Montes Resort,Gloucester Passage.

One of the stunning views in the area. Looking out from Montes Resort to The Goucester Passage. Montes Resort lies approx 20nm north of Airlie Beach just inside Gloucester Passage.We left Abel Point at 7-00am and arrived at Montes at 11-30.A pleasant sail with wind and tide in our favour.Following marker bouys is essential as there are extensive reef areas inside The Passage and quite a few Bommies.We managed to find one of the Bommies and our port rudder sat gently on it and consequently we were stuck on it for an hour and a half before the full tide enabled us to slip off with no damaged recorded.We anchored directly opposite The Resort and were joined by good friends Bernie and Michelle with there youngest child,Holly.First up was a meeting of minds with a few beers,chaired by Liz with Holly listening intently on Michelles lap.Modus operandum for the day was to chill out and soak up the sun with some liquid refreshments.Much persuasion was required from the rest of the party to entice myself in to joining in the activity. Bernie prepares Holly for a nice dip to get rid of the sand. Looking across the beach to Gloucester Island.

When visiting yachties call in,The Resort does not have facilities to take your rubbish or supply town water so be sure you are aware and take the necessary steps to avoid disappointment. Montes Resort tucked in behind the palm trees on the beach.The view from the resort looks out to Gloucester Island with Passage Islet close by. The meeting in full swing.Michelle on left with 'Holly,Bernie foreground with Frank in background chatting with Liz. Looking out from The Resort towards Passage Islet. The fishing is good in the area and I managed to catch several different varieties,including a Tamora,(Sucker Fish)which was probably close to a meter in length.Walking west along the beach and just round the point is The Eco-Resort.So there are two resorts in close proximity that cater for different tastes and both are in the delightful area of Edgecombe Bay.We had a fabulous weekend with friends.

Whitehaven Trip.Cruise Whitsundays *Camira*

The girls from Cruise Whitsundays. On Thursday 18th June we sailed to Whitehaven Beach in the capable hands of these three maidens.Adele on the left,Sal in the centre and Sarah on the right.The weather was superb for sailing with a good 20 knot breeze to shake off the cobwebs.We sailed from Abel Point Marina to Daydream Island to pick up a couple of Passengers and then continued our journey down Whitsunday Passage,passing South Molle,Henning and Hamilton Islands,then negotiating the Fitzalan Passage before arriving at Whitehaven Beach at about 11-40am.After spending an hour on the beach it was back onboard Camira for lunch.The afternoon sail took us to Hook Passage where snorkelling was available just off shore of The Resort. Liz became a little queazy in the windy conditions but admirably summoned all her reserves and remarkably for her,kept a clean sheet.Service aboard was a delight,food was excellent and altogether it was a thoroughly enjoyable day.

Steve was our'Skipper'for the day,and his red jacket would have gone missing had he not hidden it, when not in use. Liz caused a few nervous moments when she took over the port station,but luckily we were at anchor at the time.

Whitehaven Beach. Regarded as one of the Top Ten beaches on earth,the pure White Silica of Whitehaven stretches for over 7 kilometres along the shore on Whitsunday Island.

Eager snorkellers ready for their short trip by tender in the Hook Island Passage. View from Whitehaven Beach to The 85foot Catamaran Camira.

Long Island Whitsundays.

The Main Resort is on the north side of the island. The view from here is looking towards Shute Harbour.The yachts can be seen in the distance.An ideal spot to spend a lazy day The local residents in The Whitsundays reap the benefits of joining the Cruise Whitsundays Turtle Club for free, and are given discounts on trips throughout The Islands. Saturday 13th June saw a group of us spend the day at Long Island for a cost of $20 each and a 20% discount on all food and drinks on the island.

The pool on Long Island. The pier at Long Island meanders the North Shore.

Probus BBQ Whitsundays Sailing Club.

Preparations begin for the feast. Liz always enjoys the outings as they give her the opportunity to escape from preparing and cooking a meal in the evening,whilst Graham,Keith and I always get a good few laughs out of the occasions. Thursday 11th June greeted members of Whitsunday Probus with a beautiful sunny day and a striking setting for their regular get together BBQ. The venues are changed each month and following Eungella National Park,the BBQ was held on home soil at The Whitsunday Sailing Club. Ted Wright is seen in foreground kicking off with the Champers watched closely with alacrity by fellow Probian Pat Patterson standing right.

The magnificent BBQ setting. The BBQ is in full swing.

Breakfast at Capers Airlie Beach.

Wednesday morning we decided to Breakfast at Capers.Seated outside, we had beautiful views out to Pioneer Bay.One of the many eateries along the Esplanade,Capers is part of The Airlie Beach Hotel.This establishment has 3 first class restaurants in close proximity.Each venue has first class service and impeccable amenities for the visitor.Liz and I frequent these restaurants more than any other because we love the attitude of staff members and know that Mark Bell is the Ultimate Professional in his constant endeavour for perfection.

Liz relaxing before a most enjoyable Breakfast spent with Alf at Capers on the Beach.

Q150 Visits Proserpine

To celebrate the 150th Birthday of Queensland, an Historic Journey is being made by one of the oldest steam trains in existence.The Train left Brisbane on it's journey throughout The State arriving in The Whitsundays on Wed.27th May.

View in Cab of Engine Showing Boiler. Proserpine Station was a hive of activity as a large crowd gathered to greet The Q150's arrival.Enthusiasts arrived from all parts of The Whitsundays to photograph the Train as it prepared to leave for a short trip to Bowen then returning to spend the night in Proserpine before heading north to Ayr.A school band was there to greet the passengers on arrival and The Mayor of The Whitsundays was also present.

Stonehaven Anchorage, Hook Island.

Saturday 16th May,We sailed out aboard Chilli Frog to Stonehaven Anchorage on Hook Island for some R&R.The trip out to Stonehaven was a beauty. 20kt winds and a clear blue sky.A couple of turtles basked in the sun on the surface about halfway across The Whitsunday Passage.

Day Sail to Stonehaven. The reef at Stonehaven was good for viewing. Shark and Coral Trout were there to greet us along with many small colourful Reef Fish. We saw coral bleaching but contrary to reports there is regrowth appearing. Some of us went to the long beach while others decided to stay aboard and partake from the liqour store. After lunch at about 2-30pm we headed back across the Passage, wind against tide and arrived back at Abel Point at about 4-30.Another great day sailing.

Eungella National Park Visit.

On Thursday 14th May,Airlie Beach Probians took off for a trip to Eungella National Park.Bolder Creek was the first stop for Morning Tea. We alighted at a pretty spot where the creek flows under the road,and views on both sides were beautiful.The leaky lizards in the party were able to spray their wares in The Windy Loo that stood close by.From here the party headed for The Eungella Chalet.Views looking out over the valley were magnificent.After a drink or two we drove to Broken River and were lucky enough to get some great photos of Turtles and a Platypus that enjoyed the opportunity to display his unusual shape to all and sundry.Lunch was taken at The Criterion Hotel at Finch Hatton and we all enjoyed the fare.Later, after a few drinks the party set off on the journey back home via Mount Ossa.A day trip that is highly recommended and thoroughly enjoyable.

The Windy Loo. The leaky lizards pay homage to a relic from the past.Shimmy and Alison would like to announce they are not in the Leaky Lizard class and were there purely for the photographic opportunity. The photographer would not divulge the comings and goings at this facility. Platypus Extraordinaire. The sun shining on his beak was pure photographic skill on my part.

Vintage Cars Visit Shutehaven Lookout.

Sitting relaxing on a quiet Sunday afternoon we were delighted to see three Vintage Cars roll up to our front doorstep.The cars,all in immaculate condition are from left to right: Peter Woods 1934 Ford, Ted Evans 1949 MG Y-Type Terry Ciantar 1949 MG Y-Type. After attending a rally the three guys along with their partners decided to drive up to Shute Haven to share our spectacular views.Each vehicle belonged to a different Automobile club.Peter Wood's Ford was from The Mackay Restoration Club.Ted Evans MG from The Whitsundays Automotive and restoration Club and Terry Ciantar's MG came from The Mackay Vintage Motor Club.After a few pleasant mutual exchanges they headed off to a prearranged BBQ.

