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Port Denison Gun Club turned pink on 27th September, raising $4,760 for breast cancer support, with the club topping up the donation to $5,000. Sponsored by Mardos Mangoes, the fundraiser attracted 44 shooters for a day of competition, with donated raffle prizes and pink morning teas adding a big of flavour to the meet. “Even our morning teas were all pink, we had marshmallows and cakes, everything was pink,” said Club Secretary Colin Edgerton. Shooters competed in a 25-target point score event and a 75-target Champion of Champions event, shot from 18 metres, which drew interest from competitors across the Burdekin, Townsville and Mackay areas. Following the successful event, members plan a blue-themed fundraiser supporting prostate cancer awareness next year. “It went really well, and because it was such a success, we’re going to do it again next year but next year, we’re going to do it for prostate cancer,” Colin said. Photo 1- A sea of pink. Photos supplied: Colin Edgerton Photo 2- Doris, best dressed woman Photo 3- 75T Champion of Champions Photo 4- Halls Fireman Winners, Michael Zabala, Toni Scott, presenter Rob Mikkelson and John Konnonmonth Photo 5- Lui, best dressed man Photo 6 - Blake Heffernan, John Dunn, David Stitt, Simon Steele and presenter, Gary Martin
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Airlie Beach is set for a taste of Nashville this October, with the Jack Daniel’s Country Jam Festival giving country fans every reason to dust off their boots and grab their hats. Taking over the Airlie Beach Hotel on Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 October, the free festival will feature live country-rock, Dolly Parton and Brooks & Dunn tribute shows, Nashville favourites and line dancing, with country DJ sets also keeping the dance floor moving on Friday and Saturday nights. The weekend kicks off a bit earlier than usual, with Australia’s number one country DJ, Dee Jaye Bux, spining the country twang at the sports bar from 8pm till midnight. Billed Australia’s number one country DJ, he’ll mix today’s biggest country hits with familiar classics to keep the dance floor moving. Having worked alongside some of the biggest stars in the industry, such as Jimmy Barnes, Tim McGraw, Luke Combs, John Farnham and many more, he brings a range of the countries finest to the decks. For those keen to put their boots to work, the Mackay Line Dancers will bring a few extra steps to the dance floor, offering free lessons from 8–9pm on Friday and Saturday nights. Formed in 2022, the group welcomes dancers of all abilities, so whether you know your way around a line dance or are trying it for the first time, there’s room to join in. “We encourage everyone to get up and dance with us,” said instructor and founder of the group, Deb Wookey. “As long as you can count to 4, you can line dance, so don’t be shy.” Kicking off the live music from midday on both Saturday and Sunday at 12pm, the Southern Line Country Rock Show will bring a taste of American country rock to the foreshore favourite. Led by the Chris Staff Band, the show promises plenty of guitar-driven energy to get feet tapping before the musicians return at 2pm for the Australian Brooks & Dunn Tribute Show. With rich harmonies and a full live band, the tribute will deliver favourites including Boot Scootin’ Boogie, Neon Moon, Brand New Man and Only in America, giving fans plenty to sing along to and line dancers another reason to hit the floor. Between the bands, Joanne Elbers will bring the big hair, cheeky humour and unmistakable songs of Dolly Parton to the stage in a tribute to one of country music’s most beloved stars. Following Parton’s passing in August at age 80, the performance holds a deeper meaning for Elbers, who has been portraying Dolly since the mid-1990s. “In the past my performances have been about doing something I love and enjoy and hopefully bring some joy to my audience,” Elbers said. “Now I feel we almost have a mission to represent the music the story and the heart of Dolly as she deserves and to carry on her Legacy that she worked so hard to create.” Having taken her Classic Queens of Country show to Tamworth, Roma, North Queensland and beyond, Elbers will perform favourites including Jolene, 9 to 5 and Coat of Many Colours, backed by the musicians behind the Australian Brooks & Dunn and Southern Line shows. “As a huge Dolly fan who loves not just her music and her down to earth character but I connect with the cheeky and light hearted manner in which she portrays herself on stage to her audience,” Elbers said. “I strive to present my best Dolly impersonation with a touch of Tennessee accent, big boobs, big hair and plenty of Dolly personality.” The afternoons round out to the sounds of today’s country scene when Brother Hollow takes the stage at 3.15pm on both days for The Nashville Experience. Their set draws on the likes of Luke Combs, Morgan Wallen, Chris Stapleton and The Chicks, with a few older favourites woven through the afternoon. Joining them is special guest Victoria McGee, whose selection spans generations of country women, from Gretchen Wilson and Shania Twain to Lainey Wilson and Ella Langley. Together, they’ll give fans a chance to hear some of the songs shaping country music today alongside those that helped pave the way. What: Jack Daniels Country Jam Festival Where: Airlie Beach Hotel When: Saturday 17th and Sunday 18th October, 12pm-530pm What: Dee Jay Bux special event Where: Airlie Beach Hotel Sports Bar When: Friday 16th and Saturday 17th October, 8pm-12am Photo captions: Photo 1- The Mackay Line Dancers set to living up ABH. Photo supplied: Mackay Line Dancers
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Meet Grundy, a nine-year-old Kelpie cross with a heart of gold and plenty of love left to give. Calm, confident and loyal, Grundy is the kind of dog who loves being by your side. He enjoys his daily walks, gets along well with other dogs and is great with kids. Grundy takes his role as a yard protector seriously, but once the job is done, he’s happiest relaxing with his people. He would suit a calm family home with secure fencing or a ground-floor apartment. Grundy must be allowed to sleep inside and isn’t suited to homes with cats or chickens. He is desexed, vaccinated, microchipped, heartworm negative and up to date with flea, tick and worming treatments. After nine years of giving his loyalty and love, Grundy is ready to find someone who will give it back. Grundy’s adoption fee is $300 and he is available now through Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue. To enquire, send the rescue a direct message to Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue or email bcpri.adoptions@gmail.com with your name, phone number and “Grundy”.
