Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
OP-ED by Federal Member For Dawson Andrew Willcox Every Australian family sitting around the kitchen table knows the reality, our standard of living is under severe pressure. Since the Albanese Labor government took office, Australians have experienced some of the steepest declines in living standards in the developed world. With national debt fast approaching $1 trillion and structural budget deficits locked in for a decade, Labor is spending more and taxing more, while households are forced to get by with less. The challenge facing our nation is not just identifying these economic headwinds; it is putting forward a clear, constructive alternative. That’s why I’m often asked, what a Coalition government would do differently to steer the country back on track. The answer lies in structural economic reform that rewards hard work, protects aspiration, and respects the money you earn. At the heart of our plan is a landmark policy designed to end secret tax hikes, the Tax Back Guarantee. Under the current system, when your wages rise to keep pace with inflation, you can easily be pushed into a higher tax bracket. This process, known as "bracket creep," allows the government to collect higher tax revenues every year without ever having to pass a law. It penalises workers for simply trying to keep up with the rising cost of groceries, rent, and power bills. It equally penalises businesses, too. Employers feel a genuine responsibility to increase wages so their workers can afford to live, yet these rising expenses drive up business overheads at a time when everyone is struggling to swim against a tide of high inflation fuelled by the Albanese Labor Government. The Coalition will fix this by permanently indexing income tax thresholds to inflation. Starting in the 2028-29 financial year, we will index the bottom two income tax thresholds, a measure that will protect approximately 85 per cent of Australian income earners. By year three, that relief would climb to $1,200 a year: providing a substantial, ongoing boost to household budgets when families need it most. From the 2031-32 financial year, we will extend this indexation to the top two thresholds, ensuring that no Australian is penalised with higher taxes simply because of inflation. This is a fair, simple, and honest reform. It forces the government to live within its means rather than relying on inflation to balance the budget. True economic recovery also requires us to scrap this new suite of toxic taxes that punish success and stifle investment. The Albanese Labor Government's approach is a direct assault on aspiration. It imposes higher taxes on housing, savings, investments, and small businesses. This includes a 30 per cent tax rate on discretionary trusts, which acts as an inheritance tax by stealth on the family structures everyday Australians use to pass assets to their children. This is why a Coalition government will repeal this entire suite of toxic taxes. We will reverse changes to negative gearing that restrict housing supply, undo capital gains tax hikes that discourage investment, and protect small businesses from punitive tax structures. Furthermore, we will abolish the Safeguard Mechanism, removing a regulatory burden that inflates building material costs and drives local manufacturing offshore. It is a basic economic reality that when you tax something, you get less of it. If you tax savings, housing, investment, and small business, you get less of all of them. The Coalition wants more aspiration, not less, which is why we will back the hard-working Australians who want to get ahead. By cutting these penalties on success, we are offering a positive, practical plan to restore home ownership, lower national debt, and secure Australia's economic future.
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The Queensland Mining Awards brought together businesses and organisations from across the state’s minerals and energy resources sector, recognising the work being undertaken across an industry that plays a significant role in regional Queensland. Now in its 12th year, the awards provided an opportunity for companies of all sizes, from mining operations to contractors and suppliers, to showcase their achievements and gain recognition from industry peers. The awards covered a broad range of areas across the sector, including productivity, innovation, safety, collaboration, environmental initiatives, and community and staff programs. Winners were announced at a Gala Presentation Dinner held as part of the Queensland Mining & Engineering Exhibition in Mackay in July, bringing industry representatives together to celebrate achievements across Queensland’s resources sector. For businesses operating in regional communities, the awards provided a platform to highlight projects, initiatives and expertise beyond their individual operations. The program also created opportunities for businesses to build connections with industry representatives and decision-makers. As a signature event of the Queensland Mining & Engineering Exhibition, described by organisers as Australia’s largest regional mining exhibition, the awards provided access to an audience of more than 600 industry decision-makers. Entries were assessed through peer judging by senior leaders within the mining industry, allowing projects and initiatives to be considered by people with an understanding of the operational environment in which they were delivered. The Queensland Resources Council was the major event partner, further connecting the awards with Queensland’s broader resources sector. Beyond the awards themselves, finalists and winners gained opportunities for industry exposure, networking and business connections. The program also provided year-round marketing opportunities and national media coverage, helping to highlight achievements within Queensland’s resources industry. For the regions, the awards offered an opportunity to recognise the businesses, workers and organisations contributing to an industry that extends well beyond mine sites. From innovative projects and safety initiatives to environmental, community and staff programs, the categories reflected the range of work taking place across Queensland’s resources sector. The Queensland Mining Awards ultimately provided a forum to acknowledge that contribution, while giving businesses an opportunity to share their achievements with peers and a wider industry audience. Congratulations to all the winners and finalists! Photo source: Shutterstock
