Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Whitsunday Anglican School has celebrated a successful year of student sport, recognising the tremendous talent and achievements of its athletes at its 2026 Sports Awards. Among the major honours, the Bill Turner Cup Under-15 Soccer Team and Vicki Wilson Cup Year 7–9 Netball Team were named Sports Teams of the Year after winning their respective Mackay competitions and progressing to represent the Mackay Region at state competitions. Harriet received Sports Official of the Year for her commitment to netball umpiring, including her selection to officiate at Queensland Representative School Sport level, while Maverick and Chelsea were named Sportsman and Sportswoman of the Year for their sporting excellence, integrity and contributions to the school. The school also recognised Mr Jim Fredericksen for 20 years of volunteer coaching with its Archery Programme. Mayor Greg Williamson attended the awards, alongside guest speaker Mrs Deanna Turner, who shared insights into the value of sport in education. A former Queensland Firebirds netball player, Australian rugby league player and Queensland Rugby League coach, Mrs Turner is also a current Queensland Representative School Sport coach. Her presentation explored how sport can help build resilience, teamwork and leadership. The school congratulated all award recipients and students who represented Whitsunday Anglican School throughout 2026. Photo source: Whitsunday Anglican School
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It’s the story about 30,000 drowned pigs and how it applies to real estate, best business practices and life in general. In an earlier life I was the editor of the Daily Mercury newspaper, back when it was published and printed six days a week and over 20,000 copies were sold on a Saturday. Different times in the media world. Anyway, this one day we were following a story about flooding in Rockhampton. Some days earlier there had been a lot of rain and some flooding in the Mackay region and, as often happens, the river system’s flood waters then made their way towards Rockhampton. When there is a rain event upstream a lot of water from various rivers and tributaries runs into the low-lying Fitzroy River system and into Rockhampton. It is very predictable and Rocky authorities can often establish that when there is flooding further north in places like Mackay that in a week’s time the Rocky area will be flooded. So up in nearby Mackay we were following the approaching flood and in communication with our sister paper in Rocky who were giving it massive coverage. It wasn’t Mackay so it wasn’t going to be front page in our paper but we were planning on a significant coverage. In the late afternoon one of our reporters came into my office and said: “30,000 pigs have drowned in the Rocky floods. They were washed away from a farm.” I said: “Thirty thousand pigs!? That’s a lot of pigs. Can we check on that?” The reporter came back five minutes later and said: “The story’s right. The farmer told the Rocky journo thirty thousand pigs have drowned from his property upstream from Rocky. Rocky’s running the story.” I asked if we had photos and he said they didn’t but would let me know when they had some, although none arrived that evening. We went pretty big on the drowning, as the Page 3 or Page 5 lead story with the obvious headline of 30,000 pigs drowning in the Rocky floods. Early the next morning the young journalist who had told me about the thirty thousand pigs drowning approached my office and tentatively knocked on the door. In a stammering voice he said: “Ah, look … about that, um, story about the, ah, thirty thousand pigs drowning near Rocky ...” I had an uneasy feeling, bordering on dread. “Uh ha … what about the pig story?” I asked. He said: “It wasn’t thirty thousand pigs. It was 30 sows and pigs.” I’m no mathematician but even I could work out that our story and big headline was out by about 29,970 dead pigs. I knew immediately how the miss-communication would have happened. A young Rocky reporter busily covering the floods. On the phone talking to a distressed farmer or piggery owner who blurts out: “Mate it’s terribly out here. I’ve lost 30 sows and pigs, all drowned.” If someone, speaking quickly, blurts out “thirty-sows-and-pigs” you can understand how someone could hear “thirty thousand pigs”. Also, who says “sows and pigs”? A piggery owner, obviously, but probably no-one else. Certainly not a reporter in the city. Anyway, we ran a correction the next day. The story reminds me that in life, real estate and business, listen to your gut. I had questioned the story. I thought 30,000 pigs was extremely unlikely but accepted it when the young reporter confirmed it. I should have asked more questions. I should have listened to my gut. In real estate, owners sometimes get the facts wrong … how many kilowatts in the solar system, how many litres the bore produces, when the previous owner had renovated the house. You can’t just pass these things on to a buyer as facts if you don’t know them 100 per cent true. You’ve got to be cautious, listen to your gut and check the facts.
