I don’t know about you, but I find morning TV hosts incredibly annoying.

I rarely get to see them, with their contrived laughter, over-the-top friendliness, stupid nicknames for each other, make-up and perfect hair cuts.  

But sometimes, if there has been some event that might interest me, or if I’m curious about what’s going on, I might flick on the TV and see what’s happening as I’m getting ready for work.

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I immediately  regret it and start flicking channels to try to find someone bearable. It’s a challenge that usually lasts a couple of minutes before I turn the TV off and do something much more pleasant, like go to work.

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I did like Karl Stefanovic but he has been flicked, apparently because his employer didn’t like his podcast guests. There seemed something real about Karl but he was an island in a sea of fakery so there’s no point in me turning on Channel 9 anymore.

There’s an Irish journalist/host on ABC TV, Catherine  Murphy, who I also like. She’s funny and real and seems to want to stick to simply presenting a story in her slightly quirky style without imposing an agenda. But that’s about it for me.

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One thing the morning shows have an abundance of is “experts”. Whatever the drama that’s emerged, there’s an expert to explain it to you, pull it apart and tell you how concerned you should be. The expert needs to do it in about 17 seconds because everyone is going to get bored soon and we’ve got an ad break coming up.

The more dramatic the event and the more it impacts the loyal viewers, the more vital it is that an expert is on hand.

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The current disaster of note it a neat combo: the economy/inflation/interest rates/housing downturn. This is the type of news drama you want when you’re planning the show because it affects the viewers, hits their hip pockets.

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But experts are everywhere in the media on this one, not just the morning shows.

They’re out there giving their views on interest rates (some say they will go up, others say they will go down), the economy (some say it will be okay, others say we are headed for a recession), inflation (some say it will get worse and others say it will ease).

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Part of this blockbuster, of course, is house prices. Some experts say prices will drop in big cities like Sydney and Brisbane. Others say they will drop everywhere. Some say there will be a small, temporary drop but things will soon start going up again because there is a lack of housing supply across the nation.

One group of experts that are worth paying attention to are the valuers from Herron Todd White, who put out their monthly property clock, which is a snapshot of how they see particular markets. The position on the clock face a particular city is located (we’re talking analogue here kids, not digital) tells you where it sits in the market. Twelve o’clock is top of the market, 3 o’clock is a falling market, 6 o’clock is the bottom of the market, 9 o’clock is a rising market.

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Things can change quickly and there a times a property can go from falling market to bottom of the market and up to rising market very quickly.

HTW’s June clock would have been a challenge for them because tax changes and other events had happened but their longer-term impacts are unclear.

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They had Bundaberg and Toowoomba at the top of the market, Sydney at 2 o’clock and starting to decline, The Whitsundays, Gladstone and Sunshine Coast approaching the top of the market and Mackay, along with Rocky, Townsville and Cairns, in a rising market.

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Most agents in Mackay will tell you there has been a change but there is still activity, investors are still engaged and properties are selling. Most are being alert, not alarmed.

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The Agent Services Team at RE/MAX Select Mackay supports agents across the business with administration, marketing and operational assistance. Photo source: RE/MAX Select Mackay

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The Agent Services Team at RE/MAX Select Mackay plays an important behind-the-scenes role in supporting the agency’s sales and property management teams.

From organising marketing materials and advertising campaigns to coordinating letterbox drops and administrative tasks, the team works to ensure agents can focus on delivering results for clients.

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Led by Nikita Kinnane, the department provides operational and marketing support across the business, helping streamline processes and maintain the high standard of service the agency is known for.

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Nikita Kinnane can be contacted on 0401 928 281.

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Photo Sources: Glen Kelly MP and Mackay Region Chamber Of Commerce  

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More than 200 business, industry and community leaders filled the Mackay Turf Club on Tuesday, 1^st of July, for the sold-out Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) Queensland Budget Briefing Luncheon, highlighting the importance of regional voices in shaping the state's future.

