Mackay Youth Experience The Thrill Of Sailing

Excitement and smiles filled the waters of the Mackay Harbour last week as the Making Waves Foundation brought the thrill of sailing to the region. As part of its Northern Campaign 2025, the foundation kicked off the first of six ports along Queensland’s coast and Northern NSW, offering free, inclusive sailing programs for youth living with disabilities, many of whom were stepping aboard a boat for the very first time.

Mayor Greg Williamson joined the community to celebrate the campaign, praising the initiative as a unique opportunity for children.

“This is an absolutely outstanding venture that’s making waves every year. It takes the young people in our community who will not normally have an opportunity to do something like this,” he said.

Reflecting on the previous group of school students who attended, he said, “The group I’ve just met absolutely loved it.”

Mary Anne, one of the program coordinators, described the excitement for the children.

“We were hoping for calmer weather so we could get out to see some whales, but we’ve been having a lot of fun just in and out of the harbor, venturing out into the big waves… Everybody has come on and is having an absolutely fantastic time,” she said.

She reflected on the privilege of taking the young participants out.

“It’s really special and humbling to be out here with the kids. It's absolutely fantastic. I love seeing people who don’t normally go sailing, and have the best time.”

Grade 6 students from Glenella State School also shared their experiences.

Max said, “I liked when the water was choppy since it was really fun… just being with people and coming here and making new friends was really good.”

Beau added, “We went sailing out in the water. It was a bit choppy but we went out just a couple of times to see how it was… It's really good because I haven’t been on a boat in a while, and it's really good to experience it.”

Running since 2022, the Winds of Joy program continues to provide Mackay youth with hands-on sailing experiences, fostering confidence, camaraderie, and a love for the water.

The Northern Campaign 2025 will continue at Airlie Beach, Rosslyn Bay, Gladstone, Southport, and Coffs Harbour, bringing free, inclusive sailing experiences to even more young Australians.

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The Making Waves Foundation’s Northern Campaign 2025 kicked off in Mackay, giving local youth living with disabilities a thrilling, hands-on sailing experience that fostered confidence, camaraderie, and a love for the water. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Mackay Commemorates Victory In The Pacific

By Hannah McNamara

The 15th of August seems like just another day to most, but for some, it’s a day that represents the end of Second World War, and the beginning of peace.

Victory in the Pacific (VP) Day is celebrated each year on this date to commemorate Japan’s acceptance of the Allied demand for unconditional surrender, which was made the day prior, on August 14, in 1945.

For Aussies, it meant the Second World War was over.

Though the physical battle had finally come to an end, the gruelling aftermath of such events remained in the minds of those who gave it all for the flag.

The Mackay community gathered at Jubilee Park last Friday to celebrate, commemorate and mourn those who sacrificed their lives.

Long-time Mackay resident and local historian Col Benson, from Mackay RSL Sub Branch, read a moving speech from Kerry Watkins – a third-generation veteran who shared the story of her family’s strength and service.

“My grandfather, Morgan Watkin… enlisted in the First AIF in 1916… was wounded in France and promoted to corporal. After the war, he married my grandmother and later, as war clouds gathered again, re-enlisted in 1939… he served in Egypt, Greece and Crete, where he was captured and held as a POW before being released in 1945.”

Her father, too, enlisted young.

“My father enlisted in 1941 at the age of 18… narrowly avoided being caught in the Cowra breakout in 1944… trained for service in New Guinea, but the war ended after the atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

“Dad later served in Korea… and went on to serve in Vietnam, where he earned the respect of many younger soldiers but came home a broken man, haunted by nightmares.

“There was no help and no support back then… PTSD wasn’t recognised.”

Now Kerry, and the greater veterans community, hope the future generations will carry on the legacy.

“We need to teach our children and grandchildren about our proud history, so they have an understanding of why they enjoy the freedoms they do today.”

From stories of service spanning generations, the morning also turned to honouring one man’s lifetime of dedication — the birthday of local veteran Louis Burley.

“He comes from a family where everyone served except his mum… seven siblings in the services and an aunt who was a nurse,” said son Steve Burley.