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BUMA is known for delivering leading mining and rehabilitation services across Queensland. Beyond its operations, the company is also helping create opportunities in the regional communities where it operates. With a history spanning more than 100 years and as part of the global BUMA International Group, the company works alongside its clients to deliver safe, efficient and sustainable mining solutions while maintaining a strong focus on supporting local communities. One example is BUMA's partnership with PCYC Queensland's Braking the Cycle program in Blackwater. The initiative helps address a challenge faced by many young people in the community: obtaining a driver's licence. Without access to a vehicle, a qualified supervisor or affordable driving lessons, completing the required supervised driving hours can be difficult, limiting access to employment, education and training opportunities. BUMA began supporting the program in 2022 through financial sponsorship. As the partnership evolved, discussions with PCYC Blackwater identified a key barrier to the program's success: a shortage of volunteer driving mentors. In response, BUMA developed a practical workforce-led solution, encouraging employees to become trained mentors and volunteer their time to support local learner drivers. Today, BUMA volunteers continue providing consistent one-on-one supervised driving sessions, helping participants build confidence, develop safe driving habits and work towards obtaining their driver's licence. The BUMA Braking the Cycle driving mentoring initiative was recently recognised as a finalist in the Queensland Mining Awards, held as part of the Queensland Mining and Engineering Exhibition. The recognition highlighted the role industry partnerships and employee volunteering can play in addressing practical challenges in regional communities. For BUMA, the initiative reflects its commitment to creating opportunities and positive outcomes beyond the mine site, with employees using their time and skills to support the communities where they live and work.
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Queensland’s construction industry is set to receive a boost, with 4,500 new apprenticeships to be supported through two programs aimed at addressing skills shortages across the state. The Government has launched the new TradieStart program alongside an extension of the Small Business Apprenticeship Program, with the initiatives expected to support thousands of new construction apprentices. TradieStart will support 2,500 apprenticeships across construction, plumbing, engineering and electrical trades. Eligible small businesses taking on their first apprentice will receive a base payment of $10,000, with an additional $4,000 available where the apprentice is aged over 21. A further $2,000 can be provided when an apprentice is hired from a priority cohort, including veterans, women, people with a disability and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Medium and large businesses and Group Training Organisations can also receive $10,000 for employing an apprentice from a priority cohort, with a further $4,000 available for apprentices aged over 21. The Small Business Apprenticeship Program will also be extended to provide wage subsidies for a further 2,000 construction apprenticeships. Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment and Training Ros Bates said the programs would help address workforce shortages while supporting Queensland’s growing construction pipeline. “We’re not just battling a skills crisis, we’re also fighting a Federal Labor Government which seems intent on making things worse,” Minister Bates said. “Queensland construction workers have a golden era in front of them thanks to the Crisafulli Government’s ambitious infrastructure pipeline, and we’re delivering the help businesses need to get more hands on the tools. “Steven Miles’ legacy was a construction skills shortage the size of a Suncorp Stadium crowd and his mates in Canberra don’t seem to understand that we need to back businesses and workers to get things built. “While the Albanese Labor Government continues its cash grab by cutting support for apprentices, the Crisafulli Government is opening doors for Queenslanders keen to get on the tools and backing the businesses that put them on.” Minister for Small and Family Business Steve Minnikin said the programs would provide additional opportunities for Queenslanders considering careers in the trades. "The Small Business Apprenticeship Pilot Program proved incredibly popular, and by extending that initiative while also introducing TradieStart, we’re creating even more opportunities for Queenslanders to pursue a career in the trades and help build our State’s future," Minister Minnikin said. "Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, and these programs will give them the confidence and support they need to take on apprentices, creating jobs and strengthening communities across Queensland." Construction Skills Queensland Chair Sue-Ann Fresneda said the new program would help employers overcome some of the barriers associated with taking on apprentices. "Queensland's construction pipeline presents a generational opportunity for the state but delivering it will depend on our ability to attract, retain and develop the skilled workforce needed to support it," Ms Fresneda said. "TradieStart helps employers invest in the next generation of tradies by reducing barriers to employing apprentices and creating more pathways into meaningful, long-term careers in construction.” For Mackay and regional Queensland, the additional apprenticeship opportunities come as the construction sector continues to require a skilled workforce to support major infrastructure and development projects. Small business owner and KALM Construct Director Calum Moore said financial incentives could make a significant difference to businesses considering taking on an apprentice. “Taking on an apprentice is a big commitment as an employer and without incentives like TradieStart and the Small Business Apprentice Program a lot of small businesses wouldn’t be able to make it happen, financially,” Mr Moore said. “For us, these incentives make taking on an apprentice and giving back to the industry possible and I’d recommend them to other construction business owners."