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Hosted by Member for Mirani Glen Kelly MP, the event welcomed Deputy Premier, Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning and Minister for Industrial Relations Jarrod Bleijie MP, who discussed the Queensland Budget and its implications for regional investment, infrastructure and economic growth across the Greater Whitsunday region.

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The luncheon provided an opportunity for businesses and community representatives to engage in conversations around government priorities and the investments that will help drive future growth throughout the region.

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The event also recognised the outstanding contribution of Kylie Porter during a farewell luncheon, celebrating her years of leadership and commitment to regional collaboration.  

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Kobe has been in care for over six months and has been waiting patiently for a Staffy lover just like you.

Your life would be complete with Kobe. He loves family life such as going for ute rides to Bunnings, swimming, burning off energy, playing, running behind a quad bike and simply being part of absolutely everything you do.

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Kobe would thrive with an active family. He needs lots of physical exercise and some ongoing training to continue being his best self.

After so long in care, he deserves a family to call his own who appreciates just how special he really is.

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Kobe is approximately 18 months old, is super healthy, desexed and fully vaccinated.

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If you can't wait to make Kobe part of your life, please contact LLTags and Dog Rescue on 0410 370 705 or LLTAGSandDogRescue@gmail.com

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Photo source: Newgirlonthebookshelf Street Library  

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A small neighbourhood initiative in Sarina has grown into a much-loved community hub, with the local Street Library preparing to celebrate its first birthday after an extraordinary year of sharing stories, kindness and connection.

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Since opening its tiny doors, the little Street Library has welcomed countless visitors who have borrowed books, left behind their own favourites, contributed to the community pantry, or simply stopped by for a friendly chat.

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The milestone comes after the Street Library was proudly named the National Street Library of the Year 2025, a recognition that highlighted the special role it plays in bringing people together.

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Chloe, the passionate heart behind the project said the achievement would not have been possible without the ongoing support of locals who continue to make the space what it is today.

The addition of a community pantry has also added another layer of generosity to the little space, with plans already underway to expand it even further.

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Beyond books, the Street Library has become a place of small surprises and thoughtful touches, with visitors able to find items such as stickers and coffee sachets alongside reading treasures.

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As the first birthday approaches, the community is being invited to help shape the celebrations, with a date yet to be confirmed.  

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For more information, visit ‘Newgirlonthebookshelf Street Library’ on Facebook or Instagram.

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The Queensland Mining & Engineering Exhibition (QME) will once again bring together some of Australia's leading voices in mining, engineering and innovation when it returns to the Mackay Showgrounds from 21–23 July.

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For more than 30 years, QME has remained at the heart of Australia's resources sector, connecting industry leaders, suppliers, decision-makers and innovators in Mackay – a city recognised as one of Queensland's mining powerhouses.

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This year's free Leadership Series will showcase a diverse line-up of speakers from government, industry, research and education, exploring the opportunities and challenges shaping the future of mining.

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Among those taking to the stage are Queensland Minister Dale Last, Senator Susan McDonald, Mayor Greg Williamson, Bryson Head MP, and representatives from the Department of Natural Resources and Mines, Manufacturing and Regional and Rural Development, the Queensland Mine Rehabilitation Commissioner, Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility (NAIF) and Resources Safety and Health Queensland.

Industry leaders from some of Australia's largest mining organisations will also share their expertise, including representatives from BMA, Whitehaven Coal, Stanmore Resources, MacKellar Group, Macmahon and Hastings Deering, discussing operations, equipment, safety and workforce capability across Queensland's mining regions.

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Engineering and technology will also take centre stage, with specialists from CSIRO, Emerson, Schaeffler, Hitachi Construction Machinery Australia, TUNRA Bulk Solids and Vayeron presenting the latest advancements driving productivity and innovation across the sector.

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The program also features respected researchers and academics from the University of Queensland, alongside experts in sustainability, resource science and emerging technologies, while organisations including the Queensland Resources Council, TAFE Queensland, MATES in Mining, PowerSkillsAi and the Mackay Community Foundation will explore workforce development, skills, wellbeing and regional growth.

