Schools across the region wrapped up the term in festive style with vibrant Easter Bonnet Parades, bringing a joyful splash of colour and creativity to classrooms and playgrounds.

Students proudly paraded their handmade bonnets, each one a unique expression of imagination and artistic flair. From bold colours to whimsical designs, the bonnets reflected the excitement of Easter and the spirit of celebration that marks the end of term.

The parades have become a cherished tradition in many schools, offering students a fun and creative outlet while bringing the school community together to celebrate the season.

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Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Christian College, Cannonvale State School and Bowen State School

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The Bowen Health Connection event united local community members and health service providers for a day devoted to health and wellbeing across the entire spectrum of life, from babies to the elderly.

Brought to life through the hard work and dedication of Stephanie Cora, executive officer of the Bowen Community Centre, and Josephenie Ferguson, community liaison officer with the Together Strong, Connected Care program.

“The intention of the event was to not just focus on women's health but health in general for people of all age groups, whether you're a parent with a new-born or a senior seeking support," said Ms Cora.

The overarching purpose of Bowen Health Connection was to make local health services more visible and approachable, giving residents the opportunity to access programs which support their health and ultimately improve their quality of life.

Booths and displays were erected for a range of health services, with providers on deck to answer questions and supply attendees with resources.

“Our goal was to give locals a clearer picture of the health services available to them here in the community,” said Ms Ferguson.

The event was made possible through the generous funding from Give Queensland and Q call, whose support allowed the organisers to breathe life into the idea. Both Ms Cora and Ms Ferguson expressed their heartfelt gratitude for the funding and the strong community turnout.

By shifting the focus on inclusion, awareness and access, The Bowen Health Connection succeeded in ensuring essential health information was delivered to the individuals most in need.

“We hope this becomes a regular event,” said Ms Ferguson. “Because healthy communities start with connection.”

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Stephanie Cox and Bowen Health Connection Organisers. Photo Supplied
Josephine Ferguson and Stephanie Cox
Paige Cox and Raeni Ashton of Selectability
Antoinette du Toit and Carol Norris, Senior Coordinator and CEO of Greater Whitsunday Communities
Josephine Ferguson Together Strong Connected Care
Anna Cubis, Linette Leville, Isla Caskie, Penny King of NWRH
Joanne Mulcahy of TRACC
Kaylee Ahern of Headspace and Megan Waite of Madec
Amanda Hunter of Wellways
Tiarna Ezzy of Footprints Community
Ariko Idagi of Girudala Family Support
Michelle Bates and Alicia Gubb of Frail Age Service
Stella Life Care, Stella Community

Photo Credit: Munir Kilic

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Will Donald Trump’s presidency lead to a stock market crash and how will that affect your retirement plans?

We’ve all watched on as Donald Trump has taken a wrecking ball to the established world order over the last few months.  This has led to what is officially called ‘a correction’, where share markets have fallen by over 10%.  Will this turn into a ‘crash’ where markets fall over 20% from their highs?  The real answer is no one knows.  Trump’s policies are so aggressive that no one has any precedence or prior experience of them to accurately gauge their impact on investment markets.  Trump has openly announced that there may be more economic pain to investment markets as he reshapes how countries defend themselves and trade with the US.

We’ve fielded several calls from people who’ve recently retired or are close to retiring, concerned that their Super or Pension fund balance has dropped since the start of the year.  This is the first ‘correction’ on world investment markets for several years and it naturally makes people worried about their financial security.  No one retires and wants to have to go back to work for 5 years to rebuild their super balance.

Establishing a solid financial plan for retirement means getting your head around a few different concepts.  One is having at least a basic understanding of how investing works.  Another is accepting that there will be investment corrections and crashes and having a proven plan in place to protect against them.  Once you have these, you can sleep better at night.

At Eclipse our style has always been to explain things to people over a couple of free interviews before we decide whether to proceed to formal written advice.  This provides time to identify where you’re at, how much you have got in the pot, how old you are and what sort of income and lifestyle you’re chasing in retirement.  We then look at where your money is invested now and explain how investment markets work in simple terms on a whiteboard.  If protecting against market crashes is important to you (and it always is!) we will then explain how we protect retirees against crashes.  We’ll also look at how things like Age Pension work and explain the pros and cons of the different types of super pensions and what suits your situation.

All this is done over a coffee in one or two free interviews and should give you plenty of food for thought.  Once we understand the scope of work required, we will clearly quote any fees to proceed with formal written advice so you can make an educated decision.

For a free consultation with local people who understand the complexities of these or any other financial matter, contact Eclipse Financial Planning at Cannonvale on 49467359 today or visit www.eclipsefp.com.au

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Nestled along the pristine waterfront of the Coral Sea, Marina Shores Airlie beach offers guests an unparalleled fusion of luxury, style and striking views. My recent tour of this exquisite property, under the guidance of the knowledgeable Ross Martin. Demonstrated why Marina Shores raises the bar for luxury living in the Whitsundays. From its elegantly designed accomodations to it’s enviable amenities, Marina Shores is a for seekers of indulgence and serenity.

The tour commenced with a journey through the property’s diverse range of rooms, each painstakingly tailored to maximise comfort and capitalise on the stunning surroundings of the Whitsunday coast. On the ground floor, I viewed the one-bedrom apartments. These spacious units exude modern grace and elegance, with open-plan layouts and large windows that warmly invite natural light. Ascending to the second floor, Ross introduced the two and three bedroom apartments, Which offer Garden, Marina or Ocean views. Ideal for families or groups, these cosy abodes provide ample space and private decks perfectly suited for soaking in the beauty of the Whitsunday Islands.The highlight however, was the third-floor penthouses. Available in two, three or four-bedroom layouts, these lavishly luxurious suites boast both Marina and Ocean views, featuring expansive decks perfect for entertaining guests or quiet reflection. Designed by renowned Ken Down Architects, every room at Marina Shores features vogue interiors, state-of-the-art lightning, and a harmonious interplay of space, light and colour.

Beyond luxury accomodation, Marina Shores offers amenities which uplift the guest experience to even greater heights. Ross proudly showcased the large, heated pool, a standout feature that ensures year-round enjoyment for guests, especially on cool winter nights. The property’s viewing platform cosily tucked away in the back was a personal favourite. This vantage point presents a panoramic view of the surrounding woodland and marina, furnishing guests with a serene spot to relax and unwind. These excellent facilities combined with the fully self-contained, serviced apartments, serve to make Marina Shores a must stay destination which caters to both relaxation and sophistication.

Ross also shared insights into the broader portfolio of the at Hotel Group, which manages Marina Shores. The group oversees an impressive 1,010 properties across Australia, including eight in Airlie Beach, They also operate the Grand Mercure on the tropical gem of Magnetic Island, and a Mantra property in the quaint coastal retreat of Nelson Bay. This diverse collection underscores the group’s commitment to delivering exceptional hospitality in some of Australia’s most sought-after destinations.

Marina Shores is the jewel of Airlie Beach’s crown. Situated at Abel Point Marina and offering wonderous waterfront living with views  spanning across the Whitsunday Islands. The property’s design prioritizes pure decadence, with spacious decks, luxurious finishes, and an ambiance of both exclusivity and inticement. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a family holiday, or a lavish escape, Marina Shores delivers an experience as unforgettable as the Whitsundays themselves. For those planning a visit, this property promises not just a stay, but the experience of a lifetime.

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Waterview Apartment in Marina Shores. Photo Supplied.
Apartment Room In Marina Shores. Photo Supplied.
Bedroom in Marina Shores. Photo Supplied.

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Blink and you’ll miss them, but catch a glimpse and you might think you’ve discovered an alien lifeform. Nudibranchs are the ocean’s most flamboyant residents: tiny, slow-moving sea slugs adorned in neon colours, wild patterns and surreal shapes. Like living confetti, they drift across the seafloor. For divers in the know, spotting one is a very special moment.

These vibrant creatures come in an astonishing array of shapes, sizes and colours. Yet despite their dazzling appearance, nudibranchs can be surprisingly difficult to find, often camouflaging perfectly with their surroundings.

They inhabit a wide range of marine environments, from shallow rock pools and coral reefs to sandy seabeds and the dark depths more than 2,000 metres below the surface. As benthic animals, they spend their lives crawling along the ocean floor.

But nudibranchs are more than just a visual delight. As carnivores, they play a vital role in the marine food web, feeding on sea anemones, sponges, soft corals, tunicates and other invertebrates, while also serving as prey for other sea slugs, crabs, lobsters, turtles and even humans. Most of their time is spent grazing or hunting for food.

To eat, many rely on a specialised, toothed structure called a radula, used to scrape or tear food from surfaces. Some species go further, injecting prey with digestive enzymes before sucking out the liquefied tissues. Others have developed a remarkable partnership with symbiotic algae, harnessing sunlight to produce energy in a process similar to corals.

Beyond their ecological role, nudibranchs are gaining recognition as important indicator species. Their populations respond rapidly to changes in the environment, making them valuable barometers of ocean health. A sudden increase or decline in nudibranch numbers can signal broader environmental shifts, particularly those driven by climate change. As coral reefs — one of their preferred habitats — are among the most vulnerable ecosystems, the presence of nudibranchs can reveal much about their condition and resilience.

Fast fact: NUDI'S WERE UNKNOWN UNTIL THE 18TH CENTURY

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Hi everyone,

As promised, here is the extended edition of Ruth2Reef!

I’m excited to bring you three full pages of fascinating environmental news from around the Whitsundays.

In this week’s edition, we explore the geological history of the Whitsundays and how the region was formed, dive into the vibrant world of nudibranchs, and share some amazing reef and whale facts.

I spotted my first nudibranch a few weeks ago and it was absolutely beautiful. It was tiny, bright blue, and slowly making its way across a coral formation.

If you have an environmental story for me please send it to ruth@lifepublishinggroup.com, I would love to hear from you!

Ruth

"We can't just continue living as if there was no tomorrow, because there is a tomorrow." - Greta Thunberg.

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Only one more week until the big dance – election day is next Saturday. Candidates will be making their final pitches. Chances are though, many voters have already made up their minds and are heading for an early vote. Early polling opened this week and people can cast their vote anytime from now until polls close on May 3rd.

At the 2022 election 32.2% of eligible voters chose to cast their vote before polling day with another 15.9% sending in postal votes. That is a whopping 48.1% of Australian voters had made up their minds early. Many political commentators expect to see a similar figure replicated this year. However, many suggest that while there is a large block of voters who have long known where their vote is headed, a large number are still undecided.

With so many voters this year still undecided, could we see a late surge in support for one of the two major parties or maybe like in 2022 will votes be parked with minor parties and independents?

The betting agents say a hung parliament is on the cards which will result in a drawn out declaration of who forms government. In 2010, the Labor government hung onto power via a minority government before a comprehensive victory by the Coalition in 2013. Could history repeat?

The fallout of the election will make for interesting watching as the outcome usually sees decisions on the futures of political careers made. Unless there is a definitive victory, behind closed doors the caucus of each political party will discuss, debate and unpack the election and decide if a new leader will be best to take them forward.

There is some speculation that Albanese already has one eye on his NSW Central Coast property and unless Labor win a majority this will be his last trip to the big dance. The school of thought is that if the Coalition claim victory his resignation from parliament will be weeks or months after the election, and if Labor secure victory but via a minority, he will pass the baton on half way through the term. Doing this would give time for a new voice to take over and if need be pivot central polices in the hope of avoiding a landslide outcome like that of 2013.

Both Albanese and Dutton are spruiking confidence that they can secure a majority government. They both say they have a plan for Australia’s future.

If Albanese is thinking this could be his last campaign, is he going to pull some last minute moves and throw a Hail Mary or can Dutton successfully sell the Coalition’s message for a majority? Either way, the outcome as to who will lead Australia for the next 3 years will be known soon, albeit if there is a hung parliament there may be a bit of a delay.

Bottom line – Leaders are not forever but the direction the country takes under their leadership can be long lasting.

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The price tag for Labor’s failed ‘Voice’referendum hit more than half a billion dollars. At a
time when Australians are doing it tough, that money could have helped ease cost of
living pressures, putting food on the table, covering rent, or paying power bills.

Here in Dawson, I hear from families every week who are struggling just to get by. Cost of
living pressures are crushing our local communities, yet the Albanese Government chose
to pour hundreds of millions into a divisive referendum that failed to deliver any practical
outcome.

Nearly 61% of Australians said “No,” and in Dawson, more than 80% rejected Labor’s
‘Voice’ proposal. The message was clear: Australians want unity, not more bureaucracy.

On top of this failed and expensive referendum, Labor has made no real impact in
improving the lives of indigenous people living in remote communities.

I made my position clear from the start. Like many here in Dawson, I saw the Voice as the
wrong approach, out of touch with real community needs. The failed referendum
highlighted how disconnected Labor is from ordinary Australians.

The Coalition believes in one Australia, united under one flag, proud of our history, and
inclusive of both Indigenous and non-Indigenous cultures. As Prime Minister, Peter
Dutton has committed to representing all Australians with leadership grounded in
common sense and shared values, vowing to stand in front of just the Australian flag.

Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price, a proud Indigenous Australian with firsthand
experience of life in remote communities, will be a strong Minister for Indigenous Affairs
in a Coalition government, focused on real outcomes, not symbolism.

We’ll invest in better housing, health, education, and jobs where they’re needed most, delivering
practical change to close the gap.

A Coalition government will focus on practical solutions that bring Australians together
and not waste tax payer’s money on creating division and more bureaucracy. We
understand the strain on everyday Australians, from struggling families, to young people
finding their way into work and housing, and to pensioners on fixed incomes.

By cutting unnecessary government spending, reducing red tape, and supporting local businesses,
the Coalition will help ease cost of living pressures. We’ll invest in housing, job creation,
and make it easier for first-time homebuyers to enter the market.

Unlike Labor’s divisive agenda, the Coalition is committed to uniting the country and growing a stronger, more prosperous future for all Australians.

A Dutton/Littleproud Coalition Government will focus on what unites us. We will grow a
stronger, united future.

The Coalition is ready to lead — one people, one future, under one flag.

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Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP with Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price who could be a strong Minister for Indigenous Affairs in a Coalition government. Photo supplied

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Proserpine has a rich military history dating back to the Boer War and since then generations of men and women from this community have answered the call. Some made the supreme sacrifice and are remembered on our cenotaph. Others suffered the horrors of being a prisoner of war, either dying in captivity or returning home as shadows of their former selves.

It would have been heart-wrenching for families to watch their sons head off to war, but imagine what it must have been like for those who saw more than one child enlist. Such was the case for several families in Proserpine in both world wars.

In World War Two, four of five Farrell brothers; sons of James Joseph Farrell and Mary Teresa (nee Brennan) volunteered to serve their country. Further adding to the anguish that must have been felt at this time, Mary Farrell, known to most as Tessie, was a widow having lost her husband in 1938. To add to her heartache, two of her boys died on active service.

In this feature, we pay tribute to the four brothers Farrell and we thank them for their service.

Lance Corporal Jack Thomas Farrell QX11230 (2/26th Battalion - F Force) POW Died on Active Service

Born December 3 1918, Jack (John) enlisted at Miowera on July 3 1940 along with several other Proserpine men and was deployed to Singapore in 1941. Captured when the Japanese over ran Malaya, he spent several years in various Japanese prison camps and worked on the construction of the infamous Thai-Burma Railway line.

Soon after the family received word of his safety, they learnt that his years of captivity had undermined his health and he was placed on the army’s dangerously ill list. On October 27 1945, Jack returned to Australia on the hospital ship “Manunda”. He was taken to Concorde Military Hospital but sadly died on October 29 only two days after arriving in his home country. His mother was enroute to Sydney by train to meet Jack but in Brisbane she received the sad news by telegram of his passing away.

Lance Corporal Jack Farrell is buried in the Sydney War Cemetery, Rockwood. He is remembered on the Proserpine Cenotaph and his name is located at Panel 53 in the commemorative area at the Australian War Memorial.

Joseph Farrell QX 24851 (2/7TH Battalion) KIA

Born June 22 1922, Joseph, whose real name was Patrick but known as Joe, was the youngest of Farrell brothers. He signed up on January 1 1942. Joe was killed in action. He died at Mubo on August 23 1943 during the Salamaua – Lae campaign in New Guinea with the 2/7th Battalion. He was reinterred on May 5 1946 in the Lae War Cemetery SB 12 and is remembered on the Proserpine Cenotaph.

James Joseph Farrell QX27969 (Z Special Unit)

Born August 8 1911, James, known as Jim, was married and the eldest, enlisting on February 2 1942. He was a member of Z Special Unit which was a training school set up outside Cairns. In February 1943, special operations were reorganised under Special Operations Australia (SOA); sometimes known as Special Reconnaissance Department. Z Unit, which came under the control of SOA, conducted 81 covert raids in WW2.

James was posted to Thursday Island Fortress with Torres Strait Force and to Morotai with Z Special Unit. He was discharged November 26 1945. James was an active returned soldier and would regularly act as MC at dances held to raise money after the war. He worked at Faust Bros. Hardware Store.

James Joseph Farrell passed away November 11 1962, aged 51, and is buried in the Proserpine Cemetery.

Sapper Eric John Farrell Q112034 (11 Field Company)

Eric, born March 12 1913, enlisted before his older brother on June 21 1941 and served for 203 days until he was discharged twelve months later, on June 26 1942, classified as an essential service person - those who worked on a farm, in a mine, or in a business that needed some of their men. When Japan entered the war, many men dropped their tools and enlisted, leaving the workforce very low and affecting the country’s ability to produce items necessary for both the military and civilians.

Eric Farrell worked as a labourer in the sugar industry on both farm and in the mill. He was called back to cut cane.

Eric John Farrell died May 18 1967, aged 54 and is buried in the Proserpine Cemetery.

Lest we Forget

Lance Corporal Jack Farrell
Eric John Farrell
Private Joseph (Joe) Farrell
Private James Joseph Farrell

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Everywhere I go in the Whitsundays, I hear the same concern: insurance is becoming unaffordable. Whether it's families, small business owners, or strata property holders — the cost of protecting what matters most has blown out.

And during a cost-of-living crisis, those costs hit even harder. Too many people are being forced to go without insurance or settle for inadequate cover.

This leaves our communities exposed and underprepared — especially in regions like ours, where extreme weather events are a known risk.

What’s most frustrating is that we’ve done the right thing. Across Queensland, councils have invested heavily in flood mitigation, resilience infrastructure, and natural hazard planning to reduce risk and better protect our communities.

Yet, despite these efforts, we’re still seeing insurance premiums skyrocket by 100%, 200% — even 500% in some areas. It’s unsustainable, it’s unfair, and it’s leaving too many Queenslanders behind.

That’s why councils across the state, including Whitsunday Regional Council, are calling on the Federal Government to take urgent action.

We want to see:

Greater transparency in how premiums are set, including proper recognition of local mitigation measures;

Increased affordability and availability of insurance — for homes, strata title holders, and businesses alike;

A holistic review of the Australian Cyclone Reinsurance Pool, including extended claims periods and broader eligibility for cyclone and flood-related damage.

We are doing our part to make our communities safer and more resilient, but we need a system that recognises and rewards those efforts, not penalises them.

It’s time for a fairer insurance framework that supports regional Queenslanders, protects livelihoods, and strengthens our ability to bounce back when disaster strikes.

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As the Easter treats disappear, the foil starts piling up, it is important to remember that Aluminium foil is fully recyclable. To make sure it actually gets recycled and doesn’t get mistaken for paper, scrunch your wrappers together into a ball about the size of your fist.

If you somehow didn’t get through enough chocolate to make a fist-sized ball of foil (hard to believe, but it happens!), you can pop those smaller bits into an empty aluminium drink can. Once it’s full, pinch the top closed and drop it in your recycling bin – easy!

Who knows? That Easter wrapper could one day come back as a drink can, a toy, more foil – or even part of a plane!

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The Queensland Tourism Industry Council, in partnership with Whitsunday Regional Council, invites you to join us for a special World Environment Day event on Thursday 5 June at 3:00pm.

Taking place at Shute Harbour Marine Terminal, this event is all about bringing sustainability into the spotlight and exploring how we can build a more environmentally-conscious tourism industry - right here in one of Queensland’s most iconic regions.

Whether you're just getting started on your sustainability journey or already leading the charge, this is a great opportunity to connect with others, share ideas and be part of the conversation shaping the future of tourism in Queensland.

There’ll be inspiring speakers, local insights, and a chance to reflect on how we can all play a part in protecting the natural places we rely on and love.

Everyone is welcome - come along, get inspired, and help us celebrate World Environment Day. Early bird tickets are now on sale at https://www.localtickets.com.au/

Contributed With thanks to Tourism Whitsundays

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Pre-polling opened this week, marking a pivotal moment in the Federal Election race as candidates ramp up their campaigns, attending events, meeting voters, and making their case for the title.

Last week, the Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry hosted a Meet the Federal Election Candidates Event, where attendees were eager to hear about the candidates' plans and promises. This will be followed by a formal debate in Mackay this Wednesday. The Australian Federal Election will be held on Saturday 3rd May.

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Allan Milostic President of the Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Amanda Nickson from the Family First Party, Michael Lockyer from the Trumpet of Patriots, current Federal Member for Dawson and LNP candidate Andrew Willcox, Labor candidate Neil Wallace, Greens candidate Paula Creen, Independent Queensland Senate candidate Jason Brown and facilitator Judy Porter. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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The Mayor’s Charity ball is a fundraising event with all proceeds supporting BMA CQ rescue, the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre and the Bowen Community Centre. The event is fully funded through tickets sales and sponsorships.

There are multiple sponsorship levels available, from becoming a Platinum sponsor to donating a prize for the auction or mystery reveal game. Sponsors are acknowledged during the Mayor’s Charity Ball promotional activities as well as at the event.

For more information on becoming a sponsor, email mayorscharityball@wrc.qld.gov.au or call 1300 972 753.

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Residents across the Whitsunday region are invited to honour the sacrifices of our servicemen and women at a series of ANZAC Day services taking place on Friday, 25 April 2025.

From dawn services to community marches, come together to reflect, remember, and pay tribute to those that lost their lives.

Please note service times and road closures in your area, and allow extra time for travel and parking.