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Janice Cash, Rental Department Manager at Blacks Real Estate. Photo source: Blacks Real Estate
With more than 30 years of experience in the real estate industry, Janice Cash continues to lead the rental division at Blacks Real Estate as Rental Department Manager.
Janice first entered the real estate industry in 1977 before later joining the Air Force and raising her three daughters. She has since built an extensive career in property management, developing strong knowledge of Mackay’s rental market and investment property sector.
At Blacks Real Estate, Janice leads a team of property managers focused on supporting landlords and tenants across the region.
The agency said her decades of industry experience continue to play an important role in helping investors navigate the property market while ensuring rental properties are professionally managed.
Operating from offices in Mackay and Dysart, Blacks Real Estate services residential, commercial and rural clients throughout the wider region.
Janice Cash can be contacted on 07 4963 2500.
My dog wakes up every morning convinced she is about to win lotto.
She is so excited about her numbers coming up and winning the big one, again, that she can’t stop wagging her tail, smooching up to me and following me around as I get up and start the day.
She wants to be right next to me, pressed up against my leg, when the announcement is made.
She also does stretches in front of me, front legs extended, warming up for what’s ahead.
For Millie, the daily lotto win is not a financial thing but her regular morning walk. It means more to her that anything and it is equivalent to winning lotto every day in terms of the joy it brings her.
The excitement and anticipation builds as I start getting dressed … runners, shorts, tracksuit top all indicating the numbers are falling into place. Then the final number slots into place when I go to the cupboard in the laundry where I keep the leash. Like anyone who has won lotto, she goes a bit over the top with her excitement … running around, yelping and generally giving it the big thumbs up.
Every now and then I have to break the news to her that she hasn’t won lotto this morning. Sometimes life gets in the way and there’s no time for the morning walk but I promise her there will be a walk later in the afternoon.
I’m not sure if Millie has a full understanding of the term “afternoon” but when I get home later in the day she is certainly excited about having the walk we didn’t get to do in the morning.
But more often than not her early morning anticipation of her numbers coming up Is correct and she’s won lotto again first thing in the day. What a way to start the day!
People who have made good real estate decisions, or maybe just struck it lucky, have felt a similar joy to Millie in terms of their numbers coming up.
Property owners in Sydney in recent years might not have got up in the morning and run around in a state of over-the-top excitement like Millie does but many would have thought their property purchase was a bit like winning lotto.
Properties bought for $800,000 were worth $2m in a matter of a few years. People who had bought many years ago for $200,000 or $300,000 found their family home was now worth two or three million dollars.
It was like winning lotto for most of them because it really was a matter of luck. They happened to live in Sydney, bought a house and, thanks to a strong economy, being in a city people want to live in and an immigration policy that created a big demand for housing, property values went through the roof.
The world of real estate has changed since the May Federal budget and property values in Sydney are plummeting. People’s houses are still worth a lot but not what they were. People who bought properties relatively recently are, in many cases, in negative territory with their properties worth less than they paid for them.
It’s like losing your lotto ticket.
People who have owned their property in Mackay have also done well, with properties more than doubling from around 2018 to 2026. The numbers aren’t as big as Sydney but there has still been a very handy win.
Every real estate market in the country has been affected by the tax changes but the situation in Mackay has been steady. There’s plenty of activity and there’s nothing like the panic being felt in Sydney.
Buyers are still buying and they are still applying for loans so while you might not be running around your loungeroom in excitement like Millie, it feels like there is room for optimism in Mackay.
New housing rules are set to give Queensland builders, homeowners and councils greater flexibility, with a new Queensland Housing Code and updated Modern Homes Standards due to take effect this month.
The reforms aim to simplify design and siting requirements for homes while reducing construction costs and providing greater consistency across local government areas. The new Queensland Housing Code will establish contemporary standards for detached houses and secondary dwellings covering building height, setbacks, privacy, car parking, site cover and private open space.
Councils will have a three-year transition period from September 1st to consider adopting the new Code, with guidance and implementation support to be provided.
Changes to the Modern Homes Standards are also expected to provide more flexibility around energy efficiency and accessibility requirements. These include a reduced five-star energy-efficiency requirement for homes under 50 square metres and a six-star requirement for raised-floor homes, including traditional Queenslander-style properties.
A new “ramp-ready” option will allow elevated homes to be designed so a compliant ramp can be installed when required, while greater flexibility will also be introduced for accessible bathroom designs.
