The new MARS system is a game-changer for multiple myeloma detection. Photo credit: Lyndon Mechielsen

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A new technology being used by Queensland Health could help improve access to faster and more accurate cancer diagnosis for patients in Mackay and other regional communities.

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The MARS system has already been used for more than 100 patients across Queensland to help identify multiple myeloma, a form of blood cancer affecting plasma cells in the bone marrow.

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Queensland Health says the technology can more than triple the speed of diagnosis while allowing scientists to detect genetic abnormalities in much smaller amounts of cancerous cells.

For regional patients, one of the biggest potential benefits is the ability to test samples for longer after they have been collected.

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Previously, samples containing plasma cells could become unusable if transport to a central laboratory took more than 24 hours. The new system allows samples to be enriched and accurately tested for up to five days after collection.

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For Mackay patients, the development comes as the region continues to expand its local cancer and specialist healthcare capacity.

Mackay Base Hospital has a 24-hour Pathology Queensland laboratory, while its oncology service provides care for people across the Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday region.

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Queensland Health recorded 2,855 cases of multiple myeloma between 2019 and 2023, equivalent to about 570 cases a year.

The MARS system uses magnetic beads to identify and separate myeloma cells from a patient's sample, increasing the concentration of cancerous cells and making genetic abnormalities easier to detect.

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Dr Wight said the ability to obtain reliable results earlier was particularly valuable for people outside major metropolitan centres.

“For example, I recently had a patient whose results came back within two weeks, revealing a high-risk chromosomal deletion we weren’t expecting. That single result completely changed the treatment plan and ensured he received the most effective care for his type of myeloma,” he said.

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“Having this level of insight, and having it early, is invaluable for regional patients.”

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The MARS technology was developed by US company Applied Cells and funded through a Queensland Health innovation program.

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By Joseph Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay

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Rural Women’s Day on 15th October is more than a date on the calendar:  it’s a moment to recognise the matriarchs whose strength, skill and determination have shaped regional Australia. In the sugar industry, their contribution runs deep, from the earliest days of cane farming to the modern, technology driven sector we know today.

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Across the Mackay district and every cane growing region, rural women have always been central to the story of sugar. In the early decades, cane farms were family enterprises in the truest sense. Women worked beside their family in the paddock, kept the books, managed the household and raised children. They were the quiet strategists behind planting decisions, the ones who stretched every dollar, and the glue that held farming families together through droughts, floods, fires and volatile markets.

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As the industry modernised, rural women stepped into even more visible leadership roles. They became agronomists, mill technicians, researchers, accountants, and business owners. They led advocacy organisations and represented growers at national forums. Today, women are driving innovation in all facets of the technical and hands-on sectors of rural life in general that will help shape the next generation.

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But their impact goes beyond job titles. Rural women have changed the culture of the industry. They’ve brought new perspectives to problem-solving whilst strengthening community networks and championing education and training opportunities that benefit everyone. Their leadership has helped the sugar sector remain resilient and forward-looking, even as global pressures intensify.

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Importantly, Rural Women’s Day isn’t just about the sugar industry, it’s about celebrating women across the entire rural landscape. In cattle, horticulture, grains, fisheries, forestry and every regional enterprise, women are essential to productivity, innovation and community wellbeing. They run businesses, teach in rural schools, lead health services, volunteer in emergency response groups, and keep small towns vibrant and connected.

In many cases, rural women are the ones who ensure farms and regional businesses adapt to change. They embrace new technologies, navigate compliance and regulation, manage finances, and build partnerships that strengthen local economies. Their ability to balance practical skills with long-term planning is one of the great strengths of rural Australia.

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Yet despite their enormous contribution, rural women often work without recognition. They carry heavy workloads, juggle family responsibilities, and face unique challenges:  from limited access to childcare and healthcare to the pressures of isolation and natural disasters. Rural Women’s Day is an opportunity to acknowledge these realities while celebrating the resilience that defines so many women in regional communities.

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In the sugar industry, we see that resilience every day. Women who manage farms through unpredictable seasons. Women who lead research into climate adaptation. Women who advocate for fair policy and strong regional investment. Women who support their families, their neighbours, and their communities with unwavering commitment.

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Rural women are vital to the future of our industry. Their leadership, creativity and determination strengthen our sector and enrich our communities. On 15th October, we honour their past contributions, celebrate their present achievements, and look forward to the future they are helping to build.

