Photo credit: Mikey Bartlett

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Piles of black smoke smothered Bucasia skies last Friday morning as emergency services raced to a shed fire on Downie Avenue.

Emergency services were called to the address at approximately 9.20am on Friday 19^th June 2026, after reports a carport had ignited, with a boat and vehicle also engulfed in flames.

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Residents gathered along the roadside as crews worked to bring the blaze under control and de-escalate the situation.

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Authorities confirmed all occupants were accounted for, with nearby homes evacuated as a precaution. No injuries were reported.

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At the time of reporting, the carport, boat and vehicle were fully engulfed, with emergency services continuing operations at the scene.  

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Updates may follow **

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Before and after photos of the river clean-up. Photos: Mackay Regional Council

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A number of derelict vessels have recently been removed from the Pioneer River in Mackay as part of Maritime Safety Queensland’s Keeping Our Waterways Safe initiative.

The operation forms part of an ongoing program aimed at improving safety, navigation and environmental conditions across the region’s waterways.

Since 2018, more than 150 derelict and abandoned vessels have now been removed from Mackay waterways, with all highly visible wrecks in the area now cleared.

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Officials say the removal of abandoned vessels is a complex process requiring specialist contractors, detailed planning and environmental management to ensure waterways are safely restored for community use.

The latest clean-up was supported by Mackay Regional Council, helping deliver a cleaner, safer and more accessible river environment for locals to enjoy.

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Nearly 50 Year 12 students celebrated the end of their schooling journey in style at the VMR Hall in Cannonvale last week. The elegant formal gathering brought together students, families and the wider community for a memorable evening of music, food and festivities.

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Styled with black, crystal and dusty pink décor, the event featured live music from Ash Smith, a student-themed trivia competition, a DJ-led dance floor and even non-alcoholic champagne to add to the air of celebration.  

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Standout contributors were the VMR event organisers, and Deputy Principal Kate Moreto, who personally prepared the evening's dinner service. Spending the day cooking, Kate put together a delicious spread for the students to enjoy.  

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“That was a massive hit with the kids,” said Year 11 and 12 Pastoral Leader Natalie Hazleton.  

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“She actually cooked all day long on Thursday, making three different meals and three different sides and desserts, and the kids loved it.”

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The 2026 Show Whitsunday Cane Exhibit brought together growers from across the district to celebrate the skill and pride that goes into producing some of the region's best sugarcane.

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A longstanding feature of the show, this year’s exhibit highlighted 100 years of Canegrowers, whilst providing an opportunity for growers to showcase their crops and compete across a range of categories, from plant and ratoon cane to sugar content, district exhibits and youth competitions.  

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“It went really well, despite it being a bit wet,” said Brendan Nothard from Canegrowers Proserpine.  

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“It was good to see growers turn up and put their best cane forward.”  

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The competition continues to be an important part of the show, not only recognising excellence in cane production but giving opportunity for the agricultural community to share knowledge, celebrate achievements and support one another.

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One of the highlights of this year's exhibit was the inaugural Schools’ Sweetest Cane Program, which saw five schools from across the district grow and manage their own cane crops on school grounds.  

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Supported by their mentors, Canegrowers Proserpine and Sugar Services Proserpine staff, students were involved in every stage of the process, from planting and growing through to harvesting, juicing and testing their cane to determine which school produced the sweetest crop.  

Proserpine State High School was named the program’s first winner, with organisers encouraged by the strong support shown by participating schools and hopeful the initiative will continue.  

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“The school seemed really supportive of the program, and hopefully we can continue with it into the longer-term future,” Brendan said.  

A special thank you goes to the judges, volunteers, sponsors and industry partners including Sugar Services Proserpine, Sugar Research Australia and Canegrowers Proserpine for their ongoing support.  

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Results

Watts Farming had an impressive year, winning Champion Six Stalks of the Show and taking home CANEGROWERS Proserpine Insurance Trophy.  

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Dale Holcombe was another standout exhibitor, claiming Champion Stool of Ratoon Cane, the Overall Heaviest Stalk with a weight of 4.25kg, Highest Quantity of CCS in Plant Cane, and first place in the CANEGROWERS Young Farmers Trophy.