The narrow-lot exemption from liveable housing requirements will also be extended until 30th September, 2029.
Housing Industry Association Queensland Executive Director Michael Roberts said the reforms would provide greater certainty for builders, designers and homeowners.
“Greater consistency means greater certainty for builders, designers and homeowners,” Mr Roberts said.
Master Builders Queensland Deputy CEO Michael Hopkins said the changes would help address costs and practical challenges experienced by the industry.
The Modern Homes Standards amendments are proposed to commence on 14th August 2026.
Photo source: Finch Hatton Progress Association (Facebook)
The Finch Hatton community came together on Sunday, August 9, for Echoes of the Gorge, a free community art event celebrating local creativity, culture and connection.
Organised by the Finch Hatton Progress Association as part of the Mackay Festival of Arts, the event transformed the Old Finch Hatton Railway Station into a creative hub featuring free workshops, local art and artisan markets, exhibitions and live music.
Led by local artists, volunteers, residents and businesses, the event offered activities for all ages, including painting, weaving, watercolour, felting, crochet and music workshops. Visitors could also view an exhibition by local artist Anneka Meeder, whose work explored mystical beings and the spirit of trees.
The event also encouraged visitors to explore other attractions throughout the Pioneer Valley, supporting local businesses and showcasing the region’s creative community.
Most people know that poor sleep leaves you tired and grumpy. Fewer people know it could be quietly breaking your heart. Literally.
Untreated sleep apnea places enormous cardiovascular stress on your body, night after night, without you knowing. Here is what is actually happening.
Each time breathing stops during an apnea event, oxygen levels in your blood drop. Your brain sounds the alarm, flooding your system with adrenaline, spiking your heart rate, and shooting your blood pressure through the roof. All while you remain largely asleep and blissfully unaware.
Now multiply that by thirty, fifty, or even a hundred times per night. Every. Single. Night.
Over time, that relentless cycle takes a serious toll. Here is what the evidence shows:
High Blood Pressure Sleep apnea is one of the most common secondary causes of hypertension. Repeated adrenaline surges keep blood pressure elevated not just overnight, but also throughout the following day. CPAP therapy has been shown to produce meaningful reductions, particularly in people whose numbers have been difficult to control with medication alone.
Atrial Fibrillation People with sleep apnea are significantly more likely to develop AFib, an irregular heart rhythm that raises the risk of stroke and heart attack. Those already living with AFib and untreated sleep apnea are far more likely to experience an event.
Stroke The risk of stroke is two to three times higher in people with untreated sleep apnea. This is driven by elevated blood pressure, clotting changes and irregular heart rhythms.
Inflammation and Arterial Disease Regular oxygen deprivation in the body can trigger systemic inflammation and oxidative stress, contributing to arterial plaque buildup and increasing the risk of coronary artery disease.
The sneaky part? Sleep apnea often goes undiagnosed for years. Watch for loud snoring, morning headaches, persistent daytime fatigue, or blood pressure issues that remain a struggle.
The good news is, CPAP therapy works fast and may help reduce blood pressure, lower the risk of atrial fibrillation and relief from excess stress on your heart.
For a free chat about your situation, visit your local CPAP Direct store or take the online sleep assessment at cpap.com.au. Hand on our heart, you’ll be glad you did!
Photo supplied by LLT Dog Rescue Inc
Trooper is a happy five-month-old puppy with a huge heart. He is fun, cheeky, adores people, loves playing with his toys and is always ready for his next adventure before settling in for some cuddles.
His training is progressing very well, and he needs a family who will continue helping him develop his doggy skills.
Trooper is a mixed-breed Kelpie/Staffie/Lab Cross and is expected to grow into a magnificent dog weighing approximately 25–30kg.
He is microchipped, fully vaccinated and comes with a discounted desexing voucher.
Trooper is now ready to find his forever home, where he can be loved for a lifetime.
To meet this adorable, cheeky boy, call his carer Cheryl on 0408 133 822 or email LLTAGSandDogRescue@gmail.com.
As more Australians embrace preventative health and take a proactive approach to their wellbeing, complementary wellness practices such as iridology are attracting growing interest. Rather than waiting until health concerns arise, many people are looking for ways to better understand their bodies and identify areas that may benefit from additional support.
Iridology is one such modality. It involves the examination of the iris, the coloured part of the eye along with the sclera (the white of the eye) and the pupil. Iridologists observe the colours, markings and structural characteristics of the eyes to gain insights that may assist in developing a personalised wellness plan.