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Rural Women’s Day is a reminder that the success of the sugar industry and all of regional Australia is built on the efforts of women who work hard, lead boldly, and care deeply for the places we call home. This week, we celebrate them.

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Sarina residents gathered last Wednesday for the popular Green Up Sarina event, with locals able to collect native plants and connect with local groups about plants, gardening, pests and weeds.

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The annual event was supported by Sarina Landcare Catchment Management Association, Mackay Natural Environment Centre and the Mackay Regional Council Pest Management Team.

Representatives from Sarina Neighbourhood Hub thanked the volunteers, supporters and organisations involved in making the event possible.

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“What an incredible community effort! The success of Green Up Sarina would not have been possible without the dedication, enthusiasm and support of so many wonderful people and organisations,” they said.

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Sarina Landcare volunteers and the Community Programs Team, including Jonny and Lara, were among those who volunteered their time to help deliver the event.

The organising team included Chrissy and Sonia and the Mackay Natural Environment Centre Nursery team, Saskia and Susie alongside the Sarina Landcare Catchment Management Association Nursery team, and Kevin Anderson from Sarina Neighbourhood Centre.

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Deputy Mayor Karen May, Cr Anne Baker and Cr Ash-Lee Johnson were also acknowledged for their support.

The event received funding support from Mackay Regional Council and the Queensland Government.

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Green Up Sarina also provided an opportunity for residents to access native plants, with similar plant giveaway days forming part of broader local efforts to encourage residents to green their properties.

Last year, more than 102,000 plants were distributed by the Mackay Natural Environment Centre through events such as Green Up days and Mackay Regional Council’s click and collect program.

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The Sarina Neighbourhood Hub representatives thanked everyone who contributed to the event.

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“Together, we are creating a greener, healthier and more connected Sarina. Thank you to everyone who planted, volunteered, organised, supported and participated. Your contribution helps make our community a wonderful place to live, learn and grow.”

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Last Wednesday, Sarina residents came together for Green Up Sarina, collecting native plants and receiving gardening advice while local volunteers, organisations and supporters helped make the community event a success. Photo source: Sarina Neighbourhood Centre  

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By Michelle Landry MP, Federal Member for Capricornia

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Small businesses are the engine room of our economy, but many across Central Queensland could be forgiven for wondering whether Canberra understands just how difficult it is to keep their doors open.

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Everywhere I go, business owners tell me about rising power bills, insurance, wages, rent, supplies and compliance costs.

Now they face another challenge following the removal of card surcharges.

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While customers will no longer see a separate surcharge at the checkout, the cost of processing transactions does not simply disappear. Businesses still pay those costs and, where they cannot be absorbed, they inevitably put further pressure on margins and prices.

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Then came the Australian Taxation Office’s decision to stop accepting credit card payments rather than absorb merchant costs itself.

The irony should not be lost on anyone.

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If the Government’s own tax collector is unwilling to absorb these costs, how does Canberra expect a family-run café, butcher, tradie or retailer to do it?

There cannot be one standard for Canberra and another for the corner store.

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Meanwhile, as temperatures rise, Central Queensland’s tourism and hospitality businesses should be preparing for a busy summer.

Instead, uncertainty surrounding the Working Holiday Maker program is creating another headache.

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Working holiday makers are not simply tourists. They spend money in our communities while providing an important seasonal workforce for farms, restaurants, accommodation providers and tourism operators.

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Around one in five international holiday visitors to our region are working holiday makers, representing thousands of visitors spending money with local businesses each year.

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Our agricultural sector is equally reliant on seasonal workers. Mangoes and pineapples cannot simply wait because there aren't enough people available to harvest them.

That is why the Coalition’s new migration policy is about ensuring regional Australia gets the workers we need, where we need them and when we need them – particularly during critical harvest periods.

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It raises a broader question: do decision-makers in Canberra truly understand what it takes to run a small business or farm in regional Australia?

Small business owners work long hours, employ local people and invest in their communities.

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They don't want special treatment.

They want certainty, sensible policy and a government that understands the consequences of its decisions.

Small business needs government in its corner, not standing in its way.