Airlie Beach
Main Service: 9:00am - meet at Broadwater Avenue carpark at 8am for march to Airlie Esplanade Cenotaph

Airlie Main Street will be closed from 6am - 10:30am

Bowen
Dawn Service: 5:50am - Herbert Street Cenotaph
Herbert Street closed between Gordon Street and Poole Street in both directions from 5:30am to 6:30am
Main Service: 9:30am - meet at RSL at 8:50am for march to the Cenotaph

Partial closure Williams Street to Bowen Cenotaph Herbert Street. Closure from 8:00am to 10:30am

Cannonvale
Dawn Service: 5:30am - Coral Esplanade Cenotaph

Collinsville
Dawn Service: 6:00am - Stanley Street Cenotaph
Main Service: 9:00am - meet at Foodworks at 8:45am for march to the Cenotaph

Full road closure of Stanley Street, beginning at Railway Road and ending at Birralee Street between 8:15am and 9:15am

Proserpine
Dawn Service: 4:30am - Ken McPherson Memorial Gardens Cenotaph
Main Service: 10:50am - meet at the RSL at 10:30am for march to the Cenotaph

Partial Road Closure 5:00am to approximately 12:00pm. Detours in place - Streets affected Marathon Street, Herbert Street, Mill Street and Hinschen Street
For further information, please contact your local RSL Branch.

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The story of the Whitsundays begins more than 100 million years ago, when Australia was still part of the ancient supercontinent Gondwana. As the landmass slowly broke apart and drifted, volcanoes became active across what is now Queensland.

The Whitsundays have a fiery past that stretches back tens of millions of years. Around 110 million years ago, this region was part of a geologically active zone. For roughly 37 million years, volcanoes dominated the landscape with explosive eruptions that covered the area in ash and rock. Over time, these layers hardened into solid bedrock, which can still be seen today on islands like Whitsunday and Hook. These greenish-grey to brown rocks have been slowly sculpted by the ocean ever since.

In later periods, less violent volcanic activity pushed molten lava into cracks in the bedrock, creating vertical bands of darker rock called dykes. These are also visible on Hook Island.

Throughout this period, the Earth’s crust kept shifting. As tectonic plates moved and collided, they created mountain ranges across the globe, including parts of what would become the Great Dividing Range. In central Queensland, some of these ancient peaks eventually became the Whitsunday Islands.

These islands are known as continental islands because they were once part of mainland Australia. The Whitsundays are made from the rocky remains of an old mountain range.

Over millions of years, shifting climates caused sea levels to rise and fall with the ice ages. Each time the glaciers advanced or melted, the coastline moved. At one stage, it may have stretched up to 200 kilometres further east than it does today.

About 10,000 years ago, as the last ice age ended, melting glaciers caused sea levels to rise again. The Coral Sea flooded the coastal plains, leaving only the highest peaks and ridges above water, forming the rocky island chain we know today as the Whitsundays.

One of the most iconic features of the region is its vivid blue water. That signature aquamarine hue comes from fine sediment suspended in the sea, which scatters sunlight and creates the vibrant colour that visitors love.

Then there’s the dazzling white sand of Whitehaven Beach. Unlike most local beaches that have coarse sand made from broken coral and shell, Whitehaven’s sand is pure silica. Its origin remains a bit of a mystery, as the surrounding rock doesn’t contain much quartz.

Most scientists believe the sand was carried north along the Queensland coast by ocean currents millions of years ago. It settled at Whitehaven, caught between rocky headlands. Over time, freshwater filtered through the dunes, washing out impurities and leaving behind the fine, brilliant-white sand. When the sea rose again about 10,000 years ago, it reached the base of these ancient dunes, and Whitehaven Beach was born.

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Whitsunday Island landscape. Photo credit: Ruth Puddefoot.

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Barb Hill has been taking photos of landscapes and nature on her phone for as long as she can remember.

But no place has made her as emotional as The Barron Falls. The falls were on her bucket list for some time before she finally got to see them.

Barb visited after flooding hit the north and was overcome with emotion.

“Once I got there, I could see how it was raging in such beauty,” said Barb.

“I was overcome with emotion and awe. I stood there for ages, and probably, a good hour or so.”

When Barb isn’t taking photos, she is heavily involved in the community. She works as a Family Support Facilitator for DrugARM in Mackay through to the Whitsundays, including Bowen and Collinsville.

Beyond DrugARM, Barb is also a founding ambassador for Real Mates Talk, a men’s campaign that intends to prevent suicide attempts and deaths.

She also plays an active role in supporting the region’s homeless community.

Each week, Barb participates in outreach events, including barbecues and drop-in sessions, it’s a crucial support centre for those experiencing homelessness.

“It's about connecting and conversations. We are there every week,” said Barb.

“We're there, and people know that we are there at that time.”

In an exciting new venture Barb has created The Y Project, a youth-focused music initiative. Importantly, the project focuses on youth suicide prevention, providing a positive and supportive outlet for teens and young adults.

Barb’s enthusiasm is infectious, and it’s clear the combination of photography, community service, and music events fuels her passion for making a difference.

To enter the Tripping Magazine photo comp please send your photos to ruby@lifepublinggroup.com

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Winner of March/April Tripping Photo Competition, Barb Hill's photograph of The Barron Falls

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In the lead up to the Federal Election on Saturday May 3, Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry hosted a Meet the Federal Election Candidates Event, last Tuesday.

The event began with a statement from Queensland Senate candidate Jason Brown – Independent. Jason was given six minutes to answer the following questions.

• What are your business credentials and experience?
• As an elected senator for Queensland, what will you specifically do, and how will you achieve it?
• Political history indicates that to be a successful Senate candidate, you will need a preference strategy which favours minor part. Do you have any preference deals? And if you don't, how are you anticipating winning the quota?
• As a member of the Senate, who will you support when it comes to voting on legislation?
• As you are expected to read, every piece of legislation on its merits. And how will you do this? And what resources will you use to help you?
• Why will you be the best candidate for the Whitsunday business community?

A forum with the House of Representatives candidates followed, and it was facilitated by Judy Porter, of Shiift.

Paula Creen – Australian Greens
Michael Lockyer – Trumpet of Patriots
Amanda Nickson – Family First Party
Neil Wallace – Australian Labor Party
Andrew Willcox – Liberal National Party

In addition to presenting their business experience and vision for the region, candidates responded to questions on:

• Federal funding for urgent road improvements,
• Insurance accessibility and affordability,
• All-weather tourism and seasonal visitor flow,
• Government spending and economic efficiency,
• Possibilities for Proserpine,
• and more.

Chamber President Allan Milostic said Chamber was proud to facilitate the forum, and to give businesses in the region the opportunity to hear directly from those seeking to represent the Whitsundays at the federal level.

“As the united voice of business in our region, the Chamber is committed to ensuring that local priorities are understood, and that policy decisions are informed by the practical realities faced by those who live and work here,” he said.

“The event provided an opportunity for open, respectful discussion on the issues that matter to our members—economic growth, infrastructure, workforce, regulatory reform, and regional investment.

“We encouraged all candidates to speak directly to how their policies will support the long-term prosperity of our businesses and communities.

“We were delighted with the strong turn out and participation from the candidates.”

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Amanda Nickson, Michael Lockyer, Andrew Willcox, Neil Wallace, Paula Creen and Jason Brown

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There’s no shortage of community spirit in Proserpine, and one local is proving just how powerful kindness can be.

The Proserpine Community Centre expressed a big thank you to Steve, known to many as LairdndLady Thompson, for his ongoing dedication to helping out wherever he can.

Steve has long been one of the centre’s most reliable and supportive community members, always quick to offer his help in maintaining the space for all who use it.

He was spotted hard at work by the Proserpine Community Centre staff, cleaning the footpaths to ensure that visitors can walk safely without the risk of slipping.

What makes Steve’s contributions so special is not just his willingness to offer help, but his reliability. When he says he will lend a hand, he always follows through, and it hasn’t gone unnoticed.

Steve’s actions are a shining reminder of the power of locals helping locals, and the strength that comes from people working together. His selfless efforts have made a real difference, and we thank him for making Proserpine just that little bit brighter.

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Hi Everyone

I’m thrilled to share that I’ve returned to the Whitsunday Life Newspaper after four months living in Ingham where I helped launch our sister publication, Hinchinbrook Life.

It was a privilege to launch a new newspaper in a region that had been yearning so long for print media, but the Whitsundays kept calling for my return.

Whilst I was up there, myself and the Hinchinbrook Shire experienced the worst flooding event in over 50 years. I was located in Forrest Beach, so although I was extremely bored without power and phone reception, I was safe. Ingham, however, was devastated.

It was quite a harrowing experience and very isolating, especially for a newcomer like me, but in many ways it brought the community together. Witnessing and being a part of the North Queensland community spirit and the recovery process ultimately brought us together.

During the immediate aftermath I joined the response team, door-knocking to check on residents in my neighbourhood and i was even able to help alert rescurers to an elederly person who was alone and uncontactable.

It was a surreal experience, but incredibly valuable in many ways. I was the only print media journalist in the region which was a big responsibility but also an honour and a unique opportunity to give a voice to stories that might have otherwise gone untold.

Now that I’ve returned to the Whitsundays, I’m feeling re-energised and excited to once again be sharing the stories of this community.

There’s something truly special about reporting in this beautiful space, and I’m grateful to be back doing what I love in a region I care so deeply about.

It’s good to be back.

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Guests aboard the Coral Discoverer on a recent Citizen Science expedition on the Great Barrier Reef had the unforgettable experience of naming a brand-new manta ray. The playful juvenile male was first seen breaching the surface and showing off his curious nature at Yamacutta Reef in the stunning Whitsundays, and was aptly named Discover-ray.

Adding to the magic of the voyage was Project Manta researcher and guest lecturer Hannah Moloney, who guided guests in capturing ID shots of the majestic rays and shared fascinating insights into the research behind manta ray conservation.

With manta ray season approaching as winter sets in, several rays have already made appearances, including some familiar fins. Among the resightings was 'Coral Guardian', spotted cruising around the islands. This local legend was first recorded in June 2020, reappeared in July 2022, and has now been seen again in March 2025. Another old friend, Marg, made a comeback too. She was first seen at Yongala in November 2015 and has now been spotted once again 9 years later.

Project Manta Whitsundays plays a vital role in tracking and protecting these gentle giants. Their work focuses on monitoring populations through satellite tagging and photographic identification, which helps researchers track movement patterns and better understand how manta rays interact with their marine environment. They also work to protect important habitats such as feeding and cleaning stations by collaborating with local stakeholders and advocating for stronger marine conservation policies.

A key part of Project Manta Whitsundays mission is public education, using community outreach, school programs and eco-tourism experiences to inspire greater awareness and appreciation for manta rays. All of this is backed by robust scientific research that explores the biology, behaviour and ecology of manta rays, providing the foundation for effective conservation strategies.

You can stay updated on manta sightings, research highlights and reef adventures by following @projectmantawhitsundays on Instagram.

Whether you're a seasoned snorkeller or a first-time reef explorer, there’s something truly magical about meeting a manta ray. And who knows – the next one might be named by you.

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Whitsundays Mantas return! Photo source: @projectmanta_whitsundays.

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The 2025 flag laying ceremony held a particularly moving moment this year, as the service of an unmarked soldier was finally recognised.

More than 400 flags were placed at the Proserpine Cemetery during the annual tribute, with a special cross erected at the previously unmarked grave of Andrew William Anderson. Until now, his resting place bore no headstone, no sign of his service.

Lyn Burke, founder of the flag laying tradition, emphasised the importance of remembering every service man and woman, saying it’s vital to ensure no one is forgotten.

400 Flags Laid And Soldier Found

Old Proserpine Cemetery is full of unmarked graves, and Lyn Burke and Lloyd Fox are still on a mission to find the names of all ex-serving military personnel whose bodies are located in these graves today.

Andrew William Anderson was a Bowen man that enlisted into the service at age 40.

On the voyage to England, Anderson contracted mumps, then spent time in training battalions, battling further illness, including influenza and scabies.

A fractured thigh bone ultimately ended his military hopes, and he was sent back to Australia without ever reaching the front lines.

Despite never seeing combat, Anderson’s willingness to serve is now being acknowledged.

During the 2025 flag laying ceremony, a cross was placed on his previously unmarked grave, finally giving recognition to a soldier whose sacrifice had long gone unnoticed.

Years ago, when Lyn and Lloyd started their flag laying tradition it was just the two of them, and the pair recalled how it had taken them hours to lay all the flags. Now the community get behind the annual event and this year the 122 Army Cadet Unit Proserpine Detachment attended for the first time.

Lieutenant Chris Saunders from 122 Army Cadet Unit Proserpine Detachment said it was a huge honour to attend and assist in the flag laying ceremony, and the assembly of the cross for Andrew William Anderson.

“It's surprising, even to myself and the major of Mackay that 400 flags are being laid today,” he added.

“That's an awful big representation for a town the size of Proserpine, to have 400 ex serving members being honoured with flags today.

“It’s a fantastic opportunity, and we'll be here again next year.”

Lyn said the flag laying is all about letting the community know that these service men and women are here, and just how many there are in the region.

“This to honour these men and women and also let our community know that they are here,” said Lyn.

“Most people don't realise how many servicemen we have in this area, or what they went through, or what they did for us.

“We do it so anyone can come and have a look and see all of these people.

“Not everyone's got a symbol, this one here is the greatest example. There is nothing that tells you that this person here was in the military.

“Nothing says that for you, but having a flag next to him, you can see that person was.”

The ceremony is always the weekend before ANZAC Day, and the flags are kept up for two weeks afterwards so people can see and acknowledge all of those in the Old and New Proserpine Cemetery that served for this country.

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122 Army Cadet Unit Proserpine Detachment with the now recognised soldiers grave. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

Young people from Proserpine State High School and Whitsunday Swimming Club were at the flag laying

Laying the flags

122 Army Cadet Unit Proserpine Detachment Cadets hammering in the cross for Andrew William Anderson

Photo credit Daniel Heggie

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With Easter now behind us and Anzac Day upon us, Airlie Beach Bowls Club is looking forward to the long-awaited installation of its new cover. In the meantime, the greens have been alive with action, as members turned out in force for a packed week of competitive and social bowls.

Isgro Takes the Title in A Grade Final
The headline event of the week was the Men’s A Grade final, where club legend Manny Isgro took on promising young talent Harrison Quad in a gripping contest. It was a classic battle between master and apprentice, with Quad threatening an upset at one stage. But Isgro dug deep, calling on his wealth of experience to clinch a hard-fought 25–21 victory. Congratulations to Manny on another well-earned title.

Patron's Day Draws a Crowd
Tuesday was Alison Holmes Patron’s Day, and the club welcomed a fantastic turnout for the occasion. In second place was Margo Stanley’s team, with Mandy O’Brien at lead and Kathryn Remmeswaal at second. Top honours went to Joan McGrath’s team, made up of lead Carol Crosbie and second John Brown. It was another fun-filled day with plenty of quality bowls on display.

Social Bowls and Scroungers Shine
Wednesday’s social bowls saw the team of Merve Stewart, David Meiklejohn, and Howard Moulang dominate proceedings. Meiklejohn impressed at lead, while Moulang delivered consistent support to help the team claim a convincing win.

Saturday morning brought the final of the Scroungers competition. After a competitive first round, Dennis Donnadelli, Steve Lawrie, and Mark Mawson advanced to the decider. In a closely contested final, Steve Lawrie emerged victorious, with Donnadelli and Mawson rounding out the podium in second and third place respectively.

Sunday Social Action
Sunday’s social bowls also attracted strong numbers, with four rinks in play. The big winners of the day were Andy McDougall and Rick Galea, who teamed up brilliantly to claim the top spot. Well done, boys!

Looking Ahead
The next club championships—Senior Singles and Men’s B Pairs—are set to get underway shortly, with results to be shared in due course. The club also looks forward to welcoming back students from the Christian College and the Endeavour Foundation participants for their upcoming bowls lessons.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson

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The Bowen Health Connection event united local community members and health service providers for a day devoted to health and wellbeing across the entire spectrum of life, from babies to the elderly.

Brought to life through the hard work and dedication of Stephanie Cora, executive officer of the Bowen Community Centre, and Josephine Ferguson, community liaison officer with the Together Strong, Connected Care program. The inspiration for the event struck Josephine whilst she was attending a Women's Forum held at Cannonvale Tafe. The forum kindled the flames of an idea: why not host a similar event in Bowen, an event catered to everyone ?

“The intention of the event was to not just focus on women's health but health in general for people of all age groups, whether you're a parent with a new-born or a senior seeking support ” , said Ms Cora.

The overarching purpose of Bowen Health Connection was to make local health services more visible and approachable, giving residents the opportunity to access programs which support their health and ultimately improve their quality of life. Booths and displays were erected for a range of health services, with providers on deck to answer questions and supply attendees with resources.

“Our goal was to give locals a clearer picture of the health services available to them here in the community,” said Ms Ferguson.

The event was made possible through the generous funding from Give Queensland and Q call, whose support allowed the organisers to breathe life into the idea. Both Ms Cora and Ms Ferguson expressed their heartfelt gratitude for the funding and the strong community turnout.

By shifting the focus on inclusion, awareness and access, The Bowen Health Connection succeeded in ensuring essential health information was delivered to the individuals most in need.

“We hope this becomes a regular event,” said Ms Ferguson. “Because healthy communities start with connection.

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The  dedicated team at the Bowen Community Centre Josephine Ferguson, Stephanie Cora, Unknown. Photo Credit: Munir Kilic

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The Landholders of Collinsville travelled hundreds of kilometres, seeking  illumination on Queensland's vegetation management laws at a workshop created by NQ Dry Tropics.

The whole day event provided graziers with vital insights and tools for presiding over their properties sustainably. Peter Webley and Scott Devaney of the Department of Natural Resources and Mines, Manufacturing, Regional and Rural Development outlined chief aspects of the vegetation management laws and highlighted essential resources.

The purpose of these laws is to safeguard native flora, reduce land degradation, preserve biodiversity, stabilise soil, decrease erosion, and enrich water quality through minimisation of sediment runoff into waterways.

John Skinner, the owner White Kangaroo Station, found the workshop invaluable.

“I was interested to hear if there had been any changes to the laws following the change in government and to suss out what was involved in getting a PMAV”, he said.

Department staff recommended landholders to pursue a Property Map of Assessable Vegetation (PMAV), which clarifies regional ecosystems and vegetation categories, providing valuable assistance in the making of informed land management decisions.

"It's important to keep meeting with government staff, to have these conversations so we stay front-of-mind," Mr Skinner added.

Stephanie Tudehope of Landers Creek Station also found face-to-face workshops extremely beneficial.

"The workshop was a time-saver. It was nice to put a face to the person on the phone and I could ask the dumb questions," she said.

Workshop attendees learned about vegetation categories, including Category X, imposing minimal restrictions. Graziers were also urged  to utilise VegHub, a free support service reachable at 135 834. Staffed by highly experienced regional personnel, VegHub assists landholders in navigating vegetation laws seamlessly and effectively.

The workshop, jointly hosted by the Landholders Driving Change project, funded through partnerships with the Australian Government’s Reef Trust, the Great Barrier Reef Foundation, and the Queensland Government's Reef Water Quality Program, is part of the Queensland Government's community-focused approach in the Bowen, Broken, Bogie area with the next workshop being held in Kilcummin on Tuesday the 15th of April.

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Attendees of the Vegetation Management Workshop in Collinsville. Photo Provided
Workshop in progress. Photo Provided

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Big thanks to the wonderful individuals keeping the youngsters of the community safe as they cross our busy and wet roads. All parents, guardians and bus drivers alike would like to extend a heartfelt thank-you to Kym Blackburn and the entire Lollipop Team for their unwavering dedication and service to the community.

Every morning and afternoon, they work tirelessly to ensure the safety of our children as they cross the bustling streets, allowing them to reach school and home without worry. The Lollipop Team not only prioritises the well-being of our young ones, and other pedestrians needing to cross, but they also play a vital role in keeping traffic flowing smoothly without anyone risking a game of human Frogger.

Their efforts make a significant difference, and it’s truly appreciated by both the families and bus drivers in the area. Whitsunday Transit expressed that their bus drivers always enjoy waving to the Lollipop Team each morning, and it's clear that their hard work makes our community a better place. Thank you, Kym, and to all the amazing members of the Lollipop Team for everything you do!

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Kym Blackburn of the Lollipop Team. Photo sourced: Whitsunday Transit Facebook Page

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In the heart of the Whitsundays, Green Energy Technologies (GET), a company owned and operated by locals for locals, boldly blazes the trail towards North Queensland's renewable future.

Established in 2010 by director Kon Flaherty and James Webb, GET has experienced explosive growth from a small team of five to over 90 dedicated staff, witnessing a tremendous 30 per cent growth rate each year across offices in the Whitsundays, Mackay and Townsville. GET is Queensland's number one solar installer, delivering expertly tailored solar and battery solutions to homes and businesses across the region for over 15 years.

For Whitsundays locals, GET’s unwavering commitment to community-driven service guarantees that sustainable energy is affordable and accessible for decades to come.  All of which is made possible through the steadfast effort of GET’s expert staff.

One such expert is Senior Renewable Energy Specialist, Ian Eman, who joined GET in 2019.

Ian brings a wealth of knowledge and experience from his background as an electrical engineer and his time at United Energy in Victoria. Transitioning to GET after a stint in real estate, Ian now fuses his technical proficiency with his strong customer relationship skills in order to deliver client-focused solar and battery solutions to Whitsunday locals.

“Our goal is simple; our entire focus is the client's electricity bill and how to reduce it to zero.

“That’s what sets us apart, we are not a product-focused solar company, our focus is on our clients,” explains Ian.

GET achieves this goal through premium solar systems and an innovative monitoring application that tracks savings, identifies battery needs and ensures long-term performance. The systems are built to endure, with warranties and guarantees for a minimum of 10 years. Installation takes just 4-6 weeks, and every GET system brings with it a lifetime service guarantee covering repairs, maintenance, and diagnostics.

For Ian and the GET team, affordability is a key priority; therefore, to dispel the myth that switching to solar costs $10,000 to $40,000 upfront, Ian draws attention to Government rebates and zero-interest green loans, which make the switch to solar seamless, requiring no upfront costs.

"Clients save money immediately with their repayments being less than or equal to what they pay for remaining on the grid.” Ian added.

It is important to note that the environmental impact is profound. A 6.6 kW system offsets carbon equivalent to replanting 300 trees annually, while a 13kW system doubles that to 600 trees. This aligns with GET’s mission to transition Australia to renewables with “a reliable, high-performance solar solution, backed by our savings guarantee.”

GET understands the Whitsundays’ unique needs and empowers residents to embrace clean energy to contribute to a greener future for Queensland.

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With its sun-drenched beaches, gently swaying palms, and crystal-clear turquoise waters, Hamilton Island is widely regarded as one of the crown jewels of the Whitsundays. Nestled in the heart of the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, this tropical sanctuary offers an idyllic escape where barefoot luxury meets outdoor adventure, all set against a backdrop of breathtaking natural beauty that can be enjoyed throughout the year.

Whether you're planning a romantic getaway, a family holiday, or a solo retreat, Hamilton Island caters to every kind of traveller. The island boasts an impressive variety of accommodation, ranging from self-catering apartments and private holiday homes with panoramic views to luxury resorts. Among these are the world-renowned qualia, an adults-only haven offering understated elegance and seclusion, and the stylish beachfront Beach Club, celebrated for its intimate atmosphere and attentive service.

