New Beginnings International extended its marine conservation activities with its Whitsunday Reef Preservation Project, conducted from October to December in 2024.

New Beginnings International is a non-profit organisation and a GBRMPA approved Reef Guardian School that has reef protection as one of its core values.

It was started by businessman Ben Braeuer 25 years ago and has carried out many projects up and down the east coast of Australia.

The latest project saw Ben and two post-graduate university students depart Coral Sea Marina, on November 14, 2024, on their project vessel – a 74ft Beneteau Oceanis – to conduct a series of coral surveys in several target sites in the Whitsunday Islands.  

“This new project was our group’s transition into formal GBR research activities, with this project choosing to focus on prevention, as distinct from restoration, of the Whitsunday reef environment,” Ben said.

“The Whitsunday area was selected due to its vital importance to the Queensland Tourism Industry.” 

Ben, along with marine biologist Kimberly Wong and JCU marine biology intern Stephanie Cornish, carried out coral surveys in the Whitsunday Islands over two weeks, in November 2024.

Results of the team’s findings were transferred onto the International Coral Watch Database and published in two formal reports (Management Overview and Detailed Findings).

“Overall, whilst some bleaching of coral was encountered, our team was surprised at the variety and surprisingly good condition of coral at the five main sites covered during our surveys,” Ben said.

“Dangers noted were both due to excessive runoff from the Whitsunday region land base (lack of clarity of water at sites surveyed), and the negative impacts of tourism (failure to use reef-safe sunscreens and tourists physically damaging coral).

“In both cases, greater emphasis on education is strongly recommended.”

For more information visit: https://www.newbeginnings.net.au/marine-conservation

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NewBeginningsMarineProjects.

Photo: Surveys using Coral Watch Coral Health Charts.

The bestselling book, written by David Colfelt with illustrations by Carolyn Colfelt, is indispensable for anyone exploring the islands by boat.

There are copies on every yacht in the area’s charter fleet and it is beloved by local boaties too.

“This incredible book is a staple on board every boat that sails these waters,” local sailor and photojournalist Sharon Smallwood said.

Sharon’s photograph of Billbob Bay, at Shaw Island, appears on the front cover of the 15th edition.

“We’ve been using it for over 20 years and, with all the improvements and updates in each edition, it just keeps on getting better,” she said.

Anthony Colfelt, David and Carolyn’s son, has been at the helm of research and production operations for the book for the past five years, together with his wife and first mate Emma.

“I’ve been sailing around the Whitsundays with Mum and Dad since I was little. I couldn’t have had better guides,” Anthony said.

“I was fifteen when I started working on the book, helping to digitise Mum’s hand-drawn maps of the islands.

“Emma and I have been involved in the research for each new edition for the last fifteen years or so and, whilst Dad is still on hand to give us advice, I think he’s also happy to have passed on the task of keeping those 256 pages up-to-date to us!”

David said it was ‘wonderful to see the book in the hands of the next generation’.

“Writing and illustrating it was such a labour of love and we couldn’t be happier to see it continue to be an essential companion for those out on the water,” he said.

The 15th edition has the very latest information on the public moorings available throughout the islands, as well as marina facilities.

In particular, the chapter on the resorts has been completely rewritten to make it easier to see which resorts can be visited for the day, as well as overnight stays, and to provide more detail about each one.

“Both Hayman and Daydream Islands are open to day visitors again, so those on boating holidays can book ahead to spend a day ashore there, as they already can on Hamilton and at Palm Bay Resort on Long Island,” Anthony said.

“After a long period of closures and deteriorating infrastructure through the 2010s, we are seeing the new owners of Hook, Lindeman and Long Islands keen to breathe new life into some old favourites.

“With Hook Island’s new eco-resort slated to open in 2027, it’s an exciting time.”

Copies of the book can be ordered from https://100magicmiles.com/ with free shipping for customers in Australia.

Coral Sea Marina is once again rallying the Whitsundays community to take action by joining them this Sunday, March 2, for a clean-up of the region.  