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Queensland Telestroke Service is saving lives one video call at a time, recently providing life saving consultation to 37-year-old Mackay mum Angelica Murray. Angelica suffered a stroke whilst out with a friend, and was rushed to Mackay Base Hospital. Within minutes of her arrival she was connected by video to a specialist stroke neurologist who prescribed life-saving medication. “I was in the car with my friend and suddenly I couldn’t concentrate or remember names,” Angelica said. As her condition deteriorated, her friend rushed her to hospital. At the emergency department, staff immediately recognised the signs of a stroke. “I remember all the nurses and doctors working together so quickly,” Angelica said. “They were explaining everything, even the stroke doctor on the screen.” From the advice of the Queensland Telestroke Service (QTS) neurologist, Angelica received the clot busting medication she needed. The speed of the service made a life changing difference. “I started feeling better after a couple of hours,” Angelica said. Mackay Base Hospital is now recording the fastest stroke treatment times in the state. QTS is operating live across ten Queensland sites ( Hervey Bay, Bundaberg, Ipswich, Makay, Toowoomba, Kingaroy, Rockhampton, Bowen, Proserpine, and Gladstone hospitals) with more than 850 patients being treated so far. 12 Queensland hospitals are planned to be added to the list. The service aims to make sure that regional patients are receiving specialist stroke care just as efficiently as those in central areas. Local Stroke Nurse Helen Nengasha, who has spent more than a decade caring for stroke patients, said seeing outcomes like Angelica's was exactly why the team has embraced Queensland Telestroke Service. “The introduction of QTS has streamlined care for patients experiencing time-critical strokes,” Helen said. “Now, it doesn’t matter where you live, you can get that expert care straight away. “In one recent case, the team achieved treatment in just 42 minutes, well under the national 60-minute benchmark. That’s the fastest we’ve ever done.”
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From toilet training to prostate health, pregnancy to menopause — why pelvic health matters to us all. When you hear the words pelvic floor, what comes to mind? Pregnancy? Childbirth? Perhaps those exercises you were told to do but never quite remembered? For many years, pelvic health has been viewed as a women’s health issue. But here’s something that might surprise you: everyone has a pelvic floor, and everyone can experience pelvic health problems. Whether you’re a child struggling with constipation, a new mum recovering from childbirth, a man experiencing bladder changes after prostate surgery, or someone navigating menopause, pelvic health plays an important role in everyday life. Our pelvic floor is a group of muscles at the base of our pelvis. These muscles support our pelvic organs, help control our bladder and bowels, contribute to sexual function and work alongside our abdominal muscles during movement. When things aren’t working as they should, the impact can extend well beyond the bathroom. It might be the child who avoids school toilets because passing a bowel motion hurts. The mum who stops running because she leaks urine. The man who avoids social outings because he’s worried about finding a toilet. Or the woman who believes pelvic heaviness is simply another part of getting older. Different people. Different stages of life. But one common thread: pelvic health can influence our confidence, activity levels and quality of life. And importantly, many pelvic health concerns can improve with the right support. Pelvic health physiotherapy is about much more than strengthening muscles. Treatment might involve bladder retraining, bowel management, improving muscle coordination, addressing pain or helping someone return to activities they love. Sometimes the answer is strengthening. Sometimes it’s learning to relax. And sometimes it’s simply understanding what’s happening in your body. This broader understanding of pelvic health is also why our clinic has recently embraced a new name. After five wonderful years as Women’s Health Physio Mackay, we are now proudly Pelvic Health Mackay. Our new name reflects something we’ve always believed: pelvic health is for everyone. While our name has changed, our team, our care and our commitment to helping the Mackay community remain the same. So here’s my question to you. Have you stopped doing something you love because of your bladder, bowel or pelvic health? Perhaps you’ve given up running because of leakage, avoided social outings because of urgency, or accepted discomfort because you thought it was simply part of getting older. You don’t have to wait until symptoms become overwhelming to seek help. Many concerns can improve with appropriate assessment, education and individualised treatment. If something doesn’t feel right, start the conversation. Speak with your GP or a pelvic health physiotherapist and find out what support is available. Because pelvic health isn’t just about muscles, bladders or bowels. It’s about confidence, independence and enjoying life without unnecessary limitations. Pelvic health isn’t just women’s business. It’s everyone’s business. And your health deserves attention. Lauren Neill | APA Titled Women’s, Men’s & Pelvic Health Physiotherapist | Pelvic Health Mackay
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Happy Tails Paws Pet Minding Pet Services and Training caters to a wide range of animals, from miniature and small dogs to medium, large and giant-sized dogs. The service also looks after cats, birds (including parrots, canaries and macaws), chickens, fish of all types and even turtles.