Joining this prestigious line-up is The Sundays, Hamilton Island’s latest luxury addition, set to open on 24 April 2025. Designed to reflect the relaxed yet refined spirit of the Australian coast, The Sundays features Catseye Pool Club at its heart—a chic new restaurant helmed by acclaimed chefs Josh and Julie Niland, the duo behind Sydney’s award-winning Saint Peter. Showcasing locally sourced seafood and seasonal ingredients, and paired with sweeping views of Catseye Beach, the restaurant is already generating significant buzz. With its sophisticated coastal design and elevated dining offering, The Sundays promises a fresh new take on laidback luxury.

Getting to Hamilton Island is refreshingly easy, thanks to its own commercial airport with direct flights from Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. Alternatively, guests can arrive via scenic boat transfers from the Queensland mainland—offering a striking first impression as you approach the island’s lush green hills and azure waters.

Since being acquired by the Oatley family in 2003, Hamilton Island has undergone a remarkable transformation, with over $400 million AUD invested in infrastructure, hospitality, and guest experiences. Yet, despite these improvements, the island has retained the natural charm and unspoilt beauty that make it so special.

Among the island’s newest highlights is The Palms, a relaxed, waterfront dining spot offering a modern take on the Australian BBQ, where guests can enjoy laid-back meals with ocean views. Another standout is the Cultural Island Discovery with Robbie Congoo, a unique and immersive experience led by a respected Traditional Owner of the Whitsundays. Aboard the private vessel Pebble Beach, guests are invited to explore the rich cultural heritage of the region through storytelling, traditional knowledge, and an intimate journey through sacred sites and landscapes.

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Beautiful views of Hamilton Island. Photo credit: Kara Rosenlund
hil2: Marina Village.

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Hamilton Island boasts an exceptional variety of activities and experiences, offering something for every kind of traveller. Whether you're seeking relaxation, adventure, nature, luxury, or culture, this tropical gem in the heart of the Whitsundays delivers unforgettable moments at every turn.

Visitors can indulge in over 60 activities and tours, unwind in two luxurious day spas, dine at more than 20 restaurants and cafés, and explore the vibrant 300+ berth marina. For those craving sun-soaked adventure, Whitehaven Beach which was recently crowned Lonely Planet’s World’s Best Beach 2025, is just 30 minutes away via high-speed catamaran.

Meanwhile, the iconic Heart Reef, with its picture-perfect, heart-shaped lagoon and vibrant coral formations, is best seen from the air. For a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience, hop aboard a Journey to the Heart helicopter trip to Hamilton Island’s exclusive Heart Island pontoon.

Embrace Nature, Wellness & Wildlife

Nature lovers will appreciate around 25 kilometres of scenic walking trails that wind through lush, protected bushland. These trails lead to hidden coves, secluded beaches, and breathtaking lookouts—sunrise walks to Passage Peak are especially rewarding, offering sweeping views across the Whitsundays.

Keep your eyes peeled for native wildlife along the way, or plan a visit during whale season—Hamilton Island is a gateway to a Whale Heritage Site, where thousands of majestic humpback whales migrate each year.

Health and wellness take centre stage on the island, with sunrise yoga classes—including a special session on Dent Island’s clifftop every first Sunday of the month—a Sports Club with instructor-led classes, and a scenic weekly parkrun. Spa wumurdaylin offers a tranquil escape with a range of relaxing, rejuvenating treatments.

Golf, Culture and World-Class Events

Golfers can tee off at the Hamilton Island Golf Club on Dent Island—Australia’s only championship-grade course located on its own island. Designed by golfing legend Peter Thomson, this course challenges and delights in equal measure, while the Clubhouse restaurant serves up delicious meals alongside panoramic sea views (and yes, it’s had famous guests, with George Clooney even being a fan!).

The island also plays host to an exciting calendar of events throughout the year. From Hamilton Island Race Week, to endurance sporting challenges, and the romantic pas de deux in Paradise ballet performance, there’s always something happening to elevate your stay.

Food, Drink and Laid-Back Vibes

When it’s time to unwind, few places rival sunset cocktails at One Tree Hill or on the stylish Bommie Deck, where the sky transforms into a canvas of golds, pinks, and oranges.

For something new, head to The Palms, an alfresco garden bar tucked by the Marina. With live music and a BBQ-inspired smoky menu, it’s the perfect casual hangout after a day of exploration.

Looking for a memorable day trip? A seaplane flight to Whitehaven Beach is always unforgettable—and the beloved service has just recently returned, making it a top pick for romantics and photographers alike.

Adventure Awaits Around Every Corner

There’s no shortage of adrenaline-pumping action on Hamilton Island. Jetski tours, scenic flights, snorkelling, diving, and more are all on offer for thrill-seekers. One of the most exciting new experiences is the Cultural Island Discovery tour with Robbie Congoo, a guided cultural and culinary journey through the Whitsundays, blending traditional knowledge with contemporary storytelling.

And when it comes to exploring the island itself? Hiring a buggy is not only the most fun way to get around and it’s practically a Hamilton Island tradition.

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One Tree Hill. Photo credit: Deb Foschiatti.
Robert Congoo Hook Island Experience. Photo credit: Lean Timms.
Passage Peak Hike

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Sundays have never looked better! The Sundays, a boutique hotel on Hamilton Island, is now open for bookings and will officially welcome guests from 24 April 2025. Nestled at the serene northern end of Catseye Beach, it offers 59 sun-drenched rooms with breathtaking ocean views. A perfect blend of contemporary elegance and island charm, The Sundays invites guests to unwind, reconnect, and embrace the natural beauty of the Great Barrier Reef.

Joining Hamilton Island’s luxury offerings, The Sundays adds to accommodations like qualia, the Beach Club, the Reef View Hotel, and over 150 self-contained holiday homes. Whether seeking peace or adventure, the resort offers something for everyone. Inspired by the best parts of a Sunday, it’s a place to recharge and create lasting memories. Guests can enjoy poolside lounging or venture out to explore the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef.

Accessible via complimentary shuttle transfers from the island's airport or marina, the resort has a rich history, having once housed the Outrigger Restaurant and Allamanda Lodge. In 2023, Hamilton Island began reimagining the space, preserving its beauty while crafting a fresh boutique experience. The result is a retreat that feels both familiar and entirely redefined, with 70% of Hamilton Island still untouched by development.

The architecture blends seamlessly with its natural surroundings, incorporating sculptural stonework, lush tropical gardens, and a winding boardwalk that leads to a secluded beach. Midway, the boardwalk opens onto an elevated event space with sweeping views of Catseye Bay. Local designer Carrie Williams has infused the resort with a modern yet relaxed aesthetic, where guest rooms echo the calming hues of sand and sea. Each room features a private balcony or terrace with breathtaking views, enriched by natural textures and premium amenities.

At the heart of The Sundays is Catseye Pool Club, a waters-edge restaurant and bar led by celebrated culinary duo Josh and Julie Niland. The menu celebrates Australian produce, perfect for long lunches and relaxed dinners. Indigenous artist Tiarna Herczeg’s works, inspired by the island’s landscape, feature throughout the hotel, from large-scale installations in the lobby and art in the restaurant. In the early weeks after opening, she will also create two striking murals along the boardwalk, adding playful, artistic touches to the waterfront space.

The resort’s 59 rooms are designed to maximise the natural beauty of the island. They feature neutral tones, textural finishes, and unobstructed views, with spacious layouts ideal for couples and small families. Family Connect rooms offer interconnecting layouts for larger groups. Bathrooms open to sea breezes with reeded glass windows offering panoramic views.

Sustainability is front and centre, with smart cooling, energy-efficient LED lighting, and locally made furnishings from eco-conscious brands like Jardan. Australian-designed and made tapware by Faucet Strommen — featuring the country’s first lead-free range — adds to the resort’s green credentials, along with elements like a House of Bamboo soffit. The resort is also inclusive, with three accessible rooms, cabanas, and a pool lift.

The Sundays offers curated experiences for all ages, including sunrise yoga, daily sundaes by the pool, and pre-ordered baby essentials. Guests can enjoy complimentary use of non-motorised water sports equipment, including paddleboards and kayaks. The Clownfish Club, the island’s kids’ club, offers supervised activities for younger guests.

The Sundays promises a memorable escape in one of the world’s most beautiful locations, offering the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure. For more details, visit www.thesundays.com.au or follow on Instagram @thesundayshotel.

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Relax in luxury at The Sundays.
The Sundays room balcony.

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When Melanie and Matthew Harris took over Whitsunday Vogue Interiors 18 months ago, they weren’t just buying a business — they were building on a legacy. With a shared background in the industry and a clear vision in mind, the couple set out to transform the long-standing local brand into a modern, full-service destination for flooring and window coverings. At the heart of their decision was something deeply personal — creating a strong, sustainable future for their three children, right here in the Whitsundays.

Now revamped with a sleek black-and-white look, Whitsunday Vogue Interiors remains firmly rooted in its 11-year legacy, but with a fresh, contemporary flair which mirrors the youthful energy of its new owners and the coastal charm of the Whitsundays.

“We wanted to take it to bigger and better heights,” said Melanie, who, along with Matthew, has worked in the business for four years before taking the plunge and purchasing it.

“There’s so much room for creativity and growth here, we are excited to show the Whitsundays how much we can offer.”

At the heart of the business is a focus on custom-made window coverings, from shutters and blinds to bespoke drapery and external awnings. The entire process is designed to be seamless and stress-free, with complimentary on-site quotes and personalised design consultations tailored to each client’s style, space, and needs. Customers are welcome to visit the showroom or enjoy the convenience of having samples brought directly to their home.

Whitsunday Vogue Interiors is expanding its horizons beyond window furnishings, now offering a full range of flooring solutions including vinyl plank, hybrid flooring, carpet, and more — all delivered with the same care, expertise, and attention to detail they’re known for. With Matthew bringing over 14 years of experience and a trade qualification in the flooring industry, and Melanie contributing six years in the window covering industry, their combined expertise ensures clients receive informed guidance, quality products, and beautifully finished results — from the floors up.

“Our aim is to be a one-stop shop,” Melanie explained.

This expansion into flooring means homeowners can now enjoy a cohesive, end-to-end service when updating or building their homes. By offering both flooring and window solutions under one roof, Whitsunday Vogue Interiors simplifies the design process, saving clients time and ensuring a consistent, beautifully coordinated look throughout their space. From initial consultation to final installation, every step is handled with professionalism, attention to detail, and a deep understanding of what makes a home both functional and stylish.

Melanie shared her excitement about several upcoming waterfront builds in Airlie Beach, where clients have opted for recessed and motorised window coverings — a sleek, modern solution that conceals all hardware and allows the fabric to take centre stage. This minimalist approach to curtains and blinds is growing rapidly in popularity, offering a high-end finish that reflects both expert craftsmanship and a sharp eye for detail — qualities that Whitsunday Vogue Interiors brings to both residential and commercial projects.

What truly sets them apart is their perspective. As a dynamic, next-generation team, Melanie and Matthew bring a contemporary, trend-savvy approach to home design. They’re in tune with what motivates today’s homeowners and aren’t afraid to embrace fresh ideas.

Whitsunday Vogue Interiors is proving that beautiful design can be both accessible and tailored to the local lifestyle. With big plans on the horizon and a passion for helping people create their dream dwellings, Melanie and Matthew Harris are turning heads, and turning houses into homes across the Whitsundays.

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Meet Raza Syed

General Manager, Beach Club and The Sundays

With nearly two decades of dedicated service on Hamilton Island, General Manager of The Sundays and Beach Club, Raza Syed, brings a wealth of experience, a passion for people, and a deep love for the Whitsundays to his role.

Raza’s journey in hospitality began over 25 years ago, backed by a degree in Business Hotel and Resort Management.

“What inspired me to pursue a career in hospitality is my passion for working with people and the joy that comes from creating memorable experiences for guests,” he shared. “There’s something incredibly rewarding about welcoming people during special moments in their lives and ensuring they feel cared for, comfortable, and happy during their stay with us.”

Over the years, Raza has held several key positions at Hamilton Island, including Front Office Manager, Executive Assistant Manager, and General Manager of the Reef View Hotel. His current leadership role sees him overseeing all operations at The Sundays and Beach Club, where his focus is on delivering seamless, meaningful guest experiences.

What makes The Sundays so special to Raza is the ethos it’s built on: “The Sundays is inspired by the essence of what makes a Sunday so special—relaxation, connection, and adventure. Guests can expect an extraordinary experience for all ages amidst the natural beauty of the Whitsundays and in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef.”

As General Manager, he is passionate about shaping a resort experience that brings people together. “I’m excited to create a space where families can relax and reconnect, where ‘you time’, ‘play time’, ‘family time’, and ‘downtime’ all blend into one,” he says. From sunrise yoga sessions to open-air movies on the deck, every touchpoint is designed to inspire calm, connection, and joy.

Outside of work, Raza is a proud husband and father to two children—a 10-year-old daughter and a 13-year-old son. His own experience as a family man helps shape the inclusive and welcoming atmosphere The Sundays is known for.

With a proven track record in leadership and a heartfelt commitment to hospitality, Raza continues to shape unforgettable stays and foster a culture of warmth and excellence at one of the Whitsundays’ most exciting new resorts.

Meet Carrie Williams
Project Designer, Development & Construction

With a natural flair for design and a deep love for the Whitsundays, Carrie Williams, The Sundays’ Interior Designer, has brought a fresh and distinctive style to the resort. Having called Hamilton Island home for nearly a decade, she combines local insight with creative expertise in this exciting new development.

Originally arriving for a three-month holiday, Carrie quickly connected with the island. “That was almost 10 years ago,” she says. “Now I’m raising my daughter Luca here in this beautiful, nature-filled environment.” Carrie began the project when Luca was eight months old. “As both the designer and the target market, it really helped shape the interiors and brand.”

While she doesn’t come from a traditional hospitality background, Carrie’s passion has always been in the building and design space. “I’ve always known I wanted to be a designer in the building industry – it’s something I’ve been drawn to since I was very young,” she explains.

Having worked on a number of projects across the region, Carrie was thrilled to take on The Sundays. “This was definitely the biggest project I’ve ever completed,” she says. “I feel incredibly proud. It’s been a massive team effort over the years. We’ve been working solidly on this for about two and a half years now, with a lot of stakeholders and a huge number of trades involved in bringing it to life.”

As the Project Designer, Carrie has been the driving force behind the resort’s look and feel. “Depending on the stage of the project, I might be documenting plans, presenting concepts, selecting materials, or onsite answering queries and overseeing installs,” she explains.

When it came to the visual direction, Carrie had a strong vision rooted in the natural landscape. With the support of the brand and marketing team, she was also able to push creative boundaries.

“I really wanted everything to feel like a natural extension of the surroundings, as though you’re completely immersed in the landscape. Every decision I made in the bones of the building was guided by that intention—to create something timeless, soft, and in harmony with nature."

“I wanted the interiors to feel warm and inviting, like a seamless continuation of Catseye Beach. It was important to me that the space felt earthy and grounded, while also incorporating playful touches to reflect the brand’s personality and connect with our audience. My aim was for everything to feel soft, minimal, and enduring, with just a few unexpected details through the art and furniture to keep it fun and fresh.”

That desire for playfulness led her to search for the perfect venue artist. “I searched for a significant amount of time to find the right artist for the brand. As soon as I stumbled across Tiarna, I instantly thought she was perfect for the project. We wanted a young Queensland artist who could bring a playful energy to balance out the soft, earthy interiors. As you can read in her bio, she also has family Indigenous connections to Queensland, which made it even more special.”

Carrie also designed all the furniture from scratch with a Sydney furniture supplier and manufacturer FFORM furniture while sourcing local suppliers for the installation. Sustainability was a key focus—each piece was created to be durable and long-lasting.

She loves the resort’s energy and uniqueness. “It has such a different feel to anything else on the island. I love the location – and the Pool Cabanas! It’s also one of the first luxury venues here that truly welcomes children.”

A boardwalk connects the hotel to the restaurant, with a mid-way event deck for yoga, kids’ activities and movie nights. “It’s a beautiful little detail designed to help create lasting memories,” she says.

Carrie’s particularly proud of the bathrooms, with large reeded glass windows that open into the bedroom, making the space feel much larger. Her favourite rooms? “The most northern end rooms on the upper level – they’ve got the best views of Passage Peak and Catseye Beach.”

Ultimately, Carrie hopes guests leave feeling “re-energised and relaxed, having truly found the time to reconnect with their family.”

“I hope they take the time to unwind in the pool or relax in one of the double daybed cabanas, and really feel recharged. Ideally, they’ll leave wanting to rebook and come back for another stay.”

General Manager of The Sundays, Raza Syed. Photo Supplied
Project Designer of The Sundays, Carrie Williams. Photo Supplied.

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Whitsundays will pause on April 25 to proudly honour our past and present Australian Service People, with a morning of Anzac Day commemorations, including Dawn Services and Community Marches, set to take place across the region.

In Bowen, the day begins with a 5:45am Dawn Service at the Herbert Street Cenotaph, followed by a traditional Gunfire Breakfast at the Bowen RSL Sub Branch from 6:30am. Locals will then gather for a march at 8:50am from William Street, leading into the official ceremony back at the Cenotaph at 9:30am.

Airlie Beach will commence its Dawn Service slightly earlier, at 5:30am at Cannonvale State School. Attendees are invited to a Gunfire Breakfast at Jubilee Tavern from 6:30am. The community march will start at 8:45am along the Airlie Esplanade, followed by a commemorative ceremony at the Cenotaph on the Foreshore from 9:15am.

Following the conclusion of the Airlie Beach parade and service, all attendees are invited to the Jubilee Tavern for a Trench Lunch at 12:00pm, with Two-Up activities commencing at around 1:30pm.

Collinsville residents will hold a Dawn Service at 6:00am and a Main Service at 9:00am, both at the Stanley Street Cenotaph. The march will assemble from 8:45am at Foodworks.

In Proserpine, the earliest service in the region will be held at 4:30am at the Ken McPherson Memorial Gardens Cenotaph. The main march, assembling from 10:30am at the RSL, will lead into the 10:50am service at the same location.

Anzac Day is a powerful opportunity for locals to unite in reflection, gratitude, and remembrance. Each service across the region plays a part in honouring the sacrifices made by Australian service men and women, both past and present.

Please contact your local RSL Branch for further information.

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Whitsundays will pause on April 25 to honour Australia’s Service People with a full day of Anzac Day commemorations. Image source: RSL Queensland

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After Holidaying in Airlie Beach with his wife and kids for over 14 years, Dr. Hasan Helou decided in 2021 that it was time to start living here instead.

Relocating with his wife and two kids from Melbourne, where he obtained his degree from RMIT, Helou has since been working with Barefoot Medicine Whitsundays, bringing with him his wealth of experience as a chiropractor.

Helou works with a broad range of clients, from young children to older adults. His treatments include dry needling, soft tissue work, cupping, and kinesiology taping, as well as prescription exercises specially tailored to each patient.

Whether it’s helping an athlete get back on the field or assisting someone through post-injury rehab, Hasan’s goal is simple: to heal bodies, support minds, and serve his community.

“I just enjoy working with people and helping the community,” said Helou.

“There's an interrelationship between body and emotional state and physical state and mental state… and so, it's not only about getting their bodies in tune, it’s also related with their mind as well.”

Dr. Helou has been a long-time admirer of the Whitsundays community. “We fell in love with it 15 years ago and eventually I said ‘you know what? Let's do it,’ and we’ve never looked back. We love it here," he said.

"We just love the slowed-down pace, and I think having the kids in this close-knit community, in a country environment, is so much better."

Hasan’s goal is simple: to heal bodies, support minds, and serve his community. Photo source: Cannonvale Chiropractic Clinic

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Irrigear Whitsundays has been an integral part of the Whitsunday region for almost a decade, providing innovative irrigation and outdoor power solutions to the residents of our wonderful region. Local business owners, Sean and Lisa Dunn, took the reins of Irrigear into their capable hands in February of 2025 and have been expanding their commitment to the community ever since.

With deep roots already established in the Whitsundays through their other business Dunnrite Plumbing Services, Sean and Lisa bring deep passion and a wealth of expertise to Irrigear. The couple ensure that customers both residential and commercial have access to high-quality products, service, and advice. Their vision strengthens the region’s access to sustainable, reliable solutions, fostering growth and resilience.

Irrigation is a large part of the business, and Wayne Clark makes it all happen. From residential domestic setups to complex commercial projects like hotels, sports fields, and more, Wayne is an all-round irrigation and pump technician delivering solutions tailor-made to the unique needs of the Whitsundays. Whether it is an irrigation setup, pump sizing, system troubleshooting, or designing streamlined water solutions, Wayne is your man. He is also adept when it comes to water treatment advice, filtration systems, and system upgrades, bringing pragmatic, hands-on knowledge to every job, whether an acreage or a small home. His use of smart technology ensures efficiency, helping clients save water and costs in this coastal environment.

Sean and Lisa oversee an effective team of six, including mechanics who deliver skilled, personalised service. As a part of Irrigear’s nation-spanning network, they are partnered with global leaders, offering trusted brands at competitive prices. As warranty agents for Husqvarna and Gravely, they provide robust support for mowers and pumps, ensuring reliability. The fusion of local knowledge and industry knowledge is what distinguishes Irrigear Whitsundays, blending community care with cutting-edge expertise.

For the Dunns, delivering expert service and reliable products to the Whitsundays community is personal. Whether it’s supplying water and sewage pumps to a local farmer, giving a helping hand to a homeowner seeking quality and sustainable irrigation, or providing professional services to high-end residents on Hamilton Island, the Irrigear Whitsundays team is faithfully committed to the provision of practical, high-quality results. Sean and Lisa Dunn, backed by their dedicated staff both at Irrigear Whitsundays and Dunnrite Plumbing Services, are dedicated to helping the Whitsunday community thrive, one project at a time. Their work reflects a deep pride in supporting local needs, from rural properties to urban estates.

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Irrigear Whitsundays, under the stewardship of Sean and Lisa Dunn, is the trusted source for premium outdoor power equipment in the Whitsundays, with a strong focus on Husqvarna and Gravely brands. As warranty agents for the aforementioned brands they offer unmatched support ensuring reliable and timely maintenance for their products, making certain their customers invest in tools they can rely on. Serving Whitsunday homeowners, farmers and businesses their inventory includes ride-on mowers, push mowers, generators, blowers, brush cutters, pressure washers and more. Basically everything you need when it comes to outdoor power equipment.

Whether it's bringing the future to your doorstep with robotic mowers that simplify lawn care or providing heavy-duty generators powering rural properties, Irrigear Whitsundays caters to a diverse range of needs. Cody Tinney, a skilled mechanic on the team, draws attention to the benefits of Gravely and Husqvarna’s, commenting on their reliability and ease of maintenance, making these brands a popular choice for both residential and commercial purposes.