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In the District Exhibit competition, Lethebrook was awarded first place, followed by Kelsey Creek and Town. Jeppesen Farming won Champion Stool of Plant Cane, while John Casey secured the award for Highest Quantity of CCS in Four Stalks of Ratoon Cane.

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The next generation of cane growers showcased their promise, with Emily Holcombe taking out first place in the Kids Cane Under 18s section, ahead of Connie Linneweber and Max, Bella and Vincent Orr.

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Jannah Baker, Emma Murphy, Giulian Grasso  

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Local business owners and professionals gathered recently for the Whitsundays Chamber June Business Breakfast Briefing presented by Emma Murphy of nbn Co., gaining valuable insights into internet connectivity, technology options, and network upgrades available across the Whitsundays.

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One of the key discussion points was the difference between residential and business-grade internet services. Attendees learned that eligible premises across the Whitsundays have access to a range of residential, business and enterprise-grade fibre options, with business-grade services offering faster upload speeds and enhanced support.

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The briefing also addressed some of the most common questions received by nbn Co. representatives.

Many attendees were surprised to learn they have access to a wide range of retail service providers and are not limited to a single provider.  

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Another topic of strong interest was fibre upgrades. More than 12,000 premises across the Whitsunday region are currently eligible to upgrade to full fibre. Unlike ageing copper infrastructure, fibre is less susceptible to environmental factors such as water ingress, corrosion, and temperature fluctuations, providing a more reliable and weather-resilient connection.

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Attendees also heard that older Wi-Fi routers can often contribute to poor internet performance, while router placement within a home or business can also significantly impact connectivity. Upgrading equipment or introducing a mesh Wi-Fi system can often improve performance.

The session reinforced the importance of reliable digital infrastructure in supporting local businesses.

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Andrew Willcox MP, Lucas Purdie and School Principal Adam Wheaton. Photo supplied

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A passion for politics, regional advocacy and Australia's future has earned Whitsunday Anglican School student Lucas Purdie the title of Dawson's Youth Representative for the inaugural 2026 National Youth Parliament, where he will represent the electorate in Canberra this August.  

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Selected from more than 2,000 applicants competing for just 150 positions nationwide, Lucas will travel to Canberra in August to join young leaders from all over Australia in debating national issues and gaining firsthand experience of the parliamentary process.

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“It will be especially interesting to talk about the issues we are currently facing as a nation with other students from around Australia and with Members of our Federal Parliament,” Lucas said.  

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“I am looking forward to representing our electorate, and creating connections as my aspiration for the future is to go into politics.”

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This achievement comes with the support of Lucas’s school and local community, who are proud to see what the aspiring young politician will bring to the National Youth Parliament.  

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“This achievement is a testament to his dedication, leadership, and passion for making a positive difference in the community,” said Whitsunday Anglican School Principal Mr. Andrew Wheaton.  

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“We wish Lucas every success as he embarks on this exciting journey, serving as an inspirational advocate for our region!"

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A strong advocate for regional Australia, Lucas is particularly passionate about securing greater investment in the Bruce Highway, which he believes remains critically underfunded despite its importance to communities across North Queensland.  

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“Our national highway is a major issue, as thousands of people rely on this crucial infrastructure every day,” Lucas said.  

“This isn’t a new topic, but the fact is it needs further investment now.”

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Alongside pushing regional issues, Lucas has a keen interest in international affairs and emerging technologies, particularly the growing influence of artificial intelligence.  

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“I believe that how we integrate AI will be crucial to growing the Australian economy into the future and we should focus on augmentation, not automation, which will allow workers to do more,” Lucas said.

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Lucas’s interest in politics has been shaped by a unique international upbringing. Born in the United Kingdom to a British father and an American mother, he moved to Australia with his mother at the age of seven following the death of his father.

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Now holding both British and Australian citizenship, Lucas said growing up across different countries and cultures has given him a broader perspective on world affairs and Australia's place within them. That experience sparked a strong interest in international relations and the role Australia plays on the global stage, helping fuel his ambition to pursue a future in politics.

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“I have come to truly realise why people say we live in the best country in the world,” Lucas said.  

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“My goal is to affect positive change to benefit all Australians into the future.”