With the Christmas, New Year and school holiday periods approaching, pet owners can arrange for their animals to be cared for through the following services:
Pet Home Visits: Daily visits to care for pets, including feeding and spending quality time with them.
Pet House Sitting: A pet carer stays in the pet owner's home to provide care while they are away on holiday.
Dog Walking: Walking services are available for small to medium-sized dogs only, with large and extra-large dogs excluded under the business's health and safety policy.
Bathing and Grooming: Pet bathing and grooming services are also available.
Complimentary services are included to help pet owners with household maintenance tasks, such as collecting mail, putting out garbage bins on allocated collection days, and watering pot plants and garden beds.
The pet carer can also walk dogs while providing home or pet-sitting services, with walks limited to small and medium-sized dogs.
Happy Tails Paws Pet Minding is a mobile service prepared to travel throughout Mackay and surrounding areas, including Hay Point, Sarina, Bakers Creek, Armstrong Beach, Salonika Beach, Campwin Beach and Grasstree Beach.
Enquiries can be made by text message, email or through the Happy Tails Paws Pet Minding Google business listing. Enquiries are answered within 24 hours.
For more information, contact 0447 123 413 or email htppm.enquiries@gmail.com.
We are the pet business with a HEART!
Award-winning stylist Sheridan Shaw, owner of Melbourne-based MAMA WEST will lead Chair Culture Education’s inaugural hands-on cutting workshop. Photo supplied
Regional hairdressers deserve the same opportunities to learn and grow as their city counterparts, inspiring Mackay hairdresser of 30 years, Bianca Kemp, to establish Chair Culture Education and bring quality, hands-on industry education closer to home.
As a locally owned business, supporting the regional hairdressing community is at the heart of Bianca's investment.
“Chair Culture Education is a locally owned business, and supporting these workshops means supporting a local business that's investing money, opportunities and growth back into our region,” she says.
Kicking things off on Monday 22nd February 2027, award-winning stylist Sheridan Shaw from MAMA WEST will lead a six-hour, hands-on cutting workshop at CQUniversity Mackay City Campus.
Instead of just watching demonstrations, attendees will have the opportunity to work alongside an experienced educator, ask questions, practise new techniques and build confidence they can take straight back into the salon.
The workshop will also launch Culture Give Back, an initiative where one lucky participant at every Chair Culture Education event will receive a voucher towards future education, encouraging continued learning and professional growth.
Bianca says, “It's my way of giving back to the hairdressing community and encouraging hairdressers to keep learning, growing and investing in their careers.”
While Bianca hopes to eventually expand into Townsville and Cairns, her focus remains on building something meaningful in Mackay.
Tickets are already available, with a Salon Crew offer giving two or more hairdressers from the same salon $100 off each ticket.
To discover upcoming workshops, follow Chair Culture Education on Facebook and Instagram. Tickets are available through the link via social media bios.
Team pic - Photo supplied
Contributed with thanks by Woolworths, Mount Pleasant
Woolworths relaunched its Mount Pleasant Centre store last week, with an expanded fresh food experience, convenient shopping options and value at the heart of its offering.
The new look store now offers a large range of Australian fruit and vegetables, with additional grocery products to choose from including chilled dairy goods, as well as more self-scanning checkouts for shopping convenience.
Shoppers will discover a new "Dinner Made Easy" section, offering a variety of ready-to-go meals that includes everything from fresh pizzas and pastas to salads, soups and BBQ favorites.
Also on offer are artisan style breads, 100% Australian beef from Aussie farmers and an array of fresh, local seafood from the deli department. The store also features a selection of plant-based protein and a range of gluten-free goods.
Mount Pleasant Store Manager, Clinton Mackie, who has managed five stores around Mackay over his twelve year career at Woolworths, can’t wait to show off the new look to Mount Pleasant locals.
“We were excited to see the renovations wrap up and there have been lots of changes to help our customers get the most out of the shop, whether it’s finding a larger range of groceries across the store or the improvements made to all our fresh food departments”, Clinton said.
“This refurbishment has been a number of years in the making and it’s been great to be part of the supermarket’s transformation. The new look store will significantly benefit our team members, customers and the local community”.
“Another great part of this process has been growing our team, with nearly 30 new members joining in the past few months, bringing the total number of team members to over 140.”
Woolworths Mount Pleasant is also proud to support the community by providing food donations to Foodbank and community support group, The Neighbourhood Hub.