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Premier David Crisafulli and Glen Kelly MP during a recent visit to the Field of Dreams, Sarina. Photo supplied

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By Glen Kelly MP

There is a real sense of momentum building in Sarina. For generations, Sarina has been the gateway to North Queensland a proud sugar town with a strong community, great local businesses and some of the best lifestyle opportunities in our region. But I believe we are now entering an exciting new chapter for the town.

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You only have to drive through Sarina to see that things are changing. New investment is happening, The Crossing estate is set to bring a new generation of families to town. That growth means more customers for our local businesses, more kids joining our schools and sporting clubs, and greater confidence for people to invest in Sarina’s future.

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For too long, there has been a perception that Sarina is the poor cousin to Mackay. I don’t accept that. Sarina has an enormous amount going for it. It has the lifestyle and community spirit of a country town, strong agricultural and industrial foundations, and the incredible Southern Beaches right on its doorstep.

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Another major advantage is that Sarina has more than one way in and out of town. That connectivity gives us options and is a real strength as we think about future growth, investment.

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As Sarina grows, we have an opportunity to think about what we want the town to look like in 10, 20 and 30 years. That means planning for the roads, sporting facilities, community infrastructure and public spaces that a growing population will need. It also means supporting our existing businesses while encouraging new investment into the area.  

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We should be ambitious about Sarina’s future while protecting the character and community spirit that make people proud to call it home. As the local Member, I want to make sure Sarina gets the attention and investment it deserves and that the community has a strong voice in shaping what comes next.

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Importantly, we have a Premier who understands the value of regional towns like Sarina and the role they will play in Queensland’s future. That gives us a real opportunity to make the case for the infrastructure and investment Sarina needs as it grows.

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A holiday trip to New Zealand took a frightening turn for Mackay’s Nick Bennett last month when he suffered a sudden and life-threatening medical emergency at Mackay Airport.

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The former police officer, who now works as a facilitator, team builder and performance coach, was preparing to board a flight with his wife Rowena when he suddenly began feeling faint and his blood pressure dropped rapidly.

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While Rowena went to get him some water, Nick collapsed at the airport. Initially, it was thought he may have been suffering a stroke.

In fact, he was experiencing severe lower gastrointestinal bleeding, resulting in a dangerous drop in blood pressure and haemorrhagic shock.

“There was blood everywhere, so my wife called immediately for help and an ambulance. The airport fire crews arrived quickly and an ambulance followed,” Nick said.

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“Rowena, the amazing woman that she is and so calm in the moment, organised our bags off the plane, all while this crisis was happening.”

Nick was quickly attended to by airport fire crews and paramedics before being transported by ambulance, under lights and sirens, to the Mackay Base Hospital Emergency Department.

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“I honestly thought I was gone; there was so much blood, about 2.5 litres apparently,” he said.

“I had no control over my body and I felt my life blood just rushing out.”

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Nick was given four bags of blood before being rushed into emergency surgery, where medical staff located and treated the source of the bleeding.

He spent four days in the surgical unit before being discharged to continue his recovery at home.

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The experience was another in a spate of medical events for Nick, who previously survived three serious cardiac episodes over 13 years, as well as a machete attack while trekking the Black Cat Track in Papua New Guinea.

Reflecting on his latest medical emergency, Nick said he wanted to share his experience as a way of processing what had happened and recognising the people who helped him through it.

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He paid tribute to his wife, airport staff, emergency responders and the medical teams at Mackay Base Hospital.

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“We have amazing people in our Mackay Base Hospital. You are such special people who are confronted with others' trauma daily and your calm in the chaos made it much more manageable for both myself and my wife,” he said.

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“A massive thank you to my beautiful wife for your incredible love, self-control and calm.

“Thank you for the sincere concern and support from the Mackay Airport staff who were so quick to respond and to the airport fire team and two young ambulance officers who also helped us.

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“Thank you to the Mackay Base Hospital ED staff who were more than amazing in what they were dealing with. And thanks also to the General Surgery Unit (GSU) staff who are just incredible. My life was literally in your hands.

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“I am eternally grateful and indeed very fortunate.

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“Thank you, thank you, thank you.”  

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OPINION PIECE by Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox

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George Orwell imagined a world where the state did not merely control what people said, but sought to control what they could think.

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More than 75 years after Nineteen Eighty-Four, we have something Orwell could never have imagined: almost every Australian carries a device that puts the world’s information in the palm of their hand. We can reach across the world, hear different views, challenge what we are told and make up our own minds.