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The 2026 State Budget was handed down on Tuesday, with the Queensland Government focusing on stability amid global uncertainty while laying the foundations for the state's future growth and prosperity.

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Delivered by Queensland Treasurer David Janetzki, the budget aims to ease cost-of-living pressures while delivering record investment in health services.

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Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP said the Queensland Budget has delivered significant investment for the Whitsundays, welcoming the budget and saying it provides tangible benefits for local families, businesses and communities.

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“The Treasurer has just handed down the Government’s second Budget and there is great news for Mackay and the Whitsundays,” Ms Camm said.

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Among the headline announcements is increased investment in health services with a major expansion of Mackay Base Hospital announced.

There will be at least 128 additional overnight beds under the Government’s Hospital Rescue Plan and the budget also funds growth in the hospital workforce, increasing staffing levels to almost 3,000 full-time equivalent health workers across the Mackay and Whitsunday region.

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Road users across the region are also set to benefit from increased infrastructure spending.  

The Budget locks in Queensland’s historic 80:20 funding agreement with the Federal Government to deliver $9 billion in Bruce Highway upgrades, including projects aimed at improving safety, flood resilience and freight efficiency along one of Australia’s most important transport corridors.

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Ms Camm said the Government remained committed to working towards long-term solutions for the flood-prone Goorganga Plains section of the Bruce Highway, an issue that regularly disrupts tourism, freight movements and supply chains during severe weather events.

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“Continued investment in the Bruce Highway and progress on the Goorganga Plains project is critical for our region,” Ms Camm said.

The Budget also includes continued investment in frontline policing and community safety measures, supporting the Government’s broader focus on reducing crime and improving community confidence across regional Queensland.

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“Local leaders have long argued that regional Queensland deserves infrastructure investment that matches its contribution to the state’s economy,” said Ms Camm.

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“This year’s Budget responds to that call, with significant funding directed towards healthcare, safer roads and stronger frontline services that will benefit local families, businesses and communities for years to come.”

Member for Burdekin Dale Last said the Budget delivered practical investments that would strengthen the Bowen community while providing relief for families facing ongoing cost-of-living pressures.  

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“This Budget is about delivering for local families and ensuring our communities have the infrastructure and services they need now and into the future,” Mr Last said.  

“Reliable services are essential for our region. These investments will ensure local residents, growers and businesses can continue to access safe, secure and reliable services.”  

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“We know families are still feeling the pressure of higher household costs,” Mr Last said.  

“That’s why we’re continuing to deliver targeted relief while also investing in the services and infrastructure our communities rely on every day.”

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State Wide Snapshot

• Making Queensland Safer with more police, stronger laws, early intervention and rehabilitation.  

• Fuel Security Plan with Taroom Trough fast-tracked, new refineries and more local fuel storage.  

• 3 new and 10 expanded hospitals with more free healthcare than ever before.  

• 7% decrease in Ergon power prices for families under the Energy Roadmap Price Drop.  

• Bruce Highway upgrades and new road and rail projects to get you home sooner and safer.  

• 22 new schools and 4 new TAFE Centres of Excellence for a growing State, with a $150 Back to School Boost for primary school students.

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Whitsunday Budget Highlights

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Whitsunday Skyway At Airlie Beach

Supporting construction of the tourist Skyway in Airlie Beach with $5 million over two years.  

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Shute Harbour boat ramp

Investing in a new four-lane boat ramp at Shute Harbour. Part of the Safer Roads, Better Transport Initiative.  

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Proserpine Replacement Police Facility

Replacement of the police facility in Proserpine to support frontline policing services and enhance community safety.

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Rural Fire Brigade Stations

A replacement rural fire brigade station at Abbot Point to support fire and emergency services to the community.

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Generational Infrastructure Upgrades

Restoration of the heritage-listed Bowen Courthouse and replacement of the Bowen Wharf.  

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Local Sports Club Upgrades

Investing in local club facility improvements for Airlie Beach Bowls Club, Bowen Seagulls Rugby League Club, and Whitsunday Brahmans RLFC.  

Residential Activation Fund

Delivering essential infrastructure and utility connections to support residential development in Bowen South, Cannonvale and Proserpine.

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More social and community housing

Expanding and improving social and community housing across the Mackay Whitsundays region, with 121 homes in construction or under contract.