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All Photo credit: Rachael SmithFauna Rescue Whitsundays brought wildlife awareness and family entertainment together at its Family Fun Day at Coral Sea Marina on Saturday 3rd October. From face painting and crafts to a scavenger hunt, there was plenty to keep the kids busy while families browsed the stalls or kicked back to enjoy the live entertainment. The day also gave families a chance to get to know the volunteers behind Fauna Rescue Whitsundays, who care for sick, injured and orphaned native animals and help them return to the wild. Founded in 2001, the group runs a 24-hour wildlife emergency hotline, connecting people who find an animal in need with volunteers ready to help. www.mackayandwhitsundaylife.com/social-pics/family-fun-for-fauna-rescue
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Tourism in the Whitsundays is riding high, with Bowen’s Visitor Information Centre welcoming a record number of visitors in a single day and international spending across the region reaching an all-time high. The latest figures released by Tourism Whitsundays show international visitor spending reached a record $273 million in the year ending June 2026, up 26.9 per cent on the previous year. Overseas travellers were also taking their time on their Whitsundays holidays, staying an average of 7.8 nights and spending $1,542 per person. “International expenditure is at an all time high and visitors from around the world are now staying longer in the region than ever before, indicating that global markets have real confidence in The Whitsundays and the experiences on offer here,” said Tourism Whitsundays CEO Tim Booth. Aussies were also making their presence felt, with domestic travellers contributing $997 million in spending and 678,000 Australians staying overnight in the region. For local businesses, the figures reflect a positive year, with the Sales and Marketing Captain for Ocean Rafting Nathan Fleming saying the team had noticed strong international presence, while also enjoying the Aussie faces that simply wanted to escape the cold. “Especially with our scenic flights, it seems to be a bucket list for a lot of people, but also our boat portion as well,” he said. “[Aussies] do like to get out of the old cold weather and explore the nicer, warmer climate, especially over that winter period over the last few months.” Bowen’s Visitor Information Centre also enjoyed a strong financial year, with the team beside the Big Mango welcoming more than 65,000 visitors through its doors, up 16 per cent on the previous year. That momentum continued into its busiest September yet, with 8,576 people stopping by during the month. This included a record day on 24th September, when the team greeted 552 visitors. This broke the previous records from last September when the team saw 545 people, a result that Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business Leanne Abernethy was pleasantly surprised with. “We didn’t think we would ever be able to top those numbers again, but we did,” she said. “We have certainly noticed an increase in the number of people making a daytrip to Bowen when staying in Airlie Beach for the holidays. “They absolutely love our beaches, walks and lookouts and the fact you can snorkel directly off the beach.” Despite the strong results, concerns remain over changes to working holiday visas, with businesses such as Ocean Rafting hoping the proposal is rectified quickly in order to keep this success. “That's a demographic for us, not just coming to play in the Whitsundays, but also work in the Whitsundays as well,” he said. “So we do need to get that sorted to hopefully keep that youth and adventure market driving through for us because that's a very big key part of our market.” Photo: Photo 1- Ocean Rafting Scenic Flights. Photo supplied Photo 2- Leanne Abernethy with Cherene from Driftwood tours, as well as the visitors who contributed to the record day. Photo supplied: Bowen Tourism and Business
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There’s something uniquely Australian about Christmas in the Whitsundays. Long summer days, time spent with family and friends, and the simple joy of being surrounded by nature's most beautiful playground. Here in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, the festive season offers a chance to slow down, reconnect and celebrate what matters most. At InterContinental Hayman Great Barrier Reef, we are looking forward to welcoming guests from near and far for a festive season filled with memorable experiences, exceptional dining and genuine island hospitality. While Hayman has long been recognised as one of Australia's most iconic luxury destinations, we are equally proud to be part of the wider Whitsundays community. Many of our team members call this region home, and there is a shared passion across the island for showcasing the very best of our backyard during one of the busiest and most exciting times of the year. This festive season, guests can enjoy a thoughtfully curated programme of experiences designed to bring people together. From family-friendly activities and festive dining events to moments of relaxation by the pool and adventures on the reef, there is something for every generation to enjoy. Whether it is a long-awaited family reunion, a romantic summer escape, or simply a well-earned break before the year comes to a close, Hayman provides a setting where special moments naturally unfold. We are also delighted to introduce our Whitsundays Locals Special, created exclusively for residents of our region who have always wanted to experience Hayman firsthand or return for a well-deserved island getaway. It's our way of saying thank you to the community that supports us year-round and inviting locals to enjoy the luxury, service and natural beauty that make our island so special. As tourism continues to play a vital role in our regional economy, every guest who visits Hayman helps support local jobs, suppliers, tourism operators and small businesses across the Whitsundays. We remain committed to working closely with local partners and showcasing the incredible experiences that make our region one of Australia's premier holiday destinations. As we head into the festive season, we would like to extend my sincere thanks to our local community, industry partners and dedicated colleagues whose passion and commitment help create unforgettable experiences for our guests every day. If you've been dreaming of a tropical escape this summer, there has never been a better time to book. Whether you're planning Christmas, New Year, a family holiday or a spontaneous weekend away, we invite you to experience the magic of Hayman for yourself. To book the Whitsundays Locals Special or learn more about our festive season programme, visit haymanisland.intercontinental.com or contact our reservations team on 07 4940 1234 or email hayman.reservations@ihg.com. We look forward to welcoming you to Hayman and sharing an unforgettable festive season in paradise.