In partnership with the Tangaroa Blue Foundation and the ReefClean program, Coral Sea Marina is putting out the call to the Airlie Beach community to come and leave their mark in preserving the pristine waters and coastline of the Whitsundays.

Volunteers are invited to spend the morning collecting litter on the land, around the islands or from waterways.

Debris recovered will be sorted and recorded by Tangaroa Blue and their passionate volunteers, contributing valuable data to the Australian Marine Debris Initiative (AMDI).

The national data collection program helps identify sources of pollution and assists with the development of source reduction programs, which protect our marine environment.

“For the last few years, we have co-ordinated a Clean-Up Australia event, firstly to engage the community to seek simple ways they can positively contribute to protecting the marine environment, but also to show our support for this important national initiative,” Coral Sea Marina’s Head of Marketing and Business Development Joscelyn O’Keefe said.

More than 22 million Aussies have participated in Clean Up Australia Day activities in the last three decades and, as Australia’s waste challenges continue to grow, there is an increasing need to step up and support solutions.

With attendance at last year’s event at around 60 people, the marina is hoping to attract a crowd of at least 100 to this year’s event.

“The engagement we have had in the past, particularly from those with young families, is incredibly encouraging,” Ms O’Keefe said.

“A Clean Up Australia day event provides the community with a platform to make a difference in our own backyard.

“By working together with Tangaroa Blue and ReefClean, we can ensure that items collected contribute to meaningful data records and positive change for our region.

“Last year, we collected more than 100kg of litter, which was successfully removed (and in some cases recycled) and prevented from entering our waterways and polluting the marine environment.”

The Clean Up Australia Day event starts at 8am with volunteers to meet at Meeting Point D, Coral Sea Marina.

All volunteers are encouraged to be sun safe – wear long sleeved clothing, a hat, sunscreen and bring plenty of water.

Collection bags and gloves will be provided on the day.  

Following the clean-up, volunteers will have the opportunity to learn more about the impact of marine debris from the team at Tangaroa Blue and how to take ongoing action to protect our oceans.

The marina’s Coral Sea Academy provides opportunities for visitors and the community to engage with environmental programs and participate in volunteer opportunities and community events.

The Coral Sea Academy’s mission is to educate and inspire people to ‘travel for good’ and leave the Whitsundays better than they found it.

The annual Clean Up Australia Day event is the perfect opportunity for locals and visitors to step up for the environment.

For more information on the event, or to register your interest, visit the Coral Sea Academy website: www.coralseaacademy.com.    

For those unable to attend this year’s event, Ms O’Keefe said it is easy to make an impact.

“The next time you are at the beach, boating around the islands or walking along the waterfront, collect five pieces of litter and dispose of them correctly,” she said.

“Encourage your family and friends to do the same. Every day can be Clean Up Australia Day – it doesn’t just need to be on March 2!”

About Coral Sea Marina Resort

Coral Sea Marina is an award-winning 520 wet berth marina located in the heart of the Whitsundays and Great Barrier Reef.

As the first 5 Gold Anchor Platinum accredited marina in Queensland, Coral Sea Marina offers premium marina facilities and a range of concierge services for vessels up to 80m.

Coral Sea Marina is part of Coral Sea Marina Resort, a tourist destination that also includes a 77-room waterfront boutique resort, two vibrant marina villages, and an inspiring calendar of events.

The marina is home to 80 per cent of the region’s on-water tourism products, making Coral Sea Marina Resort the ultimate place to stay, play and explore the Whitsundays.

The Cultural Island Discovery with Robbie Congoo is an intimate, immersive experience that celebrates the natural beauty of the Whitsunday Islands, while honouring the rich cultural heritage of the region.

The four-hour journey transports guests to the Ngaro Cultural Site, at Nara Inlet, on Hook Island, home to ancient artefacts and millennia-old cave paintings.

Guided by Robbie, guests explore the island’s diverse flora and fauna, while discovering the stories of his ancestors, the Ngaro people.

