More than 1,000 primary students experienced the energy and talent of St Patrick's College during this year's Cultural Tour, with eight performances delivered across three days to local Catholic primary schools.

Featuring the College's Dance Troupe, Choir, Drum Corps, Stage Band and Concert Band, the high-energy showcase highlighted the many co-curricular opportunities available to students while captivating audiences with music, dance and performance.

Feedback from primary students included praise for both the performances and the opportunities on offer. 

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One student said, "All of the performances were really good, I really liked the band and the drumming at the end," while another shared, "I liked the dance.” 

Other students commented that "everyone gets to do something they like" and that there are "lots of different opportunities" available at the College.

The enthusiastic response from audiences made months of preparation worthwhile. 

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St Patrick's College congratulates all students involved for their dedication and thanks parents and staff for their support in making the Cultural Tour such a success.

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Contributed with thanks to St Patrick’s College.

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Mackay Regional Council has adopted a new activation plan for the Sarina Field of Dreams Precinct, focused on boosting tourism, community engagement and collaboration across the popular Sarina destination. Photo supplied

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Mackay Regional Council has adopted an activation plan for the Sarina Field of Dreams Precinct, aimed at strengthening the site as a vibrant community and tourism destination.

The precinct brings together attractions including the Mackay Region Visitor Information Centre, Sarina Sugar Shed, Sarina Art Gallery, Sarina Arts and Craft Centre and the new Sarina District Historical Centre, formerly Sarina Museum.

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The plan focuses on attracting locals through regular events and experiences, increasing tourism visitation and strengthening collaboration between community groups and volunteers.

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During consultation, the decision was made to hand the Sarina Museum collection back to the community through the newly incorporated Sarina and District Historical Society, which will operate the Sarina District Historical Centre from the former Sarina Museum building under a licence agreement provided by council.

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L-R Gary Minter Jumbo's Business Supplies, Erin Ryley Community Bank Sarina Manager, Kylie Schulze Customer Relationships Officer, Geoff O’Connor SBB Partners Director.

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As the end of financial year approaches, it’s a good opportunity for business owners to review their goals and performance while making sure everything is organised heading into the new financial year.  

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If you run a small business, work as a sole trader or manage a growing team, taking the time to review your finances and business operations can reduce stress later.  

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For example – here are five practical EOFY tips you can consider:  

• Review your business performance – taking the time to reflect on the past 12 months, review what’s working well and consider goals for the year ahead.

• Prepare your paperwork – keeping records and paperwork organised can make processes smoother and reduce any unnecessary stress later.  

• Chase any outstanding invoices – checking on outstanding invoices and upcoming bills can assist businesses in maintaining a clearer picture of their cash flow.

• Review subscriptions and regular expenses – taking a closer look at subscriptions, recurring payments and ongoing costs can assist with identifying areas that may no longer suit your business needs.

• Time to plan ahead – reviewing systems, processes and priorities can set your business up for a strong start moving forward.

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Running a business can mean wearing many hats, so having the right support and staying on top can make a real difference.  

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We’re proud to support local businesses and the people behind them. As a profit for purpose organisation, every customer who chooses to bank with Community Bank Sarina also contributes towards investing in our community.  

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For assistance to review your business goals or current circumstances, come in and see the friendly team at 37 Broad Street, Sarina or call us on 07 4943 2634.

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Any advice provided in this article is of a general nature only and does not take into account your personal needs, objectives and financial circumstances. You should consider whether it is appropriate for your situation. Please read the applicable product disclosure statement(s) on our website bendigobank.com.au before acquiring any product. All loans are subject to the bank’s normal lending criteria. Fees, charges, terms and conditions apply and are subject to change. Credit provided by Bendigo and Adelaide Bank Limited ABN 11 068 049 178 Australian Credit Licence 237879.

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CANEGROWERS says growers support strong environmental protections but want greater clarity around how proposed changes to federal environmental laws could affect routine farming activities. Photo source: ABC

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Mackay businesses, landholders and community groups are being encouraged to have their say on proposed changes to Australia's national environmental laws, with the Queensland Productivity Commission (QPC) opening public consultation on the economic impacts of reforms to the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act.

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The independent inquiry will examine concerns around compliance costs, project delays and regulatory uncertainty, as well as the potential impacts of excluding resource projects from the EPBC National Interest Fast Track Assessment Pathway.

