If you find yourself in the mood for some bad news, if you really want a solid dose of negativity, if you think things are humming along a bit too nicely and you want to suck the life out of it and sink into a state of overwhelming negativity … the easiest thing to do is turn on the TV news.

The bad news could be any number of things; crime is a good one, particularly violent crime against innocent people. Let it get in your head and your depressed mood is set up for the day.

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The cost of living is another beauty. Electricity costs, petrol, interest rates, inflation … turn on the morning news and you can hear all about it and set yourself up for the day.

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The bad news for home owners has all been about how the property market is collapsing. It’s a national story and there is no doubt that some cities are being smashed with low clearance rates at auction and falling prices. Sydney is suffering the most.

It is definitely true that since the Federal Government’s decision to ban negative gearing on housing other than brand new builds and to increase capital gains tax, there has been a change to property markets around the country.

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Investors are running for the hills in Sydney and showing a serious lack of interest in Melbourne and Brisbane.

The Government’s idea was to make property more affordable for first home buyers but in those big cities the first home buyers seem to be holding off as the prices fall. Meanwhile, home owners in those cities are stressed as they see the value of their properties fall. Strangely, most people don’t want the value of their home to fall.

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But the national news coverage doesn’t tell you anything about Mackay. What are buyers doing here?

One good way of assessing that is to look at the number of loan applications and submissions from mortgage brokers to banks for those loans.

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Gardian CEO Ben Phillips was until recently in charge of Gardian Finance’s Mortgage Choice franchise and in his new CEO role he obviously continues to have his finger on that pulse.

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He spoke with Gardian real estate’s sales team the other day to tell us that whatever we might be hearing about the real estate situation around the country, it is a different story here.

The big indicator is the number of people in Mackay who are applying for loans to buy properties here.

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The Gardian Finance/Mortgage Choice franchise is one of the most successful in the country and the number of loan applications in a particular month or quarter gives a good indication of the number of buyers in our market.

Gardian Finance’s Mortgage Choice franchise is 14^th in the country for the dollar value of settlements (we are competing against much higher prices in southern cities) and is fourth in Australia for the number of submissions for loan approvals.

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So current loan applications through Gardian finance tell us something about the number of buyers out there.

Ben said that in the month of July, we had the fourth-highest number of loan submissions in 26 years of business. That’s not bad in a supposed property downturn.

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“We are incredibly busy with loan applications from Mackay buyers,” Ben told me.

“It shows that you can listen to the national news but Mackay seems to run differently to the capital cities and the settlement and loan submission numbers show that Mackay is getting on with it and people want to buy properties

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“This is the best year we have had in terms of loan submissions and July was one of our strongest months ever.”

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“Ninety-two per cent of the loan submissions are for owner-occupiers who want to put down roots in Mackay, people who love this place and feel confident about its future.”

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You won’t hear about that on the national news but it’s worth knowing.

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Roy Brunke has joined Blacks Real Estate as a Sales Consultant. Photo source: Blacks Real Estate

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Roy Brunke has joined Blacks Real Estate as a Sales Consultant, bringing decades of experience in commercial print and marketing to the Mackay property industry.

Roy recently commenced his new role with the agency and is set to assist clients across the region with the sale of residential and commercial properties.

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His background in print and marketing is expected to provide valuable insight for vendors looking to effectively present and promote their properties in a competitive market.

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Blacks Real Estate said Roy’s extensive experience working with businesses and clients throughout his career would be an asset to the team and future clients alike.

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Operating from offices in Mackay and Dysart, Blacks Real Estate services residential, commercial, rural and industrial clients across the wider region.

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(L-R) Previous Community Bank Sarina scholarship recipients and Sarina State High School students Wyatt, Makayli and Makylha attend a Community Bank Sarina hosted business networking event at Sarina Art Gallery. Photo supplied

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Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank is calling on current Year 10 students at Sarina State High School (SSHS) to apply for the 2027 Senior Schooling Scholarships, an opportunity that has already supported many local students to pursue their career goals.

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From future teachers to an aspiring nurse and tradesperson, previous recipients are utilising their scholarships to support their education, develop new skills and build connections within their community.

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2026 scholarship recipients and current Grade 11 students Makayli Moyle and Makylha Bourke are both working towards careers in education.

Makayli said the scholarship has helped her stay focused on her studies and has reduced financial pressure.

