“What is it that makes Proserpine truly unique?”

It’s such a joy to be standing here as Patron of the very first Proserpine Rock Wallaby Festival — a celebration of community, creativity, and one of Australia’s rarest and most endearing native animals.

When I first asked myself, “What is it that makes Proserpine truly unique?”— I knew it was more than just our friendly locals, beautiful landscapes, or rich history. I wanted to know, what do we have here that no other place has?

So I caught up with someone who knows our region’s wildlife better than most — Sandy Cleeland, a long-time carer with Fauna Rescue Whitsundays. I shared my thinking with her, and without hesitation, she said:

"The Proserpine Rock-Wallaby."

Photo by Sandy Cleeland of one of her babies.

Sure, we have other rare and beautiful things here — a specific Birdwing Butterfly, and several plant species that grow nowhere else.The Proserpine Rock-Wallaby captured our imagination. It is a shy, endangered species found only in our local area. They live in rocky outcrops and forests, are expert climbers with grippy feet and human-like toenails. They "bop" over rocks and hills like little parkour athletes. When the joeys, who have been in care are ready for release, their fur turns a beautiful mauve – the perfect camouflage in our bushland.

I took this idea to Creative Connections Whitsunday, and something magical happened. Eyes lit up. Ideas sparked and before long, we had a festival name, a vision, and the backing of partners who believed in what this could be.

That …..was the beginning of a year of constant work — fuelled by volunteers, community groups, the Proserpine Mens Shed cut out the 2D rock wallabies, the Proserpine High School students painted them, artists started creating. Businesses, and supporters from all walks of life.

From cut-out wallabies to artists painting and handmade markets — so many hands and hearts have brought this festival to life.

And now, here we are — the inaugural Proserpine Rock Wallaby Festival!

More than just a celebration, this festival is a reminder.

A reminder that our wildlife matters.

A reminder that small towns can do big things.

And that when we come together with creativity, purpose, and care — we can shape something powerful, something joyful, something uniquely us.

Thank you for being part of this moment.

Let’s keep protecting, connecting, and celebrating all that makes Proserpine so special.

Patron of the Festival

Leigh Skead