Mackay is one of seven regional centres selected to host consultation events as part of the review, with submissions open until 13th July.

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Queensland Treasurer David Janetzki said the inquiry would help assess how the proposed federal changes could affect key industries across the state.

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"Queensland's economic strength has been built on the industries that feed, fuel and supply markets right across the world," Mr Janetzki said.

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"Creating jobs, lifting productivity and ensuring environmental policy strengthens our economy is firmly in the national interest."

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Mr Janetzki said the State Government wanted to ensure environmental policies supported economic growth while maintaining strong environmental standards.

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The consultation is seeking input from stakeholders across the agricultural, housing, construction and resources sectors, alongside environmental organisations and community members.

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While the federal approval process is not typically a major issue for day-to-day cane farming operations in the Mackay region, CANEGROWERS says growers are closely watching the proposed changes and the potential implications for agricultural landholders.

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CANEGROWERS Chief Executive Officer Dan Galligan said growers supported effective environmental protections but wanted greater certainty around how the laws would apply to routine farming activities.

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"Cane growers understand the importance of strong environmental protections, but any regulation has to be practical, clear and proportionate," Mr Galligan said.

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"Our concern is that these proposed changes could create further uncertainty around normal farming operations, future land use flexibility and long-term investment decisions."

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Mr Galligan said growers should not be left uncertain about whether routine activities such as drainage maintenance, erosion repair, firebreak management, flood recovery works or returning agricultural land to production could trigger additional federal approvals.

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"What we would like to see is greater clarity for landholders, proper recognition of Queensland's existing environmental regulations, and a more practical approach to continuing agricultural use and routine farm management," he said.

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CANEGROWERS will encourage members to participate in the consultation process and provide feedback on how the proposed changes could affect farming businesses.

An interim report from the inquiry is expected in November, with a final report to be delivered to the Queensland Government in April next year.

The sale of Anglo American’s Queensland metallurgical coal portfolio in a deal worth up to $5.4 billion has been welcomed by the Queensland Government as a major vote of confidence in the state’s mining sector and the Bowen Basin economy.

UK-based mining company Dhilmar Limited will acquire stakes in Anglo American’s Grosvenor, Moranbah North, Capcoal, Aquila and Dawson coal mines — key operations connected to the Mackay region’s mining workforce and supply chain network.

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The deal follows several major investments across Queensland’s resources sector, including Yancoal Australia’s investment in Kestrel Coal Mine and Argo Queensland’s deal involving Broadlea, Carborough Downs and Ironbark mines.

Queensland Minister for Natural Resources and Mines Dale Last said the sale reflected strong international confidence in Queensland coal assets.

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“The Crisafulli Government is restoring investor confidence through a stable and predictable operating environment - exactly as we promised - and the sheer interest from global investors in these assets is reflective of that,” Mr Last said.

“I have said time and time again – there is strong global interest in Queensland’s world-class metallurgical and thermal coal assets, and the sale of Anglo’s coal portfolio brings welcomed investment in our resource rich State.”

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Mr Last said the Bowen Basin remained one of the world’s leading coal regions, supported by a skilled workforce and strong industry demand.

“Queensland’s Bowen Basin is home to some of the world’s best coal backed by a highly skilled workforce, leading environmental approvals and a government that delivers on its word.”

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The sale remains subject to approval from the Foreign Investment Review Board.

The Government said projects backed since coming to office are expected to support more than 5,000 mining jobs across Queensland.

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Coalition representatives are urging the Australian Government to strengthen protections for cane growers as the nation’s Sugar Code of Conduct undergoes a major review.

The review comes as the existing code, introduced by the former Coalition Government, approaches its 10-year sunset period and faces a decision on whether it will be renewed or remade.

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Shadow Minister for Northern Australia Susan McDonald said the code had played a critical role in protecting growers during negotiations with large milling companies.

“The Sugar Code of Conduct was introduced for a reason, and it has proven effective,” she said.

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“Cane growers often have limited leverage when negotiating with large mills, and the code provides important protections to ensure negotiations are fair and disputes can be resolved. We do not want to see growers lose the safeguards that have helped deliver certainty and stability across the industry.”

Senator McDonald said the review also presented an opportunity to consider how the code could apply to emerging sugar cane products including ethanol and biofuels.