Recognised as Queensland's largest mining and engineering event, QME brings together more than 300 exhibitors and attracts thousands of visitors from across Australia. The exhibition offers attendees the opportunity to explore the latest equipment, technologies and services while connecting directly with the businesses and people driving the industry's future.

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Running alongside the exhibition floor, the Leadership Series provides practical insights into the evolving resources landscape, making it a valuable addition for professionals working across every aspect of mining and engineering.

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QME will be held at the Mackay Showgrounds from Tuesday, 21 July to Thursday, 23 July, with the exhibition open daily from 9am to 5pm. Entry to both the exhibition and Leadership Series is free.

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WHAT: Queensland Mining & Engineering Exhibition (QME)
WHERE: Mackay Showgrounds
WHEN: 21–23 July

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From dismantling electronics as a five-year-old to leading an engineering company supporting some of Queensland's largest industrial operations, Deftec Managing Director and Principal Engineer Garry Thomas has always had a passion for technology – and it shows.

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Founded in 2013, Deftec has grown into a Queensland-based industrial automation and control systems company, with a full electrical workshop in Mackay and a design, software and electronics hub in Brisbane. Today, alongside business partner Steven Pel and a team of more than 50, the company delivers engineering solutions that help keep mining and heavy industry operating safely and efficiently.

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"Our goal is to serve the mining industry by building intelligent, reliable systems," Garry said.

Deftec specialises in industrial control and automation, designing, building and supporting the PLC and SCADA systems that monitor and operate industrial plants. The company also delivers electrical infrastructure, including field panels, substations and motor control centres, managing projects from scoping and design through to manufacture, commissioning and ongoing support.

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Rather than relying on multiple contractors, Deftec provides a complete turnkey service.

"We own the whole lifecycle – we scope it, design it, build it in our own workshop, commission it on site and support it afterwards," Garry explained.

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"For a mining or industrial operation, that means one accountable partner for the systems they can't afford to fail, not a chain of suppliers pointing at each other."

Among the company's proudest achievements is the development of SubMon, an innovative monitoring system designed to detect ground movement at mine sites. Using cameras and computer vision, the technology measures movement down to a fraction of a millimetre, providing around-the-clock monitoring and early warnings if critical infrastructure begins to shift.

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"If a tower starts drifting beyond safe limits, it alerts operators straight away so they can act before anything's compromised. It's already detected real tower movement and raised the early warning – which is exactly why we built it."

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While engineering innovation sits at the heart of the business, Deftec says its people remain its greatest strength. Its multidisciplinary team includes engineers specialising in electrical, software, mechatronics, electronics and computer systems, alongside electricians with expertise across communications, instrumentation, fibre, wireless, surface and underground operations.

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Garry acknowledges that mining is a demanding industry and credits the company's dedicated team for driving Deftec’s continued growth and success.

"We put real effort into looking after our people: plenty of team activities to reward them for what they put in and to keep the close-knit culture we've built."

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Supporting the wider community is another key focus. Deftec recently raised $7,400 through the Beyond Blue Big Blue Table campaign, funding 112 contacts to the Beyond Blue Support Service while helping raise awareness of mental health within the industry. The company also supports grassroots sport across the region, including local cricket and the Powerhouse Fight Series.

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Deftec plans to continue investing in its people, expand its regional capabilities and remain at the forefront of automation and control technology for mining and industry.  

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Find out more about Deftec and its industry-leading automation solutions at this month's QME Expo!

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Photo source: St John's Catholic Primary School Walkerston

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Hard work in the school cane plot has paid off for students at St John's Catholic Primary School, Walkerston, who have been crowned Mackay's Sweetest School at this year's Mackay Show.

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After months of tending their sugarcane crop, students harvested the cane with the guidance of local farmer mentor Charlie Townley, cutting and collecting the stalks before they were sent for judging.

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The school's impressive entry also claimed top honours in the Heaviest Six Sticks category, highlighting the students' dedication and teamwork throughout the growing season.

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Member for Mirani Glen Kelly praised the achievement and the efforts of everyone involved.

"Congratulations to St John's Catholic Primary School, Walkerston on being crowned Mackay's Sweetest School at this year's Mackay Show!