A new undercover Direct to Boot service is also expected to open in the coming months, at the rear of the store. Customers will be able to conveniently pull up in one of the six undercover parking bays to pick up their groceries, after placing an online order.
Across 32 countries, more people now name mental health as the biggest health problem facing their nation. More than cancer, stress, or obesity. Nearly half of respondents in the latest global survey put it first, and the number has been rising for years.
The reasons are not mysterious. Chronic stress has become a daily background condition rather than an occasional spike. Sleep is shorter and more fragmented. Ultra-processed food dominates many diets, quietly feeding inflammation that affects the brain as much as the body.
In-person social connection has thinned for millions, while constant digital stimulation keeps the nervous system on alert. Many people also spend large parts of their energy pleasing those around them at the expense of their own needs, leaving little energy left for recovery. At the same time, doom-scrolling has become a quiet habit of judging and comparing oneself to others, steadily eroding self-worth and calm. Without knowing themselves deeply, or having a clear sense of purpose and mission, many feel adrift.
Life shrinks to the daily grind with little to look forward to.
For many, there is also a quiet loss of connection to their spirit, the inner sense of meaning, belonging, and guidance that once provided steadiness. The result is a steady rise in anxiety, low mood, brain fog, and the sense that ordinary life requires more effort than it used to.
What makes this different from many other health issues is how quietly it spreads. There is often no single dramatic event. Instead, small daily drains accumulate: poor sleep compounds poor food choices, which deepen fatigue, which makes stress harder to manage, which further disrupts sleep.
Over time, the body and mind both run on less reserve. People begin to feel “off” without a clear diagnosis, and the cycle continues.
Most of the public conversation still treats mental health as something that happens mainly in the mind and is best addressed with therapy or medication alone. Those tools help many people. Yet a growing body of evidence shows that the state of the body strongly influences the state of the mind.
Stable blood sugar, adequate minerals, a calmer gut environment, and consistent sleep each change how the brain functions. When those foundations are neglected, even the best psychological support has to work harder.
This is why the conversation is shifting. People want to understand why they feel the way they do and what practical steps can reduce the load on their system.
Simple, consistent changes in food quality, daily rhythm, and nervous-system recovery often produce noticeable improvements in mood and clarity before any dramatic intervention is required. Equally important is reclaiming a sense of self, purpose, connection to spirit and something meaningful to look forward to beyond the daily grind.
At Healthy Life Essentials we see this pattern regularly. Many people arrive feeling stuck, tired, and mentally flat after years of doing what they were told. When we help restore the foundations, the mental fog frequently begins to lift alongside the physical symptoms. The mind, body, and spirit are not separate problems.
Brighter mental health is possible. It starts with treating the whole person.
Brad Baker: Healthy Life Essentials
www.healthylifeessentials.com.au
After more than 25 years in marketing and advertising, the team at redhotblue have seen businesses of every size and industry hit the same roadblocks: no clear plan, not enough time, blending into the crowd, limited expertise, lack of commitment, and wasted spend.
1. NO PLAN - Lost in Space
It’s easy for businesses to lose their way in the vast, complex, and ever-expanding universe of marketing, advertising, and branding.
A clear strategy provides direction, connects your activities and keeps your investment focused on meaningful business goals.
2. WASTING MONEY - Roll the Dice
For business owners, it can feel like a game of chance knowing who to trust with their brand, when everyone claims to be a marketing expert.
Look for proven experience, strategic thinking and a genuine understanding of your business.
3. TIME POOR – The Headless Chook
Balancing urgent challenges with daily tasks is a constant juggling act for business owners. Securing quality time for marketing is often as rare as hens’ teeth!
Without dedicated time and responsibility, marketing becomes reactive, inconsistent and easy to postpone.
4. BLENDING IN – Apples to Apples
In the battle for brand memorability, if your audience doesn’t understand your core benefits, your business is just another apple in the cart.
Give people a clear reason to choose you, then communicate it consistently.
5. LIMITED SKILLS – The Drivers Seat
Even a business with the most talented team, innovative product, or efficient systems, will fail to achieve its full potential without a skilled professional in the creative driver’s seat.
The right expertise turns business strengths into compelling messages that connect with customers.
6. NOT COMMITMENT – Lift the Anchor
Successfully navigating the advertising landscape without fully committing to every part of a strategy is like trying to sail a ship with the anchor still down.
Commit the time, budget and resources needed to give your strategy momentum.
From start-ups to established brands, our award-winning team helps businesses find clarity, build momentum and achieve their goals. If any of this sounds familiar, then it’s time to break the cycle and start with redhotblue.
