The six-member Board appointed to govern the Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) in mid-2023 has been expanded to include a seventh member.
New member Monica McKendry is a Chartered Accountant with over 25 years of experience and is currently a Director of SH Tait & Co Chartered Accountants, which provides accounting, taxation and business advice to a variety of businesses and individuals in the Mackay region. She was appointed a director of North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation Ltd in October 2020 and chairs the Audit and Financial Risk Management Committee. Monica is also an external member of the Mackay Regional Council’s Audit Committee.
Minister for Health, Mental Health and Ambulance Services and Minister for Women Shannon Fentiman announced the addition last month.
“I am confident the Mackay Hospital and Health Board will continue to thrive with the addition of their seventh member Ms McKendry,” she remarked.
“This Board’s exceptional diversity and depth of experience fosters a collaborative environment, guaranteeing well-rounded leadership for the healthcare needs of the Mackay community.
“I look forward to working with them to deliver timely and high-quality healthcare for all Queenslanders.”
Serving the community diligently since its appointment in August 2023, the Board, led by Chair Helen Darch OAM (an experienced board member in government and not-for-profit sectors), will continue to provide strong leadership in the delivery of health services across the Mackay region.
The remainder of the Board remains unchanged, consisting of; Ms Helen Darch OAM (Chair), Mrs Kerry Maley (Deputy Chair), Dr Maureen Chapman, Associate Professor Luke Lawton, Dr Peter O’Mara, Mr William Cooper and Ms Monica McKendry.

• The Mackay Hospital and Health Board has grown from six to seven members.
   • The board will continue to be led by Chair Helen Darch OAM, who has been in the position since 2023.
   • Boards, as outlined by the Hospital and Health Boards Act 2011, are responsible for the local performance of their health services and the delivery of public health services within their communities.

Monica McKendry has been appointed as a seventh member of the Mackay Hospital and Health Service Board

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Easter weekend, became one the team at RACQ CQ Rescue will never forget, as it marked a momentous occasion for the service.

RACQ CQ Rescue has now answered regional calls for help 12,000 times.

CEO Tim Healee says, “Completing our 12,000th life-saving flight is not just a number; it's a symbol of the trust placed in us by our community.

“We are deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve, and we look forward to many more flights, saving lives and spreading hope across our region.

“It's a testament to the unwavering dedication of our team and the invaluable support from sponsors and supporters,” Mr Healee added.

“We continue to be one of the busiest Rescue Helicopters in the country and again the 12,0000th mission speaks volumes about the pressing need for our service.

“As we soar past our 12,000th life-saving flight, we stand on the cusp of a new era with the imminent arrival of our state-of-the-art AW139 helicopters later this year.

“This milestone is a testament to our commitment to innovation and excellence in aeromedical care.

“With these new helicopters, we are not only expanding our capabilities but also renewing our pledge to be at the forefront of lifesaving missions, ensuring that we can continue to
serve our community."

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RACQ CQ Rescue reaches a milestone of 12,000 life-saving flights

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Mater Private Hospital Mackay has completed a $7.3 million expansion and refurbishment of its operating theatres as part of its drive to meet the region’s growing health needs. The project included the construction of a sixth perioperative theatre, new sterile storage and cleaning areas, and updated patient waiting and holding bays.

The hospital’s previous suite of theatres performed around 12,000 procedures each year.
Mater Private Hospital Mackay General Manager Karen Wade said the expansion was part of strategic planning when the facility was constructed in 2003.
“Forward-planning designs for our Willetts Road campus allowed space for a sixth operating theatre until our region approached key milestones,” Ms Wade said.
“When we identified that these regional milestones – such as population growth, average age, and clinician demand – were nearing, we were able to convert that space into perioperative theatre six, as well as complementary spaces such as patient waiting and sterile storage areas.”
Mater Private Hospital Mackay Gynaecologist and Obstetrician Dr Naguesh Gaunekar said the expansion would be appreciated by patients and clinicians alike.
“This expansion will improve the patient flow through theatre which, in turn, will improve patient outcomes,” Dr Gaunekar said.
“I’ve been lucky to follow progress of the construction over the past few months and it is very exciting to see the project complete. I already have lists booked in theatre six.”
Ms Wade thanked contractors and theatre staff for ensuring the expansion took place without impacting other operating theatres.
“The collaboration between our principal contractor Paynters and our local project team ensured quality of care for our patients remained a top priority. It is an incredible feat that the project was completed without cancellation of any lists in our other operating theatres,” Ms Wade said.
“From the inception of our facility, the Mackay community has rallied behind Mater, demonstrating unwavering support which has once again been demonstrated with this project.
“Some $3.65 million of this $7.3 million project was made possible through community fundraising conducted by both Mater Foundation and the Mackay Mater Auxiliary.
“This is in addition to significant investment over the past three years to provide cutting edge surgical robotic equipment including the da Vinci X and Stryker Mako surgical assist robots.
“Both are the first of their kind in Mackay and demonstrate our commitment to providing the same level of care to Queenslanders whether they live in Mackay or the capital cities.”
The first procedures will be performed in theatre six later this month.

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A blessing was recently conducted at the Mater Private Hospital Mackay for the opening of their sixth perioperative theatre, ensuring a positive step forward in regional healthcare. Photo Credit: Jennifer Treloar Photography

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Last week on April 12, Minister for Police and Community Safety, Mark Ryan introduced Mackay’s new marine rescue vessel, MR31, to help local volunteer rescue services keep people safe on the water.

The MR31 is a modern 7.5m monohulled vessel, designed to accommodate the crew and up to six rescue passengers, adding a significant capacity to support local rescue efforts.

The contingency vessel will be used by regional marine rescue services when additional capability is required due to disasters, maintenance or repair and can be deployed throughout the area.

Member for Mackay MP Julieanne Gilbert said that “given the way the rescue team sacrifice their time and efforts for the benefit of their fellow Queenslanders it is entirely appropriate that they have the best equipment and vessels to support their selfless efforts.”

Since becoming operational, MR31 has responded to several marine search and rescue operations, including providing critical support to the Queensland Water Police during their response to the tragic incident on Kinchant Dam.  

Police and Community Safety Minister Mark Ryan said, “delivery of this vessel is part of our ongoing commitment to support our dedicated, local volunteers who often place their own safety at risk to save lives in hazardous conditions and weather.

“We will continue to further support marine rescue through establishing a single, integrated marine rescue service, when we launch Marine Rescue Queensland this year.”

The vessel is part of the Miles Government’s $22.3 million Marine Rescue Vessel Replacement Program, which will replace up to 10 search and rescue vessels along Queensland’s coastline over the next 12 months.

The Miles Government is currently delivering on its commitment to further invest in local marine services, which includes the establishment this year of a single, integrated marine rescue service, called Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ).

MRQ will progressively bring together Australian Volunteer Coast Guard and Volunteer Marine Rescue to continue the tradition of protecting Queenslanders on our oceans and waterways, while further supporting the local volunteers who support our communities. 

