Visionary design and construction excellence were in the spotlight at the 2025 Mackay & Whitsunday Housing & Construction Awards, held at the Mantra Mackay on 9 August.

After dominating last year, Fergus Builders once again set the pace, walking away with seven awards — the highest number for any builder across Queensland so far in 2025. Their work spanned both commercial and residential categories. Standouts included best Education Facilities over $10 million for the new Holy Spirit College INTAD Building, Community Service Facilities for the Airlie Beach Fire Station, and Retail Facilities over $5 million for ALDI Andergrove. The team also delivered in residential, claiming best Display Home from $600,000 up to $800,000 for the Mayfair, and Individual Home from $400,000 up to $550,000 for the inviting family home Aria. Fergus also took home wins for Community Accommodation with the Shute Harbour Units, and Commercial Fitout up to $5 million for the GHD Mackay office.

CiteCon also made its mark, securing three major awards. Paige Gardner was recognised with the Women in Building Award for her dedication to mentoring and commitment to a more diverse and inclusive industry. The company’s technical strength shone through in two commercial categories: best Commercial Refurbishment/Renovation up to $5 million for the Penske Australia fitout in Paget, and best Commercial/Industrial Building from $5 million up to $15 million for the MI Scaffold Industrial Warehouse.

Meanwhile, Cotter Builders impressed in residential design, taking home multiple honours for their craftsmanship and eye for detail. The team won Best Residential Kitchen for the stylish Villa Athena at Racecourse, and Best Individual Home from $700,000 up to $850,000 for the same property. They also claimed Home Renovation Project up to $300,000 for their work on Sana House in West Mackay.

Master Builders Regional Manager Brad Dobie said this year’s winners reflected both skill and resilience.

“From beautifully crafted homes and clever renovations to vital infrastructure and community spaces delivered under pressure, our members have shown what’s possible when passion meets professionalism,” he said.

The extensive display of building excellence showcased at the awards has demonstrated the breadth of talent shaping the Mackay and Whitsunday region — from innovative community infrastructure to bespoke homes and industry-leading workplaces — setting a benchmark for construction excellence in 2025.

‍

Red Emperor Constructions, headquartered in Cannonvale, has been recognised for excellence in residential construction at the prestigious 2025 Mackay & Whitsunday Housing & Construction Awards, hosted by Master Builders Queensland.

The company received five awards on the evening, including the highly coveted House of the Year title for its standout project, Haven on Hamilton. Alistair Sawers, Owner and Director of Red Emperor Constructions, accepted the honours on behalf of the company, extending sincere gratitude to his dedicated in-house team, trusted trades, Master Builders Queensland, and fellow award recipients.

Held on 9 August at Mantra Mackay, the event was a celebration of industry achievement across the region, with Red Emperor Constructions staff and partners in attendance to mark the occasion.

One of the evening’s highlights was recognition for the recently completed Stage 8C of The Grove, for which Site Manager Iain Karon accepted the award.

Haven on Hamilton, a technically complex and architecturally striking island residence, drew high commendation from judges for its exceptional planning, innovation, and craftsmanship.

The project involved transporting materials to a steep, rocky island site—an engineering and logistical challenge that the Red Emperor Constructions team met with outstanding professionalism and precision.

In their remarks, Master Builders Queensland stated:

"Haven on Hamilton is among the most challenging builds Red Emperor Constructions has undertaken – but the result is spectacular. The team earned high praise for their innovative planning, seamless material logistics from the mainland, and the flawless execution of a truly bespoke home."

The home showcases premium finishes including polished concrete flooring, exposed concrete and cedar ceilings, bespoke timber joinery, and an infinity-edge pool capturing uninterrupted Whitsunday Island views—a true testament to Red Emperor Constructions’ commitment to quality, detail, and architectural excellence.

‍

In just ten years, Cotter Builders has carved a reputation for precision, innovation, and homes that don’t just impress, but win awards.

The Mackay-based husband-and-wife, building designer-builder duo of Michael and Madison Cotter, along with the hard-working team behind them, recently celebrated multiple victories at the Master Builders Mackay Housing and Construction Awards, walking away with three coveted accolades.

While their Sana House renovation took out Best Home Renovation Project up to $300,000, it was their Villa Athena project—Best Individual Home $700,000–$850,000 and Best Residential Kitchen—that stood out even against homes valued up to $5 million. Punching well above its weight, the high-profile build showcased the meticulous attention to detail and innovative design that has made Cotter Builders a household name in the local industry.