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“As the industry evolves into ethanol, biofuels and other value-added products, it makes sense to consult growers and industry about whether sensible adaptations are required,” she said.

“But any future changes must preserve the strong protections already provided under the code.”

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Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox said the review needed to recognise the mounting pressures already facing cane farmers.

“This review must recognise that our cane farmers are the ones taking all the risk with mother nature, while dealing with massive global price fluctuations and rising input costs,” he said.

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“This Code was designed to level the playing field and ensure that negotiations are handled in good faith. We have already seen Labor leave regional Australians out in the cold in this week’s Budget, and we cannot afford for them to do the same with the Sugar Code.”

Mr Willcox said growers needed to benefit from the industry’s transition into bio-manufacturing and renewable energy sectors.

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“As our industry evolves into biofuels, ethanol, and other value-added products, the Code must evolve with it,” he said.

“We need to ensure that our cane farmers are rewarded for the innovation they bring to the sector, not just the raw product they deliver to the mill gate.”

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Deputy Leader of the Nationals and Shadow Agriculture Minister Darren Chester said consultation with growers would be crucial throughout the process.

“The Coalition introduced the Sugar Code to give growers practical protections and a fairer playing field, and this review must strengthen those safeguards, not water them down,” he said.

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Queensland Natural Resources and Mines Minister and Burdekin MP Dale Last said the Burdekin had previously experienced the uncertainty caused when negotiations between growers and mills stalled.

“A decade ago, the Burdekin witnessed first-hand what can happen when that safety net does not exist and those crucial negotiations are left at a stalemate,” Mr Last said.

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Industry consultation and regional shed meetings are expected to form part of the review process in coming months, with growers and communities encouraged to provide feedback.

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Behind every successful creative agency are businesses willing to take a leap, back a vision, and commit to building something meaningful. Real Conversations puts the spotlight on those businesses sharing, in their own words, how strategic branding and marketing have shaped their growth.

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Project 28 has built a strong reputation as a leading construction company on the Gold Coast, known for quality craftsmanship and a commitment to excellence. When owners Leigh and Steve Hearl made the decision to elevate their brand and grow the business further, they wanted more than just great design.  They were looking for a strategic partner with the experience to guide their marketing direction and strengthen their positioning in the market.

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Leigh Hearl shares the experience of working with redhotblue and the impact the partnership has had on the business.

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You’ve been in business for a long time, how did working with redhotblue differ to previous branding and marketing experiences.

Redhotblue didn’t just give us a logo, they delivered a bold, fresh visual identity that perfectly captured the essence of our business. Every detail was meticulously thought through, from colour palette to typography, and the end result feels modern, professional, and entirely “us.”

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What stood out most to you about redhotblue’s approach compared to other agencies you had worked with or considered?

What really stood out was the level of consultation and care redhotblue brought to the process. They didn’t just jump into design they took the time to truly understand our business, our values, and what we were trying to achieve. Every conversation felt collaborative, strategic, and intentional.

From there, redhotblue completely transformed our marketing brochure with stunning design and messaging that feels not only cohesive, but genuinely compelling. The end result is a brand presence that looks more polished, communicates more clearly, and feels deeply aligned with our mission.

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Was the process with redhotblue worth the time and investment?

100%. Since the rebrand, we’ve received an outpouring of positive feedback from clients, partners, and even competitors. Redhotblue gave us more than a new look, they gave us a renewed sense of confidence and clarity in how we present ourselves to the world.

If you’re looking for a creative partner that listens, challenges, and ultimately delivers outstanding results, we can’t recommend Jody Euler and her redhotblue team highly enough.

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Tax, the three letter word Labor loves most, goes hand in hand with the other three letter word Labor does best - lie.  

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It would be mission impossible to count the number of times the Prime Minister, the Treasurer and senior Labor ministers promised there would be “no changes” to Capital Gains Tax or negative gearing. They said ‘no changes’ before the election, after the election and even earlier this year. Literally hundreds of times, they gave Australians the same assurance. Repeatedly challenged by the media, they doubled down every single time.  

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Then on Budget night, only a few weeks ago, the government announced that the changes would be brought in. These tax changes are not “intergenerational fairness”. They are nothing more than a tax grab designed to fund Labor’s wasteful spending and economic incompetence.  

And the people who will pay the biggest price are young Australians with aspiration.  