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With sweeping Coral Sea views and the heart of town just a short walk away, Pinnacles is already known and loved by visitors to Airlie Beach. But now the team has another reason to celebrate. Pinnacles has been named a finalist in the 2026 Queensland Tourism Awards in the Self-Contained Accommodation category. Members of the team will join fellow Whitsundays tourism operators at the awards in November, hoping to bring home gold. "We’re incredibly proud to once again be a Queensland Tourism Awards finalist and represent the Whitsundays,” said Pinnacles Marketing Manager Therese Moran. “It’s always a wonderful opportunity to come together and celebrate our tourism industry and the people behind it. “We wish all our fellow Whitsundays finalists the very best in November – hopefully there’ll be plenty of gold coming home to the Whitsundays." For visitors making Airlie Beach their home for a few days, Pinnacles offers space to unpack and ease into the local lifestyle. With one to three bedroom apartments, with fully equipped kitchens, these spaces give guests room to settle in and find their own holiday rhythm. A quiet evening might mean a soak in the spa or time on the balcony overlooking the Coral Sea, with town just a walk down the hill. At the heart of it all is that home-away-from-home feeling, that has earned pinnacles the gold in this category the last 3 years.
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The floating accommodation that gives you the freedom to explore the Whitsundays in style have once again put Whitsunday Escape among Queensland’s tourism finalists, with the charter operator recognised in the 2026 Queensland Tourism Awards. Its self-skippered bareboat holidays have earned it a place in the Unique Accommodation category. Each modern, fully equipped vessel becomes the guest's home and transport, allowing them to explore the islands at their own pace. Having taken Gold in the same category last year, Whitsunday Escape will be hoping for another win when the awards are announced in November. “Being a finalist at the state level is a true honour and a reflection of the exceptional work that happens every day on our docks, in our office and across our fleet” said Jaclyn Watson, Managing Director. The success is backed by a world-class experience awarding tourists with the beautiful sights of the Whitsundays. Whether an experienced sailor or boating enthusiast, Whitsunday Escape delivers an unforgettable blend of nature, independence, and luxury, making every journey unique and every sunset one to remember. “Our guests get to experience the Whitsundays the way we do, on their own terms, whilst having all the support," Ms Watson said. "That combination of freedom and care is what makes the experience world class." Photo caption: Whitsundays Escape team at last year’s tourism awards gala. Photo supplied
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The Bowen Visitor Information Centre is a finalist in the Queensland Tourism Awards, along with the dedicated team of Bowen Tourism and Business volunteers. Bowen Tourism and Business Manager Leanne Abernethy said being named a finalist at State level was an honour and something the entire team was very proud of. “To be finalists in more than one category is awesome and a wonderful recognition of the hard work of our staff and volunteers,” she said. The Bowen Visitor Information Centre welcomed a record number of visitors during the past financial year, with more than 65,000 people calling into the centre beside the Big Mango. “Our visitor numbers continue to grow, and our team works hard every day to make sure everyone who walks through the doors receives a warm welcome and great local advice,” Leanne said. The Bowen Tourism and Business volunteers are once again among the finalists, building on last year’s Bronze in the state awards’ volunteer category. “Our volunteers go above and beyond every day to ensure our visitors feel very welcome,” Leanne said. “The number of volunteers has increased in the past 12 months, and they are all incredibly dedicated to promoting Bowen and the wider Whitsundays region. “Their knowledge of the local area is amazing, and they greet every visitor with a smile. “We simply couldn’t provide the level of service we do without them.” Three representatives from Bowen Tourism and Business will attend the Queensland Tourism Awards on November 6 on the Gold Coast. Photo caption: Glenn Wolmal, Leanne Abernethy and Cindy Tonks. Photo source: Leanne Abernethy
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There is plenty to celebrate in the Whitsundays, with nine of our region’s tourism businesses, organisations and facilities named finalists in the 2026 Queensland Tourism Awards. From Bowen to Airlie Beach, our islands and gateways to the Great Barrier Reef, the finalists are a great snapshot of the people, places and experiences that make the Whitsundays one of Australia’s leading visitor destinations. This year’s Whitsunday finalists include Bowen Tourism and Business Volunteers, Bowen Visitor Information Centre, Iconic Whitsunday Adventures, InterContinental Hayman Great Barrier Reef, Pinnacles Airlie Beach, Tourism Whitsundays and Whitsunday Escape, along with two of Council’s own facilities, Whitsunday Coast Airport and Shute Harbour Marine Terminal. Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said having such a strong field of local finalists was something the whole region could celebrate. “To have nine Whitsunday finalists recognised on the Queensland stage is a fantastic achievement and I congratulate every one of them,” Mayor Collins said. “Tourism is part of the lifeblood of the Whitsundays and behind every great visitor experience are passionate people who work hard every day to make our region shine.” Council is especially proud to see Whitsunday Coast Airport and Shute Harbour Marine Terminal among the finalists, with both playing an important role as gateways connecting visitors with the Whitsundays. Mayor Collins said the recognition belonged to the Council teams behind both operations. “I’m extremely proud of our teams at Whitsunday Coast Airport and Shute Harbour Marine Terminal. They put an enormous amount of work into delivering great facilities and a positive experience for the thousands of people who travel through these gateways.” “Being named finalists is great recognition for their hard work, but this is also about celebrating the success of our entire tourism industry.” Tourism in the Whitsundays is a team effort. Every visitor who arrives here experiences much more than our beaches, islands and reef. They meet the volunteers welcoming people to Bowen, tourism operators taking visitors onto the water, accommodation and hospitality teams, airport and terminal staff and the many local businesses that help make a Whitsunday holiday memorable. The recognition also comes during another strong year for the region, with Whitsunday Coast Airport continuing to record strong passenger growth and playing an increasingly important role in connecting the region with the rest of Australia. Mayor Collins said the finalists reflected the quality and passion found right across the Whitsundays. “These finalists are great ambassadors for our region and should be proud of what they have achieved. “On behalf of the Council and our community, congratulations to all nine finalists and good luck on awards night. The Whitsundays will be cheering you on.” Caption: Whitsunday Coast Airport and Shute Harbour Marine Terminal are among nine local finalists at the upcoming Queensland Tourism Awards. Photos supplied
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Not everything belongs in your wheelie bin. Batteries, household chemicals, gas bottles and other hazardous items can cause fires in collection trucks and waste facilities. Disposing of these items correctly helps protect waste collection crews and keeps our community safe. Visit Council's website to find out how and where to safely dispose of hazardous household items.