Irrigear presents the Whitsundays with the cutting edge outdoor power equipment, like the aforementioned smart mowers, appealing to locals seeking efficiency. And, if there are needs for specific products, Irrigear can swiftly order stock and have it to you often within a week, keeping projects on track.

As locals, Sean and Lisa understand the region's demands.Whether you are maintaining a backyard or tackling a commercial project, Irrigear Whitsundays, having access to a nation spanning network, equips locals with industry leading equipment backed by expert advice, and warranty support with the added advantage of competitive prices.

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Irrigear Whitsundays excels in keeping outdoor power equipment in tip-top shape with masterful and swift servicing and repair. Their team of highly experienced, first-rate mechanics, Cody and John, tackle tasks such as repair and service of every model outdoor power equipment.

Be it a pump, pressure washer, mower, generator, or sharpening your chainsaw's chain, John and Cody will handle any issue with precision care. From routine maintenance to complex repairs, whether on the land, in the garden or out on-site, it is the mission of the Irrigear Whitsundays team to guarantee that your tools will perform reliably.

As owner Sean Dunn explained, “If anything happens with your equipment, it's going to get sorted right here”. Their workshop, equipped with high quality parts sourced through Irrigear’s national network, deliver long-lasting fixes whether for a home-owners personal garden tool or a contractors on-site gear.

The Irrigear Whitsunday team stands out by servicing equipment regardless of where it was purchased because the Irrigear team, as community members, understand a broken tool can disrupt Whitsunday life, be it a lawn left unkempt or a job stalled. Their team prioritises efficiency, minimising downtime with efficient repairs and ensuring equipment is ready to get back to work as soon as possible.

From tuning pressure washers for acreages to overhauling commercial mowers, Irrigear Whitsundays combines local care with global resources, offering service that extends tool-life and keeps the Whitsunday region moving forward with confidence and conviction. The Irrigear Whitsunday team's steadfast dedication shines forth in every task.

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The Whitsundays' most dazzling night returns on July 26 at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, as the 2025 Mayor’s Charity Ball raises vital funds for three essential local charities. This black-tie, mask-themed gala will support BMA CQ Rescue, the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, and the Bowen Community Centre—organisations that provide life-saving and life-changing services across the region.

With live entertainment, a gourmet dinner, open bar, charity auction, and a fireworks finale, it’s a night of elegance with a powerful purpose. Tickets go on sale April 21—don’t miss your chance to make a difference in style.

Three Local Charities Become Beneficiaries Of The Ball

The highly anticipated 2025 Mayor’s Charity Ball once again champions the spirit of giving in the Whitsundays, with this year’s event raising vital funds for three essential local charities that provide critical services across the region.

Taking place at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre on Saturday, July 26, this elegant evening promises not only a night of entertainment and connection but a chance for attendees to make a lasting impact on their community.

This year, 50% of all funds raised will go directly to BMA CQ Rescue, the region’s emergency helicopter service. From medical emergencies to accident response and search and rescue operations, the service plays a life-saving role in our community, with skilled crews on call around the clock.

The remaining 50% will be split between the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre and the Bowen Community Centre, two organisations that provide a safety net for local individuals and families facing hardship. Their support includes crisis assistance, financial counselling, emergency relief and a wide range of community programs aimed at strengthening local resilience.

Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins said the event is about more than just raising money - it’s about celebrating the heart and strength of the Whitsunday community.

“These charities are a powerful example of the compassion and resilience in our region,” Mayor Collins said.

“By coming together for the Charity Ball, we’re supporting the people and services that are there for our community when it matters most.”

The black-tie and mask-themed Gala Dinner runs from 5pm to midnight, featuring a sparkling welcome drink, a three-course gourmet meal and an open bar offering complimentary beer, wine and cider.

Guests will enjoy live music and performances throughout the evening, along with a range of exciting fundraising activities, including a charity wine tree, a mystery reveal and a charity auction with exclusive items and experiences up for grabs - all raising money for the chosen charities.

The night will close in spectacular style with a fireworks finale, lighting up the sky in celebration of the generosity of attendees and the shared commitment to creating a better future for those in need.

Tickets for the Mayor’s Charity Ball will go on sale Monday, 21 April 2025, via the Proserpine Entertainment Centre website. Guests are encouraged to secure their seats early for what promises to be a memorable night of glamour, generosity and community spirit.

Don’t miss this opportunity to dress up, give back and make a real difference to the lives of those in need.

What: 2025 Mayor's Charity Ball
WHEN: Saturday 26th July
WHERE: Proserpine Entertainment Centre

Stephanie Cora from Bowen Community Centre, Rebecca Woods from Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins and Tegan Philpott from BMA CQ Rescue outside the Proserpine Entertainment Centre where the 2025 Mayor's Charity Ball will be held. Photo credit: Rachael Smith

Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins, Rebecca Woods from Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre,Tegan Philpott from BMA CQ Rescue and Stephanie Cora from Bowen Community Centre invite you to the 2025 Mayor's Charity Ball. Photo credit: Rachael Smith

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Weddings Whitsundays is pleased to announce their merger into the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry. This strategic move aims to enhance business support services for the Whitsundays wedding industry and further promote the region as Australia’s lead wedding destination.

Member-based organisation Weddings Whitsundays has been instrumental in promoting local wedding service providers to couples planning their weddings in the Whitsundays. The organisation has also collaborated with Tourism Whitsundays to market the region in the broader Australian bridal and wedding industry.

The merger signals a transformation for Weddings Whitsundays that will see the introduction of new and innovative promotional activities, educational resources for couples, and business support services for the industry.

The Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry is the peak body for micro and small businesses, medium enterprises, and large industry that aims to champion, support, and foster a thriving and collaborative regional business environment.

"This merger represents an exciting opportunity for the Whitsunday wedding industry," said Allan Milostic, President of Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

"By combining the strengths of both organisations, we can provide greater support to local businesses and further enhance the region's reputation as a premier location for destination weddings."

Under the new structure Weddings Whitsundays entity will be integrated into the Chamber.

• A Weddings Whitsundays Sub-committee will be established to develop and drive strategic industry development, promotional, and educational initiatives.
• Weddings Whitsundays will maintain its dedicated website member and consumer communications, and industry promotion activities.
• Weddings Whitsundays members become Chamber members, receiving all the inclusions and benefits of Chamber membership.
• A dedicated Weddings Whitsundays Liaison position will be established within the Chamber responsible for the day-to-day operations.

The Chamber is committed to ensuring a smooth transition and continued support for the Whitsundays wedding industry. Over the coming months, the focus will be on integrating operations, enhancing member business services, and developing new initiatives to promote the region as a leading wedding destination.

To learn more about Weddings Whitsundays visit https://www.weddingswhitsundays.com/

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With the 2025 federal election fast approaching, political parties are in full campaign mode—delivering promises, slogans and soundbites at every turn. For many voters, it can be difficult to make sense of it all.

In response, the Whitsunday Conservation Council is hosting a community forum tonight, Thursday April 17, to help locals better understand where the major parties stand on the issues that matter most.

The evening aims to be informative, engaging and a bit of fun—offering a relaxed space for people to come together, ask questions, and explore the election from a community perspective.

While only one candidate, The Greens’ Paula Creen, accepted the invitation to attend in person, all candidates were sent a list of questions on topics such as the cost of living, climate change, the environment, the Great Barrier Reef and integrity in government. Their responses will be presented and discussed on the night.

The state of the environment is expected to feature prominently in the conversation, with organisers highlighting the well-established link between environmental health and a strong, stable economy.

Despite the lack of candidate attendance, organisers say the forum will still deliver plenty of value for voters who want to cut through the campaign noise and feel more confident about their choices at the ballot box.

The event is free and open to all members of the community. Whether you're undecided or just curious, everyone is welcome to come along, join the discussion and bring a friend.

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Paula Creen from the Green's Party will be attending on the night. Photo supplied

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Driving up and down the coast, candidate signs are hard to miss. Their point is to get voters to remember them come polling day. However, a successful election campaign can’t just rely on name recognition. Candidates need to be out and about sharing their visions and what they can do for the electorate.

This week Dawson candidates gathered at a Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce event in a ‘meet the people forum’. Events like this, and there will be more, are important in giving all candidates a voice and equal opportunity to press their claims. Outside of these type of forums candidates also need to be amongst the people, door knocking, being available at community events, and creating opportunities for voters to meet them.

Crisscrossing the country our Federal leaders have been racking up the miles to get to as many places as possible. In Dawson, at the time of writing this observer notes since the election was called, David Littleproud, leader of the Nationals has visited the region alongside current member Andrew Willcox and this observer wonders are we going to have any other leaders visit before polling day?

Of course, it is not just the members of parliament that want your vote, it those running for Senate as well. The make-up of the Senate dictates how easily promises made can be passed into law. There are 76 senators, the current composition of which is made up of 25 Labour Senators, 30 Coalition Senators with 21 representing the minor parties (including 11 Green) and independents.

For legislation to pass the Senate, 39 votes are required (unless not all Senators are present), which means both Labor and Coalition rely on playing nice with either each other or the cross bench. While this is not something new, the more Senators a government have, the less wheeling and dealing that is required.

Voters might at times be finding it hard to decipher at a national level, all the party politics and sort through the promises and scares. The local candidates are the one’s that will represent us and for some the choice may be more about the local guy or girl rather than the party they represent.

This observer asks readers, when heading to the polls on May 3rd, which local candidate is best placed to be our positive voice in Canberra?

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Saturday April 19, 2025 is a special day for St Catherine’s School as it marks one hundred years of Catholic Education in Proserpine. The original school and Convent were built side by side in Marathon Street by Mr J J Riley. The school was a long, single room of timber with verandahs. Electricity was not connected until the early 1930s. Called Our Lady’s Convent School, the school offered tuition in a large range of subjects.

The official opening began with a large crowd gathering in the church for prayers. A procession then made its way first to the Convent and then to the school; both being blessed. The school opened with a roll call of sixty children under the guidance of four Sisters of Mercy, one being Principal, Sister Mary Mercy.

When the school commenced, there was little or no organised sport. Competitive sport did not commence until the 1930s. Children made their own fun. Marbles was a “little” lunch favourite and “big” lunch hours were spent constructing cubby houses in the very long grass beside the school by tying the grass tops together and making long tunnels. Drop the hankie; oranges and lemons; tip the hand; dog and the bone; Red Rover and hop scotch were favourite activities.

Much has changed since 1925 …

On Sunday, April 9 1961, thirty-six years after the first school was built, a new brick building was opened. It consisted of four classrooms and even had port racks – so much better than the one single room. The old building was moved to the beach where it served as a church until it was destroyed by Cyclone Ada in 1970.

The new school opened with 140 pupils and the first principal was Sister M. Ursula. One of the earliest additions to the new school was the shelter shed built to combat heavy wet seasons. In response to the urgent need for more classrooms, additional infants’ rooms and a library were built in 1969. In 1974, a seventh classroom was added and in the late 1970s, the port racks were turned into the administration area.

The first lay teacher, Mrs Barbara Wright, was appointed in 1962; the first lay principal, George de Jong in 1983. By 1988, the school was staffed entirely by lay teachers – marking the end of an era. For sixty-three years, the Sisters of Mercy provided an outstanding contribution to education through their Christian love and dedication.

The 1980s saw the construction of a covered play area (1986) and the acquisition of a school bus which not only enabled students to attend school excursions and sporting events, it also addressed the rising costs of conveying children.

In 1993, a preschool building was opened as well as an enlarged administration area and staffroom. But with preschool numbers on the increase, this necessitated the construction of two classrooms along the Davy Avenue boundary. A further two years on, a similar building with two classrooms was built adjacent to these.

In 2012, St Catherine’s Catholic College celebrated the official opening of their new school campus on Renwick Road with students moving into the campus for the start of the school year. The new campus had six classrooms, a library, administration building, car park and a sports and recreation hall named in honour of former parish priest, the late Father Tom Gard.

A New Chapter …

The year 2013 marked an exciting new chapter in the school’s history. After eighty years as a primary school, St Catherine’s made the transition to high school. In 2014, the school had three dedicated learning precincts - Mercy Campus (Prep to Year 3) on Marathon Street; Loyola Campus (Years 4 to 6) and Manresa Campus (Years 7 to 12) both on Renwick Road. In 2017, St Cath’s welcomed its first Year 12 cohort and very first kindergarten group offering continuity of education for families.

In 2018, St Catherine’s Mercy Campus in Marathon Street was closed with Prep to Year 3 students making the final move across to the Renwick Road campus.

Official Centenary Celebrations will be held from July 27 – July 30 with a special mass conducted by Bishop Tim Harris on August 1.

Story and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum

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Our Lady's Convent School.

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Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc. has successfully released Betty, a sub-adult green sea turtle who was rescued while floating near Coral Sea Marina on Friday, 28 February. After several weeks of rehabilitation at the Whitsunday Turtle Rescue Centre, Betty has returned to her natural habitat and is now swimming freely through the pristine waters of the Whitsundays.

Her return to the ocean was made even more special with a heartfelt farewell, as she swam off into the sunshine to the sound of an original song composed by Rikki Powell from Billabong Dreaming. The song was written to celebrate Betty’s release and to honour the incredible work of Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc.

Betty was rescued thanks to the quick thinking and kind heart of the team at Phoenix Fishing Charters, who spotted her in distress and brought her to safety. Suffering from “float syndrome” and bearing an old boat strike wound to her shell, Betty arrived at the Centre underweight and in need of urgent care.

During her rehabilitation, Betty captured the hearts of volunteers with her big personality and even bigger appetite. Eco Barge extend a special thank you to Tassal, who generously donated fresh green prawns from their prawn farm to help meet Betty’s dietary needs. Her love for prawns quickly earned her fan-favourite status among the team.

“This is why we do what we do,” said Libby Edge, Founder of Eco Barge Clean Seas. “Betty’s story is a reminder of the power of community and the importance of slowing down in sea turtle habitats. Thanks to Phoenix Fishing Charters, our amazing volunteers, and support from Tassal, Betty got her second chance.”

As boating season continues, Eco Barge encourages all vessel operators to GO SLOW in seagrass areas like Pioneer Bay and Airlie Beach. Travelling under 6 knots in these sensitive zones can prevent serious injuries to marine turtles like Betty.

The Whitsunday Turtle Rescue Centre is proudly supported by Cruise Whitsundays, Coca-Cola Australia, and Paradise Outdoor Advertising, whose ongoing commitment makes rescues like Betty’s possible.

Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc. remains committed to protecting marine life and healthy oceans. Since launching the Rescue Centre, more than 230 turtles have been cared for and released back into the wild.

You can support future turtle rescues and marine conservation work by donating at: www.ecobargecleanseas.org.au

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The Eco Barge Turtle Rescue Team celebrating Betty's release. Photo credit: Joschua Wittorff.
The Eco Barge Turtle Rescue Team getting Betty ready for release
Rikki Powell from Billabong Dreaming debuting his original song
Betty making her way into the ocean.

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As Mayor of the Whitsundays, I see firsthand the vital role local councils play in keeping our communities functioning and thriving, and I also see the mounting pressure we face to deliver more with less.

Put simply, the current Federal funding model for local governments is broken. It hasn’t been properly updated since the mid-1970s, and while the Federal Government’s capacity to fund councils has increased through growing taxation revenue, its share of funding to us has continued to shrink.

In fact, since 1995, that share has decreased as a percentage of Commonwealth revenue and councils like ours are left to carry the load.

Across Queensland, councils — big and small — are increasingly stepping in as the providers of last resort just to maintain the services and infrastructure that support everyday liveability. We’re expected to fill the gaps, but without the proper funding tools to do it.

Our research shows that the cost of this “quiet cost-shifting” onto councils has exploded by a staggering 378% over the past two decades. That burden ultimately falls on our communities and our ratepayers which is simply not fair.

People in the Whitsundays shouldn’t have to miss out because policies, funding models, and legislation from Canberra haven’t kept up with local needs. It’s time for a new approach, one that’s fair, sustainable, and reflective of the real value councils deliver.

As we approach the Federal Election, Queensland councils are calling for:

• A boost to untied federal funding to at least 1% of Commonwealth taxation revenue, indexed and reliable.
• A new, permanent funding program to build and maintain essential community infrastructure.
• A tripartite agreement to finally end the cost-shifting from other levels of government.
• Greater direct funding access for councils, including a return to the 80/20 infrastructure funding split.

We need a funding model that works for today and into the future because when councils are properly supported, our communities thrive. It's time for the next Federal Government to back local government and deliver real results for the people we serve.

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Over the last three years the price of everything has gone up. Inflation and interest rates have been high and remained high. People across Dawson have less in their pocket and getting by is harder than ever. Australian’s are experiencing the sharpest decline in living standards in decades, with the current drop in disposable income the worst on record.

As the Federal member for Dawson, I know how tough people right across our region are finding things right now.

After three years, Labor’s record is; Electricity up 32% - not down by $275; Groceries up 30% - and farmers are missing out; Insurance up 35% - North Queensland punished more because of cyclones and floods; Rents up 18% - more in parts of Dawson; and a housing crisis with not one house built under their housing fund.

Labor’s ‘Big Australia’ Green only strategy has been a trainwreck for our economy and only a Coalition government can fix the mess.

The Coalition’s plan to get Australia back on track is a positive one.

Our plan to tackle inflation and higher prices will return Australia to a place where hard work is rewarded, and people can breathe life back into their household budgets. A Dutton/Littleproud government will rein in wasteful spending; reduce the burden of government red and green tapes; give more incentives for small business to thrive though tax deductions; get people moving more with 25 cents a litre off fuel; lower energy prices with a balanced and sustainable energy mix; restrict foreign ownership of our homes; and reduce Labor’s record migration intake so that housing builds can keep up.

Taxpayers earning between $45,000 and $104,000 will get $1,200 back in their tax returns, while partial offsets will be received for people earning up to $140,000. This measure is similar to the previous Coalition government’s tax relief that was scraped by the Albanese government.

The country is in an era of the worst decline in living standards in living memory. To change the country’s trajectory and to reverse the decline we must change the government.

A Coalition government will get our economy moving and get the country back on track.

Federal Member For Dawson Andrew Willcox

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Hi Everyone,

Happy Easter! I don’t know about you, but I’m really looking forward to the long weekend and the chance to relax and catch up with friends.

This past weekend was a special one for me. As some of you will know, I’ve been spending my spare time over the past few months helping care for a sea turtle named Betty. She came into the care of Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc. after suffering from float syndrome and a boat strike that left a serious wound on her shell.

During her time in our care, I formed a real bond with her. Betty has such a quirky personality and quickly became known for her insatiable appetite — we often joked we could barely keep up with her food demands! One of my favourite things she’d do was pop her head up the moment I walked in, as if to say, “Feed me!” She also loved putting her head under the running water during tank cleans.

Over the weekend, we released Betty back into the ocean at Shute Harbour. It was such a proud and emotional moment. Watching her swim off strong and healthy reminded me how far she’d come. You can read more about her release and see some beautiful photos by my friend Joschua Wittorff on page 6.

In other news, I had the pleasure of writing a feature on Hamilton Island’s stunning new resort, The Sundays (pages 12–17). It’s an absolutely stunning venue and writing about it made me wish I was on holiday!

Lastly, due to space constraints, Ruth 2 Reef is on 'pause' this week, but fear not! An extended version will be published in next week’s edition of Whitsunday Life.

What an amazing week!

Ruth

"If you are brave enough to say goodbye, life will reward you with a new hello." - Paulo Coelho

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Who doesn’t love a Soda? This sweet 3-month-old pup was heartbreakingly found dumped at the Bowen tip, but you’d never guess it from his happy, playful nature. Soda is full of love and can’t wait to share it with his forever family.

Soda is a Bull Arab X, medium to large in size, and great with both kids and other dogs. He’s a snuggly soul who adores naps and is doing wonderfully with his toilet training.

While he’s mostly a gentle boy, Soda has a little watchdog spirit—he’ll let you know if someone’s nearby with a quick bark. One of his favourite things? Curling up beside his foster family’s kids’ beds at night, keeping them company as they sleep.

Could Soda be your new best mate?

If you'd like to adopt Soda contact Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue Inc:
• Phone: 0459 757 455
• Facebook: Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue
• Email: bcpri.adoptions@gmail.com

Rehoming fee: $400
Age: 3 months
Sex: Male
Breed: Bull Arab X
Other dogs: yes
Kids: yes
Fences: 5ft

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Adopt Soda the beautiful 3-month-old puppy!

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This year’s Mayor’s Charity Ball will be taking place at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre on the 26th July 2025.

We are proud to announce that the masquerade themed ball will be raising fund for three incredible charities – BMA CQ Rescue, the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, and the Bowen Community Centre.

Tickets go on sale on Monday, 21 April 2025 – don’t miss your chance to be part of this important cause!

For more information, head to Council’s website.

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As ANZAC Day approaches, preparations are well underway for a touching local tradition that has quietly grown into a cherished community event.

Now in its tenth year, the annual flag ceremony at Proserpine Cemetery pays tribute to nearly 400 service men and women laid to rest there.

Organised by Lyn Burke, the event sees flags placed beside the graves of veterans, including Boer War veterans, Gallipoli survivors, Rats of Tobruk, Prisoners of War, Commandos & many more men & women who served this country.

It’s a gesture of respect and remembrance that organiser Lynn Burke says began as a labour of love and has become something much larger, with growing support from the community.

Lynn said it’s been great to see the youth come along to the flag ceremonies and they will become the future of this event.

Each row of graves will have a bag containing a flag, maps and brief stories about the service personnel, giving community members an understanding of the lives and sacrifices being honoured and who they are erecting a flag beside.

Guests and volunteers will be spread throughout both the old and new cemetery sections during the morning, placing flags and quietly acknowledging the stories tied to each grave. This year a flag will be placed on World War 2 soldier Arthur Read for the first time.

The flags will remain in place for about two weeks, allowing visitors to wander through the site and pay their respects.

What: 400 Flags For Cemetery
Where: Proserpine Cemetery Old and New
When: Monday 21st April 9am (Easter Monday)

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Federal Member For Dawson Andrew Willcox MP with members of the Whitsunday Old Iron Restorers Club at the flag laying ceremony at Proserpine Cemetery last year. Photo supplied

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The Whitsundays region recently welcomed the R U OK? Conversation Convoy, with events held in both Airlie Beach and Bowen, bringing locals together in a show of support, connection, and awareness for suicide prevention.

On April 6th, the convoy made its stop at the Coral Sea Marina carpark in Airlie Beach, where the community gathered on the hill to enjoy an afternoon of conversation, learning, and reflection. With a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, attendees explored the caravan display, participated in games, and accessed free mental health resources. Many shared a chat over a game of checkers or simply watched the sunset together with a sausage in hand from the free BBQ.