“We’re pretty proud of ourselves, and I don’t think we really expected to come away with [the Best Residential Kitchen] award,” Madison says.

“We’re just two very determined, dedicated people that love doing what we do every day. We’ve spent thousands of hours further developing our business and skillsets to deliver the best quality to our clients… which has ultimately seen us grow into a multi-award winning team very quickly.”

The pair started Cotter Builders at just 23, combining their complementary skills—Michael’s builder background and ‘yes man’ attitude, and Madison’s design expertise—into a business now employing nine staff. The business prides itself on designing every home in-house, starting from scratch to meet client needs and ensure no two projects are the same.

“As Mackay’s Custom home builder, our goal is always to challenge ourselves and deliver something unique and fully customised to our clients brief, every time.”

But beyond Cotter Builders ’quality, innovation and awards, its real strength lies in a tight-knit, family-oriented approach.

“We’re a very family-oriented business,” says administrator Tamara Doolan. “We’re constantly supported by [Madison] and [Michael] with flexibility through work or just with general support. They’re honestly the best people.”

Even the Cotters’ young boys get involved, kitted out in little Cotter Builders shirts and tagging along to site visits. Because for Michael, Madison, and the team at Cotter Builders, building homes and building family go hand in hand.

cotterbuilders.com

‍

When it comes to protecting homes and families across Queensland, one name continues to stand out as a trusted leader: Geiger Solutions Pty Ltd. Proudly based in the region and backed by a proven reputation for reliability, quality workmanship, and genuine community care, Geiger Solutions has become the go-to company for homeowners looking to secure their property through the Household Resilience Program.
What is the Household Resilience Program?
The Queensland Government’s Household Resilience Program (HRP) is an initiative designed to help homeowners in cyclone-prone areas improve the structural safety of their homes. First introduced in 2018, the program provides eligible homeowners with government funding to cover part of the cost of essential upgrades.
The focus is on strengthening older homes – those built before 1984 – that may not meet current building codes designed for cyclone resistance. By upgrading roofs, windows, doors, and other critical areas, the program helps safeguard families against severe weather while also reducing insurance premiums in some cases.
In simple terms, the Household Resilience Program allows Queenslanders to:
   • Access financial support to upgrade and cyclone-proof their homes.
   • Improve safety for their families during severe storms and cyclones.
   • Potentially lower home insurance costs due to reduced risk.
   • Add long-term value and peace of mind to their property.
Why Geiger Solutions?
As a company deeply embedded in the community, Geiger Solutions has built its reputation on trust, transparency, and workmanship that goes above and beyond. With decades of combined experience in roofing, construction, and home resilience, the team understands exactly what is required to meet the program’s strict standards.
Local homeowners choose Geiger Solutions because:
   • Proven Expertise: The team specialises in roofing, cyclone upgrades, and structural works that directly align with HRP requirements.
   • Government Approved: Geiger Solutions is recognised as a trusted provider under the program, ensuring homeowners are in safe and qualified hands.
  • Community Values: As a local business, they care about the safety of their neighbours, treating every project as if it were their own home.
   • Guidance and Support: The process of applying for funding can feel overwhelming, but Geiger Solutions assists homeowners every step of the way – from application to completion.
A Track Record of Resilience
Over the past few years, Geiger Solutions has helped countless families strengthen their homes through the Household Resilience Program. From roof replacements and tie-down upgrades to cyclone-rated windows and doors, their projects stand as a testament to the benefits of the scheme.
Many local families who once worried every cyclone season now enjoy peace of mind knowing their homes are safer and stronger. This transformation is thanks in no small part to Geiger Solutions’ commitment to excellence.
A Safer Community, One Home at a Time
Cyclones are an unavoidable part of life in Queensland, but damage and loss don’t have to be. Through the Household Resilience Program – and with the trusted expertise of Geiger Solutions – homeowners can take proactive steps to protect their families and communities.
“We’re proud to be part of a program that not only protects homes but also gives families confidence heading into storm season,” a spokesperson from Geiger Solutions explained. “It’s about building resilience, reducing risk, and keeping our community safe.”
How to Get Started
Homeowners interested in the Household Resilience Program are encouraged to check their eligibility through the Queensland Government website. Once approved, contacting a trusted local company like Geiger Solutions ensures the process is smooth, professional, and results in lasting protection.