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One of the priorities of the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry is making sure the issues affecting Whitsunday businesses are heard – not just locally, but in the regional and national conversations where decisions are made. There are a few areas where the Chamber has been particularly active recently. Standing up for our regional workforce Alongside Chambers from across Central, North and Far North Queensland, we have joined a united call for the Federal Government to review proposed changes to the Working Holiday Maker visa program before they are implemented. For many Whitsunday businesses, particularly in tourism and hospitality, these workers are an important part of the workforce. Our message is simple: regional Queensland needs more workers, not fewer. We are calling for meaningful consultation with regional businesses, a review of the 88-day regional work requirement and regional classifications that better reflect the realities of today’s workforce. Speaking up on the cost of doing business The latest Reserve Bank interest rate increase to 4.6 per cent adds another pressure point for businesses already dealing with higher operating, energy and fuel costs, workforce challenges and increasing regulatory requirements. The Chamber continues to support the broader business community’s call for governments to focus on creating the conditions businesses need to invest, employ and grow – including improving productivity, access to skills and innovation, while reducing unnecessary red tape. Keeping businesses informed about change There have also been some important changes to card payment surcharges from 1 October. Businesses can no longer add surcharges for EFTPOS, Mastercard or Visa debit, credit and prepaid card payments, while American Express is also removing surcharges voluntarily. While these changes are intended to improve transparency and competition in payment services, they are another example of the practical changes businesses need to understand and implement. These issues are different, but they all come back to the same thing: businesses need certainty, practical policy, and the right conditions to get on with investing, employing, and growing. That is what we want the Chamber to keep doing – listening to our members, taking their concerns forward, and working collectively to make sure the Whitsundays has a strong voice at the table. Photo caption: Allan Molistic, president of the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce
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Recent bushfires across the Whitsunday Region, including fires that have caused road and highway closures, are a timely reminder of just how quickly conditions can change. Thankfully, our emergency services have responded quickly but seeing how fast these fires can develop reinforces the importance of being prepared. Across parts of the Whitsundays, conditions are drying out quickly. We live in North Queensland and understand that natural hazards are part of life here. Bushfires, severe storms, flooding and cyclones are very different events, but the same principle applies to all of them: the best time to prepare is before there is an emergency. For people living in or near bushfire-prone areas, now is a good opportunity to take a walk around the property. Keep grass and vegetation maintained, clear leaves and other combustible material from around buildings, make sure access to your property is clear and think about what you would do if fire threatened your area. Most importantly, have a Bushfire Survival Plan and make sure everyone in your household knows it. Where would you go? What would you take? What happens with pets? How would you stay informed? Those decisions are much easier to make around the kitchen table than when there is smoke in the air and an emergency warning on your phone. It is equally important to know where you will get reliable information. Council’s Disaster Dashboard is worth bookmarking now, providing a central source for local warnings, road conditions and other information during an emergency. And while bushfire is front of mind at the moment, it won’t be long before our attention turns towards the summer storm and cyclone season. We can’t control what the weather throws at us, but we can control how prepared our households and properties are. Recent bushfires across the Whitsunday Region have also shown the best of our community — people looking out for each other and supporting our emergency services and first responders. Their efforts are a reminder that we all have a part to play. The best thing the rest of us can do is make sure our homes, properties and families are prepared before an emergency happens.
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Years of community fundraising and long construction days are about to become a place to call home for women facing homelessness, with Proserpine’s tiny homes project preparing to open its doors. Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins will cut the ribbon at the official opening on Thursday 19th November, marking a milestone for everyone who has helped bring the project to life. Volunteer project coordinator Sandy Clark said support had come from across the Whitsundays, with thousands of people contributing over the years. The community had played an important part, attending a number of events over several years Sandy said. Serious fundraising began around 2022, with locals gathering for dinners and other events to help turn the idea into something tangible. Raffles and auctions added to the funds raised, while building businesses donated materials or offered discounted prices. The project was initiated by Whitsunday Housing Company Limited, a charity providing rental housing for vulnerable community members, and focuses on women aged 50 and over who are experiencing homelessness, including those needing somewhere to stay in an emergency. “Which could be anything like a broken relationship, ill health, it could be just the fact that their skills are no longer relevant,” Sandy said. “If they’re sleeping rough, they’re at the risk of being injured or taken advantage of.” Beyond accommodation, the team hopes to help residents build skills that could open a path back into employment. “So we’re also going to try and help them to reskill if we can,” Sandy said. “So that they can get back to work and get a job and work into something full-time.”