“I don’t think young people today appreciate what his generation went through… but it’s nice to see him recognised with these awards.”

As the crowd reflected on individual stories, Mayor Greg Williamson reminded all of the broader history that shaped them.

“The Pacific War started on the 7th of December 1941 when Pearl Harbor was bombed… Just a matter of two months later, Singapore fell… and a couple of days after that, 240 Japanese bombers let loose on Darwin, killing almost 250 people… the first of 187 raids that happened in Northern Australia.

“They were desperate times… but most Australians didn’t know about them because the government hushed it up for reasons of public panic.”

“Today… we need to keep reminding young Australians that we came very, very close to being an occupied country.

“Lots of lives were lost, that’s what we commemorate, but we also commemorate the valour of communities like ours who stood fast and did what they had to do for the war effort.

“To all those who lost their lives, that’s what we’re doing here today… saying thank you for the service that kept us a free society."

In the quiet stillness of Jubilee Park, those words echoed as the community stood united in remembrance.

“Lest we forget.”

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The Mackay community gathered at Jubilee Park on August 15 to mark VP Day, honouring the end of World War II and remembering the sacrifices and service of veterans across generations. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Mackay’s Resource Industry Network (RIN) hosted its August Industry Briefing Luncheon on 8th August at Harrup Park, Lancaster Room, welcoming professionals from across the Mackay, Isaac, and Whitsunday regions. The event featured guest speakers Jarrod Layton, Projects Planning and Execution Manager at Stanmore, and Dean Grant, Director of Tenvra Pty Ltd, a project delivery and engineering consultancy currently collaborating with Stanmore.

RIN’s monthly Industry Briefings aim to strengthen connections between members, provide up-to-date industry information, and support innovation across the region’s METS and resources sectors.

Jarrod Layton outlined the focus of his presentation.

“Today we’re here to discuss a bit of an update on some of the projects that Stanmore are working on, a bit about Stanmore, and how we can deliver some of our projects through value engineering, delivering more cost effectively, and through a research management process,” he said.

He emphasised the importance of networking in the sector.

“It is an opportunity to engage with other people within our network and maximise and grow those networks so that we can all work together and solve problems,” Layton said.

He said he hoped the event would provide “some good networking and some good opportunity to meet more people” within the industry to grow that network.

“When things come up in the future, you’ve got to have a network of people you can engage with. Not only can you learn from them, but you can also show them and update them on some of the work that you’re doing.”

Dean Grant described Tenvra as a “design engineering consultancy” and highlighted what excited him about the briefing.

“I think it’s a great opportunity. We’ve been fairly recent to the industry from an engineering point of view, but the team that we bring has a range of experience,” he said.

Grant emphasised the value of sharing knowledge and ideas.

“Sharing ideas on how to do things more efficiently and effectively hopefully means we have a better chance of sustaining operations, ensuring mining stays resilient, and that environmental factors are considered,” he said.

On the importance of hosting the event in Mackay, Grant said, “The mining doesn’t happen in Brisbane. It happens out here.”

“This is a central part of Queensland’s growth and creates a lot of economic welfare. Mackay is one of those key hubs for Queensland and very close to the heart of where the industry and actual operations happen.”

RIN General Manager Dean Kirkwood described the briefing as “a fantastic lunch and event, providing excellent networking for all members” and noted it offered insights into Stanmore’s current projects, cost-effective engineering solutions, and the value of collaboration across mining departments.

RIN’s Industry Briefings continue to provide a vital forum to connect, develop, and promote growth across the resources and METS sectors.

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Jarrod Layton, Projects Planning and Execution Manager at Stanmore, and Dean Grant, Director of Tenvra Pty Ltd

Resource Industry Network General Manager Dean Kirkwood. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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A new partnership between the RSPCA Mackay and Andergrove Van Park is turning recycling refunds into lifelines for animals in need.

While the park has long participated in the Containers for Change initiative, new management has pledged to donate all future refunds directly to the RSPCA for animal care and welfare.

Tanya Rayner, the park’s newly appointed manager, said she jumped at the idea of joining forces with the animal welfare organisation.