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"To also win the Heaviest Six Sticks category is a fantastic achievement.

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"Well done to the students, teachers, grounds staff and grower mentors, and congratulations to every school that took part in showcasing our region's proud sugar industry."

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The Sweetest School Competition gives students a hands-on connection to Mackay's rich sugarcane heritage while recognising the growers, mentors and school communities helping inspire the next generation of the region's agricultural industry.

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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.

After a decade of growth built on reputation and relationships, EHS Parts had outgrown its brand. To better reflect the scale and capability of the business, EHS partnered with Redhotblue to take a more strategic approach to branding and marketing. The result is a stronger, more authentic brand positioned for the future.  

We spoke with owners Chris and Ash Patroni about the journey.

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1. What prompted you to invest more strategically in your brand and marketing after a decade of building EHS Parts?

For many years, EHS grew through reputation and strong relationships. As the business evolved, we realised our brand no longer reflected the scale, expertise and capability we had built. Redhotblue helped bridge that gap, clearly articulating that EHS offers far more than parts alone through trusted advice, technical expertise and practical solutions. The capability was always there; the branding simply helped the market see it.

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2. Before working with Redhotblue, how would you describe your brand presence and what did you feel was missing?

Our branding was functional but lacked consistency and strategic direction. While the business had strong foundations, our external messaging didn't fully represent the depth of our services and expertise. Redhotblue invested significant time in understanding our business, our values and where we wanted to take EHS. They brought clarity and consistency to our messaging while ensuring the brand remained authentic to who we are and the industries we support.

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3. How has a more strategic approach to branding and marketing influenced the way your business is perceived in the mining, civil and construction industries?

The rebrand was never just about creating a new logo or visual identity. It was about establishing a stronger connection between what EHS had built over the years and how the business was understood by customers, suppliers and the broader industry.

Redhotblue helped us communicate the scale of our services, our technical strengths and our solutions-focused approach in a way that feels both professional and genuine. The impact has been significant.

The consistency across our branding and marketing has strengthened trust, increased recognition and opened the door to new conversations and opportunities.

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4. Looking back over the past 18 months, what has been the highlight?

The highlight has been seeing the EHS brand evolve into a true reflection of the business we've built over the past decade. Redhotblue translated our experience, values and vision into a brand presence that feels authentic and aligned.  

What stands out most is the partnership that developed throughout the process. Redhotblue invested significant time in understanding our business, our values and the principles that guide the way we operate.

Their strategic thinking brought greater clarity to how we present ourselves, resulting in a brand that finally does justice to the scale and capability of EHS.

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Come along this Saturday, and celebrate 100 years of the Mackay & District Pipe Band at the free Bluewater Fling, featuring massed pipe bands, Highland dancing, live music, Murphy's Pigs, fireworks and family-friendly entertainment on the banks of the Pioneer River. Photo source: Mackay & District Pipe Band

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The sounds of stirring bagpipes, pounding drums and lively Highland dancing will once again fill Mackay's Bluewater Quay when the much-loved Bluewater Fling returns this Saturday, July 11.

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This year's event is extra special, with the Mackay & District Pipe Band celebrating 100 years of community service to the Mackay region, making the 2026 Bluewater Fling one of the biggest celebrations in the event's history.

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Festivities begin at 1.30pm, before the spectacular Massed Bands March crosses the Forgan Bridge at 2pm, creating one of the day's most memorable sights as pipe bands from across Queensland join Mackay's own band in a stirring display of Scottish tradition.

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Visitors can enjoy an afternoon of pipe band performances, Highland dancing, local musicians and family-friendly entertainment, with plenty of food vendors on site and Scottish-style brews available.

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Adding to this year's festivities are special guests Murphy's Pigs, the popular Brisbane-based Celtic band renowned for their energetic live performances and sell-out shows around Australia. They'll take to the stage from 5.30pm, before the evening concludes with a spectacular fireworks display presented by Daly Bay at 8.30pm.

Organisers are encouraging families and friends to pack a picnic blanket or fold-up chair and settle in for a free afternoon and evening of entertainment on the banks of the Pioneer River.