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“After finishing school, I plan to attend university and study a Bachelor of Education to become a primary school teacher. I hope to build a career where I can make a positive difference in children's lives by helping them learn, grow, and enjoy school,” Ms Moyle said.

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Fellow recipient Makylha Bourke said the scholarship had supported both her studies and her connection with the wider community, as she works towards becoming a Physical Education Teacher. She is currently studying a Bachelor of Education (Primary) through the CQUniversity SUN (Start Uni Now) Program.

“This scholarship has helped me over the past year with financial assistance for my extra school curricula, as well as helping me get to know the wider Sarina community,” Ms Bourke said.

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2025 recipient Wyatt McKewen has utilised his scholarship to obtain a drone licence, purchase tools for his trade and undertake Certificate II Engineering Pathways studies, while also securing multiple apprenticeship interviews and joining the Sarina Rural Skills Centre Committee.

Fellow 2025 scholarship recipient Katie Stevenson is preparing for a career in nursing, having attended the James Cook University Heroes in Health program, where students gain insight into what it’s like to work across multiple health care disciplines.

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Applications are now open for two $2,000 scholarships, available for SSHS  students entering Year 11 in 2027.

These scholarships are supported through the Community Bank Sarina Community Engagement Program under the youth and education pillar, helping improve youth connectedness, enhance educational opportunities and build community leadership skills.

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Community Bank Sarina Deputy Chair Maree Franettovich said the scholarships are an investment in the next generation of local leaders.

"We’ve partnered with SSHS since 2017 to support more than 20 students with scholarships, encouraging them to work towards their careers and to develop the confidence and skills that will support them beyond school."

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Ms Franettovich said seeing past recipients thrive demonstrated the lasting impact of the scholarship program.

"We're proud of what our scholarship recipients are achieving and encourage Year 10 SSHS students to apply. You don't need to have the highest grades, we're looking for well rounded young people who are committed to their education and their community."

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Applications for the 2027 Community Bank Sarina SSHS Senior Scholarships close on 31 August 2026. To request an application pack, email executive@sarinacommunity.com.au.

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Students at Cummins South Pacific (in Paget) as part of their heavy mechanical experience. Photo source: Mackay Engineering College  

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The wheels are already turning for a group of Sarina State High School students, who have been getting a taste of the engineering industry through the Try Trade program at Mackay Engineering College.

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Students recently visited Cummins and Autocorner, where they gained valuable hands-on experience in the automotive and mechanical sectors.

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A representative from Sarina State High School praised the students' enthusiasm, strong work ethic and willingness to learn, while thanking the teams at Cummins and Autocorner for supporting the valuable industry experience.

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“Opportunities like these help students explore future career pathways and develop practical skills that will benefit them well beyond the classroom,” the school stated.

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“A huge thank you to the teams at Cummins and Autocorner for supporting our students and providing such valuable industry experiences.

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"We're proud of everything our students have achieved – keep up the great work!”

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Sarina will celebrate a significant milestone later this month with a community event recognising more than 250 years of combined history, creativity and local connection.

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Sarina Community Arts & Crafts will host a triple birthday celebration on Saturday 29th August, marking 30 years of Sarina Arts & Crafts, 100 years of the Mt Pelion State School Building, and more than 120 years of the Old Sarina Courthouse and Watch House.

The celebration will be held at Railway Square, Field of Dreams, Sarina, from 9am, with official ceremonies, cake cutting and formalities taking place from 10.30am.

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The event will celebrate the people, places and stories that have helped shape Sarina, with the volunteer-run Sarina Community Arts & Crafts group continuing to provide a space for local makers to share their creations.

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Community members are invited to attend, reflect on Sarina’s rich history and enjoy a day of connection, creativity and celebration.

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What: Sarina’s 250-Year Triple Birthday Celebration
When: Saturday 29th August, from 9am
Where: Railway Square, Field of Dreams, Sarina

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Image source: Shutterstock

The Queensland Government has taken the next step in its review of the State's Financial Provisioning Scheme, releasing the Terms of Reference that will guide an assessment of whether the framework is effectively supporting both environmental rehabilitation and future investment in the resources sector.

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The review was announced in Mackay during the Queensland Mining & Engineering Expo on Wednesday, 22nd July, with the Government saying it aims to ensure Queensland remains competitive as global demand for critical minerals continues to grow.

The Financial Provisioning Scheme requires resource companies to provide financial security, pay annual contributions to a central fund, or both, to cover rehabilitation costs if mining operations are abandoned or environmental obligations are not met.