Yet the Albanese Labor Government is now proposing to put itself between Australians and that information.

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Labor calls its proposal a ‘Digital Duty of Care’ and says it is about keeping children safe online.

Every parent wants their children to be safe online. But protecting children cannot be used to justify giving the Government power over what Australians see, read and discuss online.

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I have been inundated with emails and phone calls from people across Dawson who are angry about this legislation. They are angry that the Government wants a say over something that should never be in its hands: what Australians see, read and discuss online.

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The Government says the framework is about making platforms responsible for foreseeable harms and giving Australians greater control over algorithmically curated content.

But there is a world of difference between giving you control over your own feed and giving a minister power over what platforms must do with the information they provide.

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One puts the power in your hands. The other puts more power in the hands of government.

But then the Prime Minister said the quiet part out loud. This was sold as a law to protect children. Yet in New York, Anthony Albanese was talking about misinformation, disinformation and political polarisation, saying digital technology affects “our entire society and how it functions”.

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There it is.

This is no longer just about protecting children. It is about Government deciding what information Australians should be exposed to.

That is Government overreach. And Australians are angry about it.

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This is exactly why the Coalition has rejected this legislation in its current form.

Because no government should be handed a blank cheque to decide what Australians can read, see and hear.

That is how political censorship starts, with a government deciding which information is harmful, which views are dangerous and which conversations need to be controlled.

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Orwell understood where government control of information can lead. He knew that when those in power control what people know, they can start controlling what people believe.

Labor says it wants to give Australians more control over algorithms. But the answer cannot be to give the Government more control over what those algorithms show us.

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That does not give Australians more freedom. It gives the Government more power.

Labor has replaced the algorithm with the Albo-rithm.

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And that is not a joke about the Prime Minister. It is a warning about the power of the office.

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Today, the concern may be misinformation or polarisation. Tomorrow, the definitions could be broader, the political circumstances could be different, and the minister holding that power could be someone you profoundly disagree with.

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I will oppose this legislation in its current form because it threatens fundamental freedoms and gives government powers that could be used to restrict lawful speech, access to information and open debate.

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Opinion Piece By Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox

As of October 1, consumers are no longer charged a surcharge to use a credit or debit card. For many who like to know the cost of their meal before they head to the front counter, this will be a welcome change.

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However, the charge has not disappeared. The cost of processing these transactions has not gone away. Businesses, particularly small businesses, will need to decide whether to absorb these costs or build them into the price of their goods and services.

Small businesses across Dawson have some real concerns. Many have told me that while they understand customers don't want unexpected fees at the checkout, they now have to deal with being left to absorb another cost. For a business operating on already tight margins, even relatively small transaction fees can add up over multiple sales.

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That is why reform must address the underlying cost of card payments, rather than simply moving that cost from one place to another. For the privilege of providing customers with card payment options, businesses must factor in merchant fees, terminal rental fees and gateway charges. For larger businesses like supermarkets and airlines, there is greater power to negotiate with payment providers. Small businesses though, do not have the same bargaining power.

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Then there’s the other side of this change. When businesses are no longer able to apply a surcharge to customers who choose to pay by credit card, an important element of consumer choice is removed: pay by cash and avoid the surcharge or pay by credit card and accept the additional cost associated with that payment method.  Removing that choice does not make the cost disappear; it simply moves the cost from an individual transaction, into the broader cost of doing business, where it can ultimately be spread across all customers.

Small businesses in our region are already doing it tough. The cost of doing business has risen dramatically in the last few years. They are paying higher rents, higher electricity prices and facing more regulation.

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For many businesses, it feels like every time they open their inbox there is more bad news – more tax, more government regulation, more green and red tape, more complex industrial relations rules and more bill pain.

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Margins are shrinking and keeping the doors open is becoming more challenging. The changes to card surcharges are just another impost, another cost, another stress point these businesses have to contend with.

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Government should be playing their part in reducing the burden on small business, so business owners can get back to working in their business, not working on just paperwork. Unfortunately, under the current Labor government, the opposite is happening.

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Removing the surcharge line on the customer receipt does not remove the cost of accepting card payments. For businesses already facing rising costs and shrinking margins, adding another cost is another pressure on their ability to stay viable.  

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The Government should ensure that removing card surcharges does not simply mean small businesses are left carrying the cost.