Liz chooses the Ford. I was suprised how Liz was so quick to make her choice.Usually she takes ages then changes her mind. Just like a woman. Now Liz can't decide which one she wants to settle for.Haa Haa Liz never lets the female gender down.She's running true to form.

Whitsunday Airshow.

The New Whitsunday Residential Air Park is celebrating it's opening with an Air Show commencing at 10-00am on Sunday May 3rd 2009.Several aerobatic displays will be on view along with a fire bucket demonstration and lots of other attractions.The highlight of the show will be an aerobatic display by The RAAF Roulette Display Team. Parking $10 per car and $2 Entry Fee,with all proceeds going to CQ Rescue and The Royal Flying Doctor Service. Whitsunday Aviation Village Estate is the first of it's kind in Australia.With 57 Freehold land blocks it will be a self- sufficient community with it's own supermarket,restaurant and shops. Owners will be able to leave home,step into their aircraft, fly over The Great Barrier Reef and the surrounding Whitsunday Islands and return to their architecturally designed hangar homes surrounded by the lush landscaping of The Tropical Village. Jeff Ruddell acquired the Airport in 2001 and spent time in the USA gathering info on some of the 500 or so Airparks that operate over there. The proximity of The Reef and Islands will make this Village an exciting proposition for the owners of small aircraft who want to live in a unique and special environment in The Whitsundays.

Following the Air Show on Sunday 3rd May at 4-30pm on The Esplanade is one of Airlie's Biggest events on the calendar. The Airlie Retreat Food and Wine Festival was a roaring success last year and this time round there will be 15 or so food and wine companies partaking in the event. Wines will be available from Australian and New Zealand Vineyards and food ranging from Mexican, Italian, Asian and Australian Cuisines. The Carlton Draught Beer Academy will be in attendance .Constructed inside a huge semi-trailer the Academy has a working cool room, bar and lecture area. So if you want to find out the secrets of pulling the perfect pint, pop in and watch the demonstrations. Musical Entertainment will be provided in the afternoon and well into the night ,and there will be an extended Fireworks display to top off a busy Sunday in Airlie Beach. Entry to the event will be $3-00 and children accompanied by an adult will be free.

Twitter Kuranda.

Our Kuranda Page was developed and inspired by a chance meeting on Twitter between myself and Kuranda resident Diana Russo. This young lady is blessed with an earthy charm that emanates remarkably from Twitters 140 character restriction. Together we are adding to the site as Diana sends info via her Local connections. We are pleased with the results so far and are hoping to aquire more input from the local Indigenous People. Diana is concerned and involved in many aspects relating to environmental issues that are at this point in time being discreetly put aside by a Federal Government that promised so much in the way of change. Aboriginal issues are also in the forefront of her campaigning, particularly the Mona Mona situation. I am endeavouring to support Diana by way of our Kuranda page, and hope that it can in some small way make a difference. Kuranda

Kuranda Boy Performer. Kuranda Girl Performer.

16 Finalists for Queensland Island Reef Job.

These lucky young people have been selected as finalists in The Island Reef Job.Applicants will be coming to Hamilton Island from May 3 to 6 for The Best Job in the World’s final selection process. You can get to know our final applicants by viewing their Videos on the opposite side of this page.Each of the Videos is a complement to the individual concerned and we think they all deserve congratulations on their efforts.Tourism Queensland has done a great job with this promotion,Good Onya Guys.As we live in The Whitsundays we know what a fabulous experience this is going to be for all of them,and we at Queensland Armchair Guide wish all the Finalists The Very Best of Luck.

Applicants Videos. http://islandreefjob.com/#/Clare http://islandreefjob.com/#/Anjaan http://islandreefjob.com/#/Bens http://islandreefjob.com/#/Cali http://islandreefjob.com/#/Greg http://islandreefjob.com/#/George http://islandreefjob.com/#/Erik http://islandreefjob.com/#/Clarke http://islandreefjob.com/#/Magali http://islandreefjob.com/#/Juweon http://islandreefjob.com/#/James http://islandreefjob.com/#/Hailey http://islandreefjob.com/#/Benh http://islandreefjob.com/#/Mirjam http://islandreefjob.com/#/Yi http://islandreefjob.com/#/Mieko

Keri The Queensland Artiste.

Queensland Armchair Guide recently joined the Twitter Community and were suprised and delighted to find Keri online.This young Lady has always been a joy to listen to and hope to see her in The Whitsundays soon We are lucky to chat with her every day on Twitter.Visit Keri's Website .

Our Friend Keri McInerny. Singer/Songwriter KERI MCINERNEY is a multi-award winning artist, who has numerous accolades and successes to her credit. Keri has had a great deal of success in both the Australian Country Music Industry as well as on the International market. She has performed at a variety of major festivals in Australia, including the Gympie Muster, Mildura Country Music Festival, Undara Country Rock and Blues Festival, Qld Festival of Blues, Yagubi Multicultural Festival, Whale Festival, to name a few and numerous major Australian and International Corporate Events, resorts, clubs and hotels. Keri's new album "STAY”, released in June 2008 and her latest video single of the same name, is once again being aired on national television and a host of other television show in Australia and abroad. Interest for the album has been high and Keri is looking forward to further success.

The Evening when Cyclone Hamish Threatened.

We spent a night with dark foreboding but Hamish passed us by.

Camira From Verandah. Always look good under full sail don't they.Next week Liz and I will be joining John and his crew onboard Camira for a day sail to Whitehaven Beach on Whitsunday Island.Looking forward to getting some great pics,and will try to get Liz to volunteer to take photo from top of the mast in the Bosun's Chair.In my dreams I think. lol.

Cruise Whitsunday's Camira.

Calm before the Storm. Picture opposite:Cruise Whitsunday's 85ft Catamaran preparing to ride out the forthcoming Cyclone Hamish between Shute Island, Tancred Island and the Mainland.Taken at 12-pm today Mar.7th.

Cyclone Alert Whitsundays.

Cyclone Hamish. Tropical Cyclone Hamish is continuing it's path down the Queensland Coast, and Whitsunday Residents are preparing for the worst. At this moment, Hayman, Hook and Hamilton Islands are being evacuated and the remainder of the Resort Islands are expected to follow suit. Tour operators are moving their boats to Shute Harbour to try to avoid the full force of the impending winds. At present speed Hamish will be in the vicinity of The Whitsundays at approximately 4-00am local time on Sunday. We are staying to see it out and hope everyone will be safe.

The Big Two.

Lawrence and Liz pose for a photo at The Lagoon

Lawrence Springborn Visits Airlie Beach. Sunday 1st March saw The Premier Anna Bligh and her political opponent at the lagoon. Bligh's decision to put the Laguna Quays tender on hold was taken as a pre election ruse by the crowd that had gathered. Spending has been introduced to accommodate an upgrade for the existing airport at Proserpine. Lawrence was there to campaign for the forthcoming election and Liz from The Queensland Armchair Guide was seen to be plotting the demise of the current Premier with Lawrence Springborg.

Cocky showing who is Boss.

Sunburnt Tweet. Twitter.com has kept me away from my blog for over a week now so I think I'd better display the culprit with one of those lovely people I have met.Will have to spend more time working.

An Aussie Helping a Mate.

Human life, flora and fauna, all affected by the wild Australian Bush Fire. Local CFA firefighter David Tree shares his water with an injured Australian Koala at Mirboo North after wildfires swept through the region on Monday, Feb. 9, 2009(AP Photo/Mark Pardew)

This is Too Big to Fight. The koala in the main picture was saved but suffered burns to his paws.The crew of this Fire Truck are fleeing for their lives as the inferno rages behind them.The devastation can only be imagined by those who have never experienced an Australian Bushfire with an angry 100 Kph wind driving it onwards.The flames in the picture must be all of 60 ft.high.

Brunkers Twisted View.

Congratulations to all Councillors concerned. The residents of this community have your futures in the palms of their hands. The views of the Whitsunday Council are totally at odds with common sense and the will of it's residents.The Mayor, Bully Boy Brunker, and his toadies in Council have, with their infinite stupidity,chosen to ignore residents and the Town Plan to add 3 metres in height to a building proposal on the beach side of Shute Harbour Road.