“The RSPCA Mackay is now our animal ambassadors for the park.”

Rayner, an experienced resort manager with a passion for travel, said she understands the growing trend of pet owners wanting to holiday with their furry companions. The park, now part of Hampshire Holidays Australia, will also undergo a transformation into a vibrant place for travellers and locals alike, with regular food vans, entertainment, and animal-friendly events planned.

RSPCA Mackay Animal Care Volunteer Rob Hobbs recently submitted a proposal for the park to host fundraising days and interactive animal experiences for both guests and locals.

For the official launch, the park welcomed special guest Django, a 12-week-old English staffy cross American bulldog, who happily played the role of mascot for the day.

The partnership comes as part of a broader movement in Mackay that blends animal welfare with environmental sustainability. Chloe Stewart, who manages Mackay Recycling at Mackay Harbour, said the initiative is already making an impact.

“We have been partnering with RSPCA Mackay to collect bottles and cans which help contribute to the cost of feeding animals in the shelter.”

In just one month, Andergrove Van Park’s donations helped collect 5,000 containers.

“As a dog-friendly venue, this is a great initiative and already with their support, the RSPCA collected 5,000 containers last month from donations. Which is a huge feat,” Stewart said.

“If you’re donating your bottles and cans, we have a number on the wall at Mackay Harbour so you can donate your cans there, or you can drop them to the RSPCA as well.”

Organisers say, this wouldn’t be possible without the volunteers and businesses on board.

A broad network of businesses, such as local pubs, taxi services, and car yards, are also pitching in by donating 100 percent of their containers to the cause.

The RSPCA’s roots in Mackay remain firm, thanks to the persistence of local advocate Alison Fraser, who began fundraising decades before the shelter opened.

“The thanks for the shelter really goes to a lady called Alison Fraser, who 30 years ago started raising money for the RSPCA and kept asking them when they would build a shelter in Mackay,” said long-time volunteer Kym McInerney.

“She just took it into her own hands… and that’s why we have the shelter today.”

The shelter is now nearly 11 years old, continuing to provide vital care for animals while expanding into community-driven sustainability projects.

Ms McInerney said, “It’s about making it sustainable and doing what we can to become a movement for animal welfare and recycling.”

“It is very rewarding, very fulfilling. You get to meet a group of like-minded people that you really bond with and become friends with for the rest of your life.”

From empty bottles to wagging tails, Mackay’s residents are proving that every small act counts, especially when it’s done together.

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A new partnership between RSPCA Mackay and Andergrove Van Park is turning recycling refunds into vital funds for animal care, collecting thousands of containers each month while uniting the community in a movement for animal welfare and sustainability. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Mackay’s ambulance crews are set to receive a major boost in emergency care, with the arrival of cutting-edge defibrillator technology designed to save more lives.

As part of the Queensland Government’s record $1 billion Health Budget for the Queensland Ambulance Service, $10 million has been dedicated to the Defibrillator Replacement Program. This investment will see 1,400 upgraded ZOLL X Series Advanced Defibrillators rolled out across the state, including right here in Mackay.

The new devices, expected to be in service by 30 September, will allow paramedics to instantly transmit ECG readings to Brisbane-based specialists via the QAS Consult Line. This direct link gives regional crews access to real-time expert advice, helping overcome distance barriers and ensuring patients in critical condition receive faster, more effective treatment.

Member for Mackay, Nigel Dalton MP, said the investment would make a real difference to frontline emergency response in the region.

“This is about giving our Mackay paramedics the very best tools to save lives,” Mr Dalton said.

“Whether you live in the heart of Mackay or a rural property outside town, you deserve world-class healthcare — and that’s exactly what the Crisafulli Government is delivering. These new defibrillators will help our ambos make critical, life-saving decisions in seconds.”

Already, more than 1,300 units have been deployed across the state, with all frontline paramedics to receive face-to-face training to confidently operate the upgraded equipment.

Queensland Ambulance Service Medical Director, Dr Daniel Bodnar, said the technology is a game-changer, especially for regional crews.

