BUSINESS SHOWCASE
A New Leaf for Local Businesses: The Woman Simplifying Success
Clare McAlpine's business journey is just beginning – but she’s already built wisdom, confidence and a reputation for reshaping how companies operate. Five months ago, drawing on experience in operations, administration and accounting, Clare launched New Leaf Business Solutions, a consultancy firm helping businesses create structure and clarity. Combining practical strategy with empathy, she specialises in simplifying complexity, improving systems and streamlining operations so clients find orga
Read the full storyBusinesswoman On A Mission
Laura Hamilton truly embodies the phrase “be the change you want to see in the world.”After navigating many years of her own complex health journey, Laura founded Elegance Lymphatic Care with a mission to improve access to specialised lymphatic support. Through her experience, she witnessed firsthand how overlooked lymphatic care can be within the Australian healthcare system.
Read the full storyA New Age of Leadership
Kathryn Behan, General Manager of Mackay Private Hospital and the founder of boutique cosmetic aesthetics clinic Love the Way You Look, represents a new style of leadership; one that refuses to choose between strength and empathy.She leads with ethical decision-making, accountability and care, balancing operational excellence with a genuine focus on people.
Read the full storyRobyn Agius
She’s not the loudest in the room, but she carries a quiet confidence – one that has seen her win multiple real estate awards across the Pioneer Valley, and, more importantly, the lasting trust of her clients.That woman is Robyn Agius.
Read the full storyShirlz Russell
Shirlz Russell is redefining what it means to be a woman in property. Armed with knowledge and unstoppable drive, she carves her own path with unshakable confidence and commanding authority.Before stepping into the role of a listing agent, Shirlz built her foundation working alongside buyers, particularly women seeking to grow wealth through property. Already a licensed real estate professional, she became a strong advocate for purchasers, guiding them toward strategic decisions that would shape
Read the full storyBuilding A Business That Gives Back
Zambrero Franchise Partner Evelyn Cartlidge opened Cannonvale’s beloved store 10 years ago, after following her heart and finding exactly what she was looking for. Born in Southeast Queensland, Evelyn arrived in the Whitsundays in 2012, aged 22. Having spent the previous three years working her way around Australia taking on everything from farm work to sales, she visited a friend in Bowen. Evelyn’s intention was to stay for a brief spell before crossing back to Western Australia for the grain h
Read the full storyYou Can Do It All – And Feel Good Doing It
Dr Dee Hacking has dedicated her career to making women feel their best, providing holistic support at Alfred St Mackay Allied Health Clinic, employing alternative medicine and therapies that, simply put, make her clients feel good.“My goal is to reconnect you with your body’s natural ability to heal and thrive,” Dr Dee states. To do so, she employs homeopathic medicine, remedial massage, hypnotherapy, shiatsu, reflexology, frequency therapies, and mind-body connection practices.
Read the full storyWomen in Business: Turning Life into Living
For Mental Health Clinician and Founder of Personal Transitions, Sharon Ashman, her professional motto says it all: “Turn life into living.” It’s a simple phrase, but it carries depth especially for women balancing ambition, family, responsibility, and self-care.With proud Irish heritage and a grounded outlook, Sharon believes lasting success begins with inner strength. Passion matters. So does integrity. But just as important are patience and steady determination. “We are our business,” she say
Read the full storyFirst Impressions Count: Preparing Your Property for Sale
When it comes to selling your home, presentation can make a significant difference. In today’s property market, buyers often form their first impression before they even step through the front door- many will first encounter your property through online photos or drive past it from the street. Ensuring your home is presented at its very best can greatly influence buyer interest, competition and ultimately the final sale price.
Read the full storyWomen In Tech 2026
I’ve always been interested in how people turn ideas into action, especially in regional communities where innovation is rarely theoretical. It’s practical, it’s necessary, and it’s often happening quietly in the background. That way of thinking sits at the core of my role as Manager of Greater Whitsunday Innovation.Greater Whitsunday Innovation sits at the intersection of innovation and digital capability, two lenses that are often treated as the same thing but are quite different. Innovation h
Read the full storyFifty Years in Print
In 2026, Payne Print & Sign will mark an extraordinary milestone of 50 years in business, celebrating half a century of craftsmanship, resilience, and unwavering commitment to the Mackay community. What began as a humble family dream has grown into one of the region’s most respected print and signage businesses, built on hard work, loyalty, and a deep belief in doing things properly.
Read the full storySelling Sunsets, Shaping Whitsunday Futures
Over the past 12 months, Stephanie McWhirter and her team at Belle Property Whitsundays have experienced a year of tremendous momentum, one marked by organic growth, strong community connection, and a shared sense of purpose that continues to define their success.
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