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Following the daytime festivities, the celebrations will continue at Red Dog Brewery with a traditional Scottish ceilidh, ensuring the party carries on well into the evening.

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You don't need Scottish roots to enjoy the Bluewater Fling. Bring your family, a picnic blanket and your sense of fun for an afternoon of live music, entertainment and community spirit as Mackay celebrates 100 remarkable years of the Mackay & District Pipe Band!

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WHAT: Bluewater Fling

WHERE: Bluewater Quay

WHEN: Saturday, July 11

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Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, is calling on young people aged 25 and under across the region to step up, speak out, and have their voices delivered directly onto the floor of Federal Parliament.

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The local MP has officially signed up for the 2026 Raise Our Voice in Parliament campaign, a national initiative designed to amplify the ideas, ambitions, and unique perspectives of regional youth directly to the nation's decision-makers.

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This year, the campaign invites young people to submit a 90-second speech answering a critical question for the country: "What is one big issue shaping your future, and what is one meaningful action you want Parliament to take?"

The winning speech from the electorate will be proudly read aloud by Mr Willcox in Canberra during Youth Voice in Parliament Week, running from 12 to 15 October 2026.

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“Last year, I had the immense privilege of standing up in the chamber to deliver an incredibly powerful speech by Wiremu Tairaki, a student from Proserpine State High School,” Mr Willcox said.

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“Wiremu spoke passionately about the distinct challenges facing country students: waking before sunrise, navigating flooded roads in the wet season, and missing out on face-to-face classes like physics and languages due to regional teacher shortages. He noted that while regional kids have the determination to defy limitations, gratitude for where we live shouldn't equate to limitation.

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The Raise Our Voice campaign has an exceptional track record of building civic pride and engagement; ninety-two per cent of previous participants state that taking part made them far more likely to engage with politics in the future.

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“Whether you are passionate about boosting local trade apprenticeships, improving youth mental health support, tackling regional housing costs, or creating more local job opportunities so you don't have to move away to the city, this is your golden opportunity to help shape Australia’s path forward,” Mr Willcox said.

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“I am honoured to amplify the voices of Dawson's future leaders, and I cannot wait to read what this year's cohort brings to the table.”

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Submissions for the 2026 campaign close on 7 August 2026. For more information, entry guidelines, and to submit a speech, visit https://raiseourvoiceaustralia.com

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By Cr Anne Baker

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As we celebrate NAIDOC Week, I would like to begin by acknowledging the Yuwi People, the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we live, work and gather. I pay my respects to Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples with us today.

NAIDOC Week is an opportunity for all of us to come together in the spirit of respect, learning and celebration. It is a time to recognise the rich histories, cultures and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and to acknowledge the enduring connection to Country that has existed for tens of thousands of years.

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Here in the Mackay region, we are fortunate to live in a community where culture is shared through art, music, dance, storytelling and community events. These celebrations strengthen our understanding of one another and remind us that our diversity is one of our greatest strengths.

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This year’s NAIDOC Week theme, “50 Years of Deadly” marks a landmark half-century of the NAIDOC movement. It honours the resilience, cultural brilliance and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, celebrating the Elders, activists and communities who have carried the movement forward.

I encourage everyone to take the opportunity to attend a local event, visit an exhibition, support our First Nations artists and learn more about the rich cultural heritage that is such an important part of our region.

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A heartfelt thank you to the organisers, volunteers, community leaders, artists and performers who have worked so hard to make this year’s NAIDOC Week celebrations possible. Your dedication creates opportunities for our community to come together in a spirit of unity and respect.

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NAIDOC Week is a reminder that when we listen to one another, celebrate our shared community and embrace opportunities to learn, we build stronger relationships and a more inclusive future for everyone.

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I wish everyone a safe, enjoyable and meaningful NAIDOC Week.