Geiger Solutions – Local. Trusted. Resilient.
For more information or to discuss your eligibility under the Household Resilience Program, contact Geiger Solutions today.
geigersolutions.au

‍

In a world where parenting often comes with more questions than answers, Empower 4 Success is redefining support for families and communities in Mackay and beyond, combining practical strategies, holistic wellness, and evidence-based guidance to help adults confidently respond to children’s emotional and behavioural needs.
The wheels were set in motion earlier this year when Mellissa Austin, a lifelong educator with Masters degrees in Special Education and Guidance and Counselling, recognised a pressing need for accessible, hands-on support for parents. Drawing on nearly 20 years of experience in schools, coupled with her own lived experience, Mellissa launched Empower 4 Success to bridge that gap, providing flexible, tailored solutions for families and caregivers.
Empower 4 Success offers a suite of programs and resources designed to build knowledge and confidence, leveraging diverse methods that reach beyond traditional parenting support. From personalised coaching and hands-on parental workshops to the Move 4 Mind fitness program and music tuition, each approach is designed to strengthen wellbeing and arm adults with strategies applicable to real life.
“Everything I offer is about the wellness of people,” says Mellissa. “It’s all just about growing positive mental health, whether you're five or 50.”
For Mellissa and Empower 4 Success, the goal is to impart her expertise on as many people as possible. The self-authorship of her book, Be The Change, was born from that ethos.
“I realised that one-off sessions with a professional weren’t enough,” she explains. “But if I could give parents the skills to implement strategies at home, every day, the impact would be far greater.”
Be The Change equips adults with a clear understanding of why behaviours occur and how to respond effectively, debunking common parenting myths via tried-and-tested research.
“Waiting for kids to ‘just behave ’doesn’t work,” Mellissa says. “It’s about teaching them what they should be doing rather than what they shouldn’t, as well as giving them the coping strategies they need to manage their emotions well.”
Beyond the book, Empower 4 Success makes support widely accessible through a variety of free workshops, giving parents who might feel socially or financially stretched the tools and confidence to support their children, while Mellissa’s strong online presence spreads practical tips on behaviour, routines, and wellness to an even broader audience.
Looking ahead, the business plans to expand programs for educators and early childhood centres, while continuing to strengthen support for families across the region.
“I think the earlier we can support the adults who are working with the children… the more chance we have for those young people to grow up with positive mental health,” says Mellissa.
With a focus on practical, evidence-based strategies and an inclusive, community-centred approach, Empower 4 Success is setting a new standard for holistic support.
empower4success.com.au

‍

Jason Checuti From THINK Real Estate

As a fashionista at heart, Jason Chetcuti brings many qualities to his role as Senior Sales Agent at THINK Real Estate, spanning from great communication with clients, a sharp eye for detail and current trends, as well as a confidence that assures you, you’ve got the right agent.

While no two days are the same, Jason often spends his day researching the market, completing rental inspections, ensuring maintenance works for properties are up to date, and even photography and digital marketing.

Day in and day out, Jason ensures all jobs are completed with integrity, precision and professionalism… all with a twist of excellence and elegance.

At THINK Real Estate, Jason works alongside renowned real estate expert and mother June, who founded the company in 2012. Growing up, he often helped his father who was a builder, adding that extra background knowledge in the foundation of houses he sets out to sell today.

“I always admired both my mum and dad’s professions, in sales and the building of properties, it is a perfect complement to my combined skills acquired from my varied roles over the years.”

With a knack for artistic expression, Jason started out as a photographer, then delved into styling, Haute Couture clothing design, dressmaking, and make-up artistry. His work even took him to Paris, where Kylie Minogue once stepped into the atelier for a fitting – a career highlight that speaks to the level of precision and creativity he now brings to real estate.

“These career pathways require precision and perfection – I have done furniture design and upholstery, digital editing and marketing, and the list goes on. It’s all a great compliment to shining in real estate and being an innovator.”

He says it’s the “tightly monitored operation” that keeps relationships strong with tenants and landlords.

“It is our aim to ensure that the landlord is updated with future works required and we go to a level of detail that makes us superb in this space,” Jason added.

While there’s countless real estate agents competing for the best deals, Jason says he aims to be a change maker in the industry – one that strives to make communication his number one priority to not only clients, but also team members alongside him.

“At THINK Real Estate Mackay, we value the trust of our sellers and respect the commitment of our buyers. Communication is everything in my world. Good intentions and neat business are paramount.