CONTACT US FOR YOUR FREE COPY OF THE PITFALLS BROCHURE.
phone: 4953 2833
Photo supplied by Mackay Pet Rescue Inc
At just nine months old, this handsome boy is full of charm, with a gorgeous marmalade coat and plenty of love to give.
Skittles has been making wonderful progress in foster care, growing in confidence and discovering the joys of being a much-loved little cat.
With his cheeky personality and irresistible good looks, he's sure to bring plenty of sunshine into his new family's home.
Even better, Skittles has had all his vetwork completed. He's desexed, vaccinated, microchipped and wormed, meaning he's ready to find his forever home.
If you're looking to welcome a little ginger goodness into your life, Skittles could be just the companion you've been waiting for!
To enquire about adopting Skittles, contact his foster carer, Jess from Mackay Pet Rescue Inc, on 0499 779 348.
Isabelle O'Hara has been awarded a once in a lifetime all expenses paid trip to the United Kingdom, France and Belgium. Photo source: Mackay North State High School
Pride is flowing in Mackay and Sarina as the government has announced that a local student is one of 10 2027 Premiers Anzac Prize recipients.
Mackay North State High School student Isabelle O'Hara has been awarded a once in a lifetime all expenses paid trip to the United Kingdom, France and Belgium.
Sarina State High School Head of Department Tamara Steinhardt has also been selected as a Chaperone.
The pair will have the opportunity to explore and walk the once trodden paths of soldiers in historic war sites, venturing into the deep history of Australia's military.
“I love learning about people, their experiences and the stories that shape communities,” Isabelle said.
“Since first hearing about the Premier’s Anzac Prize in 2024, I have been inspired by the opportunity to stand in places I had previously only learnt about in the classroom.
“Through the prize, I have been able to extensively research Anzac history, particularly how Anzac day and remembrance have evolved over time.
“Being selected still feels surreal, and I am incredibly proud to represent my school and community. I hope to return with stories that help other young people connect with our Anzac history.”
The announcement comes in time to mark the start of 2026 State Education Week, coming together to celebrate Australia's past with Australia's future.
Premier David Crisafulli said that the Premier Anzac Prize shines light on an important part of Australia's history, allowing young students to connect with their nations past.
“Through this program, Queensland students will gain a better understanding of the courage, sacrifice and service that helped shape our nation,” Premier Crisafulli said.
“Anzacs are our nation’s heroes and it’s important the next generation understands the significant sacrifices of those who came before us.
“By visiting significant historical sites in the United Kingdom, France and Belgium, these young Queenslanders will gain a deeper appreciation of the Anzac legacy and the enduring values it represents.
“I congratulate the successful recipients and teacher chaperones on this outstanding achievement and know they will represent Queensland with pride.”
Minister for Education and the Arts John-Paul Langbroek reverberates the importance of Premier’s Anzac Prize.
“The Premier’s Anzac Prize is an extraordinary opportunity for students from across Queensland to build their knowledge of Australia’s military history,” Minister Langbroek said.
“This is a powerful learning experience that extends beyond the classroom and stays with students through their lives.
“This Prize helps our young people return home with a stronger understanding of the Anzac legacy and its significance for Queensland and Australia.”
RSL Queensland State President Major General Stephen Day DSC AM, positively reflects on the awards.
“Shaped by the ANZAC spirit more than 100 years ago, this rare pilgrimage gives students the opportunity to develop a deeper appreciation of the service, commitment and sacrifice of veterans and their families,” Major General Day said.
Recipients will also take part in a range of learning experiences and events, ranging from Remembrance Day Commemorations to the Young Historian Workshop and White Gloves Experience at the State Library of Queensland.
Farm & Family Vets
Brothers Dr Brad Pullen and Dr Craig Pullen are returning to their roots with the opening of a new independent veterinary clinic serving the Mackay region.
Farm & Family Vets, located at Rural View, brings together more than 60 years of veterinary experience and a shared commitment to providing practical, personal veterinary care to the local community.
Both brothers grew up on a cane farm at Mirani before graduating from the University of Queensland more than 30 years ago.
Dr Brad returned to the Mackay region and became a founding partner of Valley Vet Services, building a long career caring for animals and families across the district. Dr Craig moved south, where he established the first animal hospital on the Sunshine Coast before later working internationally.
Despite following different professional paths, the brothers have always shared a similar view of veterinary medicine: that the best care comes from knowing your clients, understanding their animals and being genuinely connected to the community you serve.
