it is – or was – or no channel at all.” Within months of completion, wet-season flooding filled the channel with sediment, significantly reducing its depth. While temporary maintenance improved access in 2022 and 2023, a major wet season in 2024 again rendered the channel largely unusable. No maintenance funding has since been allocated. Locals say vessels that once accessed the channel on a 1.7-metre tide now require tides of 2.4 metres or higher, eliminating reliable daylight access on many days. “All-tide access?” one resident said. “It’s anything but.” Safety Concerns Escalate The deteriorating access has raised serious safety concerns, particularly during peak holiday periods and medical emergencies. Residents have historically transported sick or injured people by boat to meet ambulances at Molongle Creek, but only when tides permit. When tides are out, emergency helicopter access is required. “There have been quite a few medical incidences where the access to Molongle Creek was tidally available – if no tide, the emergency helicopter was luckily available,” Mr Betteridge said. In another recent incident, two young boys were stung by Irukandji jellyfish at Kingfish Bay. Locals say the outcome could have been far worse had the tide been out. Calls for Practical Solutions The Molongle Creek Boat Club says solutions already exist, particularly the construction of a protective bund wall using rock or geotextile bags; a method proven at the site, where a small barrier has reduced sediment infill for more than 25 years. “There are approximately 240 dwellings at Cape Upstart that use Molongle Creek as their main, and only access port – a 365 day all-tide access channel will definitely improve the safety of the whole community,” Mr Betteridge said. “We need a bund wall sooner rather than later.” Local State Member for Burdekin Dale Last said the former government failed to deliver on its election promise. “Promises were made and expectations were built on those promises. Clearly those expectations were not met and, clearly, the promises made were broken,” Mr Last said. Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox described the facility as vital regional infrastructure and said a permanent engineering solution was required. “In my assessment, a permanent infrastructure solution is required to address the siltation issues,” he said. Maritime Safety Queensland confirmed the channel continues to be impacted by natural flood flows and said long-term management options are being developed in consultation with stakeholders. Community Patience Wearing Thin After more than six decades of volunteer stewardship and a multi-million-dollar asset handover, locals say the issue is no longer about future planning, but about honouring commitments already made. As one MCBC member put it, “We carried this facility for decades. Now we’re asking the government to carry out its commitment.” CAPTIONS: Drone footage captured on 3 February illustrates the significantly reduced tidal access. Photo source: Molongle Creek Boat Club “Disappointing to say the least,” says Molongle Creek Boat Club Commodore, Ken Betteridge, about the channel’s current condition. Photo credit: Epic Pics Molongle Creek Boat Ramp is located approximately 60 kilometres north of Bowen. Photo source: Molongle Creek Boat Club
Read more
On Thursday 12 February, the Bowen Fire and Rescue Station received a state of the art $1.15 million Type 3 fire truck, the best appliance the team had ever seen. The appliance was provided for by the government to support fire rescue initiatives across the region. Both Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins and State Member for Burdekin Dale Last, were present at the event, with Mr Last handing over the keys – a ceremonial gesture to mark the start of a great endeavour. The truck is the first of its kind to be delivered to the Bowen Station and is considered a jack-of-all trades appliance, built with the capability of responding to structural, petrol, chemical and grass fires. Additional features include modern road crash equipment as well as extra space for specialised rescue features, allowing the crew to respond more efficiently to a variety of emergencies. “Our firefighters go above and beyond for this community, and this new appliance gives them the modern, reliable equipment they need to do their job with confidence and capability,” said Mr Last. Queensland Fire Department (QFD) Assistant Commissioner Michael O’Neil said the new fit-for-purpose appliance would help Bowen firefighters continue providing first- class frontline services to their community. “Firefighters in Bowen can be called to help people in need right across the Whitsunday region, from Proserpine to the south, inland to Collinsville and north to Gumlu,” he said. “This appliance is a valuable asset to the continued service delivery for Bowen and surrounding communities, and the crews have undergone extensive training to ensure they are familiar with the appliance and ready to use it well.” Overall, it was a great occasion with local and regional firefighters present to show their gratitude. The boost to important infrastructure ensures that more emergency and rescue calls can be responded to with efficiency and consistency. Captions Member for Burdekin Dale Last. Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi Dale Last MP handing over the keys. Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi The team with Dale Last MP and Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins. Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi
Read more
Ivan Lizarralde, owner of Blue Peace pest control, recently stumbled across a Whitsunday Life article highlighting Vari ‘Bi Bi’ Galletly’s dedicated work with children in Tanzania and was inspired to act. Ivan makes a donation every year and was looking for his 2026 cause, seeking a trustworthy organisation that ensures all funds go directly to the person in need. When he read about Vari’s House of Happiness, a home that gives kids in Tanzania care and access to education, he decided he’d found exactly what he was looking for. The article detailed Vari’s mission to help Simon, one of the orphanage’s wards, on his journey to train to become a pilot. This in particular caught Ivan’s eye. Ivan flies planes himself, as a hobby and through Blue Peace, visiting the islands to conduct pest inspections. “I know what joy it is and what a beautiful thing it is to be up there in the air and help others.” Ivan says. “I just thought it was one way to give back to humanity. And Vari, she's amazing.” Thanks in part to Ivan’s amazing generosity, Simon will be leaving Tanzania for Johannesburg in the coming days, where he will train for his dream career. Tax-deductible donations to the organisation can be made here: https://www.gdg.org.au/DonateJ602NH 1 - Ivan’s love of flying inspired him to support Vari’s mission.
Read more
Hi Everyone, Earlier this week, my mum and a friend were discussing how disappointing it is that the English tabloids are dominated by stories about a disgraced prince and alleged sexual predator. Especially when there is so much more worth talking about. I couldn’t agree more. If you read this paper regularly, you’ll know we focus on positive community news. It’s not just a preference; it’s our business model. And people clearly love it too. Over the years, we’ve discovered there’s no shortage of uplifting and inspiring local news stories, even in a small community like ours. Imagine if national headlines were filled with stories that celebrate generosity, resilience and creativity. There are certainly enough of them around if only you open your eyes to take a look. This week brought two wonderful reminders of that. The first was meeting a baby wombat cradled in the arms (and, to our surprise, tucked safely inside the bra) of Ailen from Fauna Rescue Whitsundays. She keeps rescued joeys close to incubate and nurse them back to health. You can read more on page 10 about how our company presented Fauna Rescue with $8,000. This donation is part of the $56,000 raised at our Enchanted Garden fundraiser in October. Thanks to the generosity of our community, seven local beneficiaries will each receive an equal share. We’ll be introducing them in print and online over the coming weeks. The second inspiring moment was attending the Whitsundays Writers Festival focus group on Sunday. I was thrilled to see our two young journalists there, alongside our Sales Manager Trish, who serves on the advisory board with me and other passionate locals. The committee has one bold goal for the Whitsundays Writers Festival: to become Australia’s best and largest regional writers festival. I admire their ambition, their vision and belief in our region. Here’s to keeping the good news shining bright in our region! Rach Quote of the Week “The bad news is time flies. The good news is you’re the pilot” Michael Altshuler
Read more
Alexander Gall and Sina Cheung are about to embark on the journey of a lifetime. Aboard their boat, they plan to visit 12 different countries, establishing coconut cultural centres in each country with a focus of educating and spreading passion for coconut farming. ‘We want to find out if coconut culture is still alive in villages and islands around the world”, said Alex. The ambitious project will see the pair sail around the world to foster coconut culture and teach people how to best make use of the plant. At the core of this endeavour is a wealth of inspiration from years of firsthand experience with coconuts and the influence of history. The inspiration came first from Thor Heyerdahl, a Norwegian explorer whose wooden raft is currently located at the Museum of Sydney. The adventurer famously sailed through Peru to French Polynesia in 101 days. “I said well, if that’s going to work on a wooden raft, then it might work on a bamboo catamaran as well.” Over the course of their journey, the pair plan to build a great bamboo catamaran. “We want to make a sustainable living headquarter out