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2.7-Tonne, $816 Million Drug Shipment Passed Through Whitsunday Waters

A truck fire at Midge Point has helped expose what authorities describe as Australia’s largest cocaine importation plot, with investigators alleging a 2.7-tonne drug shipment worth $816 million passed through Whitsunday waters before being transported to Sydney. The investigation has so far resulted in six arrests and uncovered an alleged trafficking operation spanning hundreds of kilometres along the east coast.

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Record Setting Drugs Smuggled into Midge Point

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A major drug investigation that started at Midge Point has resulted in Australia's largest-ever cocaine bust, with authorities alleging a 2.7-tonne shipment uncovered in Sydney was imported through North Queensland as part of an organised crime operation.  

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On Friday 19^th June, AFP officers searched a semi-rural property in Londonderry where, after two men allegedly fled the scene, they discovered containers of cocaine hidden beneath the floor boards. The seizure had an estimated street value of $816 million.

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On May 30^th 2026, at around 8:05, police were notified of a flatbed truck on fire right outside of a boat ramp on Jimmy Rocks Road, Midge Point.  

After a full investigation of the scene, police located 40kg of cocaine and later identified a 41-year-old Mackay man as the truck's owner, sending investigators on a trail that eventually landed them in Sydney.  

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Six people have now been charged over their alleged involvement in the operation, including two Petrie residents and a New South Wales man accused of helping collect and move the drugs after they arrived near Midge Point.  

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Police allege the group played various roles in the attempted importation and distribution network, charging individuals with offences related to possession of illicit drugs, or conspiracy to possess them.  

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“This result highlights the strength of the Queensland Joint Organised Crime Taskforce and the importance of strong partnerships between frontline police, specialist investigators and our Commonwealth law enforcement partners,” Detective Acting Chief Superintendent Troy Pukallus said in an AFP media release on June 22nd.  

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“This outcome has removed a significant quantity of cocaine and methamphetamine from the criminal market and prevented these dangerous drugs from causing further harm in Queensland and more broadly across Australia.

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“What began with the actions of Mackay police and the Mackay Criminal Investigation Branch following the discovery of drugs at Midge Point evolved into a sophisticated, multi-agency investigation targeting an organised criminal network.

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“Investigations of this scale require experience, persistence and collaboration, and I want to acknowledge the dedication of all officers involved in bringing this matter before the courts and protecting the community from the harm these drugs can cause.”

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The vessel suspected of importing the illicit drugs into Midge Point has been discovered and detained by authorities off the Solomon Islands.  

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Like most young people, I lived in a rental property for some years before buying my first home.

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I had left home in Canberra and was living in Melbourne, initially in shared rental properties. It was a bit weird but there would be ads in the paper saying a room was available for a “guy/girl” and applications were invited.

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If you had a pulse and some form of income you got a room pretty quickly.

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Initially I was in various flats … we didn’t call them “apartments” or “units” in those days and the flats I lived in were cheap, unadorned, small and cold.

At one stage I was one of three young blokes in a two-bedroom flat in Clifton Hill. It was a ridiculous set-up made worse by the fact that one of them was an angry lunatic who wanted to fight people.

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I got out of there as quickly as possible. Soon after I vacated the flat and left the lunatic to his own devices, Clifton Hill was the scene of the tragic Hoddle St Massacre in which a gunman killed seven people. I assumed it was my former flat mate but it turned out there were two lunatics in Clifton Hill.

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There were other flats … Brunswick and St Kilda and a terrace house in Coburg. If you enjoy a cold climate you should try living in an old two-storey terrace house in Coburg with a malfunctioning fire place on a winter’s night.

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Later in my 20s I bought my own unit and my property journey became far more civilized and warmer. But the point is that I needed those rental properties. They were part of the journey when I needed cheap accommodation while at uni and starting off in a career at the lower end of the pay scale.

The current Federal Government needs to remember that for there to be rental properties there needs to be investors who bought them and who make them available for tenants.

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There is no doubt that the increasing housing prices had become ridiculous in cities like Sydney and prices have been increasing in recent years in regional Queensland as well. It’s a demand and supply thing … lots of people and not enough houses. Extremely high levels of immigration will do that.