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Under Labor’s changes, existing investments will be grandfathered. Those already in the market keep the current rules, while younger Australians looking to build wealth through investment face higher taxes and fewer opportunities.  

A young couple hoping to invest in a rental property will no longer receive the same negative gearing benefits. A young worker wanting to build a share portfolio, trade crypto, or invest in a small business will face a higher Capital Gains Tax burden than previous generations. Laborclaims to stand for fairness, but there is nothing fair about pulling the ladder up behind you.  

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Taxing aspiration is profoundly un-Australian.  

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The economic consequences will also be severe. Labor itself admits these changes will place upward pressure on rents, although it claims the impact will only be around $2 a week. This is the same government that promised households would be $275 better off on their power bills. So, if the government’s own modelling is pointing to increased costs, the reality will be a disaster for renters.  

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With interest rates again marching north and home ownership becoming harder, more Australians, especially younger Australians, are relying on the rental market. Yet Labor is actively discouraging property investment.  

The economics are simple. Fewer investors mean fewer rental properties, tighter vacancy rates and higher rents. That hurts every Australian renter.  

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These changes will also discourage people from moving investment capital into more productive opportunities. Investors who remain under the existing rules will be reluctant to sell assets because any new investment will fall under Labor’s new tax regime. Flipping houses will become a thing of the past, meaning less stock returning to the market for prospective home owners. Instead of encouraging economic activity and investment, Labor is creating uncertainty and stagnation.  

The Coalition opposes these damaging new taxes and will repeal them in government.  

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Australia should be a country that rewards hard work, encourages investment and supports aspiration, not one that punishes people for trying to get ahead and set up their future.  

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Stop the lies – Reverse the Tax.  

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A good councillor is guided by sound governance and careful due diligence, so they can make lawful, informed decisions in the best interests of the community.

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As councillors, we must balance community expectations with the oath we took to act in accordance with legislation and the principles of local government. That means having the relevant facts before supporting any significant change.

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Council decisions are best made openly and formally in a properly constituted meeting. In that context, public discussion about repurposing the Gordon White Library before the current council has received the necessary information or had the opportunity to consider the matter formally may have been premature.

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Over the past five years, council has consulted on the Northern Beaches Community Hub and the Northern Beaches Library. What remains less clear, however, is the potential impact of repurposing the Gordon White Library. Had this been examined earlier, council may now be considering a different position. At the very least, we would be better placed to assess whether a new library is warranted when an existing library asset is already available.

My main concern is that some key information is still unavailable. I have asked for the cost of revamping or repurposing the Gordon White Library and those figures are still to come. There has also been limited consultation with the community and staff about the consequences of such a decision. Without that information, it is difficult for councillors to confidently justify or explain a decision of this scale to the public.

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The cost of obtaining this information now is modest compared with the financial risk of proceeding without it. Council is already managing pressure in relation to asset reduction, depreciation, employment costs and the operational budget. If decisions are made without a full understanding of the long-term implications, we may place added pressure on this council and future councils, including the possibility of higher rates. For that reason, taking time for proper assessment should be seen as responsible governance.

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Good governance requires transparency, meaningful consultation and decisions based on sound analysis. On that basis, I do not believe council is yet in a position to approve this matter without further assessment.

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Let’s Chat – Council Connect

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Residents can catch up with councillors in person at upcoming Let’s Chat - Council Connect sessions held across the region. The next session will be held at Koumala Community Hall on July 7 at 5pm. Further details can be found on the Connecting Mackay website

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A major safety upgrade to the Farleigh-Habana Road intersection has been confirmed as part of the State Government's commitment to delivering a better Bruce Highway for regional Queensland.

Premier David Crisafulli announced this week that planning and design work is already underway on the upgrade, with construction expected to commence next year. The project will improve safety, increase capacity and enhance heavy vehicle access at one of the region's key intersections.

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Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm welcomed the announcement, saying it was another important step towards improving safety and reliability along the Bruce Highway.

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"The Bruce Highway is the lifeblood of regional Queensland, connecting our communities, supporting local businesses and helping people get home safely to their families," Ms Camm said.

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"This investment will improve safety and traffic flow at a busy intersection used by local residents, freight operators and visitors travelling throughout our region."