That philosophy is at the heart of Farm & Family Vets.
The new purpose-built clinic combines that traditional, relationship-based approach with the benefits of modern veterinary medicine. The facility includes comprehensive in-clinic diagnostic capabilities together with advanced X-ray and CT imaging, allowing the team to investigate many conditions quickly and thoroughly without patients having to travel outside the region.
For Brad and Craig, however, technology is only part of the story.
Their aim is to build a veterinary practice where experience, sound clinical judgement and modern diagnostic tools work together, while clients continue to have a direct relationship with the people caring for their animals.
As an independently owned local practice, Farm & Family Vets will provide veterinary care for both family pets and farm animals, reflecting the brothers’ own rural upbringing and the needs of the wider Mackay community.
After careers that have taken them in different directions, opening a practice together in Mackay represents something of a homecoming.
For two brothers who began life on a cane farm at Mirani, Farm & Family Vets is an opportunity to bring their combined experience back to the community that shaped them.
Community groups are encouraged to apply for Australia Day event grants. Photo source: Mackay Regional Council
Mackay Regional Council’s Australia Day Event grants have been released, with up to $10,000 now up for grabs for local community groups.
The Australia Day event grants were so successful in 2026 that they have returned for a second time around.
“Council was proud to support 11 true blue community events for Australia Day 2026 and we are looking forward to another incredible event lineup in the new year,” Mayor Greg Williamson said.
“From beach games and park barbecues to awards ceremonies and morning teas, the events are a great way to celebrate our vibrant community spirit.”
"Australia Day is a chance to come together, reflect on what makes our community special and celebrate the people and places that make the Mackay region a great place to live," he said
“Not-for-profit community groups can apply for up to $1000 to support their Australia Day event and celebrate what they love about the Mackay region.”
To be eligible for Aussie day grants, organisers need to be a registered not-for-profit group or have a letter of support from a registered group.
Additionally the events will need to be held on Australia Day 2027 (Tuesday, January 2026), and be free for all to attend and held within the Mackay Regional Council Area.
Succesful candidates must complete a tax declaration form and return it by 5pm Wednesday December 2nd, provide event details and complete an Australia day 2027 Grant outcome form online.
Applications are now open via the council website and will close midnight Sunday 22nd November.
By Andrew Willcox MP Federal Member for Dawson
Imagine walking into a chemist with a $50 note to buy medication, only to be told your money isn't accepted.
It's Australian currency. You've earned it. Yet a business can refuse it.
That doesn't sit right with me, and I suspect it doesn't sit right with most Australians.
Cash is not some outdated relic. For many people across Dawson, particularly older Australians, pensioners and those living in regional communities, it's an essential part of everyday life.
That's why I'm backing the Coalition's Cash is King Bill 2026, which would give Australians a practical legal right to pay with cash.
Most people would be surprised to learn that Labor's cash rules only apply to supermarkets and fuel stations, for purchases of $500 or less, between 7am and 9pm.
If you can use cash to buy groceries, why can't you use it to buy medicine, clothes or a meal from other large businesses too?
The Coalition's legislation would extend cash acceptance to major retailers, lift the transaction limit to $2,000, remove the time restrictions and require Commonwealth agencies to accept cash for eligible counter payments.
Importantly, businesses turning over less than $10 million annually would be exempt. We're not interested in piling more red tape onto small businesses already doing it tough.
And there's another reason this matters enormously in North Queensland.
When a cyclone hits, the power goes out or telecommunications fail, your bank card can become useless. We've seen firsthand how quickly essential services can be disrupted. Cash provides a practical backup when electronic payment systems aren't working.
It's also about keeping costs down.
Every time someone is forced to tap a card, that’s another cost to small business. Cash gives consumers an alternative without a card surcharge.
Around 1.5 million Australians rely on cash for most of their purchases. They shouldn't be treated as an inconvenience simply because the world is becoming increasingly digital.
Nobody is suggesting we abandon electronic payments. I use them myself.
But convenience should never come at the expense of choice.
Whether you're buying groceries in Mackay, medication in Bowen, ag supplies in the Burdekin or clothes in Townsville, you should have the freedom to decide how you pay.
It's your money. It should be your choice.
Cash is king, and the Coalition intends to keep it that way.
Construction of a multi-million dollar Port of Mackay Container Depot hardstand is now complete.
The 1.3-hectare facility will strengthen supply chain resilience, improve freight efficiency and provide regional businesses with greater access to containerised trade, supporting industries including mining, agriculture and manufacturing.
Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg said the project would improve road safety, get trucks off the Bruce Highway, and help build a stronger economy in North Queensland.
"This critical port infrastructure supports the Queensland Freight Strategy by giving regional businesses and producers a more efficient, cost‑effective pathway to domestic and international markets.” Minister Mickelberg said.
“By eliminating the need for long-haul transport to other ports we are unlocking savings in freight costs and time, while also reducing heavy vehicle traffic and congestion on the Bruce Highway, delivering a better lifestyle through a stronger economy.”
North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) Chief Executive Officer Brendan Webb said the Depot had already demonstrated its capability, with the first successful trial of export containers moving through the facility last week.
“Carrying tunnel boring machine components, the containerised cargo departed the Port of Mackay aboard FWN Provider bound for Texas, marking an important milestone for the Depot," Mr Webb said.
“With the laydown area now complete, the project will move into its next phase, with a range of activities under way to prepare the facility for future operations, including commissioning equipment, integrating operational systems and final site works.”
North High Year 11 student Ezriel, who is a finalist for Best Film, Best Sound and Best Animation at the inaugural Essential Screen Skills Awards. Photo supplied
Contributed with thanks by Mackay North State High School
A Mackay North State High School student who entered her animation in a statewide film competition moments before the deadline is now in the running for three awards.
Year 11 student Ezriel learned her film, Unfocused, Hocus Pocus, was a finalist for Best Film, Best Sound and Best Animation at the inaugural Essential Screen Skills Awards just one day before her 17th birthday.
“It was awesome,” she said.
“The email said congratulations, I was like ‘What?’ I was freaking out – it was crazy.”
The competition attracted more than 100 submissions, with up to five nominees selected in each category.
Ezriel said she submitted her animation moments before entries closed after her Film, Television and New Media teacher, Mr Mark Shew, encouraged her to give it a go because “you never know”.
Her work has now been assessed by an animation judging panel that includes Oscar-nominated filmmaker Lachlan Pendragon and animator and designer Kate Derrick, who joined the Bluey team in its second season.
Pendragon earned his 2023 Academy Award nomination for the animated short An Ostrich Told Me the World Is Fake and I Think I Believe It.
Ezriel will travel to Brisbane with her older brother Enzo for the awards weekend.
As a finalist, she has been invited to an Industry Development Day at QUT’s Kelvin Grove campus on Friday 13th November, where students can meet and learn from screen industry professionals.
Her animation is then scheduled to screen alongside other nominated films at Event Cinemas Uptown on Saturday morning 14th November. The awards ceremony will follow that afternoon at the same venue.
For Ezriel, the opportunity to pursue a career in animation feels surreal after years of drawing and dreaming about working in television.
Her ambition is to one day see her name in the credits of a television show.
Ezriel said she created Unfocused, Hocus Pocus using Clip Studio, drawing inspiration from Eddsworld, the YouTube animation series created by Edd Gould about the misadventures of three friends.
“I really look up to him,” she said.
Around 30 women gathered last Friday for a Pink Ribbon Breakfast, combining community connection, breast health education and fundraising for the National Breast Cancer Foundation. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Stories, conversations and a splash of pink filled the room as around 30 women gathered at Roshni by Raj last Friday morning for a special Pink Ribbon Breakfast, held in recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Organised by Alicia Saelman of Atlas & Co Travel Studio and Shirlz Russell of Area Specialist Property Hub, the morning brought together a colourful gathering over coffee and breakfast, creating an opportunity for women to connect, share experiences and reflect on the importance of looking after their breast health.
The turnout was a welcome sight for organisers, with guests embracing the pink theme and showing their support for an important cause.
A highlight of the morning was a presentation from Dr Wendela Schimmer, General and Breast Surgeon with Mackay Surgical Group, who shared her knowledge of breast health and the importance of early detection.
Dr Schimmer also highlighted that breast cancer is not exclusive to women, with men also affected, reinforcing the importance of awareness and understanding across the wider community.
The discussion encouraged attendees to take a more informed approach to understanding their bodies, recognising changes and making time for regular health checks.
“I think everyone in the room learned something and that’s what it’s all about… there were some really great takeaways from this morning, and we’re really thankful for Dr Schimmer for sharing her knowledge with all of us here today,” Shirlz said.
For Alicia, bringing people together around an important cause was at the heart of the morning, with early detection remaining a key message.
“It’s been a really lovely morning bringing all these ladies together, but ultimately, the most important message is that early detection and prevention are everything,” Alicia said.