The Ngaro people were expert seafarers, who navigated the waters of the Whitsundays in bark outrigger canoes, sustaining their communities through fishing, hunting and gathering.

Robbie said the tour was much more than a history lesson – it’s an opportunity to ‘connect and be present’.

“I am honoured to share the stories and traditions passed down through generations and provide an authentic and personal perspective on the island’s history and its significance to the Ngaro people,” Robbie said.

The journey begins aboard the private vessel ‘Pebble Beach’, where guests are skippered from Hamilton Island Marina to neighbouring Hook Island.

Upon arrival, they are welcomed with a traditional smoking ceremony – a gesture of respect to elders and the land, and a ritual to ‘wake up the spirits’.

The Whitsundays boast archaeological treasures, such as rock paintings and stone quarries – among the oldest in Eastern Australia – offering a glimpse into the Ngaro people’s way of life.

“The Ngaro were skilled maritime hunters, using spears tipped with hardwood or the bone of whales and dugongs, and bark outrigger canoes to hunt for food,” Robbie said.

“These practices sustained our people and connected us to the land and sea.

“Our ancestors also quarried a unique volcanic stone from South Molle Island that is found nowhere else in the world.

“They used this stone to create artefacts, and both these artefacts and the island’s rock paintings hold special stories – stories that have lasted thousands of years.”

As the tour progresses, Robbie weaves cultural teachings into stories, deepening guests’ appreciation of the spiritual connection the Ngaro people share on Country.

The experience concludes with gourmet canapes and drinks served back on board ‘Pebble Beach’.

Crafted by qualia executive chef Joshua Hingston, under Robbie’s direction, the menu celebrates native ingredients and distinctly Australian flavours, paying homage to the culinary traditions of the Ngaro people.

Hamilton Island CEO Nick Dowling highlights the cultural significance of the collaboration and the unique opportunity it offers for visitors to connect with Country. 

“Cultural Island Discovery with Robbie Congoo is an invitation to experience the Whitsundays in an entirely new way – through the lens of its first people and their traditions,” Mr Dowling said. 

“This collaboration with Robbie allows guests to share in Ngaro culture and heritage.

“We hope this experience fosters a deeper connection to this remarkable region and its Traditional Custodians.”

Fencing grants are now available for improved land management, including protection from erosion and sedimentation.

Farmers and graziers in the Mackay Whitsunday Isaac region are invited to apply for riparian fencing and off stream watering point grants.

Riparian refers to anything that exists alongside a river, such as riparian wetlands, habitats and trees.

The grants will assist with management of stock and pest animals, while also protecting riparian zones, wetlands and coastal vegetation from erosion and sedimentation, as a result of severe weather events.

The project is funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments, under the Queensland Resilience and Risk Reduction Fund.

Grants are available for riparian fencing and off-stream watering points on properties located within Reef Catchments’ natural resource management region, which stretches from Clairview to Heronvale (south of Bowen), with the top of the ranges forming the western boundary.

“In recent years, the region has experienced weather events that have led to widespread damage of natural and built infrastructure,” a Reef Catchments spokesperson said.

“Following these events, areas with healthy riparian zones benefited from the natural buffer and were most resilient against extreme volumes of water.

“Where riparian zones lacked this buffer, much greater investment in recovery and remediation were required.

“Protecting these riparian zones, along creeks and stream banks, will help farmers to improve their land management and prevent the loss of productive agricultural land.”

To download an application pack, visit www.reefcatchments.com.au.

Or call 4968 4200 for further information about the program.

About Reef Catchments

Reef Catchments is the Natural Resource Management (NRM) group for the Mackay Whitsunday Isaac region.

It facilitates change and works for long-term solutions to sustain, protect and improve the region’s natural resources and environment, now and into the future.

The Reef Catchments team is skilled and comprises outcome-focused people, all dedicated to looking after the environment in the Mackay Whitsunday Isaac region.