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Whitsunday Coast Airport continues to punch above its weight on the national stage, recording the second-highest passenger growth of any major Australian airport. The latest Bureau of Infrastructure and Transport Research Economics (BITRE) figures show the Council-owned airport recorded passenger growth of 10.6 per cent for the year ending June 2026, second only to Karratha Airport at 11.6 per cent. The result was more than three times the national passenger growth rate of 3.1 per cent and well ahead of many of Australia’s larger airports. Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said the latest figures were another strong vote of confidence in the Whitsundays as a destination and reflected the growing importance of Whitsunday Coast Airport to the regional economy. “Whitsunday Coast Airport might be a regional airport, but it continues to deliver some seriously big results for our region,” Mayor Collins said. “To be the second-fastest growing airport in Australia is a fantastic result and shows just how strong demand for the Whitsundays continues to be. “Our airport is much more than somewhere people arrive and depart. It is one of the key gateways to the Whitsundays and a major driver of our visitor economy. “Every extra passenger coming through the terminal potentially means another visitor staying in our accommodation, eating in our restaurants, booking a tour and spending money with local businesses.” Mayor Collins said the result also reflected strong partnerships with airlines to increase capacity and improve connectivity into the region. “We’ve worked hard with our airline partners to grow services and make it easier for people to fly directly into the heart of the Great Barrier Reef,” he said. “The benefit is not just for tourism. Better connectivity also gives our residents more choice and makes the Whitsundays an even more attractive place to live, work and invest.” The strong passenger figures come as Whitsunday Coast Airport continues to earn recognition within the tourism industry, with the airport also in the running for national tourism honours. Mayor Collins said the results and national recognition were something the community could be proud of, but the focus was firmly on what comes next. “We’re not interested in sitting back and patting ourselves on the back. We want to keep growing routes, building capacity and giving locals more choice about where and when they can fly,” he said. “We know the Whitsundays is a destination people want to visit, so our job is to keep opening up opportunities to get them here while making sure our community benefits from that growth. “We’ve got a regional airport serving a world-class destination, and we’re only getting started.” Photo caption: Photo supplied: Whitsundays Regional Council
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By Zach Houtenville In a decision welcomed by many local residents, Whitsunday Regional Council has rejected Alinta Energy’s application for a 160-metre meteorological mast linked to the proposed Mount Challenger Wind Farm. The decision came at the council meeting in Bowen on the 23rd September where the council came to a unanimous decision. “For me, it came down to the size and visibility of the structure, the rural character of the area and what we heard from the people who live there,” said Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins. “After weighing all of that up, I wasn’t satisfied a structure of that scale in that location was the right planning outcome.” For the Whitsundays Wind Warm Action Group, the decision adds to another recent streak of milestone moments over the 12 months span since the project was first proposed, including a 6,000-signature petition and the developer withdrawing part of the proposed project. “We were stoked as a community,” said member of the Whitsundays Wind Farm Action Group Alysha Lee. “For us, it definitely signals that the council are listening.” Alinta Energy said the mast was intended to measure wind conditions in the northern project area, helping the company decide how to proceed. It will now consider Council’s reasons for rejecting the application before deciding its next move. “We acknowledge Council’s decision and will review its reasons in detail once the Decision Notice is issued before considering next steps for the project,” an Alinta Energy spokesperson said. Council doors are still opened to future energy projects, with a willingness to work with developers who plan carefully and engage with local communities. “I don’t see this as Council saying no to renewable energy or investment in our region,” Mayor Collins said. “I support a balanced energy mix and I believe the Whitsundays has a role to play in future energy development, but that doesn’t mean every project is right for every location. “What we are saying is that development needs to be in the right place, planned properly and take into account the communities that are being asked to live alongside it.” The Wind Farm Action Group is now eager to hear Alinta’s next steps, with Alysha hoping that the next milestone will be a full withdrawal from the project. “We’ll be approaching Alinta and asking when they’re pulling out of this project,” she said. The group also hopes Council’s upcoming Community Benefit Agreement policy will give developers and landholders clearer guidance on suitable locations for renewable energy projects. Mayor Ry Collins said the policy would consider what host communities receive in return, alongside impacts on nearby residents, local jobs and procurement, housing and infrastructure pressures, and the protection of agricultural land and the environment. “At the end of the day, communities should see a genuine local benefit from hosting these major projects,” he said. “As I said at the Council meeting, the transition to new forms of energy needs to be done with communities, not simply around them.” Photo caption: Whitsundays Wind Farm Action Group. Photo supplied
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BY JACOB CASHA Mackay model Zoe Place has been tipped for the top of the industry after winning the Miss Diamond International pageant in Brisbane this week. The 20-year-old runway aspirant made her mark on a panel of industry-leading judges across the three-day Miss Diamond International finals, taking out seven awards as she strutted to the main crown. “The moment they called my name, I wasn't expecting it. It honestly felt absolutely surreal,” Zoe said. Now in its 10th year, Miss Diamond International is a nationally respected pageant that evaluates contestants on runway presence, interview skills, and community advocacy across a preliminary phase and finals series. Zoe’s journey to the crown began a year ago, practicing interviews, runway techniques, and raising over $900 for mental health and wellbeing organisation Beyond Blue. She said her choice of charity was born from personal grapples with mental health. “I want to be able to advocate for men, women, and children that suffer from mental health and think that they can't find help—because when I was younger, I felt there was no way of being