The Lone Voice. The future is not too bright when a 'do as we like', 'couldn't care less' Council rides roughshod over a small town like Airlie Beach. Jan Clifford is the lone councillor opposing this bastardisation of The Town Plan. Castigated by the morons in council who choose to disfigure our town with their mightier than thou attitudes she remained resolute in her support for the residents of this town and common sense. I suggest Brunker should concentrate his tiny mind on the development of Bowen and the thousands of non return visitors generated by the Movie Experience.

South Molle - Dawn of a New Day.

Scheduled reopening Saturday 28th March.

Koala Adventure Island. South Molle is closed, and after refurbishment is to be reopened as Koala Adventure Island. Targeted at the over 18's the resort will have musical entertainment with resident DJ's every night of the week. Bands and other live entertainment will be the go at the new resort and let's hope this time the management get it right. My last visit to South Molle was for a Polynesian Night that was most enjoyable but one remembers the state of disrepair that was evident in certain areas. Let us hope that the refurbishment has rectified most of the problems and a new pier will be on the agenda in the near future.

The Airlie Beach Lagoon Bridge.

After 4 weeks of continuous rain here in The Whitsundays we are looking forward to a nice long drying out spell.Luckily Cyclone Ellie was a fizzer otherwise we could have been looking at a whole lot more rain.

Looking Forward. We are looking forward to our trip to Whitehaven Beach in a couple of weeks time. Cruise Whitsunday's Camira will be our transport for the day. Nice to sail along at over 20 knots on a large catamaran with no sounds apart from the wind in the sails. This trip has got to be one of the must do excursions for anyone visiting The Whitsundays. The beach at Whitehaven is one of the top 10 beaches in World Listings and is nicely situated fairly close to Hamilton Island.

Job Vacancy $150,000 for 6 months Hard Labour.

Applications are pouring in from around the world for this one. Tourism Queensland has woken the world to The Whitsundays with a magnificent jolt.Good on you guys.The salary is great but applicants beware. You will be asked to swim and snorkel The Great Barrier Reef, take a few cruises and on top of that you need to write up in a blog for heavens sake.Apart from living here, I can swim, snorkel, and I'm quite partial to a cruise or two and the blog is a doddle.If Tourism Queensland doesn't mind me commuting I will offer my good lady's services to the Housekeeping Department at The Reef View Hotel on Hamilton Is. free of charge, accept the job for $50,000,rent the house out and donate the residue to a charity of their choosing. The other applicants can join my mates opposite.

All Job Applicants can join my mates and take a bath.

Shute Harbour Sunrise.

Nightscape lookin out to Daydream Island. The flickering lights of Daydream Island can be seen lower left of photo.Taken at approximately 10-30 pm on 8th January 2009.

Airlie Beach Surfers.

Double Trouble. A pair of gate crashers arrived on Christmas Morning.The pork and ham were not acceptable for this pair but they did partake in the turkey and came back for seconds. So cannibalism is alive and well in Australia.

Response to QCHANTMS Comment. Shute Harbour.

1: My reference to supposedly Traditional Owners is fair comment when ownership is being contested by more than 1 group. 2:As an elder of The Ngaro People Irene Butterworth intimated to me that she is not in agreement with ownership being afforded to The Gia People. 3:Whitsunday Times 18 Dec 2008.Quote'A group of Ngaro Traditional Owners lodged a Native Title Claim with The North Queensland Land Council on 16th Dec.2008. 4:The wider group you mention are Gia People whose claims Irene Butterworth rejects. 5:Commendations for a developer who wants to disfigure and destroy a World Heritage Site with minimal advantage to The Aboriginal People is incomprehensible. 6:Please forward letter. 7:Human nature is a funny thing Mr. Mailman. 8:If all parties have been afforded the opportunity regarding Native Title previously,why would an application be tendered on 16th Dec. 2008 by The Ngaro People.

Development Nightmare.

Response from SHRA. to Marina Proposal and Letter of Advice for Jan Jarratt.

Shutehaven Residents Response to Marina Proposal. Dear the Hon. Jan Jarratt MP, Member for Whitsunday, I have worked on coral reefs for over 40 years, on the GBR since 1965, in the Caribbean, and on the reefs of East Africa and Zanzibar and also New Guinea, and published papers on reef ecology and recently a book on reef management (Coral Reefs, Mangroves and Seagrasses: A Sourcebook for Managers; F.Talbot & C.Wilkinson, 2001; Australian Institute of Marine Science). Sadly I have watched the steady decline of reef systems. The reasons have been many, including forest clearing, urbanisation, sewage pollution, over-fishing and the removal of wetlands and mangroves. You have a gem in the Whitsunday area, and one that attracts thousands of tourists, many of them in yachts. The number of vessels is now so high that many anchorages that are destinations for the yachts are becoming crowded. More marina berths are already under way. I suggest you do not accept the very large Shute Harbour marina development in addition, as you are overburdening the area and damaging its shallow water systems. You will already know that the inshore reefs along much of the GBR are less than pristine. This new Shute Harbour development, destroying rich shallow ecosystems, just adds to the steady pressure on the reef in the Whitsunday area. The fame of the GBR is well known, but reef systems are common in the Indian and Pacific Ocean tropics...if the word was out that the GBR was tired, your tourists would flock to better reefs. Rather than slowly kill your golden goose, I suggest this development will do too much harm to the Whitsundays. You would be wise to prevent it. Your sincerely, Frank Talbot Professor F. H. Talbot, Sydney Institute of Marine Science Director Emeritus, US National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian Institution

Sound Advice. If you are of similar persuasion to our local member Jan Jarratt on the Shute Harbour Marina Project it might be of interest to read the letter opposite. The gentleman has offered this advice to her and all others that can't wait to destroy this valuable Heritage Area.Barge entering Shute Harbour. What a Difference. This project is being portrayed as an opportunity for Aboriginal Employment, the answer to the Boaties Prayer, at 10,000 dollars per annum mooring fees and a Community Centre for the residents of Shute Harbour. Aboriginals don't live here, Boaties aren't stupid and Shute Haven Residents have Coral Point Lodge as their Community Centre.

Shute Harbour Furphy.

Here we have a typical situation demonstrating quite clearly the ineptitude of The Queensland Government assisted by Qld Cultural Heritage And Native Title Management Services Pty Ltd offering grandiose claims of Aboriginal Groups being able to break away from the dependancy cycle with the wonderful opportunities being offered by the Shute Harbour Marina Project.I am not aware of any Aboriginal Groups living in Shute Harbour.Is there something I have missed here? To assist this project along the way even the local member has suggested there have been very few objections raised regarding this matter.How quaint and simply not true.This proposal has received more objections than The Shale Project that was rejected. If the Government got off it's backside and wanted to help the Aboriginal cause it would steer these Projects to areas of need.Palm Island is a prime example.Now they need a Marina Development to give them an opportunity for self determination more than any other group. To destroy an area of significance like Shute Harbour when there is a new Marina Development 10 klms away is not only ridiculous but bordering on criminality.

Alf Lacey. Palm Island Mayor. This is the guy The Queensland Government should be helping. Too Hard Basket. Not too difficult to help a few thousand Aboriginals instead of destroying an area that has no need for this type of development. All that is required is dialogue from the Queensland Government.

Shute Harbour Under Threat.

It is going to be interesting to see how this Shute Harbour Marina Project pans out. On the one hand we have an agreement with a group of supposedly Traditional Owners and on the other hand we have the Ngaro People who claim true ownership. David Mailman who is The Director-Principal Consultant of Qld Cultural Heritage and Native Title Management Services Pty Ltd will be,I am sure,aware of the claim that has been registered by the Ngaro People a few weeks ago.Will the Ngaro People be overlooked in the rush to get this project off the ground if all objections are rejected or will the Ngaro People be considered in negotiations as the true owners? Irene Butterwoth is a Tribal Elder with the Ngaro People and from a conversation with her recently she intimated to me that what is planned for Shute Harbour is not acceptable to her and her people.The Ngaro claim should hold up this project if the true Traditional Owners are to be recognised. This Marina Project is a disaster just waiting to release itself on our community. With far more objections against this project than the recent mining proposal that was rejected it would seem that this project is doomed to failure but strange things happen in the corridors of power. A politicians view:-- that she received 1500 letters about the Shale Oil proposal but next to no community concern has been expressed about the Shute harbour proposal. She supports the proposal. Quote: "it is just a tiny bit of a world heritage area" and "on balance it is good for this area" Jan Jarratt. Next to no community concern about this proposal!!! Are you kidding me. Opposite are comments made by J.E.N. Veron, Former Chief Scientist, Australian Institute of Marine Science.I take his comments seriously, and so should the Politicians,Peter Garrett included.