“Our rural paramedics often work without specialist back-up, so being able to share patient data instantly with our clinical teams means faster, better care,” Dr Bodnar said.

The new devices not only monitor heart rhythms, blood pressure, oxygen levels, and respiration rates, but also integrate advanced data-sharing capabilities — ensuring Mackay patients can receive specialist-level care no matter where they are.

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A new service focused on improving the health and wellbeing of Sarina community has been launched, thanks to My Hospital Foundation (MHF) receiving a community grant from Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank for the purchase of a dedicated Sarina patient transport vehicle.

The 8-seater vehicle was handed over to MHF today by Community Bank Sarina, and will ensure patients of Sarina Hospital with no method of transport can attend a variety of medical appointments in Mackay.

Community Bank Sarina Board Chair Karen May said the new patient transport service was one that the Board felt strongly about due to the long-term positive impact it would have on the community.

“For each individual patient who utilises this service, it will make a significant difference in providing them with a better health outcome – so that transport is not a barrier,” Mrs May said.

"We couldn’t be prouder to be supporting such a worthwhile investment in our community.”

Community Bank Sarina is a long-time supporter of MHF and in total over the 2025 financial year, has contributed $91,439.36 to MHF in support of the delivery of exceptional healthcare for our regional community.

This also included sponsoring the Volunteer Program across all MHF regions and recently providing another community grant for a LUCAS Chest Compression System for Sarina Hospital.

My Hospital Foundation Chair, Gillian Smith said that in regional hospitals such as Sarina, when limited medical personnel are available after hours, this medical equipment “enables staff to focus on other areas of a patient experiencing a cardiac arrest while mechanical compressions continue”.

“This machine has the ability to save patients in situations that would otherwise be considered futile – it’s an absolutely gamechanger for Sarina Hospital,” Ms Smith said.

“The hospital and Foundation staff are all extremely grateful to Community Bank Sarina for this life-saving equipment – on top of the ongoing support they already provide. We feel very fortunate to have them in our corner – not just for us, but for the entire community.”

Find out more about Community Bank Sarina’s community impact on their social media pages – through Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

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My Hospital Foundation Board, staff and volunteers with Community Bank Sarina board and Manager Erin Ryley at the car handover. Photos supplied

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Scams can happen to anyone! This was the key message delivered by the Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank team during their dedicated scam awareness session at the recent 2025 QCWA Northern Region Conference.

Scams work because scammers create believable stories and tricks designed to steal money and personal information. Over time, scammers have become more sophisticated, using new technology, products, services and even major events to make their scams appear genuine.

Warning signs include threats or urgent demands for action, requests for payment in unusual ways such as prepaid debit cards, cryptocurrency or instructions to set up new bank accounts under the guise of protecting your funds.

Once money is lost, scammers often target victims again, offering false promises to recover it – a tactic known as a follow-up scam. Sadly, one in three scam victims are scammed more than once.

Attendees at the QCWA Northern Region Conference shared how the information has already changed the way they approach unexpected calls, messages and offers.

QCWA Pioneer Division Vice President Deborah McIntyre said the session helped her understand what to look out for.

“I know now I’ll think twice before clicking on anything suspicious," Ms McIntyre said.

Community Bank Sarina is proud to champion this cause, offering ongoing support through educational resources, including scam awareness booklets available for collection at the branch.

Community Bank Sarina Manager Erin Ryley warned customers that scammers were getting smarter.

“Scammers are getting smarter. If we can leave people feeling even a little bit more confident about recognising a scam, that’s a win for our community.”

With Scam Awareness Week happening 25-29 August, Community Bank Sarina encourages everyone to drop into the branch at 37 Broad Street, Sarina and pick up a free copy of the ACCC Little Black Book of Scams and learn more about protecting yourself and your loved ones from online fraud.

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L-R QCWA State Vice President Northern Fay Lambert, Community Bank Sarina Customer Service Officer Josie Dahtler, QCWA Pioneer Division Treasurer Sharon Price, Community Bank Sarina Manager Erin Ryley. Photo supplied

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In the skies above Central Queensland, BMA CQ Rescue marked a remarkable milestone last week — completing its 13,000th mission since operations began nearly three decades ago.