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The review will examine whether the scheme strikes the right balance between managing financial risk while encouraging investment, particularly from smaller explorers, mid-tier companies and emerging operators.

Minister for Natural Resources and Mines Dale Last said the review was progressing in response to concerns raised by industry.

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"The Financial Provisioning Scheme has been one of the top three issues raised with me by smaller explorers and operators. We listened to our miners, we committed to a review last month and we're getting on with delivering it," Mr Last said.

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"The world is entering a new era of resources growth, and the Government recognises the need for Queensland to have the most appropriate policy settings to capitalise.

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"Our vision is to build on Queensland's reputation as a global resources leader and this review will ensure we are promoting new investment while balancing environmental obligations.

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"We will work closely with industry as the review progresses to make sure we deliver the right settings for future development."

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The Terms of Reference outline a broad assessment of the scheme's performance, Queensland's competitiveness with other jurisdictions, the treatment of small and mid-tier operators, investment settings and risk classification rules.

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Consultation on the review is expected to open in September, with stakeholders invited to provide feedback on potential improvements to the scheme.

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QRIDA is offering disaster recovery grants of up to $75,000 to help eligible Mackay primary producers restore their businesses after the 2025–26 severe weather events. Photo source: Shutterstock

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Primary producers across the Mackay region impacted by severe weather, flooding and tropical cyclone events between December 2025 and April 2026 can now access disaster recovery grants of up to $75,000 to help restore their operations.

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The Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority (QRIDA) is administering the Exceptional Disaster Assistance Recovery Grants, designed to assist eligible primary producers with the costs of clean-up, repairs and reinstatement following the Queensland Monsoon Trough, Cyclone Koji, Cyclone Narelle and associated severe weather events.

Mackay Regional Council is among the local government areas declared eligible for the assistance whereby eligible producers can apply for an initial grant of up to $10,000 to begin immediate recovery work, with subsequent applications available up to a combined maximum of $65,000, bringing the total assistance available to $75,000.

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The grants can be used for a wide range of recovery activities, including purchasing or hiring equipment for clean-up, repairing damaged buildings and fencing, replacing essential plant and machinery, restoring crops, purchasing fodder, replacing deceased livestock and covering additional labour costs associated with recovery efforts.

The funding is intended to help primary production enterprises recover from direct physical damage caused by the disaster events and resume normal operations as quickly as possible.

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To be eligible, applicants must operate a primary production enterprise within an activated disaster area, hold a valid Australian Business Number (ABN), demonstrate direct damage from the eligible disaster event and intend to continue operating in the affected region.

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QRIDA is encouraging producers who need assistance with the application process to contact its Disaster Support team, with personalised appointments and regional support available to help applicants prepare and lodge their claims.

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Applications remain open until 6th January 2027. For more information, eligibility guidelines or to apply, visit the QRIDA website, www.qrida.qld.gov.au, or phone 1800 623 946.

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Queensland's new Critical Minerals Strategy aims to grow the State's resources sector by accelerating investment, processing and manufacturing. Photo source: Australian Mining

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The Queensland Government has unveiled a new strategy aimed at accelerating the State's critical minerals sector, with the plan expected to support jobs, attract investment and strengthen regional economies, including resource-rich areas such as Mackay.

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Delivering Queensland's Critical Minerals Future 2026–30 outlines the Government's vision to position Queensland as a globally recognised supplier of critical minerals by expanding extraction, processing, refining and manufacturing capabilities.

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The strategy follows a $146 million commitment in the State Budget to help unlock Queensland's critical mineral reserves and respond to increasing global demand for resources essential to renewable energy technologies, advanced manufacturing and modern infrastructure.

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Queensland is home to significant reserves of critical minerals, along with an established mining sector, skilled workforce and processing expertise, placing the State in a strong position to capitalise on changing global supply chains.

Minister for Natural Resources and Mines Dale Last said the plan would help Queensland move beyond exporting raw materials by strengthening the entire critical minerals value chain.

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"We've seen the impact that recent geopolitical uncertainty and export restrictions have had on global supply chains and the need for secure and reliable sources of strategic resources," Mr Last said.

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"The Delivering Queensland's Critical Minerals Future 2026–30 sets out key actions to grow Queensland's value chain to expand processing, refining and manufacturing to build a global supply chain that is shielded from externalities that halt critical and strategic resources.

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"The world is knocking on Queensland's door, and we are ready to capitalise on this generational opportunity that will deliver long-term jobs and economic opportunities to regional Queensland.

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"We have the resources, industrial capability, energy and importantly, the will to deliver critical minerals to the world and get this done."

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The strategy aims to encourage new investment while strengthening Queensland's role as a reliable supplier of the minerals needed to support global manufacturing and secure supply chains in the years ahead.

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Junior doctors swapped hospital wards for an underground mine during a unique Mackay training exercise, gaining firsthand experience in managing complex emergency situations while exploring the rewards and challenges of a career in regional medicine. Photos supplied  

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Hard hats replaced lecture halls when junior doctors headed underground as part of an immersive training exercise during the 2026 Junior Doctors Conference in Mackay.

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Delivered through a collaboration between the Australian Medical Association Queensland (AMAQ) and James Cook University's Northern Queensland Regional Training Hubs (NQRTH), the workshop gave participants firsthand experience of the challenges and opportunities of regional medicine.

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Held at the Resources Centre of Excellence on July 26, the sold-out program included three simulated emergency scenarios: a cardiac arrest, a crush injury and an underground fire.

Working alongside personnel from Anglo American and the Queensland Mines Rescue Service, participants built leadership, communication and rapid decision-making skills while gaining valuable insight into practising medicine in regional communities.

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JCU NQRTH Regional Medical Training Manager Cherie Miller said, “Attracting and retaining Australian-trained doctors in regional communities is critical to the future of healthcare in Queensland.”

“This workshop gives junior doctors and medical students an authentic insight into the range of situations and clinical challenges they may encounter while practising in regional areas — not just in hospitals, but in complex, real-world industrial environments.

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“What we’re offering here is something junior doctors simply don’t get in a city-based training pathway.

AMAQ President Erica Gannon said the program highlighted Mackay as a place where doctors can build rewarding and diverse careers.

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“First-hand experience of high stakes disaster response is the kind of unique training we know will spark excitement and enthusiasm for our members,” the associate professor said.

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Anglo American Grosvenor Mine rescue captain Boyd Buschmann, who competed in this year's International Mines Rescue Competition in Zambia, drew on more than 20 years of experience to develop the emergency scenarios, saying the workshop was a valuable opportunity to share practical knowledge gained through decades of emergency response and preparation.

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“If these junior doctors choose a career in regional medicine, there’s a good chance they’ll one day be called upon to support situations where these skills can make a real difference,” he said.

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“The scenarios we created were designed to be as realistic as possible because that’s how people learn. We wanted the junior doctors to experience the kinds of challenges they could face managing complex situations and working effectively with other emergency response teams.

“It’s important we share our learnings with the next generation so they enter the workforce better prepared for complex emergencies whether it’s on an industrial site, at a road crash or in the community.”

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Following the mines rescue scenarios, junior doctors worked with Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) senior medical staff to further enhance their judgment in clinical environments.

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Mackay HHS Chief Executive Sean Birgan said the doctors involved had first-hand experience in responding to major trauma events involving multiple casualties.

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“Our senior medical staff can provide invaluable insight into the realities of responding to situations like these and they are keen to inspire future rural and regional specialists,” he said.

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Mackay's much-loved M&P Services – Key Solutions Group Charity Golf Day has once again sold out, with players, sponsors and supporters preparing to hit the fairways on August 14th in support of local charities. Photo source: M&P Services  

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One of Mackay's most anticipated charity events is almost here, with the 11th annual M&P Services – Key Solutions Group Charity Golf Day set to return to the Mackay Golf Course on Friday 14th August.

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Once again, the event has sold out, with players, sponsors and supporters coming together for a day of friendly competition, plenty of laughs and, most importantly, fundraising for local charities that continue to make a meaningful difference across the region.

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Year after year, the event has grown in both size and impact, raising more than $75,000 in 2025 alone. Organisers are now hoping to make the 2026 event the biggest and most successful yet.

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While the golf itself is always fiercely contested, the day has become known for much more than what happens on the fairways. Fantastic prizes, raffles, great company and a strong sense of community spirit have helped turn the annual event into a highlight on the local calendar.

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There will also be plenty of eyes fixed on the course as players take their shot at the impressive $40,000 Penske Hole-in-One Prize, which is sure to add another layer of excitement to an already action-packed day.

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Organisers have extended their gratitude to the businesses whose support has helped make the event possible.

Major sponsors for the 2026 charity day include Key Solutions Group, Southern Cross Industrial Group (SCIG), Penske Australia & New Zealand, Steelforce Mackay, Blacksmith Jacks, RIMEX Australia, GB Industries, Jaws Buckets & Attachments, Triple M, MM Electrical Mackay and QCCS Pty Ltd.

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M&P Services thanked the companies for their ongoing generosity and commitment to the Mackay community, saying their support plays a vital role in ensuring local charities continue to receive much-needed assistance.

As anticipation builds, organisers will continue sharing sponsor spotlights, behind-the-scenes updates and a few glimpses of what participants can expect on the day.

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Although places have once again been snapped up by long-time supporters and perpetual sponsors, those hoping to become involved in future events can join the waiting list by contacting marketing@mpservices.net.au.

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With another sell-out event, strong community backing and thousands of dollars destined for worthy causes, the countdown is officially underway!

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Event Details

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What: M&P Services – Key Solutions Group 11th Annual Charity Golf Day

When: Friday 14^th August  

Where: Mackay Golf Course

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JODY EULER of redhotblue MARK SANFILIPPO of C&C Civil & Mining Construction

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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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With more than 35 years of hands-on industry experience, C & C Civil Mining Construction has earned a reputation for delivering complex projects safely, efficiently, and cost-effectively, without compromise.

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While that reputation had secured the company a steady stream of high-profile projects, its marketing had failed to keep pace with its industry standing. Recognising the need for a stronger and more consistent approach C & C set out to elevate its brand. They wanted more than a fresh visual identity they were looking for a strategic marketing partner to help define their direction and communicate their value with greater impact.

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What began with a Squeeze Brand and Marketing Session involving the leadership team quickly evolved into a comprehensive marketing strategy, followed by a complete creative rollout that aligned the company's brand with its reputation for excellence. Mark Sanfilippo, General Manager of C & C shares the experience of working with redhotblue and the impact the partnership has had on the company.  

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Before working with redhotblue, what did you feel was missing from your brand and marketing, and what made you realise it was time for a more strategic approach?

C & C operates in a fast-moving and constantly changing environment, delivering construction and underground ground support solutions while managing ongoing tendering, planning and project execution. Our work relies on experienced, multi-skilled people who are focused on engineering, building and delivering complex projects safely and reliably. That focus can be all-consuming, and historically we have relied on our reputation for safe, dependable delivery rather than actively promoting our brand. As the media landscape has changed, and as client teams continue to evolve, we recognised the need for a more strategic approach to telling our story. What had been missing was a clear and distinctive way to represent who we are, what we do, and what sets us apart from others in the industry.

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The project began with a Brand and Marketing Session and evolved into a complete marketing strategy and creative rollout. How did that process help clarify your business direction and change the way you communicate your value to the market?

We identified redhotblue as the right partner to help us clearly define our marketing strategy into a long-term campaign instead of randomly advertising on billboards and other mediums without a coherent, structured and strategic approach. The redhotblue Brand and Marketing Session was an effective way of defining what our brand meant to us and what value we offer to our clients based on the values we uphold and strive for, the way we respect employees, suppliers, subcontractors and clients and the high level of value we provide to clients as a reliable resource to build and support their operations and infrastructure. Scott and Jody facilitated the session in a way that was engaging, reflective and genuinely valuable. It helped us identify the foundations of C & C as both a company and a brand we are proud to represent.

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Finding a way to represent what you do is a no easy task. Can you share your thoughts about the marketing messaging and creative that redhotblue produced and the impact they’ve had on your presence in the marketplace?  

The marketing messaging created by redhotblue was developed from the Brand and Marketing sessions along with subsequent meetings and discussions with C&C’s management team. The messaging developed is a reflection of our history, values and experience as a reliable contracting partner for our clients and was communicated in standout creative aesthetics which conveyed our brand uniquely. The hero graphic created by redhotblue is truly unique when compared to the standard advertising displayed across our region. The consistent messaging, strategic approach and unique aesthetics provided by redhotblue has set us apart in the marketplace and provided an overwhelming positive response to the campaign.  

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Mackay is among the regions set to benefit from an expansion of the Queensland Government's Surgery Connect Program. Photo source: Shutterstock

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Mackay patients waiting for elective surgery could receive treatment sooner under a $247 million Queensland Government investment to expand the Surgery Connect Program.

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The 2026–27 Budget funding will deliver more than 25,000 additional elective surgeries across Queensland, with Mackay among the regions to receive extra support through the program. The funding will help provide high-demand procedures including cataract surgery, joint replacements and ear, nose and throat operations, aimed at improving mobility, independence and quality of life for Queenslanders.

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As part of the expansion, 11 new service providers have joined the Surgery Connect Program across Queensland, including in Mackay, bringing the total number of contracted providers working with Queensland Health to 32.

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The investment builds on the program's existing success, with more than 35,000 elective procedures completed since February 2025. According to the Queensland Government, the state's elective surgery waitlist has also fallen by 8,136 patients from its peak, with 58,496 people currently awaiting surgery.

Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Tim Nicholls said Surgery Connect was delivering meaningful outcomes for patients across the state.

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“Every surgery delivered through Surgery Connect is a Queenslander getting their life back sooner,” Mr Nicholls said.

“This $247 million investment will deliver thousands more surgeries and procedures, ensuring more Queenslanders can access the care they need.”

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The funding forms part of the Queensland Government's broader $1.8 billion investment in elective surgery and complements the State's Hospital Rescue Plan, which includes new and expanded hospitals and more than 2,600 additional beds across Queensland.

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Mackay Airport’s Milton Precinct is set to expand with a new supermarket announced as its first tenant, bringing a new grocery option, jobs and future commercial opportunities to the region. Image and Photo supplied by Mackay Airport  

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Mackay residents will soon have another option for grocery shopping, with Queensland-owned supermarket brand Fresh & Save announced as the first tenant for the Mackay Airport Milton Precinct development.

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Preliminary works are underway at the site, with the new supermarket expected to open in mid-2027, and provide an additional grocery shopping option for residents as the region continues to grow.

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Mackay Airport Chief Executive Officer Richard Barker said the supermarket would form an important part of the emerging precinct, which is located near key growth areas including the Bakers Creek community zone.

The Milton Precinct development is expected to bring additional services and facilities to the area, supporting the needs of a growing Mackay community.

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“We are pleased to support greater grocery affordability, choice and convenience for our community,” he said.

“Fresh & Save is well known for its strong value offering, market-style produce, and bulk-buy savings.”

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Mr Barker said the new supermarket would invigorate further commercial development at Milton Precinct.

“Fresh & Save will be positioned within a central, 5,700 square metre site. It will attract significant customer volumes and serve as a catalyst for ongoing business activation at Milton Precinct,” he said.

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“The first stage of Milton Precinct has already unlocked almost 28,000 square metres of development-ready lots with new roads and a network of civil services. The overall precinct will span 200,000 square metres, enabling a range of service providers to co-locate in a single, integrated hub.

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“Milton Precinct will support local operators, new industries and employment while offering convenience for customers. Having direct access to the airport, Bruce Highway and rail line is also highly attractive for businesses who need a fast, affordable and reliable supply chain.”

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According to the brand, its warehouse-style stores feature production butcheries, bakery departments, extensive produce sections, and a range of chilled foods and grocery items.

Stores are already located in a range of suburban and regional areas around Queensland and New South Wales, including suburban Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast, Maryborough, Hervey Bay and Grafton.

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The Milton Precinct development is expected to deliver significant economic benefits for the Mackay region, with the project estimated to contribute $134.1 million to the local economy within its first 10 years of operation. Businesses operating from the precinct are expected to generate $42.5 million in output each year.

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Mackay Airport is investing $32 million into key infrastructure at the site, with the development also supported by a loan from the Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility (NAIF), which requires projects to demonstrate public benefits including job creation and regional economic growth.

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The precinct is expected to create more than 200 construction jobs, with businesses at the completed development forecast to support an additional 280 onsite jobs.  

The Milton Precinct will be developed in stages over a 10-year period, with commercial operators progressively opening as the precinct expands.

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For more information, visit miltonprecinct.com.au.

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OPINION PIECE by Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox

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Seniors who spent decades working hard, paying taxes, and saving to fund their own future have earned the right to stability and security in their retirement. You expect your government to respect that lifetime of contribution. You do not expect it to target your retirement savings the moment you turn 65.

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Yet that is the harsh reality facing tens of thousands of seniors across Dawson under a policy shift by the Albanese Labor Government as part of its latest budget cash grab.

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Starting in April 2027, the government will abolish the extra private health insurance rebate built specifically to keep healthcare affordable for retirees on fixed incomes. Right now, older Australians receive a higher rebate tier to offset the loss of a regular wage. Labor is scrapping that support to help cover its own budget deficit.

The financial penalty is severe. Support drops from 28.1 per cent down to 24.1 per cent for people aged 65 to 69; for anyone 70 or older, it plunges from 32.2 per cent to 24.1 per cent.

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In real dollars, this decision forces a massive annual price hike on vulnerable members of our community on fixed incomes. On average, this adds up to around $807 more for singles and $1,614 more for couples on comprehensive cover.

Under a Labor-created cost of living crisis where the price of basic necessities are rapidly rising, adding around $1,600 a year to a retiree’s healthcare is not insignificant, it is a heartless and brutal blow to locals who are already struggling under record electricity, grocery, and insurance costs.

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Labor ministers can spin this as a routine adjustment, but internal department documents obtained under Freedom of Information expose the ugly truth. Federal health bureaucrats knew exactly what this cut would trigger: pensioners skipping meals and medicines, downgradingtheir protection, or dropping private cover entirely to join endless public waitlists in severe pain for joint replacements.

And while this policy directly punishes seniors for self-funding their healthcare, the fallout will be felt by every family in our region.

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Nearly half of all Age Pensioners make significant personal sacrifices to maintain private health cover because prompt treatment matters. Forcing them out of private health does not make their medical needs vanish, a failing heart or damaged joint still requires surgery. The only difference is that these patients will be shifted directly into local public hospital queues, piling unsustainable pressure onto doctors, nurses, and beds throughout our hospitals in Dawson.

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The economics behind this decision are completely backwards. Independent analysis confirms that for every single dollar the Federal Government saves by stripping away this rebate, our public hospital system will absorb $1.20 in extra emergency admissions and surgeries.

It is a short-sighted cost-shift that treats local retirees like cash machines, will push state hospitals to breaking point, and has the real potential to blow out surgical wait times across the region.

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The Coalition firmly believes that if you take responsibility for your own healthcare, your government should support you, not penalise you. Seniors who built our communities deserve dignity and stability in retirement.

I want to hear directly from you about how this budget decision will impact your household. I have set up an online petition to gather our community's voice: if you are able, please fill it out at http://lbr.al/89sk. If you cannot access a computer, you can contact my office directly on (07) 4944 0662 or pop in to see us at Level 2, 47 Gordon Street, Mackay.

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The Coalition will fight this unfair health tax every step of the way in Parliament to protect our retirees and defend our regional health services.

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Council budgets are complex; we work on small margins, but at their heart they are about balancing affordability for ratepayers with the need to maintain essential services, renew ageing infrastructure and plan responsibly for a growing community.

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This year’s budget highlights the significant cost of delivering services across the region. Employee costs for about 1200 staff are budgeted at $124.932 million, with materials and services at $149.189 million. These include everyday essentials such as contractors, electricity, insurance, gravel and other consumables that keep council operations running.

Council will also pay about $4.9 million – $970K in annual interest on loans and $3.479 million on the unwinding discount on rehabilitation provisions, while depreciation on assets including buildings, roads and underground pipe systems is $107.892 million. While depreciation is not always visible, it reflects the ageing of essential infrastructure residents rely on daily.

Capital expenditure is budgeted at $127.352 million, including new infrastructure such as the Northern Beaches Community Hub and renewals of existing assets. These investments are needed as our region grows and ageing infrastructure must be repaired, renewed or replaced.

Council has worked hard to keep rates lower than many Queensland councils over the past decade. That has helped households, but it also creates pressure. Like a family on a tight budget, council must make careful choices, look for savings and avoid spending beyond its means. Remembering wants versus needs.

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In some areas, council has had to reduce activities, services or delay work. I believe we now need to focus strongly on getting core services back to where they should be, while being clear about wants versus needs.

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At the same time, the community rightly expects investment in places to live, gather, play and connect. The Northern Beaches, now home to more than 20,000 people, is a clear example of why long-term planning matters. Community infrastructure can take many years to move from an idea and business case through planning, design, funding and construction.

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Rate increases are never easy, but they are necessary to meet rising costs, protect essential services and build for the future. My commitment is to keep asking questions and seeking answers about how council can approach future budgets differently. If we keep doing the same thing, we will get the same result. Before the real number crunching begins later this year, we need to be clear about what the next budget should look like and how we can deliver positive change for a liveable, connected and growing region.

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