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Mackay Pet Rescue Inc. celebrated its fifth anniversary, marking five years of volunteer-driven animal rescue while recognising the community support that has helped give thousands of abandoned and injured animals a second chance. Photos source: Mackay Pet Rescue Inc. (Facebook)

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Last Thursday night, July 2, Mackay Pet Rescue Inc. (MPRI) celebrated a milestone few could have imagined when a small group of passionate animal lovers first came together with a shared vision.

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Around 70 volunteers, foster carers, veterinarians, sponsors, supporters and friends gathered to mark the rescue's fifth anniversary, celebrating five years of rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming thousands of animals across the Mackay region.

Opening the evening, MPRI President Janet Ambrose reflected on the organisation's beginnings, acknowledging the founding committee members whose commitment laid the foundations for what has become one of the region's dedicated volunteer-run animal rescues.

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Since its establishment, MPRI has provided care for thousands of abandoned, injured and neglected animals, including dumped kittens, stray cats, injured dogs, orphaned newborns and complex medical cases that may otherwise have had little chance of survival.

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The celebration also highlighted the financial reality behind every rescue. Treasurer Renae Gordon revealed the organisation has spent more than $713,000 caring for animals and operating the rescue over the past five years. Adoption fees generated approximately $426,000, leaving a funding gap of almost $287,000, made possible through fundraising, grants, sponsorships, local businesses, community organisations and generous public support.

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Guests were able to reflect on the rescue's journey through more than 60 photographs displayed throughout the room, showcasing memorable rescues, remarkable recoveries and the volunteers whose dedication has helped change thousands of lives.

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Veterinarian Dr David Lemmon entertained the audience with stories from his long career before speaking about exciting advances in the treatment of Chronic Kidney Disease in older cats, offering hope for improved quality of life and longer life expectancy for affected animals.

One of the evening's highlights came during an open microphone session, where volunteers and supporters shared personal rescue stories and reflected on what MPRI has meant to them.

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Young supporter Alexander drew warm applause after describing his recent fundraiser, where almost 500 cupcakes were baked and sold at Whitsunday Anglican School with help from his family and friends from Uncle Bing's, raising valuable funds for rescue animals.

Volunteers Nathan Ko, Makayla Holmes and Sam Vogrinec also shared their experiences, highlighting the rewarding nature of volunteering and the growing involvement of younger generations in animal welfare.

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A particularly moving tribute came from Kim Oliver, who attended despite recently undergoing surgery. She spoke of Dr Lemmon's compassion and generosity throughout his veterinary career, recalling the care he provided to countless animals, including helping save the life of a young horse.

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While the evening celebrated the achievements of the past five years, organisers said the rescue's mission is far from over. MPRI continues to work towards its long-term goal of establishing a dedicated shelter and sanctuary where abandoned, neglected and injured animals can receive the care they need while waiting for permanent homes.

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In a statement following the celebration, a representative from Mackay Pet Rescue Inc. thanked the volunteers, foster carers, veterinarians, sponsors, donors and supporters who have helped shape the organisation over the past five years.

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“Every rescue, every surgery, every bag of food and every second chance has been made possible by unpaid volunteers and a community that believes these animals are worth saving,” the statement read.

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“Because of you, thousands of animals have been given a second chance. Here's to the next five years of rescue, hope and compassion.”

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Mackay Regional Council has confirmed there will be no changes to the Gordon White Library as part of its 2026–2027 Budget, following months of community discussion surrounding the facility’s future.

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The decision comes after strong feedback from local residents, with many community members voicing their desire to see the Gordon White Library remain open and continue providing services to the area. Council has acknowledged the community’s concerns and confirmed that library services will continue while further planning takes place.

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Council has allocated nearly $1 million in the 2026–2027 Budget to establish the new Northern Beaches Community Hub and its anchor tenant library, while maintaining existing services at Gordon White Library.

As part of the next steps, a full review of council’s library services will be undertaken in the coming months. The review will examine future operating models, with a report expected to be presented to council in September or October.

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Mayor Greg Williamson said these models would explore options for how council could reduce impacts on future budgets. 

“Without any major staff increases, we will have to find efficiencies across our various library and other services,” he said. 