For more information visit www.reefcatchments.com.au.

Hook Island was acquired by Epochal Hotels, in 2022.

Now, the Sydney-based company has revealed its ambitious plans for the island, which holds a special place in many Whitsunday residents’ hearts, not least of all because of the underwater observatory that used to be located there.

According to the company, ‘the landmark restoration will redefine sustainable luxury in Australia, with 39 unique cabins, world class dining, wellness spaces, and adventure activities, promising an experience like no other’.

Expected to open in 2027, the world class eco-lodge will ‘set a bold new standard for sustainable luxury travel in Australia’.

Epochal Hotels’ CEO Glenn Piper, alongside a small group of investors, acquired the leasehold in 2022, with the vision of restoring the island, which was severely impacted by cyclones.

Now, the island is poised for a remarkable revival.

Once complete, the eco-lodge will be home to 39 thoughtfully designed biophilic [blending with nature] cabins, an arrival pavilion, two distinctive dining experiences, and forest eco pools, all inspired by the island’s rugged landscape.

“Hook is a rugged island, with dense vegetation, and we are embracing that – the seclusion, the remoteness,” Mr Piper said, while on a fleeting visit to the Whitsundays last week to check up on his latest passion project.

“We like to draw our inspiration from the local postcode – when tourists come somewhere like this, they really should enjoy the region and all it has to offer.

“In our Development Application, a condition is that we need to reference the old underwater observatory somehow.

“We hope the approach we’ve taken will mean more (people) will follow in our footsteps. A lot of locals have very fond memories of Hook Island.”

Mr Piper has partnered with renowned architects Luxury Frontiers, a global company that specialises in sustainable and immersive resorts.

He said the architecture drew inspiration from nature, grounding the resort seamlessly within its surroundings.

Cyclone-resistant, modular architecture will blend harmoniously with the island’s natural contours, while extensive tree surveys have guided building placements to preserve native plants and habitats.

“We wanted to work with the best and embrace the natural surroundings of Hook Island and not compromise that – we didn’t want to over develop the property,” Mr Piper said.

“Six unique accommodation types will be nestled across forest and beachfront settings, each with its own distinctive interior design.”

The island will have the capacity to accommodate 280 guests, which allows for day visitors from the mainland.

There are also 12 moorings off the island, which spans 58 square kilometres.

Mr Piper said the project had been ‘a labour of love’.

“We’ve poured our hearts into blending thoughtful design with a profound respect for the island’s heritage and delicate ecosystem,” he said.

“After being closed for more than a decade, we can’t wait to soon welcome overnight guests and day visitors to experience its magic firsthand.”  

Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm has called it an ‘exciting project’.

“Our beautiful natural assets in the Whitsundays are under-utilised and, as the local member, I look forward to working with the proponent to progress this innovative proposal,” she said.

Epochal Hotels also owns and operates seven landmark hospitality, dining and accommodation properties on Australia’s east coast, including Manly Beach, McMahons Point, Freshwater, Scarborough and Merewether.  

Key amenities of the new Hook Island eco-lodge will include:

• Arrival Pavilion – Welcoming guests to the island with sweeping architectural lines that reflect Hook Island’s natural beauty.
• Explorer’s Lounge – A storytelling hub capturing Hook Island’s history.
• Beach Club – A social centre with an all-day dining restaurant, bar, outdoor fire pit, pool and lounging deck overlooking Hook Passage.
• Nordic Cycle Forest Spa and Eco Pool – A tranquil, forest-inspired retreat for relaxation.
• Clifftop Fine-Dining Restaurant – An avant-garde dining destination perched on a dramatic clifftop with sweeping views of Stingray Bay.
• Lounge, Yoga Pavilion and Kids Adventure Club – Family-friendly spaces designed to encourage exploration and relaxation for all ages, with ‘nature play’ encouraged for young guests.

As part of the partnership, POA will provide five billboards showcasing Eco Barge’s mission to protect the marine environment.