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The announcement comes alongside rectification works currently underway at Goorganga Plains following community concerns about road conditions on this section of the Bruce Highway.

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Ms Camm thanked local residents who took the time to contact her office and provide feedback.

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"Community feedback is incredibly important and helps identify issues that require attention," she said.

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"After residents contacted my office, I raised these concerns directly with the Department of Transport and Main Roads and Transport Minister Brent Mickelberg, seeking urgent action and a plan to rectify the issues.

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"As a result, microsurfacing works are now underway and progressing, weather permitting."

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Ms Camm said while the immediate works were important, the long-term priority remained the delivery of the Goorganga Plains Floodplain Upgrade.

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"The most important milestone has already been achieved, with funding secured for the floodplain upgrade and planning work progressing to deliver a more resilient section of highway for our region," she said.

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"I know how important this project is to local residents and road users, and I look forward to keeping the community informed as key milestones are reached."

The Farleigh-Habana Road intersection upgrade and the future Goorganga Plains Floodplain Upgrade form part of the State Government's record investment in the Bruce Highway, with 52 projects progressing between Gympie and Cairns.

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The outgoing Mackay Youth Council with Mayor Greg Williamson, councillors and council staff after completing an 18-month term representing young people across the region. Photo source: Mackay Regional Council  

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A group of passionate young leaders is leaving its mark on Mackay after completing an 18-month term dedicated to representing the voices of local youth and helping shape the region's future.

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The outgoing Mackay Youth Council recently concluded its elected term, having spent the past year and a half engaging with young people, community organisations, policymakers and local leaders on issues that matter most to the region's next generation.

Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson praised the group's achievements, highlighting the council's role in ensuring young people have a voice in local decision-making.

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“Mackay was the first local government in Australia to have an elected youth council as part of the Foundation for Young Australians Young Mayors program,” Mayor Williamson said.

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“It’s been wonderful to see these passionate young people grow and develop over the last 18 months and to have them advocate for youth priorities in the region.

“Their ‘Recreation, Opportunities and Wellbeing’ document is a tremendous insight into what young people see as the future for our region.”

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Throughout their term, the 12-member Youth Council participated in a range of community initiatives and events, including youth nights at local libraries, Rotary's Domestic and Family Violence awareness campaign, and community walk-and-talk sessions at the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens.

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For outgoing Youth Councillor Amelia Webber, the experience provided an opportunity to make a meaningful contribution while connecting with like-minded young people.

“I wanted to be part of something that helps make a difference in our community and it’s been a wonderful opportunity to make new friends and speak on issues that affect the youth of Mackay,” Amelia said.

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“I’d definitely recommend that other young people think about nominating to be part of the next Youth Council.”

With the second Youth Council term now complete, attention is turning to the next generation of youth leaders, with nominations officially open for young people aged 11 to 17 who live or study within the Mackay Regional Council area.

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Candidates will have the opportunity to campaign through their schools and community networks before a polling week takes place in local schools in October.

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Mayor Williamson said the upcoming election would continue to strengthen youth representation across the region.

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“With the term of the second youth council now complete, we are excited to be able to support yet another election to deliver the youth of Mackay a voice, via a democratically elected youth council,” he said.

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For more information about the Mackay Youth Council and the upcoming election process, visit the Foundation for Young Australians' Young Mayors Mackay page.

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Just moments before he was about to make the most difficult decision of his life, Tristram Creek's phone rang.

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The 40-year-old Mackay resident had spent almost six years tethered to a dialysis machine, enduring a relentless series of health setbacks while waiting for the call that could save his life.

That Saturday, exhausted physically and emotionally, he had decided he could not continue.

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Sitting through a five-hour dialysis session, Tristram had written thank you messages to the nurses who had supported him for years and prepared to tell them he would not be returning.

Then his phone rang.

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“I had my phone in one hand, open to a note where I'd written thank you messages to all the nurses over the years, and the nurse call buzzer in my other hand,” he recalled.

The first call came from a private number. He ignored it. Moments later, the phone rang again.

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“It was actually the transplant coordinator from Westmead Hospital telling me that they finally had a match.”

For Tristram, the moment felt nothing short of miraculous.

“If that isn't divine intervention, I don't know what is.”

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Originally from Cairns and now living in Mackay, Tristram was diagnosed with diabetes at just 13 years old. By his early twenties, the condition had begun taking a serious toll on his kidneys.