able to help myself,” she said. “It's about starting conversations, breaking down the stigma about mental health, and reminding people that it's okay to ask for help. I want to be able to use my title, Miss Diamond International, to continue spreading that message.” Also part of Zoe’s campaign was an eco-dress, crafted in conjunction with designer Irene Olive Adams, which used a combination of Mackay Life newspapers and red flowers. “[It] was very hard to walk in,” she laughed, “but I was able to get it on the stage and not rip it at all!” Judges said the dress was one of the defining elements of Zoe’s campaign, alongside her mental health mission, runway presence, and her development over the three days in Brisbane. One judge, Jordan King, said Zoe stood out from the off—despite initially coming across nervy in interviews. “I remember Zoe from that first night. She was very engaged with all the contestants, and she was a very genuine person, and that's what we love to see,” he said. “Sometimes people enter for the wrong reasons, just to get another crown. She was in it for really good reasons, and I think that's what made her stand out.” Another judge, Peter Sereno—who has worked with international modelling talent—said he saw flashes of former Miss Universe Australia winner Jesinta Franklin (nee Campbell) in Zoe. “She's got something that a lot of other pageant girls don't have, and that's the ability to transition into a modelling career if she wanted to,” he said. “If she plays her cards right, she will go further than Jesinta.” Zoe said she hopes to do more runway events in the future. She said the process of finding an agent has begun, with sights set on the Brisbane modelling industry as she builds her portfolio—which now includes a Miss Diamond International crown. She also hopes to continue her work with Beyond Blue and build awareness around mental health. CAPTIONS: 1—Mackay model Zoe Place has been tipped for the top of the industry after winning the Miss Diamond International pageant in Brisbane this week. 2—Also part of Zoe’s campaign was an eco-dress, crafted in conjunction with designer Irene Olive Adams, which used a combination of Mackay Life newspapers and red flowers. Photos supplied
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The Whitsunday Skyway has been promoted as a game-changing tourism project for Airlie Beach, but residents living near the proposed route say they still have questions about consultation and the project’s changed footprint. The state government announced the project’s Prescribed Project status on 3rd June, a move intended to streamline approvals for the proposed 1.8-kilometre cableway which has been officially planned since 2026 but a point of discussion for 20 years. The project, backed by a $5 million state government commitment, is expected to include a summit station, luge-style ride, dining and cultural experiences, events facilities and walking tracks, with the government saying it could create up to 390 jobs during construction and at least 80 jobs once complete. “This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to showcase the natural beauty of the Whitsundays in an innovative way,” said Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jarrod Bleijie. “Declaring the Whitsunday Skyway Project as a Prescribed Project is a clear message to the people of Queensland that we are serious about delivering infrastructure that creates jobs and drives economic growth.” However, residents of Raintree Place near the proposed location of the project, have spoken out, stating their concern is not with the concept of the Skyway itself, but with more recent changes to the proposal, including the relocation of the base station to Waterson Way. They allege that these changes were implemented without direct consultation with nearby households. According to local resident Pascale Whyte, a Variation Request lodged by the proposal’s consultants on 8th August 2025 relocated the cableway base station from its original site at the end of Raintree Place, behind nearby homes, to 45–71 Waterson Way in central Airlie Beach. The document stated the changes are intended to provide greater access to the Airlie Beach tourist precinct and improve access for cruise ship passengers arriving through the Port of Airlie. Pascale claims that she represents a group of residents who were not directly notified of the change, only becoming aware of the relocation through a AATG WOU shareholder announcement filed on the National Stock Exchange on 26th September 2025. “Our base station was relocated from the hillside behind us to the centre of Airlie Beach without any consultation with us,” she said. “They did a submission of change which no one knew about, putting the Skyway base station at the front of us in town. “People still aren’t aware of it.” These changes, according to Pascale, mean the skyway line would run in intrusive proximity to their properties. In addition to the property impact, residents have raised environmental concerns in conjunction with the project’s layout. Their concern is that clearing vegetation for the proposed luge and surrounding infrastructure could leave the steep hillside more vulnerable to erosion or landslides during heavy rain and cyclones. Pascale pointed out the example of Queenstown, New Zealand. Back in 2023, a major landslip directly linked to their Skyline project caused a nighttime evacuation, 10 houses to be deemed unsafe to inhabit and millions in damages. The group hopes Council’s Draft Environment Strategy will introduce stronger safeguards for areas like Conway National Park, following the passage of Queensland’s controversial Critical Minerals legislation on 27th August. “They have just passed a law that lets a private luge and cable car be treated as more strategic than the residents who live underneath it,” Pascale said. “In Queensland, we call that losing your rights to a fair go.” The group is asking for the base station to return to its originally proposed mid-hill site behind Raintree Place, rather than the revised site near their homes. “We don’t oppose the development,” Pascale said. “We want to be able to have a say.” As the proposal moves through the formal assessment process, engineering and design studies will be undertaken to examine ground conditions, visual impacts and potential noise from the development. A spokesperson for the Whitsunday Skyway Project said: “WOU continue to work closely with the Queensland State Government and the Whitsunday Regional Council and are committed to providing full transparency to the community and residents in relation to planning approvals and alignments at a time when certainty can be provided.” Photo source: Skyway Development