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But the government, rather than looking at immigration numbers, has decided to bash the life out of investment opportunities for “mum and dad investors”. Negative gearing is gone, capital gains tax is up and, the latest one, people are now banned from borrowing money to buy an investment property through their self-managed superannuation.

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People who had a little bit of money tucked away used to be able to take out a loan and buy an investment property to help set them up in their retirement years. My wife and I bought a few several years ago and I thought at the time that it was a great opportunity for the average Joe, rather than the high end of town, which doesn’t need to buy through their super.

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Anyway, that’s gone and the government, in lock-step with the Greens, has pretty much stomped on any aspirational ideas ordinary people might have because there is now no incentive to try and create financial opportunities for mum and dad and the family unit.

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That’s great for the Greens and the socialist left who find beauty in the bland but not so good for people willing to work hard, make investments and try to get ahead while at the same time ensuring they are not a burden on the taxpayer in their later years.

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It’s also not so good for young people like me all those years ago needing a rental property. I don’t know who is going to buy an investment property so I don’t know how young students and people starting out are going to find a rental. And the lack of rentals will push rent prices up. Job done!

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Bianca O'Brien (Left)works with Blacks Real Estate as a Commercial Property Manager. Photo supplied Makayla Groves (Right)works as a Commercial Property Manager with Blacks Real Estate. Photo supplied

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Makayla Groves and Bianca O'Brien are part of the commercial property team at Blacks Real Estate, supporting landlords, tenants and business owners across the Mackay region.

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Working as Commercial Property Managers, Makayla and Bianca assist with the day-to-day management of commercial properties, helping clients navigate leasing and property management requirements across retail, office and industrial spaces.

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Based at the agency’s Wood Street office, the pair work closely with business clients throughout the region as part of Blacks Real Estate’s commercial division.

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Makayla Groves can be contacted on 07 4963 2522, while Bianca O’Brien can be contacted on 07 4963 2525.

Nestled in the heart of Andergrove, MacKillop Catholic Primary School may be small in size, but it continues to make a big impact on the lives of its students and families.

Catering for approximately 160 students from Prep to Year 6, MacKillop offers a close-knit, welcoming environment where every child is known, valued and supported. Guided by its mission to “work together, participate and have a go,” the school community fosters a strong culture of collaboration, inclusion and enthusiasm for learning.

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At the core of the school’s identity is its Catholic faith, reflected in the values of Faith and Service inspired by St Mary of the Cross MacKillop. Notably, the school shares a special connection to its patron saint, having been established in 1995, the same year she was beatified. This legacy continues to shape the school’s commitment to compassion, resilience and community spirit.

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MacKillop provides a well-rounded education through a comprehensive curriculum that includes weekly specialist lessons in Physical Education, The Arts and STEM. Students are also encouraged to extend their talents beyond the classroom, with opportunities to participate in a wide range of extra-curricular activities such as Eisteddfod, sporting events, Opti-Minds, Readers Cup and the Mackay Primary School Mathematics Challenge.

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Supporting every child’s learning journey is a key priority. The school offers both learning support and extension programs, ensuring that students of all abilities are challenged and nurtured. Wellbeing is equally important, with a dedicated counsellor available two days a week to support student mental health and emotional development.

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A strong sense of community is evident in the school’s daily life. Parental involvement is highly valued, creating a genuine partnership between home and school that enhances student outcomes. Initiatives such as buddy classes, where older students mentor younger peers, help foster friendships, leadership skills and a sense of belonging across year levels.

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Faith is lived and celebrated at MacKillop through regular worship, including fortnightly Class Masses and Liturgies. Meanwhile, whole-school initiatives like the “Manner of the Week” encourage positive behaviour, respect and shared values, recognised during weekly assemblies.

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Innovation also plays an important role in modern learning at MacKillop. Classrooms are equipped with technology including Chromebooks, iPads, interactive projectors and robotics tools like Bee-Bots, ensuring students are prepared for the digital world.

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Staff at MacKillop are committed to nurturing the whole child. Many are trained in Berry Street’s trauma-informed practices, implementing strategies such as Welcome and Closing Circles, brain breaks, and personalised learning plans to help students feel safe, regulated and ready to learn each day.