.Dr. J. E. N. Veron - Reef Scientist. As one of the few people who have worked on all the major coral reef regions of the world, I have become increasingly concerned about reef degradation that comes from coastal urbanisation. Australia stands almost alone in having extensive reefs that are still undamaged from this cause and thus I have long supported the efforts of GBRMPA to protect the Great Barrier Reef through managing coastal environments. The connection between reefs and adjacent land is now only too obvious: reefs degrade when coastal ecosystems are not preserved. Shute Harbour is one of the best-know components of the world’s most highly treasured reef region. Development of the foreshore is not in the national interest and nor is it long-term interest of the region. Unlike most of the world, we Australians still have a choice – either we conserve such places, or we loose them forever. When future generations look back, I hope they will see good management decisions where our best foreshore environments have been preserved for all time.

Diamond Princess.

Up close the Diamond Princess is an awesome sight. Compare the Cruise Whitsunday Reef Vessel for size.

The Armchair Guide visits The Diamond Princess. Monday 8th Dec we visited the P & O Liner Diamond Princess. We arrived by tender at 10-am just as Cruise Whitsundays had picked up passengers from the liner to be transported to The Reef. Thanks to the Captain and Head of Security we were treated to a pleasant trip out and a great opportunity to take 2 videos that you can see on our http://www.queenslandarmchairguide.com/videowhitsundays.html Video Whitsundays Page. According to The Ambassadors we believe that of 2,600 passengers only 90 remained on board for the day, so 2,500 visitors alighted to enjoy Airlie Beach and the surrounds.

The Whitsundays Rum Bar.

The Rum Bar. Fish D'Vine on The Esplanade is one of the most popular meeting places for locals and tourists alike. The food is excellent and The Rum Bar is a legend in it's own lifetime. This Sunday we visited for a meal and a chat with the new girl behind the bar after spending the day at The Whitsunday VMR Clubhouse . Liz is 3 weeks into the job and by the smile on her face she is loving it. Musical entertainment is always part of the sunday scene and the artistes perform on The Esplanade right opposite Fish D'Vines Rum Bar. Kev and Bec have a great business here.

Storkey' Team.

Mike and Lesley Storkey have been involved in The Whitsundays for over 20 years now and with so many varied interests it is hard to see how this busy couple find time for the Real Estate work. With Rotary and Whitsunday Toastmasters commitments a small part of their reportoire Mike still found time to serve up the sangers at The VMR open day.The Whitsunday Intimate Theatre Society was founded by Lesley,in,no doubt, one of her spare moments.A Professional Team, they are highly recommended.

Mike and Lesley.

VMR Whitsundays Open Day.

Scott, the young lad lower right ala face painting was lucky enough to win a fishing trip for two in one of the prize draws but no, he didn't ask me.

VMR Whitsundays Open Day. We spent the day at The Whitsundays VMR Open Day. Met up with a lot of old friends and made a few new ones. Caught up with 'Hat' and his good lady Sharon along with the Entertainers, old friends, Corrine and Sam. Jan Jarratt ,our local Member, and Mike Brunker our local Mayor were among the digniteries present. Sponsers from The Whitsunday Rotary Club and The Airlie Beach Hotel's Mark Bell were also in attendance. Everyone had a great day. See Videos on our Video Whitsundays Page.

Coral Point Lodge.

Looking for a quiet place to stay in The Whitsundays? Coral Point Lodge is the ideal spot with million dollar views from every room. Liz and I popped over the road to join Brian,Eva,their daughter Monique and a few of the Shute Haven locals for a drink and a few nibblies this afternoon. All rooms have superb ocean views and The Lodge is located at the end of Harbour Ave at Shute Haven. If you decide to stay, pop over the road and say hello, we'll put the kettle on.

Views to Die For.

Video Whitsundays.

Today is the beginning of a new page on The Queensland Armchair Guide website. Video Whitsundays is going to bring The Whitsunday Region into closer contact with our visitors. The first video is just a panoramic view from our verandah at Shute Haven. Over the coming weeks ahead we are going to be busy gathering as many videos as we can to add to our Video Whitsunday Page. The digital we are using may be upgraded in the future depending on the kinds of awards received for the current video.

Video Whitsundays.

VMR Whitsundays Open Day.

Sunday 30th November from 10am -300 pm The Whitsunday VMR will hold their Family Fun and Marine Info Day.The day will see the launch of the new Radio Room that was completed thanks to a donation from The Whitsunday Lions Club. Displays are to be organised by the GBRMPA, Maritime Safety Queensland,Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service and The Rotary Club of Airlie Beach.Demonstrations will be carried out by Queensland Ambulance Service and The Water Police. Prize draws include a family pass to the reef from Cruise Whitsunday and an Eperb donated by Whitsunday Home Hardware.Get out and have a great day and don't forget to make a donation to this worthy cause.

On the Job. During the Whitsunday Fun Race.

Reef Festival Parade.

Liz in the Pink. A very successful afternoon parade for The Whitsunday Festival.The crowds were out in force and the kids loved the lollies.The Save Our Foreshore folks were out in force and enjoying every moment.

Spectators and Partakers. Looking forward to a few cold beers and a meal at The Whitsunday Sailing Club tonight followed by watching the entertainment and the firework display from the balcony. Another hard day in The Whitsundays.

Lunch at Palmers Fri 14th Nov.

Palmers Training Restaurant. Liz and I and a few friends chose to dine at Palmers Training Restaurant for a very pleasant lunch today. The kitchen staff were International Students and the Waitress Staff comprised of Students from The Whitsunday Christian College.Bookings are necessary as the restaurant was full.Head Chef Simon Andrews is a native of Manchester UK and he has been involved in training students in New Zealand and Adelaide before discovering the wonders of The Whitsundays. The 3 course lunch was excellent and the service was exceptional. Teachers John Staton and Scott Edmonds were in attendance and the experience was enhanced by the professionalism displayed by all concerned.

E P A Obstructing Justice? Shute Harbour.

The Shute Harbour Marine Development Pty Ltd. has submitted the EIS for public perusal and responses have been given a cut off date 15 Dec. 2008 To assist the public in their right to reply it is necessary to obtain specific monitoring data info on Shute Harbour that they are in possession of. This data can be made available to the public immediately to assist them in their right to reply but the EPA are insisting on application for this info under the Freedom of Information Act. This avenue is expensive and time consuming and if I know anything about Government Operations it will be way past the cut off date when the data will become available. The general public demand cooperation from the EPA on this matter. Tactics of obstruction are not going to wash on such an important issue. The letter on the right was sent to the EPA and below was their response. Hi Rory, The information requested below will need to be accessed through a formal Freedom of Information application. This request can be made via email or in writing and is required to be accompanied by a $38.00 fee. Please contact Rose Billington or Peter Thornton of the EPA’s FOI Unit on (07) 3237 1048 for further information regarding application process or via email on rose.billington@epa.qld.gov.au or peter.thornton@epa.qld.gov.au. Regards, Odette

Letter to Epa. Dear Odette, A number of community groups are currently preparing responses to the Shute Harbour Marina Development EIS.In preparing our responses, among other things we are assessing cumulative impacts in the region and are, consequently, seeking data. We would be grateful if you could supply us with any monitoring data gathered by EPA (or by the proponents or their representatives) relating to the marina development at Port of Airlie, the Yacht Club development at Hamilton Island and the marina expansion at Abel Point.As well as general monitoring data we are seeking plume data and comparisons between before and after; changed wave action and currents; and whether their modelling of sediment transport and deposition has been reflected in reality. As you are no doubt aware the public has been given just a few weeks to respond to this extremely complex EIS document and so our time frame is very tight. We would therefore greatly appreciate you supplying this information at your earliest convenience. Regards,Rory McCourt SOF Patricia Julien MCG

Shute Harbour Objections.