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Reflections from Councillor Nathenea McNamara

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One of the things I really enjoy about co-chairing council’s Economic Development and Growth Strategic Advisory Committee is having the opportunity to look beyond what Mackay needs today and consider what our region may need five, ten and even twenty years from now.

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Recently, our committee considered a Short-Term Accommodation Needs Analysis looking at Mackay’s future accommodation needs and what increasing economic activity could mean for our region.

When we think about short-term accommodation, we often immediately think about tourists and holidaymakers. But in Mackay, the picture is much broader than that.

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Our accommodation sector also supports business travellers, contractors, major projects, conferences and events, visiting families and people coming to our region for work.

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As Mackay continues to grow and attract investment, we need to make sure our accommodation capacity grows with it.

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The analysis looked at our existing accommodation supply, future demand and where potential gaps may emerge. It also highlighted some of the challenges associated with attracting new hotel development, including construction costs and the commercial viability of projects.

This is where having good information becomes so important.

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Council isn’t in the business of building hotels, but we can play an important role in understanding what our region needs, identifying opportunities and ensuring we have the evidence available when talking with potential investors and developers.

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It also helps us think more broadly about opportunities such as mixed-use developments and how accommodation can support our wider economic development, tourism and events strategies.

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For me, this is exactly the type of forward planning we should be doing.

If we want Mackay to continue attracting major events, conferences, new industries and investment, we need to consider all the infrastructure that sits around that growth and accommodation is part of that picture.

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Sometimes the work happening behind the scenes in council’s advisory committees isn’t particularly visible to the community, but reports like this are important.

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They help us understand where we are today, where the gaps may be tomorrow, and what we can do now to help ensure Mackay is ready for the opportunities ahead.

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If you’re interested in learning more, the full Short-Term Accommodation Needs Analysis is available on Mackay Regional Council’s website at www.discovermackay.com.au/Invest/Resources

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Indigenous businesses from across the Mackay, Whitsunday and Isaac regions will come together with local procurement representatives when the First Nations Business Expo returns to Mackay for its fifth year. Photo supplied

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Over recent years, the Mackay Isaac Whitsunday Indigenous Business Working Group has delivered a series of First Nations business events that have become a key part of Indigenous Business Month celebrations. Next up is the 2026 First Nations Business Expo, set to take place on October 22nd.

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From the original Meet the Buyer Supplier Event to the 2025 expo, the events so far have provided a platform for First Nations businesses to showcase their capabilities, build networks and connect with procurement and growth opportunities.

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What began as a regional networking event has evolved into an annual gathering connecting Indigenous entrepreneurs with government agencies, major industry buyers, procurement specialists, business support organisations and community stakeholders.

Each year, the event has attracted around 115 registrations and featured Indigenous suppliers from a broad range of industries, including construction, engineering, professional services, recruitment, catering, manufacturing, civil works, arts, retail and community services.

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The focus has been on increasing the visibility of First Nations businesses, strengthening buyer-supplier relationships and creating pathways into procurement opportunities.

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The results have included 11 opportunities for further supply of products and services, nine prospective contract or subcontract opportunities, seven potential prequalification opportunities and four invitations to apply for tenders.

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More than 70 per cent of participating businesses reported making between four and 10 new business connections, while 94 per cent said they would recommend the event to other Indigenous businesses.

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The 2025 expo attracted expressions of interest from more than 40 businesses, with 32 First Nations businesses ultimately exhibiting across sectors including mining, tourism, construction, health, education, banking and technology.

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A dedicated procurement panel gave exhibitors the opportunity to hear directly from procurement professionals about upcoming opportunities, supplier requirements and pathways into government and corporate supply chains.

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Feedback from the 2025 event was overwhelmingly positive, with all responding businesses saying they would recommend the expo and participate again. Ninety-five per cent of attendees said they were very likely to use Indigenous businesses they met at the event, while all respondents said they would recommend those businesses to others.

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As the expo continues to grow, it remains a platform for celebrating First Nations business capability while supporting meaningful economic participation and sustainable growth across the Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday regions.

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What? First Nations Business Expo 2026 
When? Thursday 22^nd October 10:30am-2pm 
Where? MECC, North Foyer

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Abortion continues to be the subject of public discussion and differing views across Queensland, with a peaceful march planned in Mackay this Saturday, October 10^th in Mackay, beginning at Harbour Road and finishing at Caneland Central Park.

