Council's Budget Under The Microscope Mackay Regional Council has handed down a $454 million “back to basics” budget for 2025–26, positioning it as one of the most restrained in Queensland — but not everyone’s convinced. With a general rate rise of 4.95 per cent, Council says it’s focused on maintaining core services while managing rising costs. Major projects include a $12.99 million investment in the Northern Beaches Community Hub and nearly $6.5 million for critical water infrastructur
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Two Year 12 students from St Patrick’s College Mackay have achieved national recognition, placing third in Australia at the prestigious National High School Mooting Competition – while simultaneously becoming the only regional school to reach the semi-finals and claim a top-three spot. Claudia Illguth and Mikayla Green represented the appellant in a challenging civil law case centred on parental liability for a child’s negligent behaviour. Their client had been injured on private property
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Taking centre stage for their special night, the Year 12 students of St Catherine’s Catholic College celebrated their School Formal last Thursday at VMR Whitsunday, the evening set against the backdrop of a stunning sunset. The much-loved local school is also marking a major milestone this year—its centenary. Known for the many multi-generational families who have passed through its gates, St Catherine’s has played a proud role in the community’s story. You can read their special eight-page 'p
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Meet Tex, a young, energetic boy bursting with personality and ready for a second chance at life. Tex was rescued from death row and is now looking for a loving forever home where he can continue to thrive. This handsome lad is full of energy and always up for an adventure, but he also has a sweet, cuddly side and loves spending time with his humans. While incredibly affectionate, Tex does have some past trauma and can be sensitive around his collar, head and ears. His foster carer has been wor
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The family of Jo McGregor sadly announced her passing over the weekend, the much-loved local passing away peacefully and surrounded by love following a brave and lengthy battle with cancer. Known for her incredible kindness, her community work, and friendly personality, Jo will be deeply missed by her many friends—and especially by her family, including husband Shane and their sons Jordan and Jay. Jo’s family posted this message: “After a long and courageous battle with cancer, we are heartbr
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Set high above the Coral Sea on Mount Whitsunday, Elementa Whitsundays, together with its on-site artisan gin and vodka maker 74 Islands Distillery, is transforming how locals and visitors experience dining, connection, and celebration in Airlie Beach. Now open to the public for walk-in evenings and exclusive daytime events, Elementa offers something rare: a venue that fuses world-class culinary experiences with panoramic views, small-batch spirits, and the effortless luxury of the tropics. Fr
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July 3, 2025
The Coalition has wasted no time returning to the policy table, meeting this week at Parliament House in Canberra. Among those stepping into a key role is Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox, who has been appointed to a newly formed energy policy development group tasked with shaping the Coalition’s future direction on climate and energy. His inclusion signals a strong regional voice in the national conversation, with a clear focus on affordability, reliability and resource-backed so
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July 3, 2025
The Mackay & District Orchid Society will host its annual Winter Orchid Show this month on Saturday, 19 July, and Sunday, 20 July, at the Mackay and District Senior Citizens Centre, 58 Macalister Street. This year’s event is part of the Festival of Arts Program, drawing attention from across the Mackay and Whitsunday districts. Visitors can expect stunning displays featuring a variety of orchids, including Vandas, Cattleyas, Dendrobiums, Phalaenopsis, and Australian native species, showca
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July 3, 2025
A. L. Tippett Launches Fifth Novel Mackay’s own urban fantasy author, A. L. Tippett, is celebrating a magical milestone with the recent launch of her fifth novel, Gosh Darn Griffins. The event, held on Sunday, June 22 at Kitten Vintage Mackay, brought together fans, friends, and fantasy lovers for a morning of cake, book signings, and storytelling. “I had the most wonderful day at the book launch for my fifth novel, Gosh Darn Griffins! “Thank you to Kitten Vintage Mackay for hosting, to
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July 3, 2025
Mackay Table Tennis Results for Tuesday 24th June 2025 Morning Fixture Results Division 1 Ghost Spins (George Camilleri, Branko Vucurovic, Bryan Marshall) defeated Panther Prowlers (Doug Dungavell, John McGee, Kevin Abbott) 8-4. Ant Warriors (Allan Robins, Judy Zahn, Don Boettcher) defeated Cosmic Sorcerers (Delma Knight, Pam Joyce, Coral Morgan) 7-5. Phoenix Fire (Donna Abbott, Steve Mathieson, Noreen Frederickson) defeated Star Lords (Geoff Cowan, Peter Goodson, Veronica Shepherd) 7-5.
