Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
By Cr Ash-Lee Johnson Since being elected, one of the greatest realisations I have had is just how strong and generous the community spirit is across our region. We are home to a remarkable network of community groups and volunteers who quietly go the extra mile week after week, simply because they care about people and want to make a difference. Among them, the Country Women’s Association stands out as a powerful example of what community connection truly looks like. The Country Women’s
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Why Group Fitness Builds More Than Strength By Michael James – Fitness Industry Professional, Facility Owner & Wellness Coach When most people think of going to the gym, they imagine lifting weights or working alone on a treadmill. But some of the most powerful results don’t come from solo sessions — they come from training together. At Fitness Cartel Mackay, our vision is to create a community where group training is more than just exercise; it’s connection, motivation, and joy rolled into one
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What began as one woman’s simple act of kindness has grown into a lifeline for lost and abandoned animals across Mackay. When local animal lover Taylah Kolaric first bought a microchip scanner online, she simply wanted to help reunite lost dogs with their families. “I was always seeing lost dog posts on Facebook and it was concerning to me how much pound fees were,” she said. “So, I volunteered on community pages to scan dogs if someone could hold them. That way, I could call the owners
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Aussie music legend, singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Rick Price is set to hit the Mackay stage, not only to deliver an unforgettable night of live music, but also to lend his support to local domestic violence charity Broken Ballerina Inc. Price will perform at Souths Leagues Club on Wednesday, November 6 at 7pm as part of his Tamborine Mountain 30th Anniversary Tour, celebrating three decades since the release of his iconic album. A portion of every ticket sold will go direct
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Mackay Apartment Owners Hit With Costly Repair Bills Mackay townhouse and apartment owners are being urged to understand strata law, as disputes over who pays for repairs and upgrades are leaving some with surprise bills in the tens of thousands. From roof repairs to storm damage, owners are finding that costs they assumed were covered by the body corporate can fall to them. “Disputes over levies, unexpected bills, or delayed repairs are becoming more common in strata communities,” said A
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I’m sure there are lots of positives about being a medical doctor, whether that’s a general practitioner or a specialist of some sort. There’s the thing about helping people, guiding them on their health journey as they attempt to overcome all the disturbing and confronting difficulties that ageing, Western diets, stress and gluttonous modern indulgences tend to create. It’s important work and the community rightly values doctors and the crucial role they play in diagnosing health issues, pres
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Review By Miki Ponting-Boyd I love this time of year… no no, not the “Halloween heists and Christmas crackers” time… I love the “It’s comedy at Kucom!” time!!! What better way to end a (rather stressful) year than with a spectacular night of laughter, heart and clever storytelling. Funny, brilliant, plus it’s three plays for the price of one! Voila… The Season of One Act Plays!!!!!!! I must say, I adore one-act plays. You’ve got to get the timing right and scrap all unnecessary dialogue.
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Friday 31st October Crochet & Conversation 9am Drop in for a relaxed morning of crocheting, coffee and conversation with friendly Northern Beaches locals at the Beachfront Bar & Restaurant on Bucasia Esplanade. Everyone is welcome—whether you're a seasoned crocheter, a beginner, or just love a good chat over coffee. Bring your own tools or borrow from the communal box. It’s all about connection, creativity, and community. Beachfront Bar & Restaurant on Bucasia Esplanade Run For Autism 11am Pop
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It was a week to remember for Mackay’s middle-distance athletes, with members of The Rules of Running squad returning from the Queensland School Sport Track and Field Championships in Townsville with an incredible medal haul. Held from October 13 to 19, the state championships brought together some of the best young talent from across Queensland, with Mackay’s representatives proving they are a force to be reckoned with on the track and in the field. The Mackay-based Rules of Running squad, co
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Mackay Men Dominate In Toowoomba Mackay was proudly represented by two men’s teams at the State Softball Championships in Toowoomba last weekend, with both sides delivering outstanding performances on the diamond. The B Men’s team, coached by Steven Baxter and Allen James, competed in the Queensland Cup division and impressed with several close games and strong teamwork. Pitcher Cameron Baxter led from the mound with solid form, supported by Emmett Counsell and Graeme Love behind the plate. Aft
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Goosies Sport and Recreation Club recently hosted the 2025 Champion of Club Champion Singles, marking the first time the major bowls event has been held at the venue. The tournament drew 112 players over seven days, featuring 64 fours, 32 pairs, and 16 singles from clubs across Queensland. A highlight of the event was 14-year-old Ben Harrison from Paradise Point, who made history by taking out the men’s singles title. “Everybody was blown away by the club, the staff, and the performance of the
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At Mackay Contract Bridge Club Christine Fitzpatrick won this year’s Monica Darley Supervised Player Award. Monica who is a Grand Master, donates this award to encourage promising new players. The club also gives incentive awards for players who continually play and advance, while others receive awards for their ABF level. Weekly Results Monday 20 October 25 - 8 Table Mitchell Green Points N/S E/W 1st Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris 1st Terry Sheedy / Simon Barnes 2nd Mary Rose Ramsden
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Whitsunday Wealth Enchanted Garden Event Blossoms With Purpose The Whitsunday Wealth Enchanted Garden Event, hosted by Life Publishing Group at Elementa, was a breathtaking celebration of elegance, community, and generosity. More than 250 guests stepped into a magical garden setting, complete with stunning floral installations, twinkling lights, and the soft glow of a Whitsunday sunset. The evening featured exquisite canapés, flowing champagne, and captivating entertainment by Mo Swagger, culmi