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Pro-life movement supporters are expected to gather from 8.45am, with speakers to follow at 9am before the march gets underway.

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The Mackay March For Life aims to stand for the value and dignity of every human life, while providing an opportunity for those involved in the pro-life movement to publicly voice their views on abortion, support women and families, and advocate for the protection and dignity of unborn life.

Associated with the Cherish Life organisation, organisers say the event is intended to provide an opportunity for people who support the pro-life movement to publicly express their views on abortion, support for women and families, and the protection and dignity of the unborn.

The march comes as abortion remains a topic of ongoing public discussion, with Queensland legislation setting out the circumstances in which a termination of pregnancy can legally be performed.

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According to the Queensland Government, termination of pregnancy, also referred to as abortion, is a safe and legal healthcare procedure in Queensland.

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The Queensland Government states there are two types of termination: medical and surgical. A medical termination involves taking medicines to end a pregnancy, while a surgical termination involves an operation and is performed in a hospital or private clinic. Depending on gestation, medical termination may be available at home or in hospital, with some people up to nine weeks pregnant able to access medical termination through telehealth.

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Under Queensland law, a medical practitioner may perform a termination when a person is not more than 22 weeks pregnant. After 22 weeks, two medical practitioners must consider the circumstances and both agree that the termination should be performed.

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The Queensland Government states doctors must consider relevant medical circumstances, as well as the person’s current and future physical, psychological and social circumstances and applicable professional standards and guidelines. In an emergency, a termination after 22 weeks may be performed without this consultation if a doctor considers it necessary to save the life of the pregnant person or another unborn child.

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Those wishing to attend the march are invited to meet at Harbour Road from 8.45am on Saturday October 10th with speakers beginning at 9am before the march proceeds to Caneland Central Park.

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What: Mackay March For Life

When: 8.45am, Saturday 10^th October

Where: Harbour Road across from the big banana

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Image for illustrative purposes only. Photo Source: Shutterstock

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Locals looking for a fun and active way to spend their Sunday morning can lace up their walking shoes and head to Bucasia Esplanade for a community Walk & Talk this month.

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Held on Sunday, October 11 as part of Queensland Mental Health Week 2026, the free event will bring Northern Beaches residents together for a relaxed morning of walking, conversation and connection.

The morning will kick off at 8am at the big shade shelter on Bucasia Esplanade, with the Walk & Talk getting underway at 8.15am.

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There is no set distance or pace, making the walk suitable for kids, adults, families, friends, neighbours and everyone in between. Participants can walk for as long as they like before turning around when they are ready.

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Along the way, mindfulness prompts will encourage walkers to slow down, take notice of their surroundings and enjoy a bit of time outdoors. They can also be used as conversation starters for walking buddies or simply as a chance for a quiet moment of reflection.

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After the walk, participants will head to Beachfront Bar & Restaurant from 9.15am for light refreshments, with coffee available to purchase.

Prams are welcome, while dogs can also join in provided they are kept on a lead, with one dog per person.

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The event is co-hosted by Mackay Northern Beaches Lions Club and Northern Beaches Community Network, with registration appreciated for catering purposes.

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WHAT: Walk & Talk Event

WHEN: Sunday, 11^th October

WHERE: Bucasia Esplanade

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BMA CQ Rescue crews have completed a test landing at the newly refurbished Mackay Base Hospital helipad as the facility moves closer to becoming operational. Photo source: BMA CQ Rescue

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BMA CQ Rescue crews have responded to a string of medical emergencies including a near-drowning at Hardy Reef and a horse fall near Proserpine.

The community-funded aeromedical service said its crews were tasked to multiple incidents throughout the week, supporting patients across the region and beyond.

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A male patient involved in a near-drowning at Hardy Reef Pontoon was winched by the rescue helicopter and transported to Mackay Base Hospital.

The crew also responded to several cardiac-related incidents from Emerald and Bowen to Mackay, as well as a horse fall near Proserpine, with the patient transported to Mackay Base Hospital.

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A mother and child were also retrieved from Hamilton Island, with the child requiring assessment for a suspected chest infection.

The team was additionally tasked to Owens Creek following an incident in which a patient sustained burns.

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The patient was treated by the BMA CQ Rescue team before being transported by road to Mackay Base Hospital.