The landmark flight took place just before 9.30pm on Thursday, the 7th of August, when the crew was called to Moranbah to assist a man suffering multiple cardiac issues. After being handed over by the team at Moranbah Hospital, the patient was cared for by BMA CQ Rescue’s doctor and paramedic, who worked tirelessly throughout the flight to Mackay to keep him stable.

While every mission is critical, this one not only saved a life but also underscored the 13,000 lives changed thanks to the community’s ongoing support for the vital emergency helicopter service.

It capped off an already busy week for the crew, which included a primary response to Whitsunday Island for a kayaker with breathing difficulties, a respiratory emergency near Valkyrie that saw the chopper land on a school oval, and numerous inter-hospital transfers in Collinsville, Dysart, and Bowen.

“This milestone reflects the extraordinary dedication of our crew, staff, volunteers, and supporters over nearly three decades,” said BMA CQ Rescue CEO Tim Healee.

“It’s a privilege to lead a team that shows up every single day with professionalism, compassion, and purpose. Our capability has grown dramatically over the years; we can honestly say we now deliver world-class aeromedical care. But what hasn’t changed is our purpose — to be there when it matters most. That’s what the 13,000th mission means to us.”

Despite the significance of the occasion, the team had little time to pause — training and another emergency call-out came less than 12 hours later.

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BMA CQ Rescue has completed its 13,000th life-saving mission, airlifting a critically ill man from Moranbah to Mackay after nearly three decades of service in Central Queensland skies. Photo source: BMA CQ Rescue

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Simon Hood, Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

The global sugar market has been holding steady in recent weeks, with supply fundamentals keeping a lid on prices.

Brazil is now halfway through its crushing season, and analysts are forecasting production between 39 and 40 million tonnes. With that much sugar expected, commercial traders are confident supply will comfortably meet demand through to the first quarter of next year. This has left speculators largely in control of short-term price movements, looking to push prices below 16 US cents per pound before easing back towards 17 US cents. While they hold a large short position, they remain vulnerable to any unexpected news of lower supply.

Here at home, Wilmar Grower Marketing has released its three-year comparative analysis report, following the finalisation of 2024-season pricing on 30 June. The results speak for themselves: Our Production Risk Pool and Allocation Account have consistently outperformed QSL’s Harvest Pool and Shared Pool. Over three years, the difference in total income for an average-sized grower is significant.

We’ve also issued our quarterly update on the 2025 Managed Pool Plus, giving participating growers insight into the hedging strategies we use to maximise returns. This season’s pool includes committed MEI (miller economic interest) tonnes, meaning we’re working hard to deliver the best possible outcome in all market conditions. Against our benchmarks, the pool is performing well despite the softer market. Interest in managed pool pricing is growing, with the 2026 Managed Pool Plus attracting strong commitments before it closed at the end of July.

Outside the office, our team has been busy during show season, supporting local events, presenting awards, and catching up with growers. Most recently, our Plane Creek Grower Relationship Manager Jonathan Reichard joined colleagues from the Plane Creek Mill and AgServices teams at the Sarina Show to host the Wilmar stand – a great opportunity to connect with the community and celebrate our local industries.

We’re also delighted to welcome Misty Bland as our new Grower Relationship Manager in Proserpine. A canegrower herself, Misty understands the realities of farming life and is passionate about supporting growers. She’s also well known for her volunteer work and community involvement – values that are a big part of who we are at Wilmar Grower Marketing.

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Plane Creek Grower Marketing Relationship Manager Jonathan Reichard (right) represented Wilmar at
the Sarina Show with staff from the AgServices and Engineering teams. From left are David Parker,
Pieter Van Vuren, Manju Srinivasalu and Mark Tanizar

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Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) has recorded its biggest year of planned burns to date, surpassing its annual target by more than 50 per cent.

Between the 1st of July 2024 and the 30th of June 2025, QPWS carried out 637 planned burns across 968,884 hectares of Queensland’s public protected estate. The burns aim to reduce the risk and severity of bushfires, protect communities and infrastructure, and promote healthy ecosystems across the state’s parks and forests.