The Shute Harbour Development Pty Ltd. has delivered its EIS and it is open to submissions until 15 December 2008. The objectives of the company are as follows with my personal objections on each item. The objectives of the SHMR development are: •to provide a world class integrated marina and tourism facility, providing a valuable addition to the marina and tourism offerings in the region; Objection : There is already a world class integrated marina and tourism facility being constructed within 10 miles proximity of this proposal.The marina and tourism facilities already existing and being developed are perfectly adequate for the area.This addition would be an imposition by greedy developers on a small community that has no desire to be invited to vandalise our valuable natural heritage. •to support a vibrant and growing marine industry, that is underpinned by a variety of programs and policies implemented by all layers of government, and driven by consistently strong growth in recreational boating generating a shortage of marina berths throughout Queensland; Objection: The growing marine industry in this area is attributed substantially by an ever increasing number of small boat owners (recreational) who would not be seeking the crippling financial outlay of a marina berth.The lack of boat ramps in this area is a disgraceful neglect that can be fixed by the local government with no help from developers. •to capitalise on the geographic advantages of Shute Harbour to improve the overall efficiency and experiences of marine interaction with the Whitsunday Island region; Objection: Capitalise is the operative word here.If Shute Harbour has the "Geographic Advantage" why was the project at Muddy Bay deemed a necessary addition? There can be no benefit to existing operators at Shute Harbour in regard to their servicing the Whitsunday Island Region. •to design the built form to integrate with the natural environment providing an effective transition between the marina environment and the natural wooded backdrop; Objection: The 'Built Form" consisting of 5 story buildings does not integrate or provide an effective transition between our foreshore and the natural wooded backdrop.The natural foreshore as it stands is perfectly and naturally suited.Just as nature intended. •to respond to sustainable design principles, including passive climatic design, water management and storage, energy conservation and production and travel demand management; Objection: These aims are based on an assumption that the marina goes ahead.The travel demand management is a furphy.With one road in and out, management has limitations to its feasability and will ultimately fall on the Local Council with disastrous results. •to help manage impacts of recreational boating in the Whitsundays; Objection: This is the sole responsibility of the Local Council and should not be included as an objective to gain favour. •to provide a significant strengthening of the regional economy and employment; Objection: This objective is already in the pipeline at Airlie and a further addition will constitute a workforce being drawn from outside our area.Has this objective taken into consideration the lack of housing to accommodate all these newcomers? Lowest rentals in this area are TWO HUNDRED AND FIFTY DOLLARS a week and upwards. •to ensure integration of land uses to provide a balanced, master planned marina resort environment; Objection: This objective is ok for anywhere but Shute Harbour and is subject to the proposal being accepted. •to protect the water quality of Shute Harbour; Objection: Left alone, the water quality in Shute Harbour will not need protection.Disturbed by a radical environmentally destructive development the water quality will be in the lap of the gods. •to improve linkages between the site and the transit terminal and the overall operation and perception of the precinct; Objection: Linkages are not in place, so I fail to see any improvement can be made.To provide an improvement on a nonentity is a fallacy. •to facilitate enhanced public transport linkages between Shute Harbour and Airlie Beach; Objection: Are local transport operators going to be affected by competition from a private source,or have negotiations commenced to compensate the existing operators? •to ensure the provision of high quality urban design standards for built form and landscaping, creating a coherent and sensitive overall design aesthetic; Objection: We already object to the 5 story design form that we are being asked to accept as aesthetically pleasing. The Gold Coast is already being reconstructed on Hamilton Island, so enough is enough. •to protect important view corridors from Proserpine-Shute Harbour Road to nearby Islands; Objection: The only way this objective can be accomplished is by not constructing anything in the area that has been proposed for development.To suggest that there will be no point on Shute Harbour Road where views will be inhibited by this development is blatantly false. •to provide a valuable addition to the social and recreational fabric of the region, providing a stronger community heart for Shutehaven residents and greater breadth of facilities for visitors to Shute Harbour; Objection: The social and recreational fabric of Shute Haven Residents is their personal choice. The "community heart' of Shute Haven Residents does not wish to revolve around a fabricated communal centre provided by indiscriminate development. •to provide public access to the Marina esplanade and Isthmus parkland, creating new foreshore access and views; Objection: Suject to approval this would be obligatory so the development is not doing any favours here. Our views are totally unrestricted now, and to facilitate us with views that have been obliterated by development is counter productive. •to support Airlie Beach’s role as the Whitsunday Island tourism hub; Objection: As the Tourism Hub, Airlie Beach and the Local Council are going to be under enormous pressure to provide housing for staffing the new development at Muddy Bay.Any further development on the scale that is being proposed at Shute Harbour is not going to support Airlie Beach in any way whatsoever.A logistical nightmare is something that we in Shute Harbour and Airlie Beach do not need or desire. •to increase the array of accommodation choices available to the community; Objection: The community at Shute Haven is not even guaranteed electricity supply from Ergon on a regular basis so any extra housing will have to be provided by generators,or is the new development going to support Ergon Energy in it's pathetic attempt to provide supply to the existing residents. •to provide a long term management structure to maintain the marina and resort infrastructure at no cost to the community; Objection: I find it quite amusing that these eco vandals have the audacity to make a statement to the effect that the proposed maintenance of the resort and marina will be free of charge to the local community. •to further protect and communicate the site’s indigenous and cultural heritage. Objection: This site is now the subject of dispute between opposing Aboriginal Claimants.The Ngaro people, are, at this point in time, proceeding to establish their own claim on Shute Harbour.If this is successful,we will be at a point where the developers have been negotiating with the wrong Tribe. These claims have a history of taking forever to be finalised,and if successful,will change the playing field substantially. In a recent conversation with Ngaro Tribal Elder Irene Butterworth, I was pleased to hear her thoughts regarding this development. I can see the Save Our Foreshore Pink Caravan being on-site for many years to come.