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Beyond school hours, MacKillop continues to support families through its Outside School Hours Care program, offering engaging before and after school care, as well as vacation care tailored to children’s interests.

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From classroom showcases to parish connections, MacKillop Catholic Primary School continues to demonstrate that a strong community, grounded in faith and care, can create a truly enriching educational experience.

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In Andergrove, MacKillop isn’t just a school, it’s a community where every child is encouraged to grow, belong and thrive.

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In an era where parents are increasingly seeking more than academic outcomes alone, St Francis Xavier Catholic Primary School in West Mackay stands out as a place where education is both deeply personal and community focused. For families weighing their options, the school offers a compelling blend of strong values, supportive relationships, and well-rounded learning opportunities that extend far beyond the classroom.

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At its heart, St Francis Xavier is grounded in Catholic identity. This is not simply about religious instruction, but about fostering a culture of respect, compassion, and shared responsibility. Students are encouraged to develop a sense of purpose and moral awareness, learning to care for others and contribute positively to their community. For many families, this values-based approach provides reassurance that their children are being shaped not only academically but also ethically.

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Equally important is the school’s emphasis on belonging. Parents often describe primary school settings like St Francis Xavier as having a “family feel,” and this is where the school excels. Students are known by name, their strengths recognised, and their needs understood. Teachers and staff work closely with families, fostering open communication and genuine partnership. In a regional city like Mackay, this sense of connection is particularly valued; it reflects the broader community spirit while giving children confidence and security in their daily learning environment.

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Academically, the school offers a structured, yet engaging curriculum designed to meet the needs of diverse learners. While maintaining high expectations, St Francis Xavier recognises that children learn in different ways and at different paces. Programs are tailored to support both extension and intervention, ensuring that each student can grow. Literacy and numeracy remain foundational priorities, but the focus extends to critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills that are increasingly essential in a changing world.

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Beyond academics, the school offers a wide range of co-curricular activities that enrich student life. Opportunities in sport, arts, music, and cultural activities allow children to discover their interests and build confidence. Participation in these pursuits helps develop teamwork, resilience, and leadership; qualities that are difficult to measure in tests but invaluable in life.

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Another notable strength is the integration of wellbeing into everyday school life. Recognising that learning cannot thrive without emotional support, St Francis Xavier places emphasis on student wellbeing programs. This includes fostering positive relationships, teaching social skills, and providing guidance support when needed. For families, knowing that their child’s mental and emotional health is prioritised is as important as academic success.

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Technology and contemporary learning practices also form part of the offering. Like many modern schools, St Francis Xavier incorporates digital tools to enhance learning while maintaining a balanced approach. The aim is not simply to use technology, but to teach students how to use it responsibly and effectively; a critical skill in today’s digital landscape.

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Accessibility and community engagement further strengthen the school’s appeal. As part of Catholic education in Queensland, it remains committed to welcoming families from a range of backgrounds. School events, liturgies, and community activities provide regular opportunities for parents to be involved, reinforcing the partnership between home and school.

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Ultimately, what St Francis Xavier Catholic Primary School offers families is more than a place of education it offers a community. It is a place where children are supported academically, nurtured spiritually, and encouraged socially. For parents in West Mackay seeking a balanced, values-driven education with a strong sense of belonging, St Francis Xavier presents itself as a thoughtful and dependable choice.

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In a competitive educational landscape, that combination of care, consistency, and community may well be its greatest strength.

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Contributed by Mackay Pet Rescue Inc

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We are completely baffled.

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Honestly, we thought these two would have been adopted weeks ago. Just look at them.

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With their predominantly white coats, stunning markings and golden eyes, The Snow Queen and The Heartbreaker are two of the most unusual kittens we have welcomed into care in a very long time. Predominantly white kittens like these are incredibly rare in rescue. We can go a year or more without seeing kittens with colouring this beautiful.

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But their looks are only part of the story.

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The Snow Queen is sweet, affectionate and easy-going. She loves exploring, chasing toys and curling up nearby when the day is done.

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The Heartbreaker is confident, playful and determined to be involved in absolutely everything. If you're making the bed, folding washing or opening treats, he'll be there to supervise.

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Together they are the perfect combination of fun, affection and companionship.

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They love people, enjoy being part of family life and have the sort of personalities that make them impossible not to love.