The milestone comes as part of the Crisafulli Government’s More Rangers, Better Neighbours initiative, which has invested in additional fire management staff, upgraded equipment, enhanced training, and improved engagement with local communities. This includes restoring funding for 40 specialist fire rangers to strengthen bushfire preparedness and park management.

Planned burns are highly weather-dependent, requiring cooler conditions and minimal wind to create a patchwork of burnt and unburnt areas that support biodiversity and habitat conservation.

Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell praised the achievement.

“It is fantastic to see Rangers prepare our protected areas for the months and years ahead through the strategic use of fire,” Minister Powell said.

“What they have achieved this year is astounding – bolstered by good weather, strong investment in the QPWS fire program and an increased use of aerial burning techniques to deliver broadscale burning across multiple parts of Queensland when conditions are right.

“I want to congratulate our QPWS rangers and Fire teams for their focus, coordination, and commitment to deliver such an incredible result – protecting Queensland communities and our precious environment.”

QPWS Fire Services Director Troy Spinks said burns would continue over the coming weeks while conditions remain favourable.

“Rangers have done an exceptional job this year, but people can still expect to see smoke on the horizon as crews make the most of these cooler, milder conditions to undertake even more burns within national parks and state forests,” Mr Spinks said.

“These planned burns not only provide a picture-perfect sunset but prepare us for the upcoming bushfire season.

“We thank the community for your support and understanding over the coming weeks as we work to protect our parks and neighbours by delivering these vital planned burns.”

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Many years ago I was sitting on a ferry docked on the shores of Lake Van in eastern Turkey, near the borders with Iran, Iraq and Armenia, when two young Western women came racing towards me and asked if they could sit next to me.

I had been sitting on the deck of this aquatic jalopy with a handful of other travellers and locals while the skipper waited for more people to arrive for the trip to the ancient cathedral we had come to see on a nearby island.

A bus had pulled up and the two women in their early 20s got out, grabbed their backpacks from the under-carriage, and started walking towards the old ferry.

I noticed they were speeding up and making a beeline towards me. They walked straight up to me and said: “Can we sit with you?”

I was happy to oblige and they sat on the bench on either side of me, pressed up pretty close against my legs.

Like me, the young women had been through quite a journey from Istanbul, through various Aegean cities and the amazing central region of Cappadocia to get this remote dot on a map near Mount Ararat, which is said to be the landing place of Noah’s Ark after the big flood.
But our experiences had been quite different. I was in my late 20s, travelling by myself,  and had thoroughly enjoyed the history of the country and the warm friendliness of the people as I visited cafes and restaurants and explored the country’s incredible tourist attractions.

But for my new female companions, New Zealanders named Diane and Susan who had been travelling together, the experience had been completely different.

At that time, in that part of the world, there was a cultural misunderstanding, a misinterpretation, when it came to two young women travelling around by themselves.

As they huddled up next to me they told me their past few weeks had been hell. In a nutshell, they said local men had taken the firm view that these two single women had come to the country to have sex with them. It was just a matter of which men they were going to choose … and there was no lack of keen participants.

From then on Diane and Susan stuck to me like baklava to a blanket for the remainder of their time in the country.

That night we stayed at a lovely old village. We got a lot of attention, more than I usually received.

The girls stayed at my side and the men really only spoke to me or at least looked at me first, as though for approval, before talking to Susan or Diane.

Later in the night at some café or restaurant, a couple of the blokes took me aside and asked me: “Which is your girlfriend? Is it Susan or Diane?” Clearly they were trying to establish availability and show me due respect.

I said I was with both of them. “You are with both? They are both your girlfriends?”
“Yes, they are both my girlfriends.”

“Oh, really. Wow. Two girlfriends!”

In a remote region filled with history and legends, a new one was established that night. It was the one about David the Australian, sadly a myth, but one that confirmed the perceived benefits of male life in the Western world.

These days, selling real estate in Mackay, I am not required to provide the same type of protection. But protection is what a good agent provides.

