Thanks DasKapitalist and stoz, two enlightening posts from people who know the area - not city slickers.
IMO, it's all about jobs for the people in Bowen, they deserve jobs like any other people. They have a deservedly nice marina, which I am sure they want to keep.
In my travels, I see what Australia's international competitors are doing to provide jobs for their people. Economic common sense is required in these matters.