Matt Stokes from the WSPN reflected saying, “Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network were honoured to host the R U OK? Conversation Convoy in Airlie and Bowen. Their message aligns with ours, essentially looking out for each other, and asking the question, R U OK?” He also praised the visiting convoy adding, “The R U OK? team were a fantastic group and we had many great conversations with the public.”

The turnout and energy across both locations showed the power of community when it comes to supporting mental health. Whether people came to learn how to support someone else or to seek help for themselves, the convoy provided a safe, inclusive space for hope, help, and healing. Remember, you can ask Are You Ok? Any Day.

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Nicky and Rob from WSPN handing out pamphlets. Photo supplied: Matt Stokes of WSPN.
Bob, Mel, Kezza, Donna, and Nicky from WSPN holding up the R U OK? letters. Photo supplied: Matt Stokes of WSPN.

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From The Armchair Warrior

The 2022 election was all about the Climate. The results reflected this with a swag of teal independents announcing themselves on the national political stage, while the Greens picked up seats in Brisbane for the first time. But a lot has changed in three years and in 2025 the election is about the Cost of Living. Making the case for who can ease the pressures on managing household costs will go a long way to claiming a victory on May 3rd.

Treasurer Jim Chalmers in his budget speech a few short weeks ago announced income tax cuts, saying a ‘modest’ cut will come in from July 2026. The cut amounts to about $5 per week for every worker.

Opposition leader, Peter Dutton’s reply two nights later argued that $5 next year is hardly help and does nothing for people now. Dutton’s tax relief counter is to halve the Fuel Excise, cutting 25 cents a litre for every road user for 12 months with a review at the end of that 12 months.

Dutton vowed to introduce this measure to parliament in the first sitting day of a Coalition government.

The government and opposition have hotly debated who is best served to save households on their power bills. Albanese and Climate Change Minister, Chris Bowen argue for staying the course with continued investment in green technologies said to be the way to go with more wind and solar. Meanwhile Dutton has said that under a government he leads a greater emphasis will be placed on opening up gas supplies with a quarantined amount of Australian produced gas set aside for Aussie users.

Long term Dutton’s vision is nuclear power for base load power. His plan is that nuclear power plants will be built adjacent to existing coal fire power stations, pointing out that existing infrastructure means thousands of kilometres of new polls and wires, like that required for wind and solar is not needed.

The Albanese promise of $275 cheaper power bills has not materialised. Instead, the current government has given each electricity account $75 per quarter rebates over 12 months and has announced the rebate to be extended a further 2 quarters.

With the cost of everything, from supermarket items, to insurance, to healthcare, and accommodation rising, many Aussies are finding less in their pockets.

This observer’s question is – Over the next few weeks of this election campaign, will voters see any final hand on heart promises to reverse a sliding standard of living?

Bottom Line – The party who can best sell their cost of living policies will be well positioned come election day.

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Cars For Community Brings New Wheels To Collinsville Youth Coalition

The Cars for Community initiative is revving up real-world learning and making a meaningful difference, proving that it’s much more than just a car giveaway.

Now in its third year, the program sees students spend the school year restoring donated or purchased vehicles, bringing them up to roadworthy condition before gifting them to local not-for-profit organisations in need.

Automotive Trainer Simon Korneliussen shared that the program is as much about education as it is about giving back to the community.

“We receive cars that have either been purchased or donated, and we work with our students throughout the year to restore them to roadworthy condition,” he explained.

“Once they’re ready, we pass them on to organisations that can truly benefit from them.”

The most recent handover saw a restored vehicle delivered to the Collinsville Youth Coalition. Originally purchased for $600, the car required significant repairs before it could be deemed roadworthy.

“This one’s been a long time coming — it needed quite a bit of work,” Mr Korneliussen explained, reflecting on the time and effort invested in the project.

The initiative offers dual benefits, where students gain hands-on mechanical experience and valuable teamwork skills, while local community organisations receive much-needed assets that can make a tangible difference.

For student Stathi Kypridis, the project has been a rewarding experience.

“It feels great, to be honest,” he said.

“It’s really rewarding to see something we worked on go to someone who needs it, and I’ve definitely learnt a lot about cars and tools.”

Sixteen-year-old Amelia Dos Santos added that the experience was both challenging and educational.

“Knowing the car was going to people who need it made us want to work even harder,” she said.

“It was a challenge, but working with the other students and asking questions really helped.”

For the Collinsville Youth Coalition, the donation will have a big impact.

“We do a lot of transporting gear to and from events,” said Youth Activities Coordinator Luella Widt.

“We didn’t have a vehicle that could support moving larger items — now we can do everything ourselves.

“There’s really no price on that kind of independence.”

The initiative wouldn’t be possible without the support of generous local sponsors, including Repco, OGR Tyres, DC Power, and Bakers Creek Wreckers.

“We couldn’t run this initiative without our sponsors,” Mr Korneliussen said.

“It’s all about building relationships with the community and creating pathways into the automotive industry for our students.”

With more vehicles in the pipeline and students gaining industry-relevant skills, the Cars for Community initiative is proving to be a powerful engine for change — both in the classroom and across the region.

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Cars for Community gifted a fully restored vehicle to the Collinsville Youth Coalition, giving students hands-on automotive experience while empowering a local organisation with vital transport support.

Automotive Trainer Simon Korneliussen

Work experience student, Stathi Kypridis

Youth Activities Coordinator Luella Widt. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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A huge congratulations to Bowen’s own Jacob Ross, a Year 10 student at Bowen State High School, who has been selected as a delegate for the Ministerial Student Advisory Council. Jacob attended the first meeting in Brisbane on the 28th of March, where he joined 17 other young leaders from across Queensland to discuss important issues affecting students.

The Ministerial Student Advisory Council is an invaluable platform for the Minister for Education to hear the voices of students from all corners of the state. As a North Queensland representative, Jacob is in a unique position to bring the concerns and ideas of local students to the forefront. This achievement is a significant honour, not only for Jacob but for Bowen State High School as well.

Jacob, who is passionate about his school studies, instrumental music, and hockey, has expressed a deep commitment to promoting safe and supportive environments in schools.

“I am passionate about safe schools that promote the growth of healthy minds and bodies," he says, "I look forward to the opportunity to collaborate with like-minded students to help shape the future of education in Queensland schools."

Minister for Education and the Arts, John-Paul Langbroek MP, highlighted the council’s focus on key issues such as bullying, mental health, and the future of virtual learning.

Jacob’s participation in this important initiative will allow him to contribute to discussions on issues like these and many more, ensuring that the voices of young Queenslanders are heard.

This is an exciting opportunity for Jacob to make a difference and to bring a North Queensland perspective to the broader conversation about education in Queensland and we wish him all the best in this rewarding endeavour and two year council position.

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Jacob Ross in Brisbane ready to attend the Council meeting. Photo provided: Bowen State High School.

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First Nations Artists And Craftspeople

Cairns Indigenous Art Fair (CIAF) has issued a Queensland-wide call to First Nations artists and craftspeople to showcase their culture and wares to thousands of visitors at this year’s Tanks Arts Centre-based Artisans Showcase between Thursday 10th and Sunday 13th of July 2025.

Set within the botanic surrounds of the event’s new Tanks Arts Centre hub, the Artisans Showcase, one of CIAF’s much-loved program highlights, will provide a welcoming and inspiring marketplace featuring a new and diverse range of authentic Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander arts and crafts at various price points, from meaningful gifts to artefacts and collectibles.

CIAF’s Artistic Director, Teho Ropeyarn, said that while the art market is traditionally one of the most popular and visited attractions of the annual event, it has been rebranded Artisans Showcase to better reflect the organisation’s commitment to showcasing authentic, high-quality artwork and craftsmanship.

“Importantly, the Artisans Showcase will provide an inclusive, ethical platform to present and sell a diverse and culturally rich range of arts and crafts celebrating the heritage, traditional techniques, and creative expressions of Queensland’s First Nations communities,” said Mr Ropeyarn.

CIAF will span four days and will feature the work of approximately 300 visual artists and 100 performers across a multifaceted program of mostly free and family-friendly events.

Highlights include this year’s 'Pay Attention!' themed art fair, 'Look & Listen' fashion performances, The Artisans Showcase, Eat Street, music, cultural dance and demonstrations, Masterclasses, CIAF Talks (with keynote speakers and panel discussions) and more.

CIAF is a platform for independent artists, galleries, art centres, and market stallholders. It is one of Queensland’s most significant cultural events, with a far-reaching social and economic impact.

Queensland’s First Nations artisans are invited to apply between now and 30 April 2025. To submit an EOI scan the QR Code or visit https://ciaf.com.au/ciaf-2025-artisans-showcase-eoi-now-open-0

WHAT: Cairns Indigenous Art Fair 2025 | Theme: Pay Attention!
WHEN: Thursday 10th to Sunday 13th, July.
WHERE: Tanks Arts Centre, Edge Hill, Cairns.

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During the school term, 170,000 children across Queensland are fed breakfast through school-based breakfast programs, but with school holidays upon us, the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre has created a program to support families in need when school is out.

The Brekky Pack program provides a package of breakfast foods to help families across the region. The centre sought sponsorship to fund the packs that include: a choice of cereal, vegemite or honey, bread, milk, butter, Milo, pancake mix and juice. There were 20 families selected to receive the packs, with collection on Thursday and Friday 3rd and 4th April, ahead of the two-week school holidays.

Whitsunday Transit and Smooth Sailing Financial Consulting each sponsored 10 packs and the program aims to distribute packs at the beginning of each holiday break.

“We know that families are relying on school-based breakfast programs because of the cost of groceries, and our concern was that children won’t have that over the holidays," Rebecca Woods Executive Officer.

The Centre also provides $15 pantry packs that would retail at around $70 and other low and no-cost food options from our My Community Pantry program, these pantry packs are not means tested and are available to any who are struggling to fill their pantries. “The pantry was accessed 362 times in March and 347 in February, for bread, meat, fruit and veg," Ms Woods said

“The Centre is advocating to set up a Food Bank in the near future,” she said, as this would help support these programs and the people they help. So, if you need support, or would like to be involved with sponsoring the program, reach out to the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre on: 4946 7850 or visit them at: 14-20 Hazelwood Crescent, Cannonvale.

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Rebecca Woods, Executive Officer with a pack on display. Photo supplied: Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre

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In today’s busy world, one-on-one time with the people you love can be a rarity, and I’ll admit, I’m often guilty of not making enough time for it with my own family.

Last Sunday, however, I made a point to carve out a two-hour window for just my son and me. We often have ‘family time’ with other members of our family, but when I thought about it, I realised we haven’t had much time just the two of us lately.

We took a trip into Airlie Beach, grabbed some sushi, and then had ice cream — enjoying both while we sat on a towel on the sandy slope of the lagoon, looking at the water and the turquoise ocean beyond.

We tested the water and were delighted by the temperature, so we stripped down to our swimmers and raced in. We swam a little, then played ‘catch’ for almost an hour. It was absolute heaven. We chatted the whole time, and I really felt like I got to know my son again. Afterwards, he told me that he loved me and asked if we could do it again soon. Of course, I said yes.

If you get the chance to have some one-on-one time with a loved one over this Easter holiday, I strongly recommend it - taking the time to connect with those who matter most can offer a refreshing perspective on what really matters.

Similarly, as the Federal Election approaches, it’s important to make informed decisions about what truly matters for our region and we’ll be covering the election thoroughly while striving to remain fair and impartial.

Next Tuesday, we’ll be live-streaming the members-only ‘Meet the Candidates’ event hosted by the Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce & Industry. If you’re not yet a Chamber member, now is a great time to sign up and attend an event that promises to be highly engaging.

When deciding who to vote for this election, ask yourself: Who would you want a one-on-one with? Which candidate would listen to your needs and the needs of our region the most?

Rach

Quote of the week: "You will never look back on life and say 'I spent too much time with my kids'"

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With Shell Wardrope

Local hero Michelle Shell Wardrope, whose determination and resilience have inspired the community, has successfully completed her 50-squats-per-day challenge throughout March, all while adjusting to life with only one leg after a life-changing incident last year.

In March 2023, Shell tragically lost her leg after a soil-borne bacterial infection entered her bloodstream following a fall. Despite the trauma, she channeled her energy into a mission to raise funds for the Royal Flying Doctors, the service that helped bring her home after her initial recovery.

To support her cause, Shell invited the community to join her at a special on March 30th, at the Airlie Beach Foreshore. The afternoon was filled with heartwarming moments as people gathered to cheer her on, including a special challenge to participate in her penultimate set of 50 squats.

Shell would like to make sure a big thank you goes out to everyone who made the event possible. The Mayor of Whitsunday Ry Collins joined Shell for the event, showing his support for her inspiring journey.

Mr Whipsunday kept everyone cool with free ice creams, while the local Bendigo Bank generously donated chairs and tables for the BBQ. Beagles Pizzas also provided delicious pizza for attendees, ensuring no one went hungry.

Although Shell’s journey has been difficult, she’s shown incredible strength and positivity, raising over $1,000 for the Royal Flying Doctors. The event was a beautiful display of community spirit and support, and Shell was overwhelmed by the love and encouragement from all who attended.

“I’m getting way more out of it than I ever thought I would,” Shell said. "This community has really uplifted me, and I’m so grateful for every person who has supported my journey."

The challenge may be over, but Shell’s message of resilience and the importance of helping others will continue to inspire the Whitsundays for years to come.

With the funds from the 50-squat challenge going to the Royal Flying Doctors, Shell is also currently running a personal GoFundMe page for anyone who would like to donate to help her get a new car so she can become more mobile.

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Shell Wardrope and her family with Mayor Ry Collins who attended the recent community event

Shell and her husband next to the Airlie Beach sign, moments after she completed the last set of 50-squats per day for the month of March. Photos supplied

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Collinsville is set to shine even brighter, with Federal Member for Capricornia, Michelle Landry, announced this week a $250,000 commitment to deliver the next stage of the town’s beautification project if an LNP Government is elected in May.

This fresh injection of funding will deliver Stage 2 of the revitalisation, focusing on landscaping both entrances to Collinsville and enhancing the area leading to the cemetery, ensuring the first and last impressions of the town reflect the heart and pride of the local community.

Michelle Landry said the project would build on the solid foundation already laid by the LNP Government through the $741,750 delivered in 2022 under the highly successful Building Better Regions Fund for Stage 1 of the Collinsville CBD upgrades.

“I’ve fought hard to deliver real infrastructure for Collinsville. This has included a brand new QCWA hall, to the Stage 1 town centre upgrade and $1.2 million for the waterpark,” Ms Landry said.

“This additional $250,000 commitment is about finishing what we started. Collinsville is a hardworking, proud community and it deserves to look just as good as it feels to live in.

“Under the former LNP Government, we backed regional towns like Collinsville with funding that made a real difference. If elected, the LNP will get back to delivering for our regions, not forgetting them like Labor has.

“The new commitment is a clear sign the LNP is delivering for regional Queensland and the people of Collinsville.”

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Federal Member for Capricornia, Michelle Landry and Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins in Collinsville where Ms Landry made a $250,000 commitment to deliver the next stage of the town’s beautification project if an LNP Government is elected in May. Photo supplied

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In May this year, Proserpine Golf Club will celebrate 100 years of chasing that little white ball. Today, the club boasts over 300 members who tee off on what is now regarded as a championship standard golf course. But 100 years ago, it was a vastly different scenario.
How it all began …

The Proserpine Golf Club was born when a group of golf lovers met at Phaff’s Paddock (the current site of Whitsunday Gold Coffee Plantation) to swing a club. Men such as local dentist of the time, W E (Bill) Hood, Claude Kieran, Matt Ingram, Fred Barnes and Arthur Toohey are some of the names of early golfers recorded in past notes from these early days. Soon, many other local citizens and their wives joined and a club was formed with Council Chairman, Bob Shepherd as patron.

A small golf course with no recognised fairways was drawn up. However, the paddock had to be shared with several football clubs. The local Ramblers, All Blacks and other footballers played on this field and the place became overcrowded however it served the purpose until the committee decided to lease the showgrounds.

But conditions at the showgrounds were poor. The only shade available was provided by the spreading branches of trees and water had to be taken there in a bottle. A shelter was desperately required and so too were funds. Mr C E Mazlin spearheaded a working party which gathered black mangrove timber and built a rustic shelter – such ingenuity.

Eventually, a small clubhouse was erected a short distance from the present entrance to the grounds and opened in 1932. From there, players hit the ball down the fairway towards the horse paddock. After that, it was across the show ring where the fence rails were often a hazard, then towards the cattle yards and then Pig Creek and by the time the course had been completed, players had done a full circuit of the showgrounds.

The Golf Club provided more than just a sporting opportunity. It was also a wonderful social occasion. The women would make afternoon tea and the men brought a dozen bottles of beer. Soon competitions were held with Bowen, Mackay and Collinsville.
Moving along …

After World War 2, moves were made towards securing the club’s own land but finances and suitable land were stalling points until 1948 when it was decided to renegotiate with Mr Gordon Edwards for the land now owned by the club. Mr Tom Foxlee also agreed to sell the club 10 acres bringing the total area for the course to 42 acres.

Thanks to volunteers with tractors, ploughs and graders, the hard work of clearing and burning gums, ti-trees and other scrub, especially on weekends, was accomplished. Next there was a course to be planned. This was drafted out by Frank Wilson, Joe Carter, Alan Spence, John McLellan and Lyall Jones. And then a “new” clubhouse was necessary as the one at the showgrounds had served its purpose. Mr W Greenwood’s old home, said to have been built around the 1890s, was purchased and its removal and reconstruction were supervised by Mr Dick Oakhill.

About 350 people attended the official opening in May 1952 which was performed by Mr Lloyd Roberts, Member for Whitsunday. When Club Patron, Mr Charlie Faust, drove off the first ball from No 1 Tee to the accompaniment of loud applause, the men and associates did a crocodile dance with Arthur Neill on the bagpipes. The band rendered lively music and celebrations continued well into midnight.
Fast Forward to 2025 …

From an impromptu rest under a tree, with a hasty swig from a water bottle, members can now revive their flagging spirits with a cool drink and a comfortable rest in a spacious, air-conditioned clubhouse after playing on the rolling greens of what is now (since 1971) an 18 hole course.

Story and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum

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Receives Support From Willcox

Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, announced this week that an elected Dutton Liberal National Government will provide $20,000 to support the Proserpine Youth Space.

“The Proserpine community is growing in population and therefore growing in the number of youths that require support,” Mr Willcox said.

“Youth Space is a non-government organisation offering the support and guidance for 8 to 21 year olds. It provides our young people with a safe and comfortable environment to socialise and interact with their friends, as well as with staff and volunteers.

“With the increase in crime and decrease in social development amongst youths, programs that create resilience and provide guidance, are imperative.

“Youth Space does exactly that, by creating a foundation to reduce anti-social behaviour and help set our youth on the right path for their future and the betterment of the community.

“The LNP knows how important it is to fund grass roots programs within small communities, which is why I’m proud to commit funding to this vital program if a Dutton-led Liberal National Government is elected.”

Renee Buckley from the Proserpine Youth Space Coordinator said, “We receive referrals from Queensland Police of young youths who are going off the track in life, and we try to support them the best way we can with our Anger and Anxiety Youth Program.

“This funding commitment will mean we will be able to continue to run this program with martial arts, fitness, and art therapy with the aim to help teenagers develop resilience and channel any anger into other positive activities.”

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Willcox pledges $20,000 to support the Proserpine Youth Space if LNP Government elected. Photo supplied

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Willcox Drives Funding For The Bruce

I was excited when Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, announced in January that the Labor government would fund $7.2 billion towards the Bruce Highway. However, the celebrations for Dawson were short lived, when it was discovered not a cent had been allocated for the region until at least 2028.

Senate estimates revealed that of the announced funding only $432 million had been costed over the next three years and that money is not making it to Dawson.

This figure is lower again than the $488 million Labor removed from the 2024 budget, set aside by the previous Coalition government. In January the Coalition without hesitation matched the $7.2 billion announced, and it now appears only a change of government will deliver any of these funds for North Queensland in the near future.

Under Labor this important corridor that stretches right through Dawson has gone backwards. Labor’s flashy billion dollar announcements are worthless. The money is not allocated, certainly not for North Queensland, and under Labor our region won’t have access to these funds until at least 2028.

Coalition governments have a record of providing the funds and delivering on necessary improvements to the Bruce Highway.

The last time the Federal Coalition were in government, funded and executed projects in Dawson included; the Mackay Ring Road, flood mitigation works, safety improvements with more overtaking lanes and widened sections right along the Bruce. Labor stopped the momentum of these projects, a trend I am passionate about reversing.

If elected, a Dutton/Littleproud government will fully restore the 80:20 funding split for the Bruce Highway. Meaning the federal government takes a greater funding responsibility, picking up 80% of the tab, while the State Government is left to pick up a more manageable 20%.

In 2023, the Albanese government downgraded the Federal contribution to 50%. When the federal government share is less, it puts a higher burden on the State Government to finance projects, which in turn means there is less money flowing to projects the State Government are trying to achieve.

Labor’s promises are just sexy sound bites to win votes. The Bruce, especially in regional Queensland, is just not a priority for Labor.

North Queensland needs a government to get on with the job. Road users of Dawson need the money delivered now, not just flashed around as a maybe, sometime, never.

If the Coalition wins the upcoming federal election on May 3rd, a Coalition government will also be aided by having a strong ally in the recently elected Crisafulli LNP State Government.

Together, with a LNP State Government that also values a better Bruce Highway, North Queenslanders will see a new era of positive cross government collaboration with the right and fair funding model to back our Bruce.

To join me in ‘Backing Our Bruce” sign my petition to get the wheels in motion. www.andrewwillcox.com.au/back-our-bruce

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Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox says funding is vital to fix the Bruce Highway. Photo supplied

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Funding Available For Residents

Whitsunday Regional Council has secured State Government Funding to support residents impacted by flying-fox roosts.

Residents impacted by flying-fox roosts in Collinsville can now access resident assistance grants for lifestyle mitigations to provide practical solutions that help offset impacts of flying-fox roost noise, odour and property damage.

Council secured a $46,000 State Government grant and is also contributing $20,000 to assist residents directly impacted by flying-fox roosts in urban areas.

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said the initiative responds to community concerns and ensures support for those most impacted.

“This funding allows residents to implement lifestyle mitigations that make a real difference,” Mayor Collins said.

“Eligible residents can claim up to 75% of costs, up to $3,000, to offset the challenges posed by flying fox roosts.”

Council has trialled intervention measures since 2021 with mixed success. While high-intensity methods have had limited results, this funding offers an alternative approach without restricting future options.

During the Flying-fox Policy and Plan consultation undertaken in July 2024, a subsidy was suggested by the community as one of the management options that could help affected residents.