An agent’s job is to protect your greatest asset, do all the things that need to be done to get the best price. You have to trust the agent, know in your heart they will do the right thing, the professional thing. You know you will be safe with a good agent because they respect and honour the responsibility.

Just like looking after Susan and Diane.

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The Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre (MECC) will come alive on Saturday 27 September with two dazzling performances of Simply BRILL - a celebration of the songwriters who transformed 1960’s rock ’n’ roll forever.

Starring three of Australia’s most acclaimed cabaret artists - Amelia Ryan, Michaela Burger, and Helpmann Award-winner Michael Griffiths - Simply BRILL transports audiences to the heart of New York City’s legendary Brill Building.

Known as the “one stop shop” hit factory, this iconic address reshaped the sound of popular music, launching the careers of young songwriters whose work would dominate the charts and define an era.

The show’s theatrical storytelling blends history, humour and heart, retelling the rise of icons like Bill Haley & The Comets, Neil Sedaka, Bobby Darin, Carole King, Cynthia Weil, and Ellie Greenwich.

Backed by a live five-piece band, audiences will be swept up in timeless hits such as Rock Around the Clock, Splish Splash, Oh Carol, Will You Love Me Tomorrow, You’ve Lost That Loving Feeling, River Deep Mountain High, and Leader of the Pack.

Michael Griffiths, whose career spans starring roles in Jersey Boys, Priscilla Queen of the Desert, and We Will Rock You, has performed everywhere from New York’s 54 Below to London’s Royal Albert Hall and the Sydney Opera House.

Known for his magnetic stage presence and vocal mastery, he leads the trio alongside the dazzling Ryan and Burger - both celebrated nationally and internationally for their powerhouse performances and award-winning original work.

"This is the kind of show that just makes you feel good," said Andrew Bobeldyk, Executive Manager MECC and Events.

"The music is infectious, the stories are fascinating, and these performers light up the stage. You don’t just sit and watch - you find yourself singing along and remembering why these songs have lasted for generations."

Simply BRILL will have two performance sessions at the MECC on Saturday 27 September - a 12:00pm matinee for those who love an afternoon of great music, and a 7:30pm evening show for a night out filled with energy, nostalgia, and world-class entertainment.

Event Details
The MECC Presents: Simply Brill
Saturday 27 September
Matinee: 12:00pm | Evening: 7:30pm
Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre
Tickets available at www.themecc.com.au

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The MECC will light up on Saturday 27 September with Simply BRILL, a vibrant, hit-filled tribute to the 1960s songwriters who defined rock ’n’ roll. Photo supplied

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Residents will again have the chance to spruce up their gardens with the ever-popular native plant giveaway on again.

The bi-annual event gives residents the opportunity to collect up to 14 free plants.

Nurseries team leader, Sue McCormack, said staff at the Mackay Natural Environment Centre were prepared for big crowds.

“We get between 600 and 700 ratepayers at the centre in the two days, which is wonderful to see,” Ms McCormack said.

Among the species on offer is the Eungella Bottlebrush, which has small, dense foliage making it an attractive hedging plant.

“The Eungella Bottlebrush loves full sun and tolerates both dry and boggy conditions and a wide variety of soil types,” Ms McCormack said.

“They are also critical for biodiversity, with the stunning pink flowers attracting bees, which are so important in the local environment.”

Those who are looking for more of a groundcover are also catered for, with the Everlasting Daisy also available.

“The eye-catching, papery yellow flowers attract bees and insects when in the garden and also make stunning dried flower displays,” Ms McCormack said.

Co-chair of the Sustainability Strategic Advisory Committee, Councillor Alison Jones, said the native plant giveaway helps to deliver council’s Urban Greening Strategy.

“We are working to increase Mackay’s vegetation coverage over the next 20 years, after it was found our urban vegetation coverage was relatively low,” Councillor Jones said.

“Having more trees and plants not only improve the look and feel of an area, but increased vegetation improves air quality, reduces storm water run-off and creates cooler neighbourhoods.”

To claim your four free native plants, head to the Mackay Natural Environment Centre at 6 Swayne Street, North Mackay on Friday, August 22, from 9am to 3pm and on Saturday, August 23 between 9am and noon.