Save Our Foreshore. Airlie Beach has always been the hub of the Whitsunday Experience and will continue to be so. Shute Harbour has been the outpost left undeveloped and pristeen. Visitors have always remarked on the unspoilt nature of the area and pointed out how lucky we are to live out here at Shute Haven. This situation is about to be dramatically reversed forever if the proposed development is allowed to go ahead for no other reason than a despicable land grab. The residents of Shute do not want the proposed development and Whitsundays Tourism have no need for it. The empty berths at Abel Point Marina are a pointer to the need for more berths in the area. With the Muddy Bay Marina in progress with all the new berths to be added, one begs the question "where are all the boats coming from"? The Shute Harbour Marina Development Pty Ltd. will have you believe that the growing number of small boat owners will be clamouring for berths and the need is what they are fullfilling. How to Object. Please sign our petitions! Write letters to the Proserpine Guardian and the Whitsunday Times pointing out what a grave responsibility the councillors are now faced with. Email, phone, fax or write to as many councillors as you can, as often as you can. Their details are below. Get your friends, wherever they are, to email the councillors. And also to go to our page to sign the petitions. If you see the councillors on the street, tell them how you feel. Contact the various State Ministers listed below and let them know how you feel. If you need help with your objection email us Whitsunday Regional Council Whitsunday Regional Council Council's postal address is: 83-85 Main Street, Proserpine, 4800, Queensland. The Mayor is available at the Bowen Office on Mondays and Fridays, and the Proserpine Office on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Wednesdays are Council meeting days. Mayor - Mike Brunker mayor@whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au (Ph: 4849 3701 Fax: 4946 7381 Division 1: jan.clifford@whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au (Mob: 0412 721 969) Division 2: Deputy Mayor rogin.taylor@whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au (Ph: 07 4947 3366 Mob: 0417 646 075) Division 3: jennifer.whitney@whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au (Ph: 07 4945 2004 Mob: 0417 452 003) Personal postal address: PO Box 158, Proserpine QLD 4800 Division 4: peter.ramage@whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au (Ph: 07 4785 6644) Division 5: dave.clark@whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au (Mob: 0408 642 268) Division 6: mark.gaudry@whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au (Mob: 0418 776 186) State governmentcabinet.qld.gov.au Bligh, Hon Ms Anna Maria, MP PremierPh: 322 44500 Fax: 322 13631Level 15, Executive Bldg, 100 George St, Brisbane, Q, 4000PO Box 14185, City East, Q, 4002thepremier@premiers.qld.gov.au Jarratt, Janice Heather, MPPh: 4945 3343 Fax: 4945 3278Suite 2, Federation House, 20 Chapman Street, Proserpine, Q, 4800PO Box 1302, Proserpine, Q 4800mailto:4800whitsunday@parliament.qld.gov.au Boyle, Hon Desley Carole, MP Min. for Tourism, Regional Development, IndustryPh: 3224 2004 Fax: 3229 0434Level 26, 111 George Street, Brisbane, Q, 4800GPO Box 1141 Brisbane, Q 4001trdi@ministerial.qld.gov.au Fraser, Hon Andrew, MP TreasurerPh: 3224 6900 Fax: 3229 0642Level 9, Executive Bldg, 100 George St, Brisbane, Q, 4000GPO Box 611, Brisbane, Q, 4001mailto:treasurer@ministerial.qld.gov.au Lucas, Hon Paul Thomas, MP, Deputy Premier, Min for Infrastructure & PlanningPh: 3224 4600 Fax: 3224 4781Level 12, Executive Bldg, 100 George St, Brisbane, Q, 4000PO Box 15009, City East, Q, 4002deputypremier@ministerial.qld.gov.au McNamara, Hon Andrew MP Min. for Sustainability, Climate Change, InnovationPh 3336 8032Level 17, 160 Ann St, Brisbane, Q, 4000PO Box 15155, City East, Q, 4002sustainability@ministerial.qld.gov.au Mulherin, Hon Tim Sean, MP Min. Primary Industries & FisheriesPh 3239 3000 Fax 322 985418th Floor, Primary Industries Bldg, 80 Ann St, Brisbane, Q, 4000GPO Box 46, Brisbane, Q, 4001dpi@ministerial.qld.gov.au Pitt, Hon Warren, MP Min Main Roads and Local GovernmentPh: 3227 8819 Fax: 3221 9964Level 18, Mineral House, 41 George St, Brisbane, Q 4000PO Box 15031, City East, Q, 4002mainroads@ministerial.qld.gov.au Schwarten, Hon Robert Evan, MP Min Public Works, Housing, Info, Communication TechnologyPh 3237 1832 Fax: 3210 2189Level 7, 80 George St, Brisbane, Q, 4000GPO Box 2457, Brisbane, Q, 4001pwh@ministerial.qld.gov.au Shine, Hon Kerry, MP Attorney-General, Min Justice, Min Assisting Premier in Western QueenslandPh 3239 3478 Fax 3220 2475Level 18, State Law Bldg, 50 Ann St, Brisbane, Q, 4000GPO Box 149, Brisbane, Q, 4001attorney@ministerial.qld.gov.au Wallace, Hon Craig Andrew, MP Min Natural Resources & Water, Min Assisting Premier in North QueenslandPh 3896 3688 Fax: 3210 6214Level 13, Mineral House, 41 George St, Brisbane, Q 4001PO Box 15456, City East, Q, 4002NRW@ministerial.qld.gov.au Wilson, Hon Geof, MP Min Mines and EnergyPh: 3225 1861 Fax: 3225 1828Level 17, 61 Mary St, Brisbane, Q 4000PO Box 15216, City East, Q 4002minesandenergy@ministerial.qld.gov.au Federal GovernmentPeter Garrett, Min Envionment, Heritage, ArtsPh 6277 7640 Fx: 6273 6101PO Box 6022, House of Reps, Parliament House, Canberra, ACT 2600Email at: http://www.aph.gov.au/house/members/memfeedback.asp?id=HV4 Contact info for all senators is available here: http://www.aph.gov.au/SEnate/senators/contacts/los.htm Shute Harbour. These creatures are our preferable neighbours at Shute Harbour. Dugong at Peace.

Whitsunday on the Beach.

The Armchair Guide wishes our friends Richard and Sandy Matheson good luck in their new venture at Whitsunday on the Beach. The accommodation is next to The Airlie Lagoon and 2 minutes from the beach. In the heart of Airlie WOTB,is within 10 mins walk of all shops,bars, restaurants and nightclubs. All the rooms are being refurbished to upgrade the existing accommodation and The New Year will see a fantastic improvement in this establishment. All the rooms have views overlooking the ocean and the lagoon.

Whitsundays Reef Festival 2008.

Whitsunday Guide is looking forward to The 2008 Reef Festival.Starting on 13th Nov through til the16th, the Festival has numerous events organised.On Saturday 15th, The Whitsunday Transit Street Parade is the main event incorporating a Wearable Art Competition.Following this The Beach Party kicks off at 2-00pm and the bar will be open til Midnight.Four days of non stop entertainment can be checked out on The Festival Website. Hope to see you all there.

Long Island Visit.

Saturday Morning We drove to Abel Point to pick up the 8-45 Cruise Whitsunday Ferry for the trip to Long Island. A beautiful sunny day for a 40 min cruise past Pioneer Rocks and South through The Molle Channel To Long Island. Water Sports Activities were already in full swing when we arrived. The Beach Bar seemed to be the place to settle for a few drinks before the lunch hours approached. A Whitsunday Circuit Bush Walk was available for the energetic but we passed the opportunity up to relax in the shade and veg out. The lunch was an excellent variety of sea food , salad and bbq fare. The Kids Club was open all day to the delight of parents, whilst musical entertainment was provided by Mark Roberts. It is so nice to return to Long Island, inspect the newly furnished rooms, watch the fish feeding , take a round of mini-golf or go snorkeling. With 20 activities, a beautiful beach, the occasional inquisitive wallaby, and the resident bird population, what more could you ask for a day out.The staff were great on Long Island and the Cruise Whitsundays girls, Debbie and Mercedes were so helpful, making the day a real treat.

Liz and Debbie. Beach View Long Island.

Long Island.

Liz and I will be tripping over to Long Island on Saturday 1st November for a Special Open Day. Cruise Whitsundays and Long Island have organised the trip including a barbeque lunch for $35.We haven't been over to the Island for a couple of years now and it has always been one of our favourite Islands in The Whitsundays.The ferry can be picked up at Abel Point or Shute Harbour. In the not too distant future we will be hosted by Cruise Whitsundays on their Camira trip to Whitehaven Beach on Whitsunday Island. Life is never boring in The Whitsundays.

Gunn Island Lat: 20° 16’ 60 S Long: 148° 48’0 E

Photo taken Today by Liz at Low Tide from the verandah of our home in The Whitsundays.

Gunn Island. Gunn Island was named after Lieutenant Gordon S. Gunn R N, an officer aboard HMS Alert led by Captain John Maclear during the 1881 surveys in The Molle Area of The Whitsundays. As you leave Shute Harbour the Island is close to the Port Side .The 1 klm walking track to Coral Beach that starts at Shute Haven can take you South at Low Tide onto the Northern Part of Gunn Island which dries out at Low Tide. This track was established by the Indigenous Community in the early days. The Salty Dog Sea Kayaking half day tour passes close to the Island when returning to Shute Harbour after excursions past several other Islands in the vicinity. The Beak lies NE of Gunn Island and is part of The Mainland and the lookout can be accessed from Coral Beach via a 700 metre walking track.

Queensland's Top Destinations.

Travel to Queensland's Top Destinations in the comfort of your own home. Visit Queensland Armchair Guide and see the amazing places that are on offer from The Gold Coast in The South to Cooktown in The Tropical North. One of Liz's favourites is the ride on The Scenic Railway from Cairns to Kuranda. This trip gives the visitor unforgettable views of The Baron River Falls as you climb towards the picturesque Railway Station at Kuranda.

Kuranda Scenic Railway.

Brisbane Nightscene.

OurBrisbane Guide has an interesting feature on The Brisbane Story Bridge Walk. If you want an awe enspiring view of The Queensland Capital at night we can recommend this exhilirating adventure as a highlight, and a must do for visitors. As former residents of Brisbane we still visit on a regular basis and still class it as the No1 Capital in Australia. Another favourite of ours is a trip up The Brisbane River to The Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. Main Blog.

Karin's Cactus Bash.