“We are here for our clients, and associates for the long term.”

For Jason, real estate is more than property, it’s people, precision, and creating lasting connections. Just as in fashion, perfection lies in the detail, and for every client, he brings nothing less.

Go-to coffee order? Double-shot cappuccino 

Your superpower in business? Diversification - being able to go from analytics to creativity.  I can strategise a sale, photograph it, and get great results from the appraisal right through to the sales process.

Thinkrealestatemackay.com

‍

Karinda Anderson knows what it means to live life with purpose. After surviving a catastrophic brain aneurysm in 2004 and carrying the weight of an ongoing cancer diagnosis, she has faced many nights in despair. Yet through every struggle has emerged a woman whose heart beats for others, whose compassion drives her, and whose farm has become a lifeline of inspiration.

Karinda and her husband Dale are the soul of Oh Deere Farm Stay and Tours, a Calen treasure where sugarcane isn’t just a crop, but a story worth knowing.

“Plenty of people can show you a farm, but no one else can take you inside the beating heart of a working sugarcane farm,” Karinda says.

The tours are immersive, and more often than not, life-changing.

“Visitors don’t just look, they live the story of this crop that built our region.

“By walking the rows, seeing the soil, and standing alongside the very equipment generations of farmers relied on, visitors connect with the spirit of the region in a way no textbook ever could.”

For Karinda, agritourism is more than a business, it’s a platform to educate, entertain, and inspire.

“Our tours are as much about the people as they are about the paddocks. We give them more than a tour… we give them a story.”

And that story brings laughter and tears in equal measure.

“That’s when we know we’ve created a memory bigger than sugarcane and bigger than tractors… that’s why we do what we do.”

Favourite Quote: “Say it how it is, and make the most of life.”

‍

From a humble father-and-son venture on a farm outside Maryborough in 1993 to a powerhouse in regional media, Bishopp has charted a remarkable journey. What began with CEO Brad Bishopp’s first hand-painted billboard for Dundathu Turf Farm has grown into a sprawling network that seamlessly connects businesses with audiences across Australia and New Zealand. Along the way, the company has combined entrepreneurial grit, community focus, and a commitment to innovation—turning a simple idea into one of the nation’s most trusted regional media companies.
The enthusiasm of youth, paired with a father’s encouragement to think bigger, pushed them to go out on their own. Their steady, measured approach to growth has shaped Bishopp’s journey, as Brad says, “I’ve always taken the approach of just putting one foot in front of the other and quietly growing the business.”
Today, Bishopp combines national reach with a truly local touch. Mackay based Account Executive, Solveig Lobo, is a familiar and trusted face in the community. “I love being part of Bishopp because they value not just the work we do, but the relationships we build,” Solveig says.
“Being trusted to support local businesses while staying connected to the community is incredibly rewarding.”
That commitment to community is evident in the company’s support of local causes, such as the Mackay Hospital Foundation. From billboard promotions for the Dancing With Heart fundraiser to raising awareness for major events, Bishopp’s donated media has created strong impact.
“It’s rewarding to see how our media space can directly strengthen community causes,” Solveig says.
Bishopp’s services cover the full spectrum of outdoor advertising, from design to campaign planning and construction. Their dedicated teams ensure every detail is delivered seamlessly.
“We all work together to make sure our clients have the best experience possible – there have been times where our account executives have taken their own mower out and cut the grass in front of a billboard to make sure it’s looking clean and tidy,” Solveig said.
“True story!”
With digitisation transforming out-of-home advertising, Bishopp is leading the way in regional Australia, offering dynamic roadside messaging, 3D airport creative, and data-driven targeting through MOVE.
For Bishopp, success lies not only in building brands but also in strengthening the communities they serve.
bishopp.com.au

‍

Step through the doors of Bright Patch Café and you’re not just ordering a coffee, you’re entering a wonderland of colour, creativity and connection. With a bright, colourful mural, playful nooks, and an amazing playpen, this is no ordinary café. It’s a community hub where inclusivity and imagination shine as brightly as the décor.

The vision belongs to Jameela Walker and her family. Bright Patch Café has been a family venture sparked by a shared love of food, family, and adventure. Jameela grew up café-hopping with her late mum, Vanessa, and wanted to create a space that felt more like an experience than a pit stop.  

Inspired by Alice in Wonderland’s spirit of curiosity, the café is equal parts playhouse, community lounge, and coffee haven. Parents can relax while kids explore, friends can linger over board games, and everyone is welcome. The neurodivergent inclusivity is the proud heart of the space. Its hospitality is designed to fill your cup in every sense.