For an additional 10 free plants, including a shady tree for wildlife, sign up to the Gardens for Wildlife online https://www.mackay.qld.gov.au/gardens.

You can also buy extra plants for $3 each.

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Mackay residents can collect up to 14 free native plants at the popular bi-annual giveaway on August 22–23, supporting biodiversity and council’s Urban Greening Strategy. Photos supplied

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Fun Ways To Stay Active With Kids

Staying active doesn’t have to be a solo pursuit – bringing the whole family along can make fitness fun, foster healthy habits, and create lasting memories. For parents looking to keep kids engaged while moving their own bodies, a variety of activities can turn exercise into play.

Outdoor adventures are an ideal starting point. Local parks, beaches, or walking trails offer opportunities for family walks, nature hikes, or even scavenger hunts that encourage exploration while keeping hearts pumping. Cycling around neighbourhood streets or nearby trails allows kids to burn energy safely, while also giving parents a moderate workout.

Backyard workouts can be both practical and entertaining. Set up obstacle courses with cones, ropes, or household items, or organise mini sports tournaments like soccer, basketball, or badminton. Even simple activities such as jumping rope, tossing a frisbee, or running relay races can improve agility, coordination, and cardiovascular fitness.

Structured family fitness classes are gaining popularity in many communities. Dance or martial arts sessions designed for parents and children can build strength, flexibility, and confidence while encouraging positive interaction and teamwork.

Integrating activity into daily routines can also make a difference. Short bursts of movement while doing chores, playful stretching during TV breaks, or even active travel to school can add up over the week.

Ultimately, the key to successful family workouts is making them enjoyable and inclusive.

When exercise becomes a shared adventure rather than a chore, children develop a positive relationship with fitness, and parents benefit from quality time and improved well-being.

Because, who wouldn’t want to turn family time into fun and fitness all at once?

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Fitness Cartel Mackay: Our Largest Health Club Opens This Year

If you thought you knew what a gym could be, think again. Opening later this year, Fitness Cartel Mackay will be Fitness Cartel’s largest health and wellness club, delivering Affordable Luxury to every member. This 3,450sqm fitness sanctuary is purpose-built to inspire, energise, and connect. Opening in Spring this year, Fitness Cartel Mackay isn’t just another club — it’s a flagship destination redefining what it means to train, recover, and belong.

Build your own fitness stack with a huge range of facilities and flexible membership options — combining the training styles, recovery methods, and lifestyle perks that work for you. Whether you want to lift heavy, stretch deeply, cycle hard, or simply unwind, you can train your way.

When you step inside you will discover the difference.

From six-star bathrooms and over 20m of dumbbell racks, to over 500 pieces of world-class equipment hand crafted in Italy, everything is designed to inspire. Explore group training in the ultramodern Cycle Studio, a dedicated Reformer Pilates Studio, and a versatile Group Fitness Studio offering Les Mills, Yoga and custom classes. For something different, there’s the exclusive Comfort Zone for those who prefer to train in a quiet, private space, a dynamic Functional Training Zone, and even a full Multi-Sport Court.

Parents are well looked after with the Kids Cartel Crèche, featuring a custom-built playground, so parents can train with peace of mind. After your workout, refuel at the Cartel Café with a fresh coffee, a post-session protein shake, or stock up on your favourite supplements and the latest Fitness Cartel Apparel.

The Wellness & Recovery Centre is unlike anything Mackay has seen before. Inside you’ll find a 12 person 6–8°C Cold Plunge, a 40-person 32°C Magnesium Pool, and an 18-person 38°C Hot Spa. There’s also a spacious 24-person Traditional Hot Rock Sauna and a dedicated Compression Therapy Room with Normatec Dynamic Air Compression Boots.

For those looking to take recovery even further, additional treatments are available, including access to a Massage Room, Red Light Therapy, and Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy.

Foundation Memberships are now live, giving early members access to exclusive rates. Secure your place today and be among the first to experience Mackay’s ultimate fitness playground.
Get started today at fitnesscartel.com.au.

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