Saturday October 4th saw Mum and Dad at local restaurant Cactus Jacks to celebrate Karin's Birthday along with her partner Rob. It didn't take much persuading when the venue was decided on, as Liz and yours truly are regular diners at this establishment. Apart from the various Cocktail Selections that please the ladies,the Fajitas Main Course is a necessary 'Fix' for my constitution.The Restrooms are immaculate, and to me that is a sure sign of a business that demands excellence in every department. The atmosphere is excellent, and our hosts, Cheri Lawrence and Peter Beck demonstrate in the pic on the right how friendly the staff can be, although Pete's enthusiam was slightly misdirected!! Only Kidding Bro.

Our Hosts.

Airlie Beach Market.

The Market at Airlie Beach on Saturday morning is an opportunity for visitors and locals alike to browse the stalls at leisure. Fresh fruit and vegetable stalls are the target for the locals and the variety of Art and Craft stalls are the domain of the visitors. Entertainment is supplied by vocalists and musicians from the local area and compliment the general holiday atmosphere that always resides in our small town. Food and Drink stalls provide refreshments and the ice cream vendor is always there for the kids.

Airlie Market.

Whitsunday Representative.

Director of Queensland Yacht Charters Suzette Pelt has been elected to the board of The Queensland Tourism Industry Council. With 30 years experience in International and Australian Tourism her input will be of enormous benefit to the Organisation. Suzette is also prominent as one of the leaders of The Save Our Foreshore Campaign in The Whitsundays and we wish her well in her new appointment.

Suzette Pelt.

Armchairguide Shopping Mall.

Queensland Armchair Guide has just added a Shopping Mall to the website and invite you all to take a look around. We are going to increase the number of items in stock in the very near future. Our partners in this venture are Australian Native T-Shirts and Gifts, and the Didge Shop in Far North Queensland. We continue to expand the site, as it is a desire of ours to create the most comprehensive guide in Queensland

Aboriginal Canvas Art.

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Great Day for Visitors.

Today was the beginning of the new P&O Cruise Season Visits to The Whitsundays. I popped down to Abel Point Marina to see the 'Pacific Sun' and watched as the first guests arrived. Sunseeker and Voyager ferried the first 450 passengers over so The Ambassadors from The Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce were kept busy from the word go. A day cruise on 'Cruise Whitsundays' Catamaran Camira was a popular choice for some, while others were able to walk into Airlie via The Board Walk or take the coach. Several of the visitors went on The Crocodile Safari to the Proserpine River and Whitsunday Transit provided a Whitsunday and Surrounds Tour. The Airlie Markets open on cruise visits so they were an added attraction. Liz in her role as Ambassador had a chance to catch up with Karin, her daughter as she took a lunch break from The Cruise Whitsunday's Booking Office where she works. The benefits of providing The Ambassador's Service which relies on volunteers is quite evident, as Liz had mentioned that quite a few of the visitors had expressed their desire to return to The Whitsundays for a longer stay. First impressions are all important in the Tourism Industry and I hope The Ambassador Service continues to welcome these visitors. Main Blog.

Liz and Karin. Pacific Sun Tender.

Whitsunday Cruise Season.

Tomorrow,Monday 29th September is the start of another season of P&O Cruise Visits to The Whitsundays. The Pacific Sun will arrive at 8-00 am with 1900 passengers to visit our shores. Liz and the team from The Ambassador Programme will be there to meet and greet them and assist with their plans for the day. Tuesday will see the arrival of The Sun Princess with 1950 passengers aboard, so a busy start to the season is to be anticipated.The ships will both anchor off Pioneer Point and can be seen from many parts of the mainland. Queensland Armchair Guide welcomes the visitors and hopes they will take away great memories of their visit and hopefully see them back for a longer holiday with us next time round. Main Blog.

Pacific Sun. Sun Princess.

Joining the Battle.

Shute Harbour is a quiet unspoilt haven that is home to an abundant variety of wildlife. Environmental vandals have expressed their interest in this area and plan to develop 127 acres of this pristine site. Using the necessity of a Marina to justify this development is not credible, as the Marina at Abel Point is only ever half full, and the Muddy Bay Marina is sufficient for any overflow that could miraculously occur at Abel Point. Please help this small community by signing the Save our Foreshore Petition ONLINE TODAY. As a resident of Shute Haven I object strongly to 'Blow Ins' dicussing and planning the future of this area. Go back from whence you came. Main Blog.

Shute Harbour.

A Voice in the Wilderness.

Jasmin Phillips is one of the Traditional Owners of The Whitsundays,and after chatting with her at Shute Harbour I decided to publish a letter that she sent to Queensland Armchair Guide. This letter can be read in full in our Whitsunday Guide, and relates to what Ms Phillips describes as unfairness in The Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Act 2003. Main Blog.

Ngaro Rock Art. Example of Rock Art found at Nara Inlet on Hook Island in The Whitsundays.

Hook Island Visit.

Monday seemed like a good day to visit Hook Island. We set out from our mooring near Pidgeon Island and were greeted by a 15 Knot Northerly. On arrival at Stonehaven, Liz decided that she wanted to take a walk on the beach so off she went in the dinghy.On her return we heard that she had encountered a large stingray while paddling between two of the beaches and had slipped and fell on her backside in her efforts to escape. Safely back on board we enjoyed a good lunch, a few drinks and a noisy rendition of popular hits from the past by the girls,led by Liz who had obviously recovered from her ordeal with the Giant Stingray. The size of the ray seemed to expand with the number of drinks Liz consumed. A great day was brought to a close with Yours Truly trying in vain to race Camira back home as we met her at Pioneer Point as she returned from her trip to Whitehaven Beach. Main Blog.

Liz relating her experiences on Hook Island to Yours Truly. Safe onboard after her nightmare encounter,Liz puts on a brave smile as she relates her encounter to Alf who is more interested in where his next drink is coming from.

Whitsundays P&O Schedule.

The P&O Company has released the 2008/9 Cruise Schedules that visit Airlie Beach. We have the details on our Whitsunday Page and we have been informed that contrary to the last report, The Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce will still be operating their Ambassador Programme. This provides a valuable service to the arriving passengers and promotes our area in a personal way that passengers will appreciate as they have indicated in the past and hopefully this service will continue into the future. Main Blog.

Whitsunday Scoop.

An announcement is imminent on a new venture between two prominent Whitsunday Companies. We believe that the outcome will be a very popular addition to The Whitsunday Attractions on offer. Visitors and locals alike will be taking advantage of this forthcoming service and Queensland Armchair Guide considers the concept to be long overdue. One would like to be first with the news but it is only right and proper that the two companies involved should announce the news themselves. We predict that success will be guaranteed. Main Blog.

Rob Franklin. Congratulations to Airlie Beach Hotel Employee of The Month August 2008.

UK.Visitor.

Just great to pose a few questions to a dear friend. Is it still raining in Manchester? Do they still make hats in Luton? Is Leicester Market in the City Centre still knee deep in filth? Was Enoch Powell right? Why do The English Public elect Scotsman into Parliament? Why do the elderly die of hypothermia in winter? Is this a form of culling to make room for immigrants? Are the lefties still promoting minority causes? When will the silent majority rise and rebel? You have to go back. Am I depressing you? Does Blackpool still have The Illuminations? Is it still Southend on Mud? Is The M1 still crowded? Can I walk through Luton's Wardown Park at night? Is it true that there is a white cab driver in Leicester? Whats his name? Has Bradford joined The Commonwealth? Do you miss home? Why not? Yes it is nice here. No the Government prefers people from anywhere else but England. Yes we do have illegal immigrants. Why do you ask? No! refugees don't come from England. Are you fair dinkum? Welcome to Australia. Main Blog.

Not Blackpool. Similar but with perfect silica sand, no rain.no clouds and no people. If you are thinking you might like to visit this beach I would be pleased to share it with you.The best time to visit is when its raining or snowing in England.

Ngaro Elder in Silent Protest.

I met Irene Butterworth this morning along with some of her people and she related to me her concerns regarding the Cultural Heritage Management Agreement with The Shute Harbour Marina Development Group.As an Elder and Traditional Owner she was extremely angry that this agreement is going ahead with people who are not the Traditional Owners of this area. Apparently, invitations had been sent to Local and Federal Government Representatives along with Title Claimants from other areas.The silent protest group, with Ngaro Elder Irene were invited to join and support the Title Claimants but rejected this invitation and considered it to be insulting. One wonders what ulterior motives can be drawn by their exclusion in this matter. Main Blog.