Behind the magic is a long list of local collaborators: artist Katie Louise transformed the walls, Total Fitouts Cairns worked wonders with the build, HP Interiors gave shape to the whimsical design, and Versatile Marketing Team provided marketing solutions support both online and offline. From coffee guru Tim Adams supplying the coffee machine, to the Whitsunday Regional Council helping to navigate approvals, Bright Patch is a true community effort.

And it doesn’t stop at good food and fun décor. The café is also gearing up for Liptember, supporting women’s mental health with lipstick-fuelled fundraising, while regularly partnering with local schools, charities and groups.

Bright, bold, and beautifully different, Bright Patch Café is rewriting the café rulebook, proving that when community, creativity, and coffee collide, magic really does happen.

brightpatchcafe.com.au

‍

Hi, I am Prabha Srinivasan. I grew up in southern India. Teachings of Yoga was so entrenched in my upbringing that I didn’t know otherwise. After moving to Australia in 2005, I had to integrate Australian lifestyle with my Indian roots. In 2016, I felt compelled to go back to India and complete a Yoga teacher training intensive. As part of the training, I was introduced to the philosophical texts behind ancient meditation practices. Formal meditation practise has since transformed my life and the lives of many I have taught.
Alongside being a registered Counsellor with 12 years’ experience in the mental health field, I founded the Brahmanandam Meditation School (BMS) to share the benefits of daily meditation practice. Stress, anxiety and depression are all too common, and many people push through without support until something breaks down. My goal is to provide tools that promote relaxation, positive thinking and meaningful engagement with life, so people can maintain healthier minds and bodies.
At BMS, we are building a community of teachers, mentors and students committed to spiritual growth and improved wellbeing. We welcome meditators of all levels, offering guidance through private mentoring, workshops and practice groups. The school is non-denominational, focusing on regular meditation while also facilitating self-development and healing through different modalities.
Like many ventures, BMS grew from challenges. In 2016, I started a not-for-profit wellbeing centre that ran successfully until Covid forced its closure in 2021. Following that, I decided to shift to an online format that allows people to learn and practise anywhere, anytime.
BMS is service-oriented, donating all profits to charity. For me, this work is about sharing life hacks that help people stay balanced, while contributing to the wider community.
We are hosting a free virtual launch event in October, where our team will present on different topics, welcome new members and introduce our upcoming programs. To learn more and register for the event, visit www.facebook.com/meditatewithbms

‍

Glow Sphere Marketing

‍
When Gabriella Sóvágó walked away from the corporate world in 2017, she was determined to create a business that fused her passion for marketing with her love of travel. That vision became Glow Sphere Marketing, a full-service agency that has grown from its beginnings as a flexible coaching practice into a trusted partner for businesses across Australia.
Gabriella’s fascination with marketing began in high school. With both parents running their own businesses, she saw first-hand how strategy and psychology could attract customers and keep them coming back.
After studying marketing in Budapest and business management in Cambridge, experiences that gave her a strong foundation in both the creative and analytical sides of the field, she spent her early career training sales how to present products effectively.
In 2017 she left her corporate job to travel the world, using Glow Sphere Marketing as a platform to coach small business owners on how to grow with smarter marketing. In 2021, Gabriella settled in Australia and the business evolved.
“Clients started asking me to take on their marketing directly, instead of coaching them through it. Over time, Glow Sphere Marketing naturally evolved into a full-service agency, offering everything from Google Ads to website design, training, and strategic consulting.”
That organic growth is grounded in strong values.
“Glow Sphere Marketing is guided by innovation, accountability, adaptability, and respect,” Gabriella says.
“These values have helped us build relationships based on transparency, flexibility, and a commitment to treating each business with care.”
One campaign Gabriella recalls with pride involved Nancy’s Gym, a local fitness centre struggling to fill off-peak hours.
“We reworked his advertising strategy, and within just a month he had completely filled those spots. It was incredibly rewarding to see the impact that a tailored, strategic approach could have on his business in such a short time.”
At the heart of Glow Sphere Marketing’s success is its integrated approach, beginning with a clear brand story and customer persona.
“It’s the most important step we never skip, and one many agencies overlook,” Gabriella notes. From there, Glow Sphere Marketing delivers cohesive strategies across digital, creative design, and advertising.
Looking ahead, Glow Sphere Marketing continues to push boundaries by blending AI and human creativity. Gabriella has been working with AI since 2015, when she contributed to an AI product development project. Today, the uses AI-powered SEO, offering clients an edge in increasingly competitive markets.
Reflecting on her journey, Gabriella says, “The most rewarding moment for me was realising that Glow Sphere Marketing was no longer just a dream, it had become a reality.
“That moment of knowing the business was not only surviving but thriving was incredibly special, because it meant all the effort and risk had turned into something real and lasting.”
With its focus on innovation, education, and partnerships built on trust, Glow Sphere Marketing continues to empower small businesses, helping them shine in competitive markets.