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Yet somehow they are both still waiting.

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Whether you are looking for one special kitten or considering adopting a ready-made duo, these two beautiful souls are ready to fill your home with love, laughter and plenty of kitten mischief.

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Could The Snow Queen or The Heartbreaker be the missing piece in your family?

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Contact Kim today on 0403 351 639 for more information

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This week I had a client media training sesh and it was one of those days that reminds you why you do what you do.

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This particular group has a really significant role in our community, and speaking with the media is a regular part of the job. Sometimes they get to talk about something positive, but often they're being asked to comment on difficult situations and explain complex issues in a way that is clear and easy for the public to understand.

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It's intense. Just like the rest of their work.

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Most people don't spend their days being interviewed by journalists, and even those who do can find it challenging. You're trying to think about the facts, the audience, the message you want to get across and the questions you might be asked – all while trying not to say um or show any signs of being nervous. Not easy.

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What impressed me most with these guys was how willing they were to get involved. They threw themselves into the training, asked great questions and really supported each other – especially through my “slightly challenging” prac section. And at the end, I knew they’d really taken something away from it – mainly because they told me so!

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Driving home afterwards, I found myself reflecting on how easy it is to overlook the value of the skills we have – because we use them every day.

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For me, communications and marketing are all literally a normal work week. I've spent years learning those skills, practising them and helping others to develop them. But watching someone walk away feeling more capable and confident was a reminder that the things we know anddo every day can have a genuine impact on other people.

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When you're busy trying to keep up with work, family, commitments and the endless list of things that need doing, it's easy to focus on what hasn't been done yet. The jobs still sitting on your list. The emails you haven't answered. The projects you're still working through.

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What we often don't stop to think about is the difference we've already made.

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Chances are you've helped someone this week. It may have been something that felt small or routine to you, but it could have made a real difference to them. Sometimes it's worth taking a moment to remember that.

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At a time when families across Capricornia are already feeling the pinch, the Albanese Labor Government has made a decision that will hit some of our most vulnerable Australians the hardest.

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Labor’s plan to cut the Private Health Insurance Rebate is nothing more than an $11 billion tax grab, one that disproportionately impacts older Australians who have done the right thing their entire lives.

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For decades, many of our retirees have made sacrifices to maintain private health cover. They’ve worked hard, paid their taxes, and taken personal responsibility for their healthcare easing the pressure on our public hospital system in the process. Now, under this policy, those same Australians are being asked to pay more, simply to help fix Labor’s Budget position.

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For a couple over 65 with gold cover, this could mean an extra $1,600 a year. For individuals, more than $800. That’s not small change especially for people living on fixed incomes during a cost-of-living crisis.

This is not reform. It’s a penalty.

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Labor claims this policy will address so-called “generational inequity.” But that simply doesn’t stack up. What it does is shift the burden from the Budget straight onto households and ultimately onto our already stretched public health system.

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Independent modelling shows for every dollar the Government “saves” by cutting the rebate, the public system will be hit with even higher costs. And that’s common sense because when private health becomes unaffordable, people drop their cover.

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We’re told at least 44,000 older Australians are expected to leave private health insurance altogether. Industry estimates suggest the number could be far higher. That means more people turning up to emergency departments, longer wait times for elective surgery, and increased pressure on local hospitals.

In regional communities like ours, we already know the challenges ambulance ramping, bed shortages and delays for critical procedures. Policies like this will only make those pressures worse.

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Let’s be clear: the rebate for older Australians wasn’t introduced by accident. It was deliberate policy to recognise that retirees are often on fixed incomes, while also being more likely to need hospital care. Supporting them to stay in the private system wasn’t just fair it was smart. It reduced demand on public hospitals and kept the entire system functioning more effectively.

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Now, that sensible policy is being dismantled.

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This decision sends the wrong message. It tells Australians that even if you plan ahead, take responsibility and try not to rely on the public system you’ll still be penalised.

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The Coalition believes in supporting those who have worked hard and contributed to our country. We believe in strengthening both the public and private health systems—not undermining one to prop up short-term Budget figures.

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Labor should reconsider this policy. Because the reality is simple this isn’t a saving. It’s a cost shift. And in the end, Australians of all ages will pay the price.

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