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July 3, 2025
A Martial Arts Weekend To Remember If energy could be bottled, the Northern Beaches would be glowing. Such was the atmosphere during the Gasshuku – an intensive karate training camp hosted by the Northern Beaches Karate Club. The event brought together seven high-level instructors from across Australia, including two Shihans and a 7th Dan Master from Los Angeles. Their combined expertise provided valuable instruction to students of all levels, from the youngest beginners to the most senio
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July 3, 2025
Climbing the master rankings this month were Marilin Robins, who achieved Silver National Master status, and Adrian Westcott, now recognised as a Local Master. Weekly Results Monday 23 June 2025 –- 7 Table Mitchell Green Points N/S E/W 1st Geoff Taylor / Nancy Martin 1st Mary Rose Ramsden / Sandy Patterson 2nd Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy 2nd Marilin Robins / Mick Robins 3rd Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris 3rd Janine Rodgers / Jewel Schmidt Tuesday Evening 24 June 2025 – 6 Table One Winner
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June 12, 2025
Friday 6th June Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm) Grand View Hotel: Sam McCann (from 8pm) Saturday 7th June Airlie Beach Hotel: Meatloaf Tribute (2pm – 5.30pm) Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm) Grand View Hotel: DJ Night (from 8pm) Coral Sea Pavillion: (Live Music & DJ Session 1pm – 6pm) Sunday 8th June Airlie Beach Hotel: Meatloaf Tribute (2pm – 5.30pm) Airlie Beach Hotel: Matt Angell (6.30 – 9.30pm) Grand View Hotel: Sam McCann (4pm - 8pm) Coral Sea Pavillion: Chill A
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July 3, 2025
All The Fun, Right Here In The Region Keep the kids entertained and engaged with a fantastic line-up of events happening across our region. From creative workshops and outdoor adventures to movie screenings and hands-on activities, there is something for everyone to enjoy this school holiday season. Friday, July 4 Garden Friends Drop-In Activity – Secret Lives of Leaves 10am Families are invited to the Botanic Gardens for a series of leaf-focused activities, including hunts, drawing wal
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July 3, 2025
Country Fest Queensland 2025 transformed Bloomsbury into a vibrant celebration of country music and rural culture over the weekend of June 27–28. Held at the Dittmann Bull Pit, the festival featured a stellar lineup of artists, including American headliners Randy Houser and Max McNown, alongside Australian favourites like James Johnston, Shannon Noll, Casey Barnes, and Tori Darke. Attendees enjoyed a diverse array of activities beyond the music, such as the adrenaline-pumping PBR Bull Rid
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July 3, 2025
Friday 4th July Crochet & Conversation 9am Join a welcoming morning of crochet, coffee, and conversation with Northern Beaches locals at Beachfront Bar & Restaurant on Bucasia Esplanade. Bring your own tools or borrow from the communal box. All skill levels welcome—just look for the yarn to find the table. Connection and creativity guaranteed. Bucasia Beachfront Bar and Restaurant Abbe 2025 Conference 12pm Coming to Mackay this July, the abbe 2025 Conference dives into the dynamic wo
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Win Gleeso’s Ultimate Party in Paradise! Get ready to amplify your tropical festival escape! The Airlie Beach Festival of Music is thrilled to announce that Aussie rock legend Dave Gleeson of The Screaming Jets has been named its official Festival Ambassador for 2025. To celebrate, the festival is launching Gleeso’s Ultimate Party in Paradise competition, where entrants go in the draw to win the ultimate festival experience. Set to ignite the Whitsundays from November 7th-9th, 2025, the Airlie
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