‍

Born and bred in Mackay, Ashleigh Lindner has always called the region home. With her entire family close by and three daughters attending local schools, her life is deeply tied to the community she now helps others settle into. “People get scared to move to the Northern Beaches, but everywhere you turn, there’s a school, a shopping centre, you’re central to everything,” she says. “When I tell people I’m local, born and bred here, they realise I really do know the area.”
Ashleigh's route into real estate was far from conventional. After school, she began a painting apprenticeship. “I went and did a painting apprenticeship, it gave me a lot of life skills and insight into the property market, which I still carry through now.” From there, she worked in hospitality and sales before spotting an opening at PRD Northern Beaches, as a property manager. The role offered a front-row seat to the entire property journey, from rental appraisals to securing sales. By January this year, Ashleigh had stepped into sales full-time, and she hasn’t looked back.
The transition wasn’t without challenges. “January, February, March, I sold nothing. I was doing 40 appraisals a month just to get my name out there, because no one knew who I was or what I stood for. It was hard, but it was about building connections with people.”
Her persistence was relentless. “It is now September. I look back, and I was making 50 to 100 calls a day, and I didn’t stop.” That determination is now paying off as Ashleigh builds her reputation as a trusted name in the industry.
She urges anyone looking to buy or sell in the region not to wait: "Don't hesitate. Just because you think your house needs a fresh coat of paint, or the garden could use some work, or because your mum or a friend told you it's a bad time to sell, don’t let that stop you. In real estate, there's a saying: there’s never a bad time to sell.”
Honesty is central to her approach. " I don’t provide arbitrary figures; I base my valuations on local comparables to ensure alignment with current market activity and recent sales. It doesn’t matter what your house looks like; we can help. Whether you want to rent it or sell it, it doesn’t need to be difficult. We work for the seller."
Along the way, Ashleigh has shown an exceptional ability to connect with people, a quality she says sets her apart from other agents. For her, the work goes far beyond closing deals; she genuinely cares about her clients. She loves spending time with them and thrives on rising to any challenge. Her role has given her the privilege of witnessing some of the most extraordinary milestones in people’s lives, moments she says make the job truly special.
“Just yesterday, I was taking my first-home buyers through their house. It’s unconditional, we’re just waiting for paperwork to go through, and the partner, who I hadn’t met, got down on one knee and proposed to her.”
For Ashleigh, experiences like these are what truly drive her. Real estate, she believes, is not about transactions, but trust. It’s about persistence, relationships, and community. Or, as she sums it up simply: “Consistency is key.”
prd.com.au/northernbeaches/

‍

With Bre Sanders From Sense Of Skin 

Mackay-born Bre Sanders is proving that talent, tenacity, and authenticity can turn a dream into national recognition. As owner of the acclaimed beauty salon Sense of Skin, she is one of just four winners across Australia selected for the prestigious ABIA Beauty Squad 2025, held in Sydney on August 17.

“I didn’t always dream of having my own clinic; however, when working for others, it soon became a dream of mine... I didn’t want the limitations,” Bre recalls.

That dream became Sense of Skin, a salon where every facial, brow, and lash treatment is delivered with precision, care, and a personal connection.

“No two skins are the same and shouldn’t be treated as,” she explains.

Bre’s approach is informed by more than 11 years in the industry and by her own personal experience navigating skin challenges through different stages of life.

“The skin is ever-changing throughout a person’s lifetime. From experience, at numerous times in my life, my skin has played havoc with my self-confidence.

“I never found a place where I could go with full faith in the business or in the therapist to actually know what they were doing or how they were going to help me with something that was actually debilitating. I’ll never forget being in high school trying to cover my skin and having the teachers hand me make-up wipes at the beginning of a day… that feeling is embedded in me.