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“I knew my kidney function was declining, but I didn't make the lifestyle changes I needed to,” he said.

“It eventually got worse over time until I finally required dialysis, which I deeply regret not changing my lifestyle choices back when I had the chance.”

What followed was years of treatment, setbacks and uncertainty.

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Before he could even be considered for the transplant waitlist, Tristram lost vision in his left eye and eventually had the eye removed. He endured major dental surgery, multiple infections and internal bleeding that required blood transfusions. At one point, doctors feared he may have a rare and potentially terminal disease called amyloidosis.

“During that time, I was planning my funeral and building a house at the same time,” he said.

“When the amyloidosis team finally gave me the negative result, it felt like another chance.”

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Even after making it onto the transplant waitlist, the odds remained daunting. Because he required both a kidney and pancreas transplant, suitable donors were extremely rare.

“Finding an organ donor felt like a one in a million chance,” he said.

The call finally came earlier this year. The following day — which happened to be his late father's birthday — Tristram flew to Sydney and underwent a life-changing kidney and pancreas transplant.

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Nearly six months later, he describes the transformation as extraordinary.

“I feel amazing. I have a new lease on life. My whole world has opened back up again and I see life differently now.”

Today, Tristram is focused on maintaining his health through exercise, medication and regular appointments with medical teams in Mackay and Sydney. He remains deeply grateful to the donor and family whose decision gave him a second chance.

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And for anyone facing kidney disease or dialysis, his message is simple.

“Even when you feel like you can't fight anymore, you have to really dig deep and find the will to survive,” he said.

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“Just don't ever, ever give up.”

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Brayden James McDonald, 14, is being remembered as a kind-hearted and much-loved young man, with the community raising more than $36,000 to support his family following the tragedy. Photo source: GoFundMe

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More than $36,000 has been raised to support the family of Bloomsbury teenager Brayden James McDonald, who died following a motorcycle crash near his home last month.

The 14-year-old was riding a motorbike along Lindeman Drive at Bloomsbury, north of Mackay, about 2:30pm on 23rd May when he was involved in a collision with an oncoming van. Brayden suffered life-threatening injuries and was airlifted to Townsville Hospital, where he died the following day.

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Queensland Police confirmed the driver of the van, a 42-year-old Bloomsbury woman, was not physically injured. Investigations into the crash are ongoing.

In the weeks since his passing, the local community has rallied around Brayden's family, with a GoFundMe appeal raising more than $36,500 from 262 donations to assist with funeral expenses and ongoing costs.

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The fundraiser was established by family friend Tegan King, who described Brayden as a caring and unforgettable young man.

“Brayden was quirky, a good-natured, gentle boy with the kindest soul. He would give the shirt off his back if you needed it,” Ms King said.

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“He had the kind of personality that made it impossible not to love him. In his 14 short years he lived life to its fullest and made the most of every moment.”

Brayden attended Calen District State College and was a member of the 122 Army Cadet Unit Mackay Region for more than a year.

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In a statement published online, the cadet unit paid tribute to their young member.

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“It is with a heavy heart that we share the passing of Brayden McDonald, a dedicated and spirited 14 year old Cadet who was not only part of our Unit for more than a year, but also a bright and cherished presence in our lives and friend to many,” the statement read.

The unit recently held a reflection and parade ground service to celebrate Brayden's life and support fellow cadets through the loss.

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“We came together as a Cadet Unit to celebrate his life and find comfort in each other’s support, during a time of Reflection and a Parade Ground Service. In condolence, let us continue to keep Brayden and his Family in our thoughts and prayers.”

Those wishing to support the McDonald family can donate via the GoFundMe page at www.gofundme.com/f/brayden-james-mcdonald.

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Mackay teenager Asher Hobbs has begun chemotherapy in Brisbane after being diagnosed with a rare form of bone cancer. Photo source: FAME Talent School

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The Mackay community is rallying around 14-year-old dancer Asher Hobbs after she was diagnosed with a rare form of bone cancer earlier this year.

What began as a sore shoulder and a small lump quickly turned into a life-changing diagnosis, forcing Asher and her family to relocate to Brisbane for treatment.

Asher, a dedicated student at Fame Talent School and a familiar face in the local dance community, recently began chemotherapy at the Royal Children's Hospital.