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A local couple recently took to social media to share praise of the staff at Proserpine Hospital, recognising the incredible work and care the team provided while welcoming their first child. Michael Campbell said he and his partner were grateful for the care they received from the hospital’s midwives and medical team throughout the birth. He said the team went above and beyond to ensure his partner felt comfortable, supported and cared for during the experience. “Every member of the team went above and beyond to make sure my partner was comfortable, supported and genuinely cared for,” Mr Campbell wrote. The first-time father also highlighted the importance of having dedicated healthcare professionals working in a regional community. He said the team’s kindness, patience and reassuring nature had made a significant difference during one of the most important moments of their lives. Mr Campbell thanked the hospital staff for their professionalism, compassion, sense of humour and care towards his partner and newborn. “Living in a regional community like the Whitsundays, I think it's easy to overlook just how fortunate we are to have such dedicated healthcare professionals right on our doorstep,” he wrote. The family said the care they received had helped make the life-changing experience even more special and was something they would never forget. Mr Campbell encouraged other families who had experienced similar care to take a moment to recognise the Proserpine Hospital team. CAPTION: A local couple recently took to social media to praise and thank the team at Proserpine Hospital. Photo supplied by Michael Campbell
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Meet the people who keep the Whitsundays safe as local emergency services come together for a free family field day featuring rescue boats, emergency vehicles and live demonstrations. Photo credit: Zach HoutenvilleWhen an emergency strikes, they’re the people we call. This Saturday, Whitsunday families will have the chance to meet those frontline crews in a more relaxed setting, explore their equipment and learn about the work they do, as well as how they do it. From watching police dogs in action to climbing aboard rescue boats, visitors can get a closer look at local emergency services, while picking up some practical safety advice. Meet The Crews Who Answer The Call Police dogs, fire trucks, rescue boats, live demonstrations and much more will give families a closer look at the emergency services that keep the Whitsundays safe when they come together tomorrow, Saturday 10 October, for a free community field day. Organised by Whitsunday Police Station, the family-friendly event will bring together Queensland Police, Ambulance and Fire services, Volunteer Marine Rescue, Whitsunday Water Police and Whitsunday Regional Council’s disaster management team. “All the frontline emergency services we'll come together and do a bit of a show and tell,” said PCYC Whitsunday Sergeant Billy Li. “The purpose of the event is to show the community a different light of emergency services available. Visitors will have plenty to see and do throughout the day, each service will run its own demonstrations, providing a closer look at the skills and equipment crews use when responding to emergencies. “All the frontline emergency services will come together for a bit of show and tell, with each agency displaying what it has to offer.” “The community will be able to ask questions of emergency personnel and learn more about each service.” The program may even include some friendly rivalry between agencies, with games and a possible tug-of-war giving the community a chance to pick a side and cheer them on. “We will be engaging the community to join in as well,” Sergeant Billy said. Younger visitors can climb aboard rescue boats, explore emergency vehicles and watch police dogs in action, while speaking directly with local personnel about their equipment and roles. Beyond the safety lessons, the games and friendly agency challenges, this outing will allow families to see the more relaxed side of those who respond when the community needs help.
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The 15th annual Viking Cup brought a footy frenzy to the Whitsundays, with around 900 young players from more than 70 teams taking to the field at Whitsunday Sports Park for three days of rugby union. Teams travelled from Mount Isa, Rockhampton, Townsville and Mackay, with President of the Whitsunday Sportspark Tim Oberg saying about 55 came from outside the region. “The guys who came down from Mount Isa, none of them had ever been here before,” Tim said. “The feedback has been phenomenal and people are already signing up to come back next year.” “The sports park is just such a good venue now, so to have that facility, it just makes the whole thing look so much more impressive and professional.” The carnival’s growth was on full display this year, expanding to three days for the first time and giving younger players their own day on the field, while older juniors stepped up to help referee their games. “It was really cool to see a good community vibe,” said Whitsunday Junior Rugby League Treasurer Amber Smithson. “I feel like now we're definitely ready for the international teams, whereas last year, we were ready for the next part but we weren't ready to take that kind of leap. “But now it definitely feels ready for four days and to expand out to international teams.” The Whitsunday Raiders enjoyed the chance to play hosts, welcoming visiting teams for some end-of-season rugby and friendly banter between games. “It’s good to actually bring people from all around the state, well, almost all around the state to come and have a crack up here,” Whitsunday Raiders Under-16 Coach Jay Robinson said. Photo 1- Whitsunday Raiders U-16 team. Photo credit: Zach Houtenville Photo 2- Club Whitsundays watched scrums like this all weekend
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By Zach Houtenville A stranded whale made its way back to sea after hours of care at Sinclair Bay on Sunday 4th October, with local couple Larry and Sue Shieffelbien helping wildlife officers through the lengthy rescue. For Larry, the day began around 6am with a morning coffee at Sinclair Bay Resort. Looking out over the beach, he noticed what appeared to be a large branch washed up on the shore. But as the tide receded, a fin appeared, prompting him and his wife, Sue, to wander down for a closer look. Up close, they realised it was a roughly four metres long whale. “It was still blowing through his blowhole, so I kind of felt that it was still alive and healthy, just stranded,” Larry said. The couple reported the stranding to Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service and got to work while waiting for officers to arrive. For the next hour, Larry and Sue stayed beside the whale, shading it with an umbrella and keeping the towels covering it wet. “They said to put towels over the whale, which is exactly what we did until they turned up,” Larry said. The officers’ arrival marked the start of a long wait for the tide to change, with the team sheltering the whale beneath a gazebo and continuing to keep it wet throughout the day. “They seemed to know what they were doing and just nursed it the whole remaining six or seven hours until the tide was coming back in,” Larry said. Even then, the whale’s path to freedom was far from straightforward. The relief of seeing the whale swim again was short-lived, with Larry recalling how the animal turned back towards shore and became stranded again further along the bay. Officers Tim and Ben kept working to guide it beyond the sandbar, until it finally reached deeper water and swam out to sea at around 3pm. ‘It was a good feeling to see it go and to have helped save an animal, save a life,” Larry said. “Tim and Ben, the two main guys from the wildlife people, they were awesome,” Larry said. Photo captions: Photo 1- Whale Beached in Sinclair Bay. Photo credit: Sue and Larry Shieffelbein Photo 2- QPWS Officers Tim and Ben watching the animal go Photo 3- QPWS Officers attempting to slide the animal back into the sea