Councillor Michelle Wright reaffirmed Council’s commitment to ongoing support for affected residents.

“This funding is just one of several tools available, and Council remains open to future interventions where appropriate,” Cr Wright said.

“We recognise the challenges faced by impacted residents and will continue to explore solutions that balance conservation with community wellbeing.”

Residents with flying-foxes on their property will be prioritised, however, residents within 100 metres of a roost can apply, with case-by-case assessments available for others significantly impacted.

Fact sheets and application forms are available via Council’s Online Engagement Portal, Your Say Whitsunday, or at a Customer Service Centre.

Funding is open until February 2026 or until fully allocated. For more information and to apply, visit yoursay.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au or contact Council’s Customer Service team on 1300 972 753.

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Residents that live within 100 metres of a flying fox roost can now access up to $3000 funding to help mitigate impacts. Photo: stock image, illustration only

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As the Proserpine Golf Club prepares to celebrate its Centenary on the first weekend of May, the excitement among members and locals is palpable. Whilst the club's genesis dates back to 1925, this landmark occasion is just as much about honouring its strong and thriving present as it is about reflecting on its rich and vibrant past.

With a steadily growing membership of between 350 and 380 individuals, the club is a predominant hub for sport, social connection, and personal growth in the Proserpine community. Whether you are a seasoned veteran of the golf course or a starry-eyed novice, learning how to hold and swing your first golf club, the club prides itself on its welcoming and inclusive atmosphere.

As Golf Professional Roger Vandenberg explains, “The handicap system means anyone can play and be competitive, regardless of their ability.” The recent increase in the maximum handicap for women from 36 to 54 is one of many steps the club has taken to make the sport more inclusive and accessible.

Today, Proserpine Golf Club proudly possesses an 18-hole championship course, complete with beautifully picturesque surroundings of crystalline creeks, rolling cane fields and majestic gum trees.

Due to its modernised irrigation system, the course remains in excellent condition even through dry spells. The club also boasts a practice fairway, putting green, practice nets, and a cutting edge TrackMan training facility where golfers of all levels can fine-tune their swing by utilising state of the art professional grade technology.

Roger, who has had the pleasure of serving as the club's professional for almost a decade, offers everything from individual private lessons to group clinics, including groups for ladies and juniors. He also provides club fitting and equipment repair services. Roger is supported by his associate and aspiring professional golfer, Nathan. Their presence at Proserpine Golf Club has contributed significantly to its growth and sharp improvement in competition standards.

Off the golf course, the on-site Clubhouse provides an energetic social venue, hosting everything from birthdays to weddings, wakes and post-round catch-ups. Recent renovations, including new furniture and abundant parking spaces, have made the golf club even more inviting.

As the centenary edges ever closer, the club takes time to highlight the efforts of its many volunteers, sponsors and long-serving families whose stalwart dedication has helped shape its success. Their work has laid the foundation for what promises to be a memorable centennial celebration and exciting future.

From its friendly atmosphere to its first-class facilities, Proserpine Golf Club stands as a shining beacon of what a community-driven sporting club can become and after a century, the only direction is upwards.

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Roger Vandenberg Head Professional, Photo Credit: Munir Kilic

Roger Vandenberg Head Professional and Nathan Sothmann PGA Associate, Photo Credit: Munir Kilic

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Done N Dusted Country, located conveniently on Proserpine’s Main Street, has swiftly become a beloved shopping destination since opening for business in October 2023. Owned and operated by Amber Duggan, a Proserpine local since 2005 and a mother of three, this charming country store provides local residents with a convenient, community focused retail experience.

Done N Dusted Country offers a diverse range of country clothing, footwear and accessories, catering specifically to the tastes and needs of Proserpine's residents and for surrounding communities throughout the Whitsundays and beyond.

Amber's commitment to the provision of local shopping emphasises her love for strengthening the local economy and supporting Proserpine's close-knit community. Customers seeking specific brands or unique country styles can handily place special orders directly with the store, adding a personalised touch to their country shopping experience. Done N Dusted Country shares the same building with Hunting and Shooting Supplies Whitsunday, owned and operated by Amber’s husband, Martin Duggan who is an equally passionate champion of the local community.

“There’s not really any country oriented shops in this town, so we wanted to do something unique with this store to service the needs of the locals and surrounding regions” said Mr Duggan.

Beyond retail, Amber and Martin’s authentic enthusiasm for uplifting their community is exemplified in their support of young local rodeo riders. Done N Dusted Country actively provides sponsorship opportunities to these young cowboys, offering them free clothing and discounted items from various brands. The couple enjoy helping them compete in rodeos and promoting rural tourism in the process and displaying the best of Proserpine's talent and country charm. This approach has made the store an integral element of the community, enriching the Proserpine experience for residents and visitors alike.

Done N Dusted Country is more than just a store, it's a celebration of rural life, community spirit and local pride. Whether you are visiting from out of town or you are a Proserpine local, make sure you stop by Done N Dusted Country on your next trip to Main Street and experience firsthand what Amber and Martin Duggan have to offer.

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With Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce President Allan Milostic

What's your number one election priority?

Recently the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry acknowledged the federal government’s pre-election budget. Whilst the investment in infrastructure, cost of living, and tax relief is welcome, the budget ultimately signals a future of debt and deficit and falls short in delivering targeted support for small businesses.

The budget aims to ‘shape a more affordable Australia’ but what does that look like, what are the knock-on effects for our region’s economy?

The Whitsunday business community looks forward to raising these questions, and more, at our Meet the Federal Election Candidates event, scheduled for 6pm Tuesday 15 April (for non-Chamber members, Mackay and Whitsunday Life will live stream aspects of the event via their Facebook page).

We have asked the Whitsunday business community to share their number one priority for this year’s federal election. The major issues include:

· Improve Whitsunday road infrastructure and the Bruce Highway.

· Business insurance accessibility and affordability for North Queensland.

· Critical public transportation issues which are impacting people's ability to gain employment in our region.

· How to ensure a vibrant rural sector so region’s businesses are also vibrant.

· Government spending and waste.

· More financial support for events and festivals that economically contribute to the region.

· Freedom of speech.

· Continuing the flow of visitors to the region during flooding events and wet season.

· Support for regional not-for-profits, such as the Proserpine Agriculture and Industry Association who utilize the Proserpine Showgrounds for annual shows.

Specifically, the Chamber is keen to hear from all the candidates what their economic vision for the Whitsundays entails, and the community initiatives they will support, and if they are willing and able to advocate local issues contrary to their party’s policy position.

We look forward to sharing highlights from our event to help everyone make their vote count!

WHAT: Meet the Federal Election Candidates (Members only event)
WHEN: 6pm Tuesday 15 April
WHERE: Club Croc

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You’ve likely seen Tourism Whitsundays around town or mentioned in the news - but what exactly do we do, and how can local tourism operators benefit?

We’re a not-for-profit marketing organisation dedicated to promoting our beautiful region, supporting tourism product development, and delivering visitor services. Our core focus is to increase visitation, extend the length of stay, and encourage dispersal across Airlie Beach, Bowen, Collinsville, Proserpine, and the Islands - ultimately driving more visitor spend into the region.

Funded by Tourism and Events Queensland and Whitsunday Regional Council, we deliver strategic marketing campaigns that showcase the Whitsundays to the world. From managing destination social media and securing media features to working with influencers and travel agents, everything we do is about putting the region front and centre in people’s travel plans.

Tourism operators and businesses can invest in a membership with us, gaining opportunities to be featured in marketing activity, attend trade events, and access valuable tools, including industry insights, training, and networking. Eligible members also receive discounted membership with the Queensland Tourism Industry Council, Queensland’s peak industry body.

Whether you’re a long-time operator or new to the tourism space, we’d love for you to learn more about how Tourism Whitsundays can support you and help grow your business.

To find out more about membership or how we can work together, get in touch with the team today at membership@tourismwhitsundays.com.au

Contributed by Tourism Whitsundays

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I’m excited that the Whitsundays will be hosting the Queensland Tourism Industry Council’s 2025 World Environment Day event right here at Council’s beautiful Shute Harbour Marine Terminal.

With the breathtaking Whitsundays as our backdrop, the Heart of the Great Barrier Reef and future home of Olympic sailing for the Brisbane 2032 Games there’s no better place to talk about the future of sustainable tourism and environmental leadership.

On June 5, we’ll welcome tourism leaders, eco-innovators, and decision-makers from across Queensland to explore how we can continue to grow our industry while protecting the natural environment that makes our region so special.

This event is not only a celebration of progress, it’s an important moment to reflect on the role local governments play in protecting the places we call home.

Reef councils, including Whitsunday Regional Council, are the single largest contributor to Great Barrier Reef conservation investing more than $228 million each year in direct environmental activities.

That’s an extraordinary commitment at the local level but it’s one we take seriously. Queensland is the most biologically diverse state in Australia, and it’s our job to protect the iconic species and landscapes we’re so lucky to live alongside.

Through initiatives like Council’s Healthy Heart Project, we’ve helped tourism operators better understand their carbon footprints and act on sustainability.

We’ve also celebrated the launch of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) at Whitsunday Coast Airport, a major milestone, and a perfect example of innovation in action.

But we want to do more. Reef councils are ready to consolidate and accelerate the progress we’ve made, with the right support.

That’s why we’re calling on state and federal governments to continue backing locally-led environmental solutions, and to recognise the critical role councils play in protecting our natural assets, not just for today, but for generations to come.

World Environment Day is a chance to come together, share what’s working, and plan for what’s next. I’m excited for the conversations ahead and even more excited about what we can achieve, together, right here in the Whitsundays.

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Eco Barge’s Circular Economy Art Project Unveiled At Whitsunday Coast Airport

Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc. is proud to announce the unveiling of the Waves of Change community art project at the Whitsunday Coast Airport. This stunning artwork, crafted from a small portion of the 252,331 bottle top lids collected during marine debris clean-ups in 2024, is a powerful symbol of the urgent need to transition from a take-make-waste model to a sustainable circular economy.

The Waves of Change project was made possible, in part, with grant funding from the Queensland Circular Economy (Industry-Research) Program, an initiative of the Queensland Government, delivered by the Resources Centre of Excellence. Eco Barge was selected as one of six successful applicants, demonstrating our commitment to industry-led innovation that drives environmental sustainability.

In 2024 alone, Eco Barge volunteers collected and removed 6,705 kilograms of marine debris from the Whitsunday Islands. With support from Endeavour Group and the dedication of Eco Barge’s volunteers, who spent their Saturdays creating the piece, the recovered plastic bottle tops were transformed into a powerful artwork. The project was part of the weekly Art Wave sessions run by Eco Barge volunteer Ruth Puddefoot, and aims to highlight the impact of plastic pollution on our marine environment.

To celebrate this community-driven initiative, a special competition is underway at the Whitsunday Coast Airport! Visitors are invited to guess the total number of bottle top lids used in the Waves of Change artwork, with the lucky winner receiving an unforgettable family trip to the Great Barrier Reef, generously sponsored by Cruise Whitsundays.

“This project is a powerful reminder that every single person plays a role in protecting our oceans. If we dispose of litter responsibly on land, we prevent it from becoming marine debris that threatens our beautiful islands and marine life here in the Whitsundays,” said Libby Edge, Founder of Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc.

Whitsunday Coast Airport Director Craig Turner said “Waves of Change” is more than just a beautiful installation – it’s a visual statement about our community’s commitment to sustainability.

“We're proud to host this powerful piece at the airport, where it will inspire both locals and visitors the moment they arrive in the Whitsundays.

“This collaboration with Eco Barge highlights the impact we can make when passionate people, local organisations, and industry work together.

“The airport is the gateway to the Whitsundays, and we’re honoured to help share the message of circular economy and marine protection with the world.

Eco Barge would like to thank their volunteers, Endeavour Group, Whitsunday Council and Cruise Whitsundays for their invaluable support in bringing Waves of Change to life.

For more information on Eco Barge’s ongoing marine conservation efforts or to enter the Waves for Change contest, visit www.ecobargecleanseas.org.au/circularity

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Endeavour Group who sorted the bottle top lids into colours with Founder of Eco Barge Libby Edge and Volunteer Kelly Cronin.

Founder of Eco Barge, Libby Edge, Ruth Puddefoot and Kelly Cronin.

Airport Staff, Endeavour Group, Eco Barge Volunteers and Founder of Eco Barge Libby Edge.

Ruth Puddefoot who coordinated the Saturday art project.

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At the recent Futurist State of the Region event hosted by the Whitsundays Regional Council, key leaders and forward-thinking businesses gathered to discuss the exciting future of the region. The event’s presentation featured speeches by Mayor Ry Collins, Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP, and an amazing guest keynote speaker, Anders Sörman-Nilsson, a global futurist and innovation strategist.

Mayor Collins’ speech reflected the past and future of the Whitsundays; highlighted the region’s rapid growth, particularly in Airlie Beach and Cannonvale, which is now one of the fastest-growing areas in regional Queensland. With the largest population increase, along with booming tourism, the region is on a clear path to prosperity.

Mayor Collins distinctly pointed out that 1 in 4 workers employed in the tourism sector demonstrated the region’s appeal to both national and international travellers. The Whitsundays infrastructure is being developed to meet this growing demand especially in short-term accommodation, a housing sector that has boomed post-Cyclone Debbie. Mayor Collins also emphasised that the council and region is extremely excited as a whole with the recent announcement about the hosting opportunity of the upcoming 2032 Olympic Games.

Amanda Camm was the next to speak and focused on tangible improvements for Queenslanders, including a local committee to address the much-needed upgrades to the Bruce Highway and making sure the upgrades go where they are needed most. Amanda also championed grassroots funding for young athletes and emphasised the region’s commitment to ecotourism, educational growth, and housing development to keep pace with the current tourism expansion and demands.

The morning wrapped up with guest keynote speaker Anders Sörman-Nilsson, who provided a thought-provoking look at the future of business, urging local companies to embrace emerging technologies like AI and robotics. He painted an intriguing picture where mundane tasks are automated, freeing human minds to pursue more creative and fulfilling endeavours. Ander’s insights were a reminder that science fiction is rapidly becoming science fact, and the future of work will be shaped by how we adapt to these innovations. Especially directing his points to small businesses who need to think smarter and embrace the opportunities rising technologies can afford them.

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Photo credit: Victoria Velton.

Anders Sörman-Nilsson and Mayor Ry Collins

Mayor Ry Collins, Amanda Camm MP and Craig Turner

Anders Sörman-Nilsson delivering his speech

Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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Category Five Become First Band To Win Fast Track To Fame

The 2025 Fast Track to Fame talent showcase in Burdekin, Ayr, was a thrilling celebration of exceptional talent, and Proserpine State High School (PSHS) students were front and centre. With over 55 acts competing across various categories, it was a weekend of fierce competition and thrilling performances. Among the standouts were talented students from PSHS, who left an indelible mark on the judges and audiences alike. Their accomplishments highlight not only their dedication to their craft but also the bright future ahead for these rising stars.

Year 11 student Liam O'Neill and Year 7 student Declan Davy made huge waves as part of the band Category 5, which won the top honour of Best Overall Talent. Their dynamic performance of "Joker and the Thief" and "Enter Sandman" earned them the judges’ praise, and they made history as the first band to win the Best Overall Talent Award. The win marked an exciting milestone for the students, who impressed everyone in the theatre and had audiences rocking out in their seats. Overcoming 60 acts in two heats, they were shortlisted to 24 in final, and emerged as the winner.

Blake Hanks, a Year 12 student, emerged as one of the event's top winners, claiming the prestigious Fast Track to Fame Award. As part of his prize, Blake will receive an all-expenses-paid workshop with guest judge and mentor Hugh Sheridan in Melbourne.

For Blake, this was his first time competing at Fast Track to Fame, and he expressed his excitement about the opportunity.

"It was my first time competing at the Fast Track to Fame event, and I liked the diversity of the talent. Hugh was really nice, and I look up to him as a performer. I’m looking forward to meeting with the two talent agents and doing a musical theatre workshop with Hugh," Blake shared.

Another standout was Kaydee Miller, a Year 12 student who showcased her vocal talents through a solo, a duet with Blake Hanks, and a duet with fellow student Dominik James-Johnson.

Kaydee and Dominik’s performance of "When I Drive" from Bonnie and Clyde: The Musical made it all the way to the Grand Finals, though they did not progress further. Kaydee reflected on the experience, saying, “My favourite part was seeing everyone being so supportive of each other and having fun together. It was enjoyable watching the other acts in the different heats," and "It was great meeting Hugh as he shared tips about auditioning and what skills you need to make it in musical theatre.”

Dominik also had an enriching experience at the event, adding, “I liked watching everyone perform. There were some great singers from our region.” Their positive outlook and the camaraderie shared among the competitors was a highlight of the event for many.

The Fast Track Talent Showcase remains a critical launchpad for emerging artists, offering invaluable exposure and opportunities. As Mayor of the Burdekin Pierina Dalle Cort commented, "Every year, the talent in North Queensland continues to astound us, and this year was no exception. The 2025 winners represent a new wave of incredible artists who have a bright future ahead."

The remarkable achievements of these local students demonstrate the incredible depth of talent in the region. As they continue to hone their craft, they are sure to inspire others and make their mark on the world of performing arts. With their passion, dedication, and the support of their community, the future is dazzling bright for these young stars.

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Category 5 proudly show of their award, with guest judge Hugh Sheridan. Photo supplied Proserpine State School.

All the awarded acts together on stage.

Event judge and actor, singer, and television presenter Hugh Sheridan with members of band Category 5.

Proserpine State High School students Kaydee Miller and Dominik James-Johnson performing.

Proserpine State High School student Blake Hanks with celebrity guest judge Hugh Sheridan.

Kaydee and Blake performing a duet together.

Kaydee performing her solo.

Category 5 in the green room.

Category 5 together at the Burdekin Theatre.

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At The Proserpine Rock Wallaby Festival Art Exhibition

The Proserpine Rock Wallaby Festival is fast approaching, and with it comes one of the most exciting showcases of regional talent—the Festival Art Exhibition. A celebration of creativity in all its forms, the exhibition brings together a diverse collection of paintings, drawings, sculptures, and photographs that reflect the rich artistic spirit of our community.

This is more than just an art show, it’s a vibrant reflection of who we are as a region. From seasoned artists to emerging talent, the exhibition is a platform for expression, storytelling, and connection. For young creatives aged 12 to 17, the Smart Arts Youth Expression Award offers a unique opportunity to be recognised and encouraged in their artistic journey. If you're an artist and haven't yet entered, there's still time! Entries close on April 28th.

The exhibition will run from the 8th to 11th May, with all eyes on the Opening Night at 6:30pm, Thursday 8th May at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, where winners of the Wilmar Sugar and Renewables Best in Show Award, Tassal's Theme Award, and the Smart Arts Youth Expression Award will be announced. Everyone is welcome—come and be inspired by the creativity that thrives in our region.

But the celebration doesn’t stop there as on Saturday 11th May, immerse yourself in creativity at the Art in the Park ‘come n try’ workshops. It's a perfect chance for all ages to explore new mediums in a relaxed, outdoor setting. And don’t miss the OURscape Art Challenge in Ken McPherson Park, where plein air artists will race the clock to create a masterpiece in under four hours.

The final curtain falls on Sunday 11th May at 12pm, when the Bendigo Bank People’s Choice Award will be revealed—a fitting close to a festival that puts art and community at its heart.

Tickets for the Festival's Mothers Day Morning Tea are available now! Scan the QR code or follow the link: proserpine.sales.ticketsearch.com/sales/salesevent/146466 or visit the P.E.C in person to secure your spot.

Want to win 2 FREE tickets for you and Mum? Just share your thoughts or a heartfelt message about Mother’s Day in the comments on our event post on Facebook — we’ll be choosing a lucky winner on April 7th to join us for free! Let’s come together as a community to celebrate, appreciate, and uplift the wonderful women in our lives.

Whether you’re an artist, an art lover, or simply curious, the Art Exhibition at the Rock Wallaby Festival is not to be missed. Scan the QR code and enter your own art for the exhibition, or book a spot in one of their amazing creative workshops! Come and celebrate the talent in our own backyard.

WHAT: Proserpine Rock Wallaby Festival 8th - 11th May.
WHEN: 8th May Exhibition Opening Night 6:30pm | 11th May all-day is Art Workshops, the Art Challenge, and at 12:00pm the Peoples Choice Award.
WHERE: Proserpine Entertainment Festival (P.E.C.) and in Ken McPherson Park.

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By Victoria Velton

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said “We wish Jason all the very best in the rally,” and, “It is such a great cause and will also be great promotion for Bowen mangoes and our region.”

With only have a few weeks until the Mango Madness team drive down to Canberra where the rally's starting line is, they reflected on the upcoming journey and the cause saying "We have no guarantee we're actually going to make it to Canberra to start the event, or to finish it. Breaking down all the time is part of the experience of the rally."

Jason aims to enjoy the experience while honouring his late sister’s memory saying, "We're trying to do it for someone that can't be here. It's good for honouring their memory, but it doesn't change what's happened."

The journey isn’t just about the car or the rally itself; it’s about giving back to a cause that has affected so many lives. "There are others in the family who are still fighting cancer," Jason adds. “Everyone’s life is of equal value, and that’s why we’re doing this."

Some people are lucky enough to fight and beat cancer, however, unfortunately, not everyone who has been diagnosed with cancer, survives. Your donations will help the Cancer Council continue its great work and any help is greatly appreciated. you can donate to Mango Madness at: https://autumn2025.shitboxrally.com.au/mango-madness.

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Supplied: Leanne Abernethy, Manager Bowen Tourism and Business

Sourced: North Queensland Cruising Yacht Club's Facebook Page

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For World War One Veterans!

The Bowen RSL Sub-Branch is calling on the descendants of three World War One veterans:

Thomas Garside Barker (died 16 November 1970)
Archibald Cheffins (died 10 December 1985)
Charles Rainbird Rodgers (died 7 December 1945)

All three are buried in unmarked graves at Bowen Cemetery. Recently, the Bowen RSL submitted a request to the Australian Government’s Office of Australian War Graves (OAWG) for official commemoration, which has been approved. As part of this process, the OAWG requires the Bowen RSL to attempt to locate and reach out to any descendants of these veterans.

If you are a descendant or know someone who is, or for more information, please contact the Bowen RSL via email at: bowen@rslqld.org or by phone at 0409 046976.

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Hi Everyone,

This week, we bid farewell to Whitsunday journalist Victoria Velton, who has successfully completed three months of initial cadetship training. Victoria is now embarking on a new adventure as a journalist for our sister publication, Hinchinbrook Life.

Over the past few months, Victoria has become an excellent writer—dedicated, enthusiastic, and always going the extra mile for each story. These attributes will no doubt be invaluable moving forward, both in a career and in life.