Shute Harbour Protesters. Irene third from left with her group proudly displaying their Ngaro T-Shirts.

Happy Birthday Alison.

Wednesday was a special day for Alison Holmes as she celebrated her 40th? or was it 50th Birthday Party at Airlie Beach Bowls Club.Family members came from as far as Sydney and Cairns to join with her and her many friends in The Whitsundays. Champagne corks popped and the party went off with a bang. Liz and I were delighted to be invited and thoroughly enjoyed the spread that they provided for all of the guests.Shimmy took care of the keyboards and was accompanied on vocals by a couple of enthusiastic ladies. Main Blog.

Sweet Nothings. Husband Keith serenades his bride on her birthday.

The Ultimate Day Sail.

Just recently our daughter Karin came back from what she described as one of the most fantastic days she has ever spent on the water.The 85ft Catamaran 'Camira' operated by Cruise Whitsundays takes visitors on a trip from Abel Point Marina to Whitehaven Beach on Whitsunday Island.To travel on this state of the art craft and then to arrive on one of the world's most famous beaches is nothing short of mind blowing. If you visit The Whitsundays, save one day for this trip of a lifetime.For more info on this wonderful experience click on the Camira Website. Main Blog.

Camira. Sitting off Whitehaven Beach.

The Airlie Beach Fun Race.

Well Saturday arrived at last with the sun shining. We climbed aboard Chilli Frog to be met by Frank The Skipper and were informed that we were to be spectating instead of racing. Yours Truly greeted the announcement with alacrity. It was going to be a lazy day on the water,thank goodness.A few serious racers and a majority of clowns was the mix.Racers came first and clowns brought up the rear but all had a great time and a great party followed in The Sailing Club after.Photos can be seen on our Whitsunday Page and in our Photo Album. Main Blog.

Skipper Frank Stephens. Discretion being the better part of valour we boozed instead of racing.

Whitsundays Information.

Take a look at our Whitsunday Guide next week and check out the photos of The Fun Race.Whitsunday Guide will have all the action from this event and an up to the minute report on the blog.We will be taking Chilli Frog from Shute Harbour round to Airlie Beach sometime this week ready for the off on Saturday. Main Blog.

Chilli Frog Entering Shute Harbour.

Whitsunday Guide.

Whitsunday Guide will be publishing the new season P&O Itenary for visits to the Whitsundays as soon as they are available to us. At this point in time the Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce will not be operating The Ambassadors Programme that was manned by volunteers to assist the disembarking passengers.However, it has been suggested that the new operators of this programme will be Tourism Whitsunday.The same volunteers will, no doubt,be available to assist in the continuance of this valuable programme. Liz,our Commander in Chief has indicated that her commitment will continue. Queensland Armchair Guide. Main Blog.

Liz and Graham Wyatt. Ambassadors on the Job.

The Whitsunday Probus Thespian Society.

These photos mark the first foray into Amateur Dramatics by The Whitsunday Probus Thespian Group. All members were blackganged into performing by Karina, their illustrious leader. As a first attempt it can be suggested that we have not seen the best of this ambitious troupe by any means. As choreographer, musical director and impresario extraordinaire, Karina has her work cut out to mould these hopefuls into an assemblage of mediocrity. Main Blog.

Sue, left with Pat enjoying a private joke. Karina, left on keyboards in duet mode with her sister during the interval of the main production.

Whitsunday Sailing Club.

The first day of spring has arrived here in The Whitsundays and if you are interested in sailing,pop in to the Sailing Club and enquire about the various courses that are available to you. Wednesday is the regular night for twilight sailing and there are often skippers looking for crew,so let them know if you are interested. Also every Wednesday is Roast Buffet Evening,an excellent end to a Whitsunday day. Saturday is going to be a huge day at the club and we are all looking forward to it. Apart from Saturday Fun Day, every Saturday evening is $10 special for Steak,Schnitzel or Fish Meals,so book early or miss out on an exceptional feed. Main Blog.

Authors yacht heading towards Unsafe Passage just departed from Daydream Island bound for Hamilton Island.

Queensland.

The new Queensland Page that has been recently added has a selection of some of the most desirable destinations for the visitor.The Great Barrier Reef is the ultimate destination for all, and the two major centres for access are Cairns and The Whitsundays.Cairns also has The Kuranda Scenic Railway and is the Gateway to Far North Queensland and The Atherton Tablelands.Airlie Beach and Shute Harbour are the terminals for Reef Trips and access to The Whitsunday Islands.Our Whitsunday and Cairns Pages cover the access points,accommodation,and numerous other attractions.Photo on right is The Famous Heart Reef. Queensland Page. Main Blog.

Queensland Travel Pages.

Anyone interested in Queensland Travel will be assisted by the recent additions to The Queensland Armchair Guide.Several extra pages have helped enhance the awareness of the visitor to diverse conditions and the vast area that Queensland occupies in this huge country of ours.The Queensland Map is made available from our main page and is the best we could find for the use of our visitors. The Queensland Town List has been added alphabetically for easy search as an interesting feature,and a Road Distances Page for main tourist destinations will assist when journeys are planned.The Photo Album, added last week is approx 100 of the most recent photos that we have taken on out travels throughout Queensland. Queensland Map. Road Distances. Town List. Main Blog.

The Esplanade Airlie Beach.

The local favourite is The Rum Bar at Fish D'Vine.Owners Kevin and Becky have a great spot on The Promenade overlooking the bay.Sunday evening is a choice time to visit this establishment.The best fish n chips in town, almost a hundred different rum cocktails, and the added bonus of free entertainment.A wide variety of other eateries make this area a must for the visitor to Airlie Beach.The view over the beach looking out towards the yachts lying at anchor is serene. Main Blog.

View into centre from Fish D'vine.

Whitsundays Fun Race.

The Whitsunday Sailing Club is all geared up for the Forthcoming Annual Fun Race on Sat 6th September.Live bands will be performing on the Foreshore and The Funrace Party will be on. Liz and I will be aboard Frank and Val's catamaran 'Chilli Frog' for the event.Will I win the Mr.Six Pack Presentation this year? Liz has declined entry to the Miss Figurehead Competition this year to give the younger girls a chance.The Whitsunday Sailing Club has organised a Ferry Service from the boats to the club and everything is pointing to a spectacular day. Main Blog.

Spinnaker Leg. Looking back at the fleet.

Cooktown Visit.2008.

WE decided to travel up to Cooktown in June for the Reenactment Festival and stayed overnight in Cairns before taking the inland route to Cooktown,a distance of 350 klms.The town itself is very small but big in history.We stayed at the Cooktown Hotel which is parochially called The Top Pub by the locals.We stayed for a week to enable us to take in a few of the sights in the vacinity as well as taking in the Festival Events which were spread over the long weekend.The article covering the visit is on our Cooktown Guide Page with accompanying photographs. Cooktown Page. Main Blog.

Liz in Custody.

Charters Towers Visit.

Our visit to Charters Towers was more by accident than planning.We had booked to see The Elton John Concert at The Dairy Farmers Stadium in November 2007 and arrived in Townsville 2 days prior,to find all accommodations fully booked.We decided to stay in Charters Towers as it is only a hour and a half drive from Townsville.We booked in at The Cattleman's Motel and wandered into town.The City is a delightful place with so many Historic Buildings.We drove into Townsville on the day of the concert and saw a great show, returning to Charters Towers at 1-30am.After another morning in the city we decided to leave for our drive home to The Whitsundays.The visit is articled on our Charters Towers Page with a host of photographs. Charters Towers. Main Blog.

The Old Post Office.

Home.

Hi Guys, Woke up this morning, Its stopped raining in The Whitsundays for the first time in weeks!! Back to normal again, so I thought it might be an idea to invite all the visitors to our website:--http://www.queenslandarmchairguide.com/ and all visitors to Queensland to stop and say hello and tell us about your visit to the former or latter and let us know what you think and where you come from. Liz will reply to any questions you may want to ask about Queensland as soon as she can take herself away from sipping whisky and coke on the verandah. Main Blog.