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Mayor Williamson said council had heard residents’ concerns about a plan to repurpose the Gordon White Library as a community centre, with a limited library service. 

“We’ve had about 1200 feedback form responses and about 1500 signatures from locals on a petition, and those responses are mostly telling us that Gordon White is a valued meeting place for residents to socialise and support the early development of their children,” he said. 

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“We have listened and reviewed all the feedback and we will prioritise the services residents value most in both the Gordon White Library and the Northern Beaches. 

“There will be no cut in library services in 2026-2027. Instead, there is additional funding of $950,000 in the budget to increase these services.” 

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Council CEO Gerard Carlyon said council was working on strategies to manage significant cost pressures caused by rising depreciation, which had increased by $5.92M this year to $107.89M. 

“As council brings new assets online and continues to manage aging assets, depreciation costs continue to increase,” he said.   

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“With that in mind, we have a Building Utilisation Project which is under way to review ways we can better use all of our existing staff accommodation buildings.”   

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Mr Carlyon said council was still considering the sale of the freehold Northern Beaches Community Hall site once the Northern Beaches Community Hub was open.  

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“We will also be looking at our office accommodation, with a plan to reduce council’s office buildings in the future to help drive down operating, maintenance and depreciation costs,” he said. 

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Image for illustrative purposes only. Image source: Mackay Regional Council  

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Amanda Camm has welcomed a major investment in domestic and family violence support services, with new measures also announced to address youth crime and community safety. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara  

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Minister for the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence and Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm was in Mackay this week, joining Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton and Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson to announce new measures aimed at strengthening community safety and support services across the region.

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The visit highlighted two key areas of focus for the Queensland Government – youth crime reform and additional support for victim-survivors of domestic and family violence.

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Ms Camm said the expansion of the “adult crime, adult time” legislation, including the proposed “breach of bail, go to jail” reform, had been welcomed by regional communities.

“I know, certainly, in my community, out here in the Northern Beaches, it’s something that has been welcomed by community members, particularly with serious, repeat youth offenders,” Ms Camm said.

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Ms Camm also welcomed more than $50 million in Queensland Government investment over four years to bolster frontline domestic and family violence services, expand access to specialist mental health support and strengthen the workforce assisting those escaping violence.

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The funding includes $40 million to continue embedding domestic and family violence practitioners in 49 police stations across Queensland, providing immediate trauma-informed support for victim-survivors when incidents are reported.

The program provides assistance including counselling, safety planning, advocacy through police processes, financial support and emergency relief to help victim-survivors navigate the justice system.

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A further $10 million will support the placement of 26 specialist mental health professionals across 20 Women’s Health and Wellbeing Services throughout Queensland, providing access to mental health care in trusted community settings.

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Mayor Greg Williamson welcomed the investment, saying support embedded within frontline services was vital.

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“Domestic and family violence as we know, is a scourge on our modern society,” Mayor Williamson said.

“The highest callout in all of our police stations in the Mackay area is domestic and family violence.”

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“To have funding now, through to 2030, that embeds a particular person from the Salvation Army in police stations to assist with that callout management, is absolutely sensational. That's what we need.”

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Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said the Queensland Government “is backing the frontline with long term funding that helps put victims first and hold perpetrators to account.”

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“We're now announcing, that by Christmas, if you breach your bail with another alleged offence, you will go to jail. And that is what our community wants.”

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Salvation Army Family Violence State Manager Liz Carney said the funding would provide an important support pathway for people experiencing family and domestic violence.

“These Embedded Practitioner roles provide a critical lifeline for victim-survivors, ensuring they can access immediate support, specialist guidance, and pathways to safety during times of crisis,” she said.

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“Too many women arrive at our door already carrying more than anyone should have to, and our current services stop short of mental health support, with external referrals resulting in another waitlist, more travel, and revisiting their trauma again.”

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Whitsunday Counselling & Support Inc. CEO Kirsty Gillett noted that the investment would allow regional services to provide “wrap-around care.”

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“This investment recognises how deeply mental health and domestic violence are linked, and it finally gives services outside the major centres the resources to deliver genuine wrap-around care,” she said.

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