We wish Victoria every success in the new role. This isn’t goodbye, as communication will continue daily—just not in the office, where your presence will be missed!

A big thank you to Ruth Puddefoot for mentoring Victoria. The guidance, encouragement, and knowledge shared have been truly invaluable.

As Victoria heads north, a familiar face will be heading south. Many will remember journalist Daniel Heggie, who has spent the last four months as part of the launch team for Hinchinbrook Life. Daniel will now return to the Whitsundays, where his next chapter will continue at the Whitsunday Life local office.

Be sure to say hello if you see him around next week!

We are truly blessed to have such a wonderful team here at Life Publishing. A big thank you to each staff member for making the publications so special.

Rach

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I was in the Whitsundays for a short time but a fun time, and now I am off to Hinchinbrook!

I am soon to be heading further north to write for the Hinchinbrook Life, our sister newspaper. My journey continues and I can't wait to meet everyone up there and say 'Hello!' to old friends and family.

Though I will be sad to be leaving, my hands are eager to write all the new stories I will no doubt discover.

Thank you for your inclusive community and warm kindness, I will be back to visit for sure, so I will leave off with a - In A While Crocodiles!

Victoria

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With Airlie Beach Executive Services

Since 2010, Airlie Beach Executive Services (ABES) has been redefining premium ground transport in the Whitsundays. Originally established as Island Photos, a tourism photography business, ABES evolved into a high-end transport provider after Cyclone Debbie forced a business pivot. Recognising a gap in the market for luxury transfers, ABES now delivers executive airport pickups, hotel transfers, and exclusive event transport, ensuring a seamless, stress-free experience.

Anthony Nobilia owns and operates ABES and is a Chamber Board member.

He believes that demand for luxury travel experiences will continue to rise. Key trends currently shaping the transport industry include sustainability and eco-friendly transport options, tech integration such as automated bookings and contactless payments, and strategic partnerships.

Over the last 12-months, Anthony has been focused on building brand awareness, with digital marketing and partnerships helping ABES establish itself as the go-to premium transport provider. Additionally, balancing high service standards with logistics was a challenge which has now been addressed through refined booking and dispatch systems.

Anthony offers the following advice to other business owners:

Prioritise Customer Experience – The quality of service defines your brand. Delivering beyond expectations builds loyalty and reputation.

Leverage Partnerships – Collaboration with other businesses can create valuable opportunities for growth.

Understand your business and stay adaptable – Business performance analysis keeps you aware of the needs of your business moving forward. As the market evolves, and so should your business.

As a member he believes the Whitsundays Chamber offers invaluable networking, collaboration, and insights—helping businesses stay informed, supported, and connected.

Learn more about ABES: https://abes.com.au/

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce & Industry

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Anthony Nobilia owns and operates ABES and is a Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce & Industry Board member. Photo supplied

LiveLife Pharmacy in Bowen has been faithfully serving the local community of Bowen for almost a decade with the steadfast guidance of Pharmacy Manager, Rebecca Edgerton, who also happens to be a Bowen local. Since the purchase of the pharmacy in 2016 its operating hours have increased to seven days a week.

Previously located in Gregory Street, the popular local pharmacy recently relocated, opening its doors at the new George Street location on March 18. This move marks a significant milestone for the pharmacy.

The opening of the new location was inspired by a desire to benefit all in the Bowen community. Manager Rebecca Edgerton said she was thrilled to bring this newly revitalised retail and medical service to the community.

“We wanted to refresh, revitalise, modernise and improve the flow of the pharmacy to be better able to focus on the services we provide to the community,” shared Mrs Edgerton.

The new George Street location was chosen for its convenience in the central heart of Bowen. It has excellent street frontage and is easily accessible for all. It also has the advantage of being handily located next to a medical centre and close to a dental practice, helping to create a trifecta of convenience for Bowen residents in obtaining their healthcare needs.

Mrs Edgerton also shared that the new location of the LiveLife store had previously been a pharmacy as far back as the 1950’s.

All these factors combined to allow LiveLife Pharmacy to be able to focus on what matters the most to them, serving the pharmaceutical needs of the community.

LiveLife Pharmacy provides services such as expert advice, medication reviews and packaging, blood pressure and diabetes checks, allergy relief, vaccinations and assistance with absence from work certificates.

Pharmacists at LiveLife have also been undertaking additional study under the Queensland Community Pharmacy Scope Of Practice Pilot scheme. This trial program aims to facilitate the delivery of high quality primary healthcare services for Queenslanders, particularly those who reside in rural and regional areas.

This training will allow LiveLife Pharmacy to undertake additional medical management and even prescribing activities, helping pharmacists at LiveLife to prescribe medications for certain ailments like ear infections, some skin infections, impetigo or assistance with travel health.

All of this puts Livelife Pharmacy team in a better position to expertly deliver essential primary healthcare needs to the Bowen community.

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The friendly team at Live Life Pharmacy on George Street in Bowen. Photo credit: Rachael Smith

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Raising $56K For DV

More than 400 people braved the heat, humidity and threat of rain, to walk the 5km 'Epic Walk for DV' event on Sunday morning, departing from the Coral Sea Marina and standing in solidarity with those attending parallel events in the metropolitan areas of Brisbane and the Gold Coast.

Across all three events, a total of $321,339 was raised for Women’s Legal Service Queensland (WLSQ), of which more than $56,000 came from the Whitsundays that day alone.

Whitsunday MP, Amanda Camm, who is also Queensland’s Minister for the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence, said having previously attended the Brisbane event, being able to now walk with her home community was especially significant.

"It's been incredible to see over 400 members of our community register come out and raise funds for what's really critical services in supporting victims of domestic and family violence with legal services and support," she shared.

"This is a an event that's been visually spectacular, but also starts a conversation, as people are walking around talking about domestic and family violence and raising that really important awareness across our community."

Coral Sea Marina CEO, Kate Purdie, whose team co-hosted the event alongside her ‘other’ team of WLSQ fundraising ‘Dancing CEOs’ (Julie Telford - SeaLink Whitsundays, Candice Crossley - Whitsunday Transit, Alice Harriott - Whitsunday Family Dental, and team mentor, Katelyn Aslett-Collins - Taste Whitsundays), thanked the many sponsors, donors, walkers, and “all of the people who got involved today to make it a great success”.

“What an outstanding show of support we’ve had today from our local Whitsundays community – we’ve had incredible sponsors, volunteers, and so many people walking; we’ve had children, pets, families, co-workers and big teams,” she said.

“It’s been an overwhelming success and we’re so grateful to our community for showing up for women and children who are impacted by domestic violence – on behalf of the Coral Sea Marina and Dancing CEOs, thank you all so much.”

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Team Whitsundays Dancing CEOs with Amanda Camm MP. Photo credit: Phill Gordon, Riptide Creative

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Proserpine State High School has once again shown its heart, accumulating over $12,500 in this year's World Greatest Shave. One of the youngsters leading the charge was Year 12 student and School Captain, Callum Henry.

Callum, who shaved his luscious locks for the cause, raised an awe-inspiring $1,431 in support of the Leukaemia Foundation, which funds research and supports individuals impacted by blood cancers. Callum was one of five Year 12’s and among a total of 11 student and staff members who faced the clippers and braved the shave. It was not Callum’s first time participating in the fundraiser and is unlikely to be his last.

Many other students joined in on the event as well as siblings and children of staff members, there was even a father and son duo who confronted the clippers this year.

Proserpine State High was one of the first in Australia to participate in the World's Greatest Shave 25 years ago and has continued to rally and raise awareness and funds ever since, with the school raising a spectacular sum of $130,000 over the years. This grand tradition began in the name of former student Peter Cook, who tragically passed away from cancer in 1999.

Proserpine State High's Head of Department for Physical Education, Mr Andrew Cox, was in no small part responsible for the event's success.

“Cancer is not selective, everyone knows someone who has been affected by it. I am so proud of all of who have participated and given back to this worthy cause, it is part of the fabric of Proserpine State High” said Mr Cox.

Mr Cox himself lost his father to leukaemia in 2007, therefore this cause is close to his heart and he has since stood as a brightly burning beacon which inspires members of the younger generation, such as Callum, to give back to a cause greater than themselves.

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Callum Henry, from Proserpine State High School braves the clippers for the Worlds Greatest Shave. Photo Supplied

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One of my top priorities in my first year as Mayor has always been to push for real, tangible outcomes on the issues that matter most to our community—and for many years, our flood-prone road network has been right at the top of that list.

The Bruce Highway, particularly through the Goorganga Plains and Lethebrook section, has long been a pain point during heavy rainfall and flooding.

This vital stretch of highway received a $376 million funding commitment from the Federal Government several years ago. More recently, I’ve met with the new State Government to ensure this long-awaited project is prioritised.

I’m confident they’ll make good on their commitment, and it was incredibly promising to see this section specifically mentioned in their Olympic infrastructure plan last week. This gives me great hope we’ll see pre-planning and design kick off in the near future.

We are also seeing exciting progress on the Proserpine–Shute Harbour Road, Hamilton Plains Flood Immunity Upgrade. This project, jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments on a 50:50 basis, is focused on improving flood resilience by raising road levels and increasing culvert capacity, allowing floodwaters to drain more quickly and keeping the road open during wet weather.

This upgrade will deliver significant benefits for our community, particularly in keeping vital commuter, tourism and freight traffic moving during floods.

Preconstruction activities began in late 2024 and are progressing well, with this pre-construction completion expected around mid-2025.

The new open drain has already improved drainage and work is progressing with the relocation of a council water bore.

Procurement for the construction phase is already underway, tenders closed this week and if all goes to plan, construction will begin mid-year and take around 18 months to complete, weather permitting.

I know roadworks aren’t always easy or convenient, but this is about securing long-term resilience for our region. These are the kinds of investments that make our communities safer, more connected, and better prepared for the future.

There’s still work ahead, but this is the kind of momentum that turns long-term frustration into lasting results for our region.

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From The Armchair Warrior

The Federal Election has been called. The date, Saturday May 3rd.

Many political commentators are predicting a very tight race and the money is pointing to the first hung parliament since 2010. Both the major parties are saying that this is the most important election for decades and it will decide the fate of our nation’s future. Both the Prime Minister and Opposition Leader Peter Dutton have declared your vote this year to be more valuable than ever before.

The LNP wants you to ask yourself the question ‘Am I better off than 3 years ago’. While Labour’s aims is to convince you that a change of government would be worse for you, your family, and the nation.

Over the next 4 weeks expect to hear local candidates echo the messages and slogans of their party. You will be swamped with a lot of argie bargie political spin, promises and tales of why not to vote for the other guy or girl. This armchair warrior will be watching closely and breaking it down for you.

At the time of writing voters of Dawson have 5 candidates to choose from. They are current member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox for the LNP, new Labour candidate, Neil Wallace, Paula Creen having a second crack as the Green candidate, Amanda Nickson representing Family First, and Michael Lockye for Trumpet of Patriots. You will also have to vote for the Senate but we might leave that for another time. For now, let’s concentrate on what your vote in Dawson means.

Historically, the contest in Dawson has largely been between Labour and the LNP, with LNP (and Nationals prior to party merger in 2008) only losing the seat once since 1975.

Nationally, minor parties and independents have been taking votes away from the major parties in recent elections and their relevance in 2025 can not be discounted. Andrew Willcox won the 2022 election with a 2 party preferred margin of 10.42%.

While this margin appears safe and Andrew Willcox (the former Mayor of the Whitsundays) is well liked, seen by many as doing a good job representing Dawson, he can not afford to take the previous results for granted.

Federally, this election is history making. If Albanese wins, it will be the first time a Prime Minister has won two elections since John Howard in 2004, while an Albanese loss will be the first time since 1931 that a first term government has not been returned.

The Canberra heavys have outlined their credentials, their promises, their ambitions for the nation, and are hitting the campaign trail hard to win your vote. Reality is while Dawson has 5 local candidates, the federal outcome will either see Anthony Albanese returned as prime Minister or a new government under Peter Dutton, albeit one of these might be leading a minority government.

Good luck to all the Candidates.

Best wishes, from the Armchair.

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When was the last time you reviewed the health of your home loan?

Whether you’re in the market for a first or second home, looking to refinance, invest in a new property, or lower your repayments, a home loan health check could be just what you need to get ahead and realise your goals.

Amanda Anderson, Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine’s Branch Manager says there are four things to review annually when it comes to your home loan:

Interest Rate: Check if your current interest rate is competitive. If interest rates have dropped since you took out the loan or if you're on a variable rate and it's rising, you may want to consider refinancing to secure a better rate.

Loan Term: Evaluate the remaining term of your loan. A long loan term might mean you're paying more interest over time, but reducing it can help you pay off your mortgage faster and save on interest. If your financial situation has improved, it might be worth considering a loan with a shorter term.

Repayment Flexibility: Review your repayment options and whether your loan allows for extra repayments, redraws, or repayment holidays. This flexibility can be crucial if your income fluctuates or if you want to pay off your loan faster without penalty.

Fees and Charges: Examine any ongoing fees or hidden charges associated with your loan. Some loans come with annual fees, account-keeping fees, or early repayment penalties that could add up over time. Understanding these costs helps you assess whether you're getting value for money.

“By looking at these areas, giving your home loan a full check-up, you can make sure it's still right for you and your current needs and goals,” said Amanda.

“Right across Australia, our customers are sharing stories of home loan savings,” said Amanda “Such as the Cox family who saved just over $5,300 in their first year of their home loan. They made the switch to Bendigo Bank because they wanted to go with a community focused bank that offered all the big bank services.”

Did you know? Bendigo Bank home loan customers are the most satisfied in Australia, a survey of more than 45,000 Australians across the nation’s 10 largest banks has found. New findings released by Roy Morgan show Bendigo Bank had the highest home loan customer satisfaction rate in the six months to December last year, sitting at 87.7%.

If you’re ready to talk home loans, or just want to know more about what you can expect when the time is right, Amanda and the Bendigo Community Bank team are happy to help. The team are experienced lenders and understand both the excitement and challenges that come with buying a home.

Call in and see Amanda and the team today at the Branch at Whitsunday Plaza Cannonvale, call (07) 4948 3599, or email cannonvale&proserpinemailbox@bendigoadelaide.com.au

Bendigo Bank – the better big bank.

(Terms and conditions, fees, charges and lending criteria apply.)

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R U OK?’s Conversation Convoy is coming to the Whitsundays region, aimed at raising awareness for suicide prevention and offering an opportunity for the community to come together, learn, and show support. The convoy will be parked up on the hill by the Coral Sea Marina carpark, on April 6th from 4:30pm to 7pm.

Matt Stokes of the Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network highlights the significance of this event, saying, “It’s a great reminder for our friends, and asking that one important little question.” He continues, “We’re all going through something and asking that question opens up the door for the conversation they need to have.”

The event offers a chance for individuals to learn, engage, and ask questions in a relaxed setting. It will feature a caravan display, presentations, games, free resources, and a BBQ, with hot drinks and a free sausage sizzle available. Families, friends, and colleagues are encouraged to attend, whether to learn how to support others or to seek help themselves.

The R U OK? Convoy is part of a nationwide initiative to equip regional Australians with the knowledge and tools to start vital conversations around mental health. As it’s not always easy to keep the conversation going when someone says they’re not OK, but it could change a life.

Bring along your loved ones or just yourself, grab a free sausage, chat over a game of checkers, watch the sunset and come together to support the message of hope and help in a safe space.

WHAT: R U OK? Conversation Convoy
WHEN: Sunday, April 6th from 4:30pm to 7pm
WHERE: Coral Sea Marina, 1-3 Shingley Drive, Top Carpark

The Conversation Convoy. Photo Sourced: R U OK?'s website

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The Zonta Club of Bowen hosted a successful fundraiser on Thursday the 20th of March at Bowen's quaint and iconic Summergarden Theatre. One of the longest continually operating theatres in Queensland, our local cinema has been the cornerstone of the community’s entertainment scene since its opening in 1948 and is now  owned and operated by the town's very own Ben DeLuca since 1962.

The fundraiser featured a special screening of the heartwarming Australian film “What About Sal?” , written and directed by renowned actor and filmmaker John Jarrat. The film presents the touching and inspiring story of Sal, a man with Down Syndrome who embarks on a quest to find his unnamed father after learning of his mothers illness

This memorable evening included more than just a movie, guests enjoyed a delightful supper and complimentary champagne creating an enjoyable social atmosphere. Guests were also encouraged to wear mismatched or colourful socks as a playful act of support in order to raise awareness for Down Syndrome

The night was a testament to the strong relationship between the Zonta Club of Bowen and Summergarden Theatre owner Ben De Luca.

“We work with many charities in Bowen and we love the Zonta Club, they are a good mob, very organised. We host them regularly, even multiple times a year” said Mr De Luca.

Funds collected from this unforgettable evening directly support the Zonta Club of Bowen’s unwavering commitment and continued efforts in empowering and improving the lives of girls and women both locally and globally.

The club expressed their gratitude to Mr De Luca and attendees of the event, emphasising the importance of such events in bringing communities together and promoting awareness within them. Residents interested in supporting future Zonta Club Bowen initiatives or future events at Bowen Summergarden Theatres can follow them on their respective social media accounts.

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Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, has announced that if he is re-elected in May this year, $250,000 will be committed towards upgrades to the Bowen Neighbourhood Centre, ensuring it can continue delivering vital services in a safe, modern, and accessible space.

“The Bowen Neighbourhood Centre provides essential support to people facing difficult circumstances, offering essential services that enhance dignity, wellbeing, and quality of life for people across the region,” Mr Willcox said.

“From providing assistance with housing and legal matters to supporting those affected by domestic violence, the centre is a critical lifeline for many in need. Every day, the dedicated staff and volunteers make an enormous difference in the lives of people across the community.” Mr Wilcox said that's he's dedicated "to strengthening regional communities, supporting local services, and ensuring that every Australian has access to the help they need when they need it most.”

John Finlay, Treasurer of the Bowen Community Centre said, “This is a fantastic announcement for the Bowen community." He sees this promise as a great opportunity to realise their vision for the future of the building itself, and the services they could help provide to the Bowen community.

“Once the building refurbishments are complete, this will open the door to allowing other community groups to use the upgraded facilities," commented John. “We are seeing a lot more domestic violence cases, which is really concerning. Cost of living is also a big issue, and we are seeing people of all ages and backgrounds needing help for the very first time. But we have an incredible team of highly trained staff who stand ready to provide crucial support services."

Once the centre is open John says that they “plan to also offer the spaces to corporate organisations for training and the good thing about that is any funds that come in will be put back into the Bowen Community Centre." The Neighbourhood Centre will to continue to operate as normal until then, so if you require any of their helpful services do not hesitate to drop by 34/38 Gregory St, Bowen QLD or give them a call at: 07 4786 2111.

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Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Wilcox and Councillor John Finlay, Treasurer of the Bowen Community Centre with the dedicated staff of the Bowen Neighbourhood Centre. Photon supplied

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Friday night was a shining moment for BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort, as the team proudly
claimed Gold in the Caravan & Holiday Parks category at the national Qantas Australian Tourism Awards in Adelaide.

This remarkable win marks the third consecutive year that BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort has taken home Gold in this category, officially securing its place in the prestigious Australian Tourism Awards Hall of Fame.

With 185 entries over 26 categories, BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort was one of six out of 24 Queensland tourism operators who won gold at the national awards, with eight outstanding
operators from across Australia vying for the top spot in the Caravan and Holiday Parks category.

Owner Greg McKinnon, who attended the gala event with some of his team, expressed immense pride over the national recognition.

“Winning three years in a row and being inducted into the Hall of Fame is far beyond what we’d
imagined, particularly when we are competing against the best Holiday Parks in the country. The
competition in our category was outstanding, so we are extremely honoured to accept this gold
award, while also entering the Hall of Fame on an Australian level.

“This national win again highlights our dedication to setting industry benchmarks, consistently
delivering top-tier facilities, exceptional customer service and unforgettable family holidays. We’ll
continue striving for excellence, while incorporating some exciting new developments in the near future which our guests will love and which will only enhance their overall experience,” said Greg.

Cementing its place as one of Australia’s most celebrated holiday destinations, the national Hall of Fame status follows the resort’s recent induction into the state and local Hall of Fame after winning gold for three consecutive years in the same category at the Queensland and Whitsunday Tourism Awards, reflecting BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort’s unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and outstanding guest experiences.

CEO, Phil Casey, who also attended the national awards ceremony, praised the dedication of the resort’s team and the unwavering support of guests.

“We’re fortunate to have so many fun-loving guests who choose to stay with us, many returning
year after year, so needless to say we extend a huge thank you to our guests who continue to
share their holidays with us. This award is also a reflection of our incredible team’s hard work, both front and back of house, to create unforgettable holiday memories,” said Phil.
As one of Australia’s most loved holiday parks, BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort is a testament to exceptional experiences, recently celebrating 31 years of ownership by the McKinnon family and offering extensive facilities for families, caravanners and groups to enjoy a Whitsunday holiday like no other.

Guests can enjoy over 15 onsite activities, including the huge mega waterslide park, lagoon-style pool, mini golf, jumping pillows, outdoor cinema, Kid’s Club, and year-round activities program. The resort provides easy access to the Great Barrier Reef, Whitehaven Beach, the Whitsunday Islands, and a host of unforgettable Australian holiday experiences.

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The BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort team take home gold for the third consecutive year at the Australian Tourism Awards. Photo supplied

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The Whitsundays’ original and most awarded tour operator, Ocean Rafting, is stoked to take the podium and be recognised amongst Australia’s best tourism operators.

Since 1984, the Australian tourism Awards have long been the nation’s premier recognition of excellence in the tourism industry. Ocean Rafting joined the nation’s best in the beautiful Adelaide and is beyond thrilled to be taking home a Bronze in the “Major Tour & Transport Operator”category in the 2024 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards.

Peter and Jan Claxton, the proud owners of Ocean Rafting for 28 years, along with Nathan their Sales & Marketing Captain of 13 years, were overjoyed to represent the family-owned business at the awards ceremony in Adelaide. Their heartfelt gratitude went to their passionate team, dedicated family members, and loyal guests, whose support has been pivotal to their ongoing success.

Peter shared, “A huge thank you to all our team, both past and present, who share our passion for tourism and showcasing nature's wonders. We are proud to continue stepping onto the podium and winning awards like this for all those who have made Ocean Rafting what it is today”.

“Additionally, I would like to thank all our guests who have enjoyed a day out, whether that be on the water or in the air, in the last 28 years of operations”, said Pete

Jan added, “These awards are for our team, as much as they’re for us, so cheers to us, and cheers to the team”.

Three generations of family and almost three decades as one of the Whitsundays’ most loved on-water experiences, Ocean Rafting’s mission is still to treat every day as if it was the one and only day their guests will experience Ocean Rafting and the Whitsundays’; and this has attributed to the company’s long-term success and thriving growth over the years.