of bamboo. We’re going to find some of the biggest bamboos in the world and build a catamaran of up to 33 metres. We want to make a good first impression when we arrive at villages,” Alex explained. “We don’t want them to see us as a white catamaran with a champagne bottle, but rather a bamboo boat full of coconuts”. Alex’s passion for coconuts began 15 years ago in Airlie Beach, when he opened a coconut bar as a backpacker. “I was 21 at the time. I had just finished the army and was climbing coconut trees every day,” he said. “My friend and I ended up at Rusty’s Markets in Cairns running a coconut bar for free years, selling around 800 coconuts a day. With that, I received a lot of education about coconuts. My head was full of coconuts after three years”. Part of the project will see Alex and Sina will film a documentary to record the experience. “I studied film and documentary in Los Angeles to prepare for this project,” Alex noted. “We’re going to be connected to Starlink. We will have live updates on social media. The documentary will consist of 13 episodes and will start in Australia”. Beginning in Australia, the couple will start in the Torres Strait Islands to gauge the coconut culture. From there they plan to sail across the Philippines, Bali, Thailand, India, Zanzibar, the Caribbean Islands, Panama, Hawaii and Papua New Guinea. Speaking to Sina, she reiterated the emphasis on being self-sustainable, relying on nature over human resources. “We want to learn how to be self-sustainable and live on boat. We’re not paying rent; we rely on what we have in nature. We’ll look for leaves that we can eat, vegetables we can grow, fish we can catch”, she said. The couple will likely leave Australia around April directly from the Whitsundays. “Come join us on this journey and help villagers create this coconut culture centre,” said Alex. “Support them, go there, ask for the coconut boy. Ask for the grandma who’s going to cook you something with the coconut. Instead of asking for coca cola in the fridge, ask for the coconut”. Captions Alex and Sina preparing for their grand journey Photo Credit: Suzanna McLoughlin
Read more
Mackay will make cricket history this August, hosting its first-ever international Test match. Cricket Australia confirmed on Wednesday, 25 February, that the Great Barrier Reef Arena will stage the second Test of the 2026 NRMA Insurance Men’s Test Series against Bangladesh. The match runs from 22–26 August 2026, with play starting at 10am local time each day, giving fans the chance to watch world-class cricket on home turf. Mayor Greg Williamson said council was excited to build on the success of the two one day internationals played at the Great Barrier Reef Arena in 2025. “The Australia versus South Africa games were tremendous. Both games were sell-outs and they showed us that we can attract strong crowds to our region for these world-class matches,” Mayor Williamson said. “To their credit, the team at the Great Barrier Reef Arena also showed that they can deliver matches of this calibre and cater for crowds in excess of 5000 without a hitch,” he said. “This Test match is going to be an exciting first for us and council is extremely proud to be able to play our part in bringing this Test to our region with the Invest Mackay Events and Conference Attraction Program.” CEO of Great Barrier Reef Arena Adrian Young said this was a defining moment for the region. “Hosting our first Test match is recognition that Mackay has earned its place on the international stage,” Mr Young said. “It also reflects the confidence that Cricket Australia has in our venue, our team and our community,” he said. “We have consistently demonstrated over several years that we can deliver elite international women’s and men’s cricket at the highest standard. “As we continue to plan for Stage 2 of the venue’s development and look forward to playing a part in the 2032 Olympics and Paralympics, this Test match cements Great Barrier Reef Arena’s reputation as northern Australia’s premier cricket venue.” Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg said northern Australia was perfectly positioned to host high-quality Test cricket outside the traditional summer window. “We’re delighted to bring Test cricket to Mackay and look forward to a fantastic series against Bangladesh,” Mr Greenberg said. “It is no secret the international calendar is now crowded and we’re fortunate to have world class facilities available in August ensuring we have another window for Test cricket outside summer,” he said. “Great Barrier Reef Arena has proven to be an outstanding venue for international cricket in recent seasons and we’re grateful to the Queensland Government, Mackay Regional Council and Harrup Park for their strong support.” Mackay will make history this August, hosting its first-ever international Test match at the Great Barrier Reef Arena as part of the 2026 NRMA Insurance Men’s Test Series against Bangladesh from 22–26 August. Photo source: Great Barrier Reef Arena
Read more