Her diagnosis came as a shock to those closest to her.

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“She said her shoulder was sore, and she said there’s a lump there. I touched it, and it was very hard, but it never occurred to me that it could be something like bone cancer,” said Nicole Batzloff, Asher’s boss at Laffos Bar & Pizzeria, in an interview with 7 News.

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“My kids always say to me that Asher’s your favourite child, because she’s just so beautiful, honestly.”

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The teenager's absence has left a noticeable gap at school, work and within the dance community. Asher had been set to perform a lead role in Fame Talent School's recent production of Madagascar, with fellow dancers finding special ways to honour her. One parent created bracelets featuring the letter "A", which performers wore in support during the production.

“She’s [Asher] going to be there in spirit with us,” said FAME Talent School dance teacher Dolly Louw.

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In response to the diagnosis, FAME Talent School has launched a community raffle featuring more than $5,000 worth of prizes, with all proceeds going towards creating special experiences for Asher during treatment. When she is feeling well enough, funds will help provide outings to the movies, musical theatre performances, shopping trips and other activities designed to bring joy during a difficult time.

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“It’ll [monetary donations] go directly to Asher to help because the whole family has had to relocate to Brisbane for a whole year so she can get treatment,” Ms Louw said.

In a social media post, FAME Talent School described Asher as “pure joy, light and hope”.

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“Anyone who knows Asher knows she is pure joy, light and hope. She has the kindest heart, the brightest smile and a spirit that shines so bright – in true FAMESTAR style,” the post read.

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“Even in the face of something so frightening, our girl is already showing incredible courage and strength.”

Asher’s mother, Renee Coscarella Hobbs, said the family had been overwhelmed by the support received from friends, family and the wider community.

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“Thank you. We are so so grateful for all the amazing support and love we are receiving from everyone back home and here. This all makes each day a little easier. We love you all,” she said.

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Asher now faces a long road ahead, but those who know her best say her strength, determination and positive spirit will continue to shine throughout her treatment journey. For those wishing to support Asher and her family during this difficult time, donations can be made through fundraising initiatives organised by FAME Talent School.

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After years of planning from a dedicated team, the Chances Night Bus is in operation. Photo supplied.

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Safe Sleep Mackay, together with operating partner Chances House, has announced a major milestone for the region, with the first Safe Sleeps successfully delivered on last Friday night.

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Two guests were welcomed aboard the Chances Night Bus, marking the beginning of a new chapter in providing dignity, safety and support for people experiencing homelessness in Mackay.

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After a three-and-a-half-year journey of planning, fundraising and community collaboration, the service has officially become a reality—an achievement organisers say belongs to the entire Mackay community.

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Safe Sleep Mackay spokesperson Lisa Jamieson said the first night highlighted the importance of the service and the impact it can have on those in need.

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“The look on our guests’ faces the next morning said everything. It made every challenge, every delay, and every bit of hard work over the past three and a half years completely worth it.”

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Safe Sleep Mackay extended its heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to bringing the project to life.

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“We were only a handful of volunteers steering this project over the last three and half years but we felt the support of the Mackay community every step of the way. Through community donations, small business services offering in-kind support, and the contributions from community members, it kept us going and this is an achievement that belongs to the whole community,” Ms Jamieson said.

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The Safe Sleep Bus, operated by Chances House as its Night Bus service, will return to operation on Friday, 12th June, with plans to establish a regular service. Initial operations will focus on volunteer training and refining procedures, with the goal of expanding to weekly Friday night services as more volunteers come on board.

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Chances House CEO Kayleigh Brewster said the organisation was proud to be delivering a service that responds to growing community need.

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“We are extremely proud to be operating this service for our community as every day we see an increase in people in need,” she said.

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“This type of service has never operated in Mackay before, so we have proceeded cautiously making sure we have the correct procedures in place to ensure the safety of our guests, our volunteers, and the community. The service will start operating weekly every Friday night and if demand is there and more volunteers come on board, we will look at increasing the number of nights of operation.”

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Community members are encouraged to continue supporting the initiative through volunteering, donations or by helping raise awareness. More information about volunteering is available at www.chancesmackay.org/ssm.

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“Although it has taken us three and a half years to reach this point, this really is just the beginning. Together, we are creating safer nights and brighter mornings for those doing it tough in our community,” Ms Jamieson said.

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