The team would also like to thank Australian Tourism Awards for facilitating these awards and their continued support for our industry. Additionally, we would like to raise our glasses to all the fellow operators and local businesses for their much-deserved recognition and awards.

Beyond their remarkable history of providing unforgettable on-water experiences, Ocean Rafting is equally committed to the environmental sector by participating in the Tourism Reef Protection Initiative and starting our very own initiative, “Tins 4 Fins,” to fund beach cleans and additional research, ensuring we protect this beautiful part of the world.

Ocean Rafting’s reputation speaks for itself and is recognised with a perfect score as Best of Queensland Experience under the national quality tourism framework along with a Quality Tourism accreditation. Additionally, Ocean Rafting is the recipient of a TripAdvisor Travellers Choice Award for being in the top 10% of attractions worldwide every year since 2012 and a TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best award winner in the Top 1% of Tourism Businesses around the world and Top 10 Experiences in Australia.

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Ocean Rafting Peter and Jan Claxton with Sales & Marketing Captain Nathan Fleming at the Australian Tourism Awards which were held in Adelaide last weekend. Photo supplied

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Last week, the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry launched its Advisory Group, bringing together regional business leaders to drive strategic discussions and strengthen the united voice of the Whitsunday business community.

“The Advisory Group will serve as a strategic think tank, reinforcing the Chamber’s position as the ‘go-to’ source of regional business expertise for all levels of government,” said Chamber President Allan Milostic.

In its inaugural meeting, the Advisory Group reinforced the need to tackle pressing business challenges, including red tape reduction, road quality and safety, and workforce availability and productivity.

Looking ahead, the group encouraged the Chamber to explore future-focused initiatives such as championing tradies, supporting young entrepreneurs, establishing special interest groups to advise on specific issues and precincts, and strengthening the region’s support of a university hub and research centres.

Queensland Small Business Month event

Registrations are now open for the Chamber’s Queensland Small Business Month event to be held 7:30am-9:00am Thursday 13 May in Airlie Beach.

Guest speakers include Dominique Lamb, Queensland Small Business Commissioner and Mayor Ry Collins. They will explore the following with the region’s business community, including ways we can increase collaboration to drive positive change:

Election Promise Report Card – Progress updates on road improvements, red tape reduction, and small business priorities.

Lessons from TC Alfred – Exploring the impact of recent weather events and strategies for future resilience.

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L-R Andrew and Jaide Paranomos (McDonalds), Judy Porter (Shiift), Julia Wheway (TAFE Queensland), Bernadette Porter (Proserpine State High School), Mark Henry (Bendigo Community Bank), Adrian Bram (WCBIA) and Allan Milostic

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Last week, I was on the road championing our incredible region on a national stage.

It was an honour to Chair my first Queensland Regional Tourism Network (QRTN) meeting on Monday, where we discussed how we can work together to strengthen tourism across the state. I’m looking forward to the year ahead and what we can achieve as a collective.

Next stop: the RTO Forum, which brought together tourism marketing organisations from across the country. We had insightful presentations from Tourism Australia on emerging travel trends, discussion panels on data and social media, and guest speakers covering everything from AI to innovative ways to gather new tourism insights. These conversations shape how we market our region and ensure we stay ahead of the curve.

From there, Laura and I travelled to Adelaide with Marianne from Whitsundays Regional Council to visit six Phil Hoffmann Travel stores, South Australia’s leading travel agency brand. As a business, we had the opportunity to train approximately 40 travel agents on The Whitsundays, providing key updates on attractions and experiences. With the direct Jetstar flight from Adelaide to Whitsunday Coast Airport, we’re working hard to make sure South Australians have The Whitsundays at the top of their travel list.

Finally, I was lucky enough to attend the 2024 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards on Friday night, where The Whitsundays absolutely shone! A massive congratulations again to BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort, Pinnacles Airlie Beach, and Ocean Rafting for taking home gold, silver, and bronze. These achievements help keep The Whitsundays on the map and reinforce why our region is such a special place to visit.

Contributed by Tim Booth, CEO, Tourism Whitsundays

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As Mayor of the Whitsundays, I hear firsthand from residents about the challenges they face every day. One of the most pressing concerns I continue to hear, time and time again, is the shortage of doctors in our region.

Right now, too many people in our community are struggling to get a timely appointment with a GP. Families, seniors, and workers are waiting weeks, sometimes even months, for basic medical care.

This is simply not good enough. Our residents deserve access to quality healthcare, no matter where they live.

With the federal election on the horizon, I am calling on all sides of politics to commit to better GP funding and real solutions to bring more doctors to regional communities like ours.

The Whitsundays is a growing region. More people are choosing to call our beautiful part of the world home, and we are experiencing record-breaking tourism numbers. But our healthcare system is not keeping pace.

I’ve spoken to local GP clinics, and the reality is clear—they are at capacity. Some have closed their books to new patients. Others simply don’t have enough doctors to meet the demand. This puts enormous pressure on our hospital system, forcing people to seek emergency care for issues that should be treated in a GP clinic.

Regional communities like ours should not have to compete with big cities to attract doctors. We need better funding models and incentives to encourage more medical professionals to live and work in places like the Whitsundays.

I am advocating for stronger federal government investment in regional healthcare, including a commitment to medical workforce planning, ensuring that regional Australia is not left behind when it comes to doctor shortages.

The Whitsundays is a world-class destination and a fantastic place to live. But access to quality healthcare is not a luxury—it’s a basic right.

As Mayor, I will continue to push for these critical changes in the lead-up to the election. I encourage our community to make their voices heard by asking your local candidates where they stand on regional healthcare, and demand action.

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If you're looking for a peaceful escape, Whitsunday Gold Coffee is the perfect place. The plantation is famous for its locally grown coffee, and there’s nothing like sipping a cup made from beans grown right there on the property. Whether you’re a coffee enthusiast or just looking to relax, it’s a wonderful experience.

I thoroughly enjoyed chatting with the owner, Nikki, who is currently in the process of upgrading their aviary with new mesh and creating a serene nursery with a seated area. The charm of the plantation is undeniable. I can’t wait to see the finished space, it’s sure to become a fantastic spot for birdwatching and taking in the surrounding beauty.

For families, there’s an indoor play area and beautifully decorated kids' party rooms, making it a great place to bring the little ones.

I was also lucky enough to try one of Chef-Gus's incredible signature dishes; a mango and calamari salad. It was light, colourful, and packed with flavour, with tender calamari and fresh local mango.

Whitsunday Gold Coffee Plantation is a true treasure for Proserpine, offering a peaceful sanctuary to enjoy great coffee, delicious food, and nature. Whether you're stopping by for a coffee or a quiet day out, it's definitely worth the visit.

Contributed by Jade Yvonne, Business Development Executive, Tourism Whitsundays

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Hi Everyone,

Thank you to everyone sharing stories for the paper. This week, we’re featuring some exciting whale research.

Whales hold a special place in my heart. Last year’s whale season gave me so many incredible moments, but one that stands out is hearing whale songs while scuba diving.

Happy reading!

Ruth

“Acknowledging the good that you already have in your life is the foundation for all abundance.” ― Eckhart Tolle, A New Earth

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Everyone in the community is invited to come on down to Coral Sea Marina at 7.30am this Sunday for the inaugural Whitsunday Epic Walk for DV. Bring your walking shoes, dress in your active wear, grab your kids and your dogs, and get your mind and your body moving for a good cause.

Organisers are encouraging participants to walk and talk as a group, creating a steady flow of conversation to start connecting about the important topic of domestic and family violence in our communities.

THIS SUNDAY, 7.30am, CORAL SEA MARINA GARDENS
EVERYONE WELCOME!

Team Whitsundays Host Inaugural Epic Walk

Over the past six months four local businesswomen-turned Dancing CEOs – Kate Purdie (Coral Sea Marina), Julie Telford (SeaLink Whitsundays), Candice Crossley (Whitsunday Transit) and Alice Harriott (Whitsunday Family Dental) – along with their team mentor, Katelyn Aslett-Collins (Taste Whitsundays) – have been building a movement to raise funds and awareness for Women’s Legal Service Queensland (WLSQ), an organisation that helps women and children escape domestic violence and reclaim their lives.

It was two former Dancing CEOs – Brendan Smith (Network Ten) and Brendon Mann (Epic Hair Designs) – who founded the Epic Walk for DV.

“The entire meaning behind this is gathering as a community,” Brendan Smith explained.

“We always say ‘it takes a village’ to either solve a problem or to raise awareness, and the Epic Walk for DV is about starting that conversation around domestic and family violence, getting rid of the stigma that’s attached to it – and of course raising as much money for WLSQ as we can,” he said.

Coral Sea Marina CEO, Kate Purdie, stressed the walk was epic in name rather than nature, and therefore open to all of the community regardless of fitness levels or age.

“This scenic walk along the Bicentennial Boardwalk will be two laps from the marina gardens to VMR and back; it’s a community event and we invite you to bring your friends, your workmates and your family along,” she said.

“The important thing is that rain or shine, we get as many people together as possible to unite in a visible show of support for women and children impacted by domestic violence.”

Participants are asked to sign up for the walk at www.epicwalkfordv.com.au - either as individuals or with friends, family, or colleagues as fundraising teams.

Kids and fur-kids all walk free, however the registration fee of $24 per adult covers a purple ‘Epic Walk’ T-shirt and a sausage sizzle cooked up by the Airlie Beach Rotary Club, with food supplied by Woolworths Cannonvale.

Walkers can muster in the marina gardens from 6.30am, with hot coffee available thanks to Chasing Te Ra. A pre-walk warm-up by Maggie Spark (Spark Life) will get everyone in the groove, while the kids (and big kids) receive their free bubble sticks courtesy of Big W.

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The Whitsundays shone brightly at the Australian Tourism Awards which were held in Adelaide last weekend, with three local businesses receiving national accolades.

Raising the profile of the Whitsundays on a national stage, these local businesses are leading the way for local tourism and shining a spotlight on our region.

The illustrious awards ceremony at the Adelaide Convention Centre in South Australia celebrated four decades of tourism excellence while showcasing the industry's finest.

Tim Booth, CEO of Tourism Whitsundays says it was an incredible night for The Whitsundays:

"Winning Gold, Silver, and Bronze across different categories shows just how amazing our tourism offerings are. I couldn't be prouder of our operators and seeing BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort winning gold was definitely a highlight.

“These awards aren't just trophies on a shelf, they represent the heart and soul that our tourism businesses pour into creating unforgettable memories for visitors. It's this dedication that keeps people coming back to The Whitsundays time and again."

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins congratulated BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort, Pinnacles, and Ocean Rafting for doing the region proud.

"Tourism is the beating heart of The Whitsundays economy, and these national awards highlight the strength and resilience of our industry.

“Being recognised on such a prestigious platform showcases the outstanding work being done by our local businesses and sends a clear message – The Whitsundays is not just a beautiful place to visit, it’s a leader in Australian tourism."

This remarkable achievement across all three medal tiers reinforces The Whitsundays status as a premier tourism destination and highlights the exceptional experiences awaiting visitors to this stunning part of Queensland.

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Sustainable Aviation Fuel has officially landed at Whitsunday Coast Airport. Mayor Ry Collins says it is “the perfect fit” for a region shaped by the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef and driven by a passion for protecting it.

Made from renewable resources like waste oils and crop residues, SAF cuts carbon emissions without compromising performance — marking a major step towards cleaner, greener air travel in the Whitsundays.

Mayor Collins praised Virgin Australia and Viva Energy for their leadership in the aviation industry and for recognising the Whitsundays as an ideal location to showcase the benefits of SAF.

“It makes absolute sense that Virgin Australia would choose Whitsunday Coast Airport as the launch site for its first ongoing SAF-powered services,” Mayor Collins said.

“We are located in one of the most pristine and ecologically significant regions in the world, and as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, we have a responsibility to embrace innovative solutions that reduce our environmental footprint.

“The Whitsundays region has long been a leader in biodiversity initiatives, with strong community-driven efforts to protect its reefs, marine life, and natural landscapes.

"The adoption of SAF at Whitsunday Coast Airport is a significant step forward in the broader sustainability journey.

“Virgin Australia and Viva Energy should be commended for their commitment to driving positive change in aviation."

Whitsunday Coast Airport CEO Craig Turner emphasised the importance of maintaining a balance between economic growth and environmental responsibility.

“500,000 plus passengers transit through our airport each year, and with tourism as the backbone of our economy, we need to do everything possible to protect the very natural wonders that draw people here in the first place,” he said.

“The introduction of Sustainable Aviation Fuel is an important milestone in reducing aviation-related carbon emissions, and Whitsunday Coast Airport is proud to be at the forefront of this transition in Australia.”

Mr Turner credited the strong partnerships between Whitsunday Coast Airport, Virgin Australia, and Viva Energy as the driving force behind securing this national first for the region.

“This partnership between Virgin Australia, Viva Energy, and Whitsunday Coast Airport is a testament to the close relationships we have with our airline partners and stakeholders,” he said.

Virgin Australia has entered an agreement with Viva Energy to obtain Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) for its services departing from Whitsunday Coast Airport, marking a significant milestone as the first major Australian airline to use SAF on an ongoing basis at a commercial airport in the country.

Viva Energy’s General Manager for Aviation, Nick Adams, said the initiative would help establish the supply chains needed for SAF to become more widely available across regional Australia.

“It is clear that SAF is going to play a bigger role for commercial airlines in this country as they move towards a more sustainable future,” Mr Adams said.

“Through this collaboration – and drawing on the strengths of Viva Energy’s national distribution network and experience with high-quality fuels and aviation operations – we will be working with Virgin Australia to establish the supply chains that will be critical to the future of the aviation industry.”

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Left to right:  Amy Humphries WCA Acting Operations Manager, Shaun Cawood Manager Aviation, Tourism, Marine, Craig Turner Director Commercial Business, Daniel Dott (Virgin), David Mann (VIVA), Greg Atkin (VIVA), Robert Cavicchiolo (VIVA), Michael Nixon WCA. Photo supplied

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Pinnacles Airlie beach is, as their name suggests, taking tourism to new pinnacles both in the Whitsundays and right across Australia. Last weekend they took their place on the podium among Australia's top tourism operators, proudly taking home the Silver medal in the “Self Contained Accommodation Category in the prestigious 2024 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards in Adelaide.

Since inception, these awards have stood as the pinnacle of excellence across Australia's vibrant and thriving tourism sector. Pinnacles Marketing Manager, Therese Moran, expressed her elation over the victory.

“We came home with the silver, we are over the moon and extremely proud to be recognised on a national level for the hard work and dedication of our small team, it's really all been about their commitment to delivering a wonderful holiday experience” said Ms Moran.

Managers of 14 years Susan Watson and Brent Jones expressed great gratitude towards their dedicated staff, loyal guests and the broader Whitsundays community as a whole.

Overlooking Airlie Beach and providing guests with lavish, fully self-contained apartments which have sweeping views across the Coral seas, Pinnacles continues its commitment to offering exceptional relaxation as the gateway to the iconic Whitsunday Islands and Great Barrier Reef.

The Pinnacles team also congratulates fellow operators honoured at the Australian Tourism Awards, showing their appreciation of the collective spirit which elevates tourism within the Whitsundays and across Australia as a whole.

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Pinnacles Marketing Manager, Therese Moran, with fellow staff member, Lee, holding their award. Photo supplied

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March 30 1925 was a significant date in the history of the Proserpine Ambulance. On this day, a meeting was held at which Superintendent of the Mackay Ambulance, Mr Culverhouse, announced that the Mackay Centre had decided to make Proserpine an Honorary Centre. This marked a turning point for the town and its district after years of efforts to establish a much-needed service.

Fourteen years earlier, an ambulance centre was established in Proserpine by Mr W Morse, Superintendent of the Mackay Ambulance Brigade towards the end of November 1911. The first meeting was held in December with President Mr W Waite; Vice-President Mr F H Cross; Secretary Mr J Nancarrow and Treasurer Mr R Taggart.

It was twelve months before the first annual meeting was held (February 1913). At this meeting, Mackay Centre announced that it was prepared to advance £60 for the erection of a casualty room and a place to keep the litter (a stretcher used to carry injured or sick patients).

All seemed to be progressing very well so the Mackay Centre was approached to supply a sulky with rubber tyres. However, by April 1913, the ambulance was defunct and funds were transferred to the Proserpine Hospital to be given to the ambulance should it become active again. This would be another twelve years!

When the honorary centre was finally announced, a provisional committee was formed with Mr W Worthington as Chairman and Mr T Treacy as honorary bearer. Local chemist, Mr Harkness, offered to lend his car for brigade transport. Tom Treacy had been a bearer in World War One and recognised the need for a first aid post in the town. He had an Ashford litter at the mill and was always available for those needing attention.

There was division in the town as to the need for an ambulance centre. Some were sceptical because of the previous failed attempts; some felt the town was already keeping a hospital with doctor and staff; others pointed out that with 100 cars in the district any one of the owners would be prepared to help and then there was the concern about an amateur instead of a doctor attending a case. There was also opposition to the committee with the suggestion that certain people wanted to make themselves important. But thanks to the efforts of Tom Treacy, the townspeople came to realise the need for an ambulance centre.

The committee worked hard and by May 30 there were 98 subscribers. The government was approached about purchasing land and a quarter of an acre belonging to the mill, facing Main Street was made available. In October, it was announced that a car, an Overland, would be purchased and a temporary shed erected to house it.

In April 1926, Mill Manager, Mr Murray Gibson, officially opened the building and the centre progressed despite opposition to committee members by some of the public. The volume of work eventually necessitated erection of a two-storey building in Chapman Street on land donated by Mr Jupp. This was opened in mid 1931.

The ambulance continued as a sub-centre until January 1934 when it was taken over by a local committee as a full centre responsible for the area from Mikoolu in the south to Longford Creek in the north and embraced all the islands and west to the Clarke Range. Over the years, committee members worked tirelessly to maintain this service in the district.

Fast forward to January 28 1998 and a new centre was opened on land adjacent to the building that had served the district for 66 years.

Story and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum

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Hi Everyone,

It’s not every day that we have multiple stories vying for the front page of this newspaper, but this week is definitely one of those occasions!

Even in our low-key little region, we still manage to make state, national, and even global headlines from time to time.

This week, we made international news with the incredible announcement that some of the 2032 Brisbane Olympics will be hosted right here in the Whitsundays!

This means world-class sailors will compete in our turquoise waters, tens of thousands will flock to the Whitsundays to spectate, and we can all look forward to an electrifying atmosphere during the event.

Equally exciting for our region—and for our state—is the funding that host locations will receive in preparation for the Olympics.

Our region is now part of a dedicated funding stream, and in the lead-up to the event, our sporting complexes may be upgraded, brand new facilities could be built, and infrastructure improved.

These assets will serve as legacy pieces that will benefit the region for generations to come, and this is wonderful news for all of us.

This week, our region also made national headlines when three local tourism operators brought home accolades from the Australian Tourism Awards, held in Adelaide over the weekend.

A huge congratulations to the winners, and also to everyone who entered the awards. Every spotlight on the region helps boost our vibrant tourism industry.

Finally, one little team here in the Whitsundays is certainly making waves—and soon, those waves will become "dance moves" when they compete in the 'Dancing CEOs' competition in Brisbane this May, performing in front of over 1,000 people.

This weekend, they are hosting the inaugural Epic Walk for DV. Make sure you head down to Coral Sea Marina on Sunday morning to take part in this important movement!

Rach

Quote of the week: "If you’re not making waves, you’re not under weigh” (Chester Nimitz)

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Big things are developing in Bowen, and the Whitsunday Regional Council wants your say on the future of the foreshore.

Mayor Ry Collins said the Masterplan presents exceptional possibilities for the area - “This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform Bowen’s foreshore into a vibrant, well-connected destination,” Mayor Collins said. “By defining priorities for staged delivery, we aim to improve public spaces while attracting investment that benefits both locals and visitors.”

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy, said the public consultation was an important step for Bowen's future.

“An upgrade and beautification of the area, all the way to Bowen Harbour, would be great for both tourists and locals." She said, “We encourage everyone to attend the consultation sessions and participate in the survey so the Whitsunday Regional Council can understand what people would like to see in this area.”

The Foreshore Masterplan is a critical component of Bowen’s growth strategy. Before the works begin, have your say on what you think Bowen needs by sharing your insights via the online survey below or attending upcoming consultation events to help shape the Masterplan.

You can be part of guiding the design and development of projects that will benefit the community for generations to come. Help set an aspirational vision for the Bowen Foreshore, to inspire and define priorities for public space upgrades that enhance vibrancy and liveability of Bowen over 15+ years.

Bowen Markets Information Stall, Hansen Park, Sunday 30 March, 7am-12pm.
Bowen Centre Point Plaza Information Stall, Richmond Road, Thursday 3 April, 12pm-4:30pm.

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The Proserpine Entertainment Centre is planning ahead for next year and they want to hear from you! PEC, with the Whitsunday Regional Council, have released an entertainment questionnaire to find out what the community wants to see most coming to the Whitsundays in 2026.

The survey has options to choose what type of acts and activities you would like to see being brought to the PEC From music concerts to comedy nights, there’s options across the broad spectrum of talented live acts the PEC could provide and host. Theatre, dance, magic, seminars, and interactive experiences, your feedback will help shape the future line-up. And it’s not just about live shows, they want to know what movies you want to see too!

Check out the QR Code, it will take you directly to the survey page or visit the Whitsunday Regional Councils website and tell them exactly what live shows and performances you would love to see at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre. The PEC is all about creating unforgettable entertainment experiences right here in the Whitsundays. The survey closes April 30th, so have your say today!

https://yoursay.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au/proserpine-entertainment-centre-community-feedback-questionnaire

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A group of local children has shown an incredible sense of generosity and community spirit at a young age. With their hearts in the right place, they raised nearly $100 from selling old toys to donate to the Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network. It’s a beautiful reminder of how even the smallest acts of kindness can make a meaningful difference.

Rather than spending the money on lollies for themselves, these kids chose to donate the $97.05 toward a cause that impacts their community in a powerful way. Their decision to donate the funds demonstrates maturity and compassion beyond their years.

This is just the beginning for these young changemakers with their next project already in the works - A deliciously enticing cupcake stall aimed at raising even more funds. It’s exciting to think about the positive impact they will continue to have as they grow and develop, fuelled by a mindset rooted in giving back.

Locals couldn't help but feel inspired by their initiative, with many just stopping by to drop off a fiver to their stall. It’s a bright future ahead for them who are already making a difference, the young children’s sense of community and responsibility truly shines. Thank you for fundraising for such an important cause!

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Local children selling their old toys to raise money for the Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network. Photo Sourced: Rob Murphy's Facebook Page.

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