The billboards will rotate across key North Queensland locations, during the next 12 months, amplifying Eco Barge’s message and encouraging community stewardship for the Great Barrier Reef and oceans.

When Libby Edge first started Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc. in 2009, she dreamed of having a billboard to raise awareness of how individuals can protect the Whitsundays’ unique marine life and ecosystems.

“One of our wishes was to see a billboard spreading the message of how we can each play a part in protecting our beautiful region and islands,” Libby said.

“This partnership with POA has made that vision a reality, and it will help us reach thousands of people to inspire action.”

Libby also highlights an important reminder for everyone: “We all play a role in protecting the Great Barrier Reef. It’s as simple as putting your litter in the bin—every small action matters.”

“This collaboration is an incredible opportunity for Eco Barge,” Libby said.

“The visibility provided by these billboards will help us educate more people on the importance of reducing marine debris, protecting wildlife, and fostering sustainability for our region. It’s a powerful step forward for our mission.”

The partnership extends beyond billboard advertising, with POA staff set to participate in Eco Barge’s marine debris clean-ups and recycling efforts.

Together, the two organisations are also exploring innovative uses for used billboard materials, such as transforming them into marine debris collection bags to further support sustainability efforts.

POA CEO Mitch James said the company was excited to support Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc. in their important work to protect oceans.

“Given the POA business commenced in the Whitsundays 43 years ago, it is significant we support the region, contributing to the health of the Whitsundays and encouraging our communities to take greater care of their environment,” he said.

“We are very excited by the opportunity for the POA team to be involved in the awareness and education.”

As the billboards are installed, Eco Barge encourages everyone to get involved by joining clean-up events, learning more about marine conservation, and spreading the word.

Stay connected through Eco Barge’s social media. For updates on the campaign and opportunities to take part visit www.ecobargecleanseas.org.au.

In response to the significant environmental challenges facing the Great Barrier Reef, Red Cat Adventures has been involved in a series of innovative environmental and sustainability projects, during the past three years.  

These initiatives include:

• Boats 4 Coral Project

In collaboration with local marine authorities, Red Cat Adventures launched the Boats 4 Coral Project, aiming to restore and protect coral ecosystems in high-traffic tourist areas.

This initiative involves transplanting coral spawn to degraded sites, to increase coral growth and the survival rate of the coral spawn, promoting reef resilience.

• Coral Nurture Program

As active participants in the Coral Nurture Program, Red Cat Adventures has established coral nurseries at key locations, including Black Island.

These nurseries facilitate the growth of healthy corals, which are transplanted to damaged reef areas, supporting natural regeneration processes.

• Tourism Reef Protection Initiative

Under the Tourism Reef Protection Initiative, the company empowers its crew and guests to engage in reef monitoring and conservation activities.

By collecting data on reef health, and implementing sustainable tourism practices, Red Cat Adventures contributes to the long-term preservation of the reef’s ecosystem.

Asher Telford, general manager of SeaLink Whitsundays, Red Cat Adventures’ parent company, said he was immensely proud of the team’s ongoing dedication.

“Our success is built on a foundation of customer-centric experiences and a deep commitment to environmental stewardship,” he said.

“These initiatives showcase our dedication to preserving the Whitsundays’ natural beauty for future generations.”

Red Cat Adventures’ marine biologist and Master Reef Guide Emily Monacella highlighted the significance of their conservation efforts.

“Participating in these projects allows us to directly contribute to the reef’s health,” she said.

“It’s incredibly rewarding to see the positive impact of our work, ensuring that both tourists and locals can continue to enjoy the reef’s splendour for years to come.”

The importance of coral reefs and the impact of coral bleaching:

Coral reefs are biodiversity hotspots, providing complex structures, abundant food sources, and diverse habitats that support thousands of marine species, including fish, invertebrates and other sea organisms.

However, coral bleaching significantly impacts these ecosystems, leaving corals more susceptible to disease and decreased fertility, with sustained higher water temperatures reducing their chances of recovery.