Alongside breakfast and the guest presentation, the event featured a pink hamper, a light-hearted game of trivia and a raffle, with community support helping raise funds for the National Breast Cancer Foundation.
Beyond the pink attire and morning's festivities, the gathering offered a timely reminder of the importance of staying informed, being familiar with changes in both men and women’s bodies and making personal health a priority.
Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox and Federal Member for Capricornia Michelle Landry. Photo supplied
By Federal Member For Dawson Andrew Willcox
I want to sincerely thank my friend and Nationals colleague Michelle Landry for her extraordinary dedication to the people of Capricornia and regional Queensland, following her decision not to contest the next federal election.
Since being elected in 2013, Michelle has been a tireless advocate for her community. She has never forgotten who sent her to Parliament, and her commitment to delivering better roads, stronger regional industries and opportunities for local families has never wavered.
With Capricornia and Dawson sharing boundaries, industries and many of the same challenges, Michelle and I have often found ourselves fighting for the same things. Whether it's backing our resources sector, supporting local jobs or pushing for much-needed improvements to the Bruce Highway, I've always valued having Michelle alongside me as a strong voice for regional Queensland.
Michelle has been particularly passionate about making the Bruce Highway safer. She understands, as I do, that for regional Queenslanders, this isn't just another road. It's the lifeline connecting our communities, our businesses and our families, and she's never stopped fighting for the investment it deserves.
Beyond her work for Capricornia, Michelle has been a wonderful colleague and a tremendous support to our Nationals team. Her warmth, straight-talking nature and willingness to lend a hand have earned her the respect and friendship of so many.
Capricornia has certainly had a fantastic steward in Michelle Landry. She's given so much of herself to public service, and the people she's represented have been fortunate to have someone who cares so deeply about their future.
Michelle, you've earned the opportunity to enjoy more time with your family and the people closest to you. I wish you all the very best for whatever the next chapter holds.
Contributed with thanks by the office of Federal Member For Capricornia Michelle Landry
After more than 13 years representing Central Queensland, Federal Member for Capricornia Michelle Landry has announced she will not contest the seat at the next federal election, bringing a significant chapter of her political career to a close.
First elected in 2013, Ms Landry said the decision came after considerable thought and reflection as she looks towards the next chapter of her life, while remaining committed to representing the people of Capricornia until the next election.
Ms Landry said representing the people of Capricornia has been “the greatest honour of her life,” and that she “will be forever grateful for the trust this community has placed” in her.
During her time in office, Ms Landry helped secure funding for major infrastructure projects across Mackay, the Pioneer Valley and surrounding regions, including the Walkerston Bypass, Eton Range realignment on the Peak Downs Highway, Phillips Creek Bridge on Saraji Road between Dysart and Moranbah, and the redevelopment of the Collinsville QCWA Hall.
“Together, we have put Central Queensland on the map, and Capricornia is now a region with enormous opportunities ahead of it.”
Ms Landry said that while her decision had been made, her commitment to the electorate remained as strong as ever.
“There is still important work to be done, and I intend to keep fighting for Capricornia right up until the next election.”
Ms Landry acknowledged the personal sacrifices that come with public life, particularly for those closest to her, and said she was looking forward to spending more time with her two daughters and grandson, travelling and enjoying life beyond the parliamentary calendar.
“I also intend to remain an active member of the community I love, volunteering, giving back locally and indulging in one of my great passions, growing orchids, as well as spending more time with the wonderful people at the Rockhampton Orchid Society.
“My time in federal politics may be coming to an end, but my commitment to Capricornia never will.”
Leader of The Nationals Matt Canavan described Ms Landry as “the fiercest local political fighter in the Parliament,” and said he was saddened that she would not be fighting alongside him in the next parliamentary term.
“Michelle is not leaving today, and I am certain that Michelle will be banging down my door, still fighting for things for Capricornia right up to the next election.”
Ms Landry thanked her staff, past and present, volunteers, supporters, parliamentary colleagues and family for their contributions throughout her political career.
“There will be plenty of time over the coming months to reflect on the projects we have delivered, the battles we have fought and, most importantly, the extraordinary people I have had the privilege of meeting along the way.
“To the people of Capricornia, thank you for welcoming me into your communities, businesses, schools, sporting clubs and homes.
“Thank you for sharing your challenges and successes with me and, most importantly, thank you for trusting me to be your voice in Canberra.”
Federal Member for Capricornia Michelle Landry has announced she will not contest the next federal election after more than 13 years representing Central Queensland.
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