The busy week also saw an important milestone for Mackay's aeromedical services, with the crew completing a test landing and take-off at the newly refurbished Mackay Base Hospital helipad.

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BMA CQ Rescue said the test was an important step towards the helipad becoming operational and the return of aeromedical retrievals to Mackay Base Hospital.

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The service continues to rely on community support to maintain its emergency response capability across the region.

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Conservation dogs Cooper and Wally are helping locate European red fox dens across Mackay to protect local wildlife, particularly nesting turtles and hatchlings. Photo supplied by Mackay Regional Council

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Two four-legged visitors have been putting their noses to work across Mackay, with conservation dogs Cooper and Wally on the hunt for European red fox dens.

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The specially trained English springer spaniels have been working alongside handler Tom Garrett, who has brought the pair to coastal areas across the region each year since 2018 to help locate fox dens.

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European red foxes pose a major threat to native Australian wildlife, including ground-nesting birds, small mammals and turtles.

Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson said the conservation dogs had played a critical role in helping protect native species.

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“Over the years the dogs have helped our Pest Management Team to locate and identify active and inactive fox dens on public and private land between Calen and Cape Palmerston,” Mayor Williamson said.

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“We are particularly concerned about the impact these pest animals have on turtle populations, with foxes not only digging up nests, but also preying on hatchlings as they try to make their way to the water.”

Spokesperson for Mackay and District Turtle Watch, Fay Griffin, said the timing of the detection program is important.

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“Turtle nesting season usually commences in October, with hatching starting in mid-December and continuing until March,” Mrs Griffin said.

“By getting in now and identifying where dens may be, we can try and reduce the chance of turtles being attacked, nests disturbed and hatchlings preyed on.”

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The Flatback Turtle is the most common turtle species nesting in the Mackay region, with the occasional Green Turtle also recorded.

Several years ago, a confirmed Olive Ridley turtle nest was found on one of Mackay’s southern beaches, marking the only confirmed nesting of the species on Australia’s east coast.

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Previous operations have located up to 15 fox dens in a single year, with Calen, Hay Point, Cape Palmerston and Slade Point identified as hotspots.

Foxes found in active dens are humanely euthanised in line with Queensland’s animal welfare laws.

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The work is made possible through partnerships with Queensland Parks and Wildlife, North Queensland Bulk Ports, Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal, Urbex and Reef Catchments.

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Residents concerned about foxes in their area are encouraged to contact council on 1300 MACKAY (622 529).

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Andrew Willcox MP is encouraging Dawson community groups to apply for a share of $150,000 in funding for local projects. Photo supplied

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Local groups with a project on the wish list could have the chance to turn their plans into reality, with a $150,000 funding pool now open across Dawson.

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Mackay and Dawson community groups are being encouraged to think about the projects they have been hoping to get off the ground, with grants of up to $20,000 available through the Stronger Communities Programme.

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Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP is calling on community organisations, not-for-profits and local groups to put forward an Expression of Interest for projects that could benefit their members and the wider community.

“Our communities are full of people with great ideas, but sometimes it is the funding that stands between a good idea and getting it off the ground,” Mr Willcox said.

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“The Stronger Communities Programme is about backing those local ideas and helping community organisations deliver projects that will benefit the people they serve.

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“That could mean new equipment, improvements to a community facility, creating a better shared space or a project that brings people together.

“I want to see what Dawson’s community groups have been working towards and what they could achieve with a little extra support.”

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The programme provides $150,000 for each federal electorate, with grants ranging from $2,500 to $20,000 available for eligible small capital and infrastructure projects.

Projects must have a total cost of no more than $50,000.

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Mr Willcox said even a relatively modest investment could make a difference to local organisations.

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“Local volunteers do an enormous amount with very little, and I know there are plenty of groups across Dawson with projects sitting on a wish list waiting for the opportunity to make them happen,” he said.

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“This is a chance to move some of those projects from the wish list to the work list.

“I encourage community groups to start thinking about what would make a real difference to their members and their local community, and get their Expression of Interest in.”

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Eligible organisations must have an Australian Business Number and meet the programme’s eligibility requirements. Projects must be completed by March 31, 2028.

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Funding can cover up to 100 per cent of eligible project costs for eligible applicants other than local governing bodies. Local governing bodies can receive up to 50 per cent, with at least 50 per cent matched funding required.

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Expressions of interest close at 5pm on Sunday 25^th October 2026.

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