“I hope Sense of Skin is this place for someone who is feeling hopeless and who is struggling. I hope I can bring them clarity and give them faith in fixing their skin.”

Her ABIA Beauty Squad win has already proven transformative, offering Bre one-on-one mentorship with some of the industry’s biggest icons.

“Being a sole operator, it sets off the ‘sparks’ again. It’s so inspiring and motivating, but also just to have the option to bounce ideas off people who think the same as you and have the same ambitions,” she says.

Now recognised as a rising regional powerhouse, Bre hopes her journey will inspire others to take bold steps toward their goals.

“I want to be remembered as that person who did everything to regain someone else’s self-confidence.”

And when she does step away from the salon, Bre’s time is devoted to family.

“My free time is minimal, so it’s usually spent with my family. My nephew is the absolute light of my life – soon to have a little niece in a couple of weeks.”

Her boldest idea: Starting Sense of Skin. “Everything I offer has been researched down to the last inch to offer nothing but the best for my clients. Nothing is mediocre.”

How she remains grounded: Her parents. “My mum has always been my emotional support, and my dad has always given me straight facts – don’t get carried away with the stuff that doesn’t matter.”

‍

After a three-year break from the Whitsunday property market, familiar face Lukas Vaid is back—and this time with a fresh perspective shaped by family, community and a genuine passion for helping people find their perfect home.

Although he never really left the region, Lukas stepped away from full-time real estate to work fly-in, fly-out. Becoming a dad was the catalyst for his return.

“Starting a family and having a daughter made me want to be more present,” he said. “I wanted to enjoy watching her grow up.”

Lukas has returned to Taylors Property Specialists, where he previously worked alongside Brad Sobott.

“I worked at Taylors for about three years, and I learned a lot under Brad’s guidance. He’s a very professional agent and auctioneer.”

His route into real estate wasn’t planned. With an engineering background and a methodical mindset, Lukas only considered the field after his wife encouraged him. A conversation with Rob Taylor quickly turned into a new career, and within weeks he was in the office, learning the ropes.

For Lukas, the job is about more than just properties.

“It’s the people,” he says.

“Seeing people’s faces, understanding the emotional side of a transaction, it’s incredibly fulfilling to join the dots between a buyer and seller. You see the joy of a young couple stepping into their first home, or the relief of a seller navigating a difficult situation. It’s not always easy, but it’s very satisfying.”

Now working solo, he is focused on delivering precision and care. “I can’t afford to make mistakes; everything I do matters, down to the last detail. I don’t have the luxury of thinking things will just come to me. I have to work for it, and I’m prepared to do that.”

With his deep local knowledge, professional experience and approachable style, Lukas is ready to help locals navigate the property market and find their ideal home while supporting the community he proudly calls home.

‍

In today’s wellness world, the idea of eating “little and often” is everywhere. Yet, more and more research, along with my clinical experience, shows that the opposite approach may be more powerful for digestion, weight management, and better energy.
I encourage my clients to focus on three balanced meals a day: breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with water in between. Here’s why:
Weight management
Snacking can secretly add up to hundreds of extra calories without us realising. Grazing on “just a little something” between meals not only prevents true hunger from building, but it also makes it harder to release weight. By committing to three satisfying meals, you reduce mindless intake and give your body time to use what you have already eaten.
Energy and efficiency
Digestion is one of the body’s most energy-demanding tasks. When we are constantly snacking, the digestive system never gets a rest. That energy drain can leave you more fatigued, craving sugar in the afternoon, and less able to focus. Pausing between meals allows your body to redirect energy toward other vital processes, such as detoxification and repair.
The gut’s self-cleaning cycle
Perhaps the most fascinating reason to avoid constant grazing is the Migrating Motor Complex (MMC). This is a powerful “self-cleaning” wave of contractions that sweeps through your small intestine between meals. It clears away undigested food and pushes bacteria down into the colon, where they belong. Eating too frequently and living in a stressed state switch this cycle off. Without it, bacteria can build up in the small intestine, contributing to bloating and conditions such as SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth).
Where to begin
If you are a chronic snacker, start small. Choose to eliminate either your mid-morning or mid-afternoon snack. Once that habit feels comfortable, work on removing the other. Your gut will thank you with better energy, less bloating, and improved digestion.
Rebecca Tarver is a Clinical Nutritionist and Metabolic Balance Practitioner based in the Whitsundays, working with clients locally and online.
rebeccatarvernutritionist.com

‍