Straight Talk

World renowned demographer gives his insight on caravan park debate

THE PENDING outcome of the Torquay Caravan Park has become one of Hervey Bay’s most divisive and passionately debated issues. At the heart of the debate lies a massive petition effort, among the largest in the region’s history, aimed at...

28 May 2025

By Hervey Bay Advertiser

Straight Talk

The Lost Practice of the Family Dinner Table. A symptom of our fast-paced world?

Straight Talk

IN AN AGE where technology has revolutionised every aspect of our daily lives, one tradition that seems to be slipping away is the family dinner table. A cornerstone of family life for generations, it once served as a gathering place for not only...

16 Apr 2025

By Hervey Bay Advertiser

Straight Talk

Supporting our local businesses $10,000 advertising pool for flood recovery

Straight Talk

AS the publisher of the Hervey Bay Advertiser and the Hervey Bay Independent, I have had the privilege of being a part of this vibrant community since 2009. Over these years, our newspapers have become a cornerstone for sharing local news, fostering...

02 Apr 2025

By Hervey Bay Advertiser

Straight Talk

Election will be decided over $50,000 superannuation treat for first-home buyers

Straight Talk

THE UPCOMING federal election is set to be fiercely contested on two critical issues: the cost of living and the housing crisis. Like every other regional city in Australia, Hervey Bay is deeply affected by these challenges. Opposition Leader Peter...

05 Mar 2025

By Hervey Bay Advertiser

Straight Talk

Fraser Coast Tourism and Events are under the torch

Straight Talk

Fraser Coast Regional Council has appointed an independent firm to conduct a comprehensive review and assessment of Fraser Coast Tourism and Events (FCTE). Positioned as the external advisory body guiding the region’s Tourism and Major Events...

19 Feb 2025

By Hervey Bay Advertiser

Straight Talk

Esplanade homeless crackdown –a symptom of larger discord

Straight Talk

THE ISSUE of homelessness in Hervey Bay has gained significant attention in recent weeks, particularly following a crackdown by the Fraser Coast Regional Council on free camping and homeless community communes along the Esplanade. This action was...

05 Feb 2025

By Hervey Bay Advertiser

Straight Talk

Time to consider the long-term security of our beloved Carols?

Straight Talk

THE HERVEY Bay Carols by Candlelight has evolved into the largest and most attended community event in the region, thanks to the dedication and vision of the Hervey Bay Christian Ministers Association. Over the years, this event has grown from...

22 Jan 2025

By Hervey Bay Advertiser

Straight Talk

The Power of Local: Supporting Hervey Bay Businesses in 2025

Straight Talk

IN 2025, Hervey Bay is buzzing with growth and opportunity. National businesses continue to set up shop, offering new choices and creating employment—a welcome boost for our region. However, while these larger entities provide variety, their...

07 Jan 2025

By Hervey Bay Advertiser

Straight Talk

My top five hits (and misses) for Hervey Bay this year

Straight Talk

WELL folks, this is it—the final Publisher’s Point of the year before we kick off again on January 9. Time to dish out my opinions on the hits and misses of our beloved city in 2024. The Misses Crime: It’s a state problem, and our local reps...

11 Dec 2024

By Renee Doody

Straight Talk

Hervey Bay Carols by Candlelight: Celebrate Christmas Together

Straight Talk

GET READY to feel the festive spirit as Hervey Bay’s beloved Carols by Candlelight returns on Saturday, December 14th

27 Nov 2024

By Hervey Bay Advertiser

Straight Talk

Our community thrives thanks to the incredible volunteers who give so much

Straight Talk

IN HERVEY Bay, our volunteers truly are the unsung heroes, quietly shaping our community into a better, kinder place to live. These selfless individuals dedicate their time, skills, and energy to causes they’re passionate about, whether in sports...

13 Nov 2024

By Hervey Bay Advertiser

Straight Talk

Don’t touch our beachside caravan parks!

Straight Talk

IF OUR beachfront caravan parks go, there is a potential loss of over 60,000 overnight stays annually and tens of millions of dollars in tourism money, that our community simply cannot afford. More than that, we lose a piece of our communities long...

28 Oct 2024

By Hervey Bay Advertiser

Straight Talk

The Lost Art of Formality - Reading a Speech from Paper Still Matters

Straight Talk

I MAY very well be in the minority here, and yes, I am over 50 years of age. But I’ve seen a growing trend that leaves me saddened. In today’s fast-paced, hyper-connected world, mobile phones have become an indispensable tool, facilitating...

16 Oct 2024

By Hervey Bay Advertiser

Straight Talk

Publishers Point: A personal opinion, not to be taken personally

Straight Talk

RECENTLY, I extended an offer to a councillor to feature an editorial piece in our newspaper, providing coverage for a motion they had submitted to the Council. This is a service I have extended to numerous councillors on many occasions. To be...

02 Oct 2024

By Hervey Bay Advertiser

Straight Talk

Sheraton Resort ‘Go Fund Me’ Appeal engages lawyers to take on Council

Straight Talk

AN APPEAL, led by former Fraser Coast Councillors Sue Brooks and David Lewis, is progressing with momentum, seeking to have the height of the recently approved 18 storey Torquay development that would house the proposed Sheraton Hervey Bay Resort...

18 Sep 2024

By Hervey Bay Advertiser