When corals die, they lose their habitat and resources, leading to diminished biodiversity, altered fish populations and unbalanced food webs.

The repercussions extend far beyond the reefs, affecting the broader marine environment and other species that depend on these ecosystems for survival.

The human impact is equally profound.

Declining coral reefs compromise marine ecosystems, leading to a decrease in fish populations vital for food security.

Coral reefs also act as natural barriers against storm surges and tsunamis, protecting coastal communities from these kinds of weather events.

“Coral reef tourism is a significant economic driver and environmental protection educational opportunity, which suffers when reefs bleach, as it reduces their aesthetic and ecological value, adversely affecting tourism within the region,” Mr Telford said.

Engaging guests in conservation efforts:

Red Cat Adventures actively encourages guests to participate in these conservation initiatives alongside its crew, offering unique opportunities to engage in reef restoration and monitoring activities.

Mr Telford said this hands-on involvement not only enhances the visitor experience but also fosters a deeper appreciation for the importance of reef conservation.

“Through these environmental protection efforts, our team at Red Cat Adventures not only offers exceptional tourism experiences but we are also playing a pivotal role in safeguarding the Great Barrier Reef’s future,” he said.

To learn more about Red Cat Adventures and how to get involved with these initiatives, visit redcatadventures.com.au.

Whitsunday Regional Council is assessing the Whitsundays’ mainland walking trail network.

This is to understand the public’s perception of, and demand for, upgraded or expanded walking trails in the region.

Whitsunday residents, and visitors to the region, can have their say on the type of, and demand for, walking trails via a short survey on the Whitsunday Regional Council website.

“Our natural assets are a strength of our region, and we are eager to understand if they meet the needs of residents and visitors,” Whitsunday Regional Council said.

“Currently, there are 19 mainland trails in the Whitsundays, of varying length, difficulty and habitats.

“Not all are within bushland environments.”

View the Whitsunday Regional Council  fact sheet for more information.

Consultation is open until Sunday, January 19, 2025.

Current walking trails in the region:

Hamilton Island Airport is the only commercial jet airport in the Whitsunday Islands.

Since the inaugural flight touched down in 1984, to a fanfare of aloha shirts and cocktails, the airport has become a vital hub for regional tourism and the Whitsundays community, linking them to friends, family and essential services.

“For 40 years, Hamilton Island Airport has connected visitors to the heart of the Great Barrier Reef,” Hamilton Island Acting Chief Operations Officer Paul Watson said.

“The airport plays a pivotal role in supporting the local visitor economy – welcoming over 500,000 travellers each year – while serving as a vital link for island residents.

“For many of us who live and work on Hamilton Island, the airport is integral to our daily lives, and we’re proud of its contribution to the Whitsundays region.”

Hamilton Island Airport has revolutionised access to the region, with direct flights from Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane taking under three hours.

Today it operates up to 16 commercial flights daily, serving major carriers Qantas, Jetstar and Virgin Australia.  

“Hamilton Island Airport has transformed tourism in the Whitsundays, making it easier than ever for visitors to experience the region’s natural wonders,” Mr Watson said.

“It’s not just a gateway – its where lifelong memories are made. Visitors who experience the Great Barrier Reef firsthand leave with a deeper appreciation of the importance of protecting this iconic natural wonder.”

Since the Oatley family acquired Hamilton Island, in 2003, more than $400 million has been invested in infrastructure projects, including upgrades to the airport.

“As we celebrate Hamilton Island Airport’s 40th year, we look forward to another four decades of providing convenient access to the Whitsundays’ unique natural attractions and unforgettable experiences for everyone who visits,” Mr Watson said.

To mark the anniversary, Hamilton Island Airport staff, past and present, together with Acting CEO Nick Dowling, and children from the Hamilton Island community school, surprised arriving passengers, on December 10, 2024, with a warm Hamilton Island welcome, reminiscent of the celebration that greeted visitors on that first commercial flight, in 1984.