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Airlie Beach Veterniary Surgery with their stars, Murphy and Mo. Photo credit: Zach HoutenvilleJohn Morghan with his pirate mate, Gizmo The moss family snagged my mention Robbin Dukes and her precious Megs Greg and Vito hanging out with their friends, Jojo and Sally Dr Tess, Brianna, William and the table scrambler, Maggie Kate with her toast and honey A stylish duo, Michael and Ms Bling
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OPINION PIECE from the office of Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox There is no question that immigration into Australia is out of control. The government’s numbers are too high, and standards are too low. A sustainable migration program must consider our capacity to provide housing, healthcare, infrastructure and the essential services everyone relies on, and Australians must come first. But Labor’s decision to target Working Holiday Makers Visa holders is not the answer. These people filling vital gaps in our workforce are not the cause of Australia’s housing crisis. In many cases, they are living in accommodation provided by the very businesses that employ them. The National Farmers’ Federation has made the point that Working Holiday Makers generally stay in hostels, caravan parks or purpose-built on-farm accommodation. Resorts usually have on-site staff quarters. They are not the source of Australia’s housing shortage. So why is Labor making it harder for them to come here, when these workers fill genuine jobs that regional Australia holds? Working Holiday Makers fill approximately one in seven farm jobs nationally and are particularly important during peak agricultural periods, which for Dawson, it is right now! Farmers rely on these workers to plant, pick, pack and harvest the produce that ends up on Australian supermarket shelves. Having run one of Australia’s largest tomato farms, at times Working Holiday Makers made up more than 50 per cent of my workforce. Without them, much of our crop simply would not have been picked in time and rotted in the paddock. Some may say, why not employ the Australians who don’t have a job and are on “the dole”? Can I say, this does not work. Most farmers will employ Aussies over travelling backpackers, but many either don’t want to do the work or don’t turn up after the first day. Who picks the fruit or veggies then? Farmers are already warning that visa delays are leaving them without workers. The NFF says approvals that once took days are now facing processing times of up to three months, and this time frame can be the difference between harvesting a crop or losing it. That should concern every Australian already feeling the pressure at the supermarket checkout. The same problem is playing out in tourism. Across Dawson, Working Holiday Makers are an important part of the workforce supporting tourism and hospitality, particularly in the Whitsundays. They help fill shifts, work in hotels and restaurants, support tour operators and keep businesses running through their busiest periods. They also contribute to the local economy. They spend money on food, fuel, attractions and tours, supporting the small businesses that depend on a strong visitor economy. That is why tourism and business leaders across North Queensland are raising the alarm. They understand what happens when a regional business cannot get enough staff: opening hours are reduced, and services are cut, creating a downward spiral. We do need to reduce migration to sustainable levels. We need stronger integrity measures, and we need to crack down on rorts. But responsible migration policy means understanding which parts of the system are creating pressure and which parts are helping Australia function. Working Holiday Makers are not the problem. They are part of the workforce solution for regional. Australia. People have had a gutful of watching their standard of living go backwards. Groceries, fuel, housing and everyday expenses are already putting enormous pressure on families. The last thing Australians need is another reckless policy that makes it harder to produce food, harder to run regional businesses and harder for tourism operators to find the workers they need.
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Mackay Road Runners Race Director Andrew Short planned a unique course for the Quota Park Mystery 5km and 10km social run, with runners facing an unusual challenge before they even hit the track. In a very un-Andrew-like move, the course was not marked. However, this was all part of the plan, with Andrew verbally briefing runners on the technical course description before the start. A copy of the course map was also available for participants to view. More than 20 participants were instructed to review the maps before the race began, which they diligently and successfully did, with everyone making it home. It was great to welcome talented junior running sensation Aria Tobin and senior marathon runner David Wood, who both completed the 10km with ease. Carolyn Mapes also made a welcome return to running after several weeks away due to injury, steadily pacing herself through the 5km. There were also excellent performances in the 5km event, with legendary veterans Judy Zahn and David Isbister making light work of their outing alongside Jo Skinner, Kim Saron, Leanne Connor, Jo Hughes, Fran March, Natasha Joynson, Craig Malcolm and Bec Malcolm. Despite next Sunday being the NRL Grand Final, Mackay Road Runners will host a warm-up event for the big game with a morning trail run from the Eungella Chalet. As usual, all members and non-members are welcome to enjoy the scenic vistas, social camaraderie, fitness challenge and post-run refreshments available for purchase at the beautiful Eungella Chalet. Runners can check the Mackay Road Runners website calendar at mackayroadrunners.com to confirm the 6km and 19km course distances, commencing at 7am, as well as the Spine Care Chiropractic Benita Willis 10km Handicap Trophy and 5km event on October 11th from the Bluewater Lagoon. Contributed with thanks by Janelle Tilse 8073 – Over twenty runners bolted from the gun in the Quota Park Myster 5k & 10k social run. 8077 – Levi Wallace in his usual signature style leads Aria Tobin midway through the 10km. 8088 – Carmel Mahon and Craig Joynson support each other in the 10km. 8134 – Steve Oberg (left) and David Wood warm down after their 10km efforts. 8091 – Phoebe congratulates 5k runners including her Mum, Fran March (2nd left), Craig Malcolm and Bec Malcolm. Photos supplied
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