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Hi Everyone, I’ve attended many wonderful events this year, but Saturday night was the first time we’ve had the privilege of hosting our own here in the Whitsundays. The Whitsunday Wealth Enchanted Garden Event was an ambitious project spearheaded by our Mackay Sales Manager Jessica Clark, who brought together clients, business associates, and community members to raise funds for seven regional charities. Before long, our entire team was involved in bringing the event to life, and a big thank
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The Whitsundays is built on community - people who care deeply about where we live and the future we’re shaping together. When something touches our lifestyle, our environment, or our region’s identity, our community speaks up - thoughtfully, respectfully, and with heart. Over recent weeks, many locals have reached out to share their thoughts on the proposed Mt Challenger Wind Farm near Proserpine. From farmers and families to small-business owners, your voices have been strong and consistent
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Around 50 people in the community took part in the global Reclaim the Night movement last Saturday. Hosted by Whitsunday Counselling and Support this first-ever local march to raise awareness about sexual violence and the right for everyone to feel safe at night. The walk began at Coral Sea Marina and ended at the Airlie Beach foreshore stage, where participants gathered to share food and conversation. Manager of Whitsunday Counselling and Support Sharon Parker said the inaugural turnout of a
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Airlie Beach’s first-ever Big Freeze proved a huge success, raising around $13,000 for FightMND over the weekend. Event organiser and local FightMND representative Katrina Duggan said the day exceeded expectations, drawing strong community support and plenty of fun. “It was an absolutely fantastic day, and we’ve had such great feedback,” she said. About $13,000 was raised on the day through merchandise sales, raffle tickets, donations, and a sausage sizzle, with local businesses donating 42 r
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Cannonvale is one step closer to gaining a new community heart, with plans now lodged for the highly anticipated Cannonvale Community Hub, a $29.8 million project supported by the Australian Government’s Growing Regions Program. The major development will deliver a modern library, customer service centre and a range of flexible community meeting spaces, all set within landscaped parkland. Together, these facilities will anchor Galbraith Park as the social and civic green heart of Cannonvale. A
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Big news for the Whitsundays, Mayor Ry Collins has been appointed to the Host Mayors Advisory Group for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The advisory group plays a key role in shaping how the Games will benefit communities across Queensland, ensuring regional areas have a voice in planning and legacy outcomes. With the Whitsundays proudly set to host the Olympic sailing events, Mayor Collins’ appointment ensures the region is well represented as preparations for the world’s bigge
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With storm season now upon us (November to April), residents are urged to stay alert and prepare for cyclones and severe storms, which can bring destructive winds over 200km/h, heavy rain, flooding, lightning, hail, and storm surges. Preparation is key. Secure outdoor furniture, wheelie bins, and loose items that could become dangerous in high winds. If you have a pool, submerge plastic furniture to prevent it flying around. Park vehicles under shelter, unplug electrical appliances, and ensure
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Last Thursday evening Bowen State High School celebrated their 65th Academic Awards Ceremony. Held at McKenna Hall infront of a full audience students from the school were congratualted for thier remarkable achievements. On the night Principal Rob Harris said although a select group of students were recognised for their outstanding achievements, it is imporatnt to also acknowledge the collective contributions of the entire school community. "Each student and staff member has played a vital ro
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Whitsunday Coast Airport (WCA) continues to soar as Australia’s fastest-growing regional airport, with Jetstar introducing its new Airbus A321 aircraft on selected routes. The upgraded aircraft started last Sunday and offers 230 seats, up from 186, and, combined with ten additional weekly services, will deliver a 30 per cent boost in total capacity for the Whitsundays. It creates an extra 117,000 seats annually, creating more opportunities for visitors to experience the region and supporting th
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The Proserpine PCYC was buzzing with activity over the weekend as more than 600 people turned out for this year’s Haunted House event. Crowds lined up from start to finish to experience the spooky attraction, which featured a redesigned layout allowing visitors to queue in air-conditioned comfort. Sergeant Billy Li from PCYC Whitsunday emphasized how great the event went, and can't wait for next year. Alongside the Haunted House, an escape room run by St Catherine’s Catholic College students
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In 2024, Beachfront Collaborative officially launched as the Whitsundays’ answer to flexible, high-quality workspaces. The idea was sparked by the team at PD Law, who often use the space themselves. Today, it offers a calm, professional environment designed for the wider community. The coworking hub offers everything from hot desks and a WiFi lounge to a soundproof pod for private calls and a sophisticated boardroom perfect for training or presentations – all available to book by the hour, seve
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Looking Ahead to 2032 It has been an exciting few weeks for our region, and I am honoured to represent the Whitsundays on the Host Mayors Advisory Group for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. With the Whitsundays confirmed as the host for Olympic sailing, this appointment gives our community a seat at the table as Queensland prepares to welcome the world. It means we can help shape the planning and delivery of an event that will bring long-term benefits for regional Queensland, no
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