While iridology is not used to diagnose or treat disease, practitioners believe the eyes can provide valuable information about an individual's overall state of health and wellbeing. By identifying areas of potential imbalance or constitutional weakness, iridology is used as a screening tool to help guide lifestyle, nutrition and wellness recommendations.
For many people, the appeal lies in its simplicity. The assessment is non-invasive, painless and provides a broad overview of an individual's health from a holistic perspective. Combined with a thorough discussion about lifestyle, nutrition and personal health goals, it can help people make more informed decisions about supporting their wellbeing.
According to Brad Baker of Healthy Life Essentials, one of the greatest benefits of iridology is the opportunity to understand the body's unique needs before more significant health concerns develop.
"Every person is different," says Brad. "Iridology helps identify areas that may need extra support, allowing people to make positive lifestyle choices that promote better health and vitality. It's about understanding your body and taking a proactive approach to your wellbeing."
Brad's passion for iridology stems from his own personal health journey. After facing significant health challenges many years ago, he discovered iridology while searching for answers. The experience provided a new perspective on his health and inspired him to pursue further study in holistic wellness.
Today, he works with clients who want to better understand their bodies and develop personalised wellness strategies that complement a healthy lifestyle.
"Helping people gain clarity about their health and empowering them to make positive changes is incredibly rewarding," he says. "Everyone deserves to feel healthy, energetic and able to enjoy life to its fullest."
That’s exactly what led Jay and Dave from Triple M to explore iridology. What began as an on-air conversation about wanting to improve their health and stop simply accepting "not feeling great" as the norm has evolved into a personalised wellness journey. Now affectionately known as the Health Busters, the duo are working through individualised wellness programs, discovering firsthand how greater insight into their health can support positive lifestyle changes.
Whether you're simply curious about complementary wellness or looking to gain a deeper understanding of your own health, iridology offers an interesting perspective that encourages greater awareness of the relationship between lifestyle, nutrition and overall wellbeing.
Brad Baker : Healthy Life Essentials
When sales slow down, many business owners assume they need more marketing.
More social media posts. More followers. More advertising. More website traffic.
But sometimes, getting more attention is not the answer. The real problem may be what happens after someone discovers your business.
For a service-based business, an enquiry may sit unanswered, a quote may never be followed up, or the booking process may feel too complicated.
For a product-based business, customers may abandon their cart, struggle to find important information, receive no reminder to complete their purchase, or buy once and never hear from the business again.
These small gaps can quietly cost you money.
Marketing creates interest and brings potential customers to your business, but there still needs to be a clear and easy path to purchase. Otherwise, you may be paying to attract people who disappear before they buy.
Before increasing your marketing budget, ask yourself:
Is it easy for customers to understand what we offer?
Can they quickly find pricing, product details or booking information?
Do we follow up on enquiries, quotes or abandoned carts?
Are we encouraging repeat purchases or bookings?
Is the next step clear on our website and social media?
Are we tracking where our best customers come from?
You may discover that your marketing is working better than you thought. People are showing interest, but they are slipping through the cracks before becoming paying customers.
This is something I regularly help small business owners identify during marketing coaching sessions. We review what is working, find where money or opportunities may be leaking, and create practical next steps to fix it.
Sometimes, improving one small part of the customer journey can generate more revenue than launching an entirely new campaign.
Ms Chadburn (Principal), Timothy (School Captain), Nick Grundy (P&C President) , Heidi (School Captain), Josie Dahtler (CBS Customer Relationship Manager), Maree Franettovich (CBS Deputy Chair) and Megan Soper (P&C Vice President). Photo supplied
Swayneville State School students are enjoying new outdoor play facilities thanks to a Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank Community Grant of more than $65,000.
The project was supported through its Community Engagement Program under the youth and education pillar, investing in initiatives that strengthen local organisations and create lasting benefits for the region.
Community Bank Sarina Board Deputy Chair Maree Franettovich said the project aligned closely with the organisation's commitment to supporting initiatives that build community capacity.
“Our Community Engagement Program allows us to invest in opportunities that support youth and education at every stage, from kindergarten and local schools through to higher education and apprenticeships,” Ms Franettovich said.
“This new playground will create lasting benefits for Swayneville State School, enriching the school community and encouraging play, active learning and nurturing childhood development.”
Outdoor play is recognised as a vital part of childhood development, allowing children to build physical skills as well as social and emotional wellbeing, while encouraging curiosity and learning.
Swayneville State School P&C President Nick Grundy said the new playground is an investment in the future of the school and its community.
“In our small community of just over 5,000 residents, projects like this can take years to achieve through fundraising alone,” Ms McCowen said.
“This community grant has allowed us to create a safe and welcoming area and we’re already seeing the benefits for our students.”
“Following Community Bank Sarina’s support for new lunchtime seating in recent years, this playground is another important addition that will enhance our outdoor learning environment for generations of students.”
Since opening in 2005, Community Bank Sarina has invested more than $5 million back into the greater Sarina region through community grants, sponsorships and scholarships that create lasting, positive community impact.
Jeff ‘Kookaburra’ Bradshaw from Mirani, near Mackay, with Wilmar sales agronomists Marc Tanizar and Drew McGilchrist. Jeff has gone back to Bio Dunder after several years of using granular fertiliser. Photo supplied
Jasmin Lewis
Customer Service & Logistics Supervisor, Wilmar AgServices
The fertiliser season is well under way and our Bio Dunder application contractors are operating at full capacity, with more than 100 trucks leaving Oonooie daily.
We know demand increases in September and October, so we're urging growers to confirm their fertiliser plans now to avoid a bottleneck at the back end of the season.
This will also help us to plan fertiliser deliveries and ensure application contractors are well-placed to get across all growing regions.
Another consideration is the importance of timing when it comes to crop nutrition. Following the harvester gives your ratoon crop the best start. Taking charge of your fertiliser plan also ensures you can get Bio Dunder contractors to your farm at your preferred time.
This year has seen significant fuel price fluctuations due to the conflict in the Middle East.
Diesel prices are projected to increase further throughout August, which may have a flow-on impact to fertiliser costs.
If you're weighing up your options, now is a good time to speak with our team about Bio Dunder pricing, blend options and the most suitable product for your farming operation.
Our sales agronomists Drew McGilchrist and Marc Tanizar can arrange soil testing or review results from other agronomic providers to help determine the right Bio Dunder blend for your soils and production goals.
You can also reach out to your Bio Dunder contractor to confirm your fertiliser plans. To find out more, call us on 1800 881 957. Alternatively, email AgServices@Wilmar.com.au
Cane farms are busy workplaces across many tasks, mindfulness of safety on farm and in haulout zones is critical. Photo credit: Kirili Lamb.
By Joseph Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay
Across Mackay and district, the sugar industry is right in the middle of its most hectic and important time of year.
From early morning until late at night, cane farms, haulout roads, mill sidings and local roads are carrying the rhythm of the season. Harvesting is underway, crushing is in full swing, planting is happening.
For those who do not work directly in agriculture, it can be easy to see cane paddocks as part of the landscape. They are certainly that, and they help define Mackay’s identity. But at this time of year, they are also busy and productive workplaces. Every day, men and women are operating heavy machinery, harvesting cane, checking crops, fertilising fields, managing water, organising staff and making decisions that affect their families, their businesses and the wider regional economy.
The professionalism and commitment our growers bring to this peak period is astonishing. The work is complex and time-sensitive. When the crop is ready, growers and contractors must make the most of available weather windows and mill capacity. That can mean long hours and careful coordination across farms, harvesting groups, transport operations and milling operations.
When sugarcane is moving, much of Mackay’s regional economy is moving with it. Jobs and families across the supply chain are supported. Money generated by cane farming circulates through our towns, businesses, clubs and service organisations.
At the same time, the wider community can play an important role in helping this busy season run safely and smoothly. Cane harvesters, tractors, haul out bins and trucks are not obstacles: they are tools of trade. They are part of someone’s workplace. Just as we would slow down and take care around a road crew or a school zone, we ask people to show the same patience and awareness around farms and cane transport routes.
That means allowing extra time on rural roads, giving machinery a wide berth, obeying signs, avoiding private farm access and never assuming an operator has seen you. Large machines have blind spots, take time to turn, and may need to move slowly between jobs. A few minutes of patience from a motorist can make a real difference to the safety of everyone involved.
For farming families, safety is not just a regulation or a checklist. It is personal. Many farms are family businesses, employing family members, but they are also workplaces with responsibilities, risks and standards. Growers invest heavily in training, maintenance, safe systems and planning because they want everyone to come home safely at the end of the day.
There is also a great deal of skill behind what the community sees from the roadside. Harvesting a cane crop efficiently takes experience and precision. Planting sets up the next season and numerous seasons after that. Fertilising must be carefully matched to crop need, productivity and environmental responsibility. Irrigation requires planning, timing and an understanding of soil, weather and crop growth. These are modern farming businesses using knowledge, technology and practical experience every day.
Mackay’s sugarcane industry is working hard, and our growers are proud to continue producing a crop that has helped build this region for generations.
So, over the coming months, when you see sugarcane machinery on the road, lights in a paddock after dark, or irrigation running on a hot afternoon, remember that you are seeing a workplace in action. Behind every bin of cane is a team of people working carefully and purposefully. With patience, respect and awareness from the community, we can all help make this season safe, successful and something of which Mackay can be proud.
By Councillor Nathenea McNamara
Once a month, the Council Chamber becomes the public face of local government. Residents see the debate, the vote and the final decision.
What they don't see are the many hours of work that happen long before anyone takes a seat at the council table.
One of the biggest surprises for me since being elected has been just how much work happens behind the scenes. Council agendas can run to hundreds of pages, and every report represents hours of work by our officers before it even reaches councillors.
Our role is to read those reports, attend briefings, ask questions and understand the implications of every recommendation before making a decision.
Along the way, we also meet with residents, community groups and local businesses, visit project sites and listen to a wide range of perspectives. Quite often, people hold very different views on the same issue, and it's our responsibility to consider them all with an open mind.
One thing I've learned over the past two years is that asking questions isn't a sign of disagreement, it's a sign of diligence.
Sometimes a question confirms that a recommendation is the right one. Other times it uncovers additional information, explores another option or simply helps build a better understanding of the issue. Every question contributes to making a more informed decision.
The public meeting is important because it provides transparency and accountability, but in many ways it's the final chapter of a much longer process.
Good decisions are rarely made in a single meeting. They are built through preparation, listening, learning and thoughtful consideration.
As your councillor, I see my role as much more than casting a vote. It's about doing the homework, listening respectfully, asking the questions that matter and making decisions that are in the best interests of our region.
I'm still learning every day, and I don't expect to have all the answers. But I do promise to keep doing the work behind the scenes, to read the reports, ask the questions, listen to our community and make every decision with the long-term interests of our region in mind.
While much of that work happens quietly and out of public view, it's also some of the most important work we do. I hope that by sharing a little of what happens behind the scenes, it gives you greater confidence in the care, preparation and thought that goes into every decision made on behalf of our community.
If you've ever been curious about how council works, why not watch one of our monthly council meetings? You're always welcome to attend in person, or tune in via the live stream from home. It's a great opportunity to see the decision-making process firsthand and better understand the work that goes into shaping our region.
If you’d like to connect directly with your councillors in a relaxed, informal setting, council is running Let's Chat - Council Connect sessions in regional areas. The next session will be at Hay Point Hotel Motel on September 1 from 5pm.
Photo for illustrative purposes only. Photo source: Shutterstock
Mackay’s healthcare workforce has grown by 175 workers since November 2024, as more than 10,000 new staff have joined Queensland Health across the state.
The new Mackay recruits include 28 doctors, 109 nurses and midwives, and 38 allied health workers, with the additional staff delivering clinical care across the region.
The workforce growth forms part of the Government’s commitment to employ an additional 46,000 health workers by 2032.
More than 7000 of the 10,000-plus recruits are frontline workers, including nurses, midwives, paramedics, doctors and allied health professionals. A further 2800 staff have joined non-clinical and clinical support roles.
Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Tim Nicholls said the Government’s $35.5 billion Health Budget was helping address workforce pressures.
“Employing more health professionals is just one part of the solution and we will be doing all we can to attract and retain doctors, nurses, midwives, ambulance officers, allied health workers and other health workers to Queensland Health, especially to the areas they are needed most," Minister Nicholls said.
“This milestone marks a significant step toward the Government delivering the 46,000 additional health workers needed by 2032, to meet the needs of Queensland’s growing and ageing population.”
Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said the growth would benefit local families.
“Mackay deserves quality healthcare close to home, and growing our frontline workforce is an important step towards making that happen," Mr Dalton said.
Member for Mirani Glen Kelly said strengthening the regional workforce remained important for communities relying on Mackay Base Hospital.
"Communities across Walkerston, Sarina and the Pioneer Valley rely on Mackay Base Hospital to provide quality healthcare when they need it most," Mr Kelly said.
Photo source: Shutterstock
Mackay Regional Council has raised concerns about proposed changes to Australia’s disaster recovery funding arrangements, which would alter how disaster recovery costs are shared between the Australian Government and state and territory governments.
The Australian Government is proposing a new Disaster Recovery Funding Framework that would establish an equal 50/50 funding model between the Commonwealth and state and territory governments, replacing the existing Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA), under which the Commonwealth can reimburse states and territories for up to 75 per cent of eligible disaster assistance costs.
The Government says the proposed framework would simplify funding, help support reach affected communities sooner and increase investment in disaster resilience. Consultation with states, territories and local government is currently underway, with the new framework to replace the existing arrangements once agreed.
Queensland councils have raised concerns about the potential financial impact of the changes, particularly in disaster-prone regional areas where significant costs can be incurred repairing roads, bridges, drainage and other public infrastructure following cyclones, floods and severe storms.
Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson said the proposed changes could have consequences for communities across the region.
“This is not simply another political argument. The proposed changes could have serious consequences for regional Queensland councils and communities like ours.
Mayor Williamson said Queensland could have received more than $700 million less in disaster assistance had the proposed arrangements applied last year.
“Had these changes applied to disaster funding last year, Queensland could have received more than $700 million less in disaster assistance.”
Queensland councils have also raised concerns about a reported $2.7 million disaster activation threshold, arguing it could affect access to Commonwealth assistance. The figure has been cited by the Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ), which is campaigning against the proposed changes.
Mayor Williamson said the proposed changes could ultimately place greater pressure on councils and ratepayers.
“Of even greater concern is the finer detail.
“The message being sent to councils appears to be simple: increase rates or go without.
“For councils like ours, that would mean local ratepayers carrying almost the entire cost of replacing damaged public infrastructure following declared disasters such as cyclones, floods, bushfires and severe storms.”
The Australian Government says the proposed framework would introduce a simpler threshold for accessing disaster funding, while a new Resilient Infrastructure Scheme would provide funding of up to 15 per cent, cost-shared with jurisdictions, to help communities build back better following disasters.
The LGAQ has been advocating against the proposed reduction in the Commonwealth’s contribution, with the organisation preparing a statewide submission opposing the changes. The submission is due to be lodged with the National Emergency Management Authority on August 19.
Mackay is also continuing to invest in disaster resilience, with about $19.3 million being spent on upgrades to the Pioneer River Levee system. The project includes a new levee wall, stormwater upgrades and road reconstruction, with funding from the Australian Government and Mackay Regional Council.
Mayor Williamson said regional communities should not be left to shoulder the cost of disaster recovery alone.
“Regional communities already face higher costs, greater distances and fewer resources. They should not also be expected to fund the recovery of essential public infrastructure with little support from the level of government collecting the overwhelming majority of the nation’s taxes.
“This proposal must be reconsidered.”
Mackay artist Logan Ivory has claimed first place in the QATSIF Creative Arts Competition for the second consecutive year. Photos supplied
Mackay teenager Logan Ivory has taken out first place in the QATSIF Creative Arts Competition for the second consecutive year. The Year 8 Catherine McAuley Catholic College (CMC) student was the only Mackay student to place in this year’s competition, which attracted 259 entries. Logan entered his artwork through CMC, with the school later presenting him with his award.
The annual competition, now in its ninth year, is hosted by QATSIF, with Griffith University sponsoring the 2026 event. Entries were judged on overall artistry, the artist’s description and each artwork’s connection to the 2026 Reconciliation Week or NAIDOC themes.
For Logan, the award follows years of developing his artistic craft and a style distinctly his own.
His art teacher, Kylie Ferriday, said Logan had remained committed to creating work that reflected his own perspective rather than conforming to popular or commercial trends.
“What has always made Logan remarkable as an artist is his unwavering commitment to authenticity. He has never felt the need to conform to what is popular, fashionable or commercially pleasing. Instead, he has developed a visual language that is unmistakably his own — using imagery to communicate thoughts, emotions and experiences that words alone cannot always capture,” Kylie said.
“As an autistic Indigenous teenager navigating today’s world, Logan brings a perspective to his work that is deeply personal. Art has become a powerful way for him to explore, process and communicate his experiences — and in doing so, his work has the potential to reach far beyond himself.”
The inspiration for his latest artwork began with a poem written by Logan titled I AM, which reflects on his thoughts, emotions, relationships and perspectives on life and death.
“I am Tall and smart,
I wonder if space is infinite.
I hear my thoughts.
I see my imagination.
I want peace.”
The poem goes on to explore Logan’s thoughts about his family, his own experiences, death, the future and his hope of starting again.
Logan says he was “completely blown away and in disbelief” after learning he had won the state award for a second consecutive year, and added that he was “humbled and extremely grateful for the opportunities QATSIF and Griffith University have created for young Indigenous artists.”
His mother, Corissa Ivory, said the family was “very proud” of Logan’s achievement.
“I’m excited to announce that Logan has won 1st place once again 2nd year in a row for the QATSIF Art competition.”
“We are all very proud of him,” she said.
QATSIF said artworks from the competition would be showcased through its statewide graduation ceremonies, QATSIF Board Room wall, 2026 Annual Report and other media outlets.
For Kylie Ferriday, Logan’s second consecutive state win represents years of dedication, courage and experimentation, as well as his commitment to developing his own artistic voice.
“As his art teacher and someone who has watched his artistic voice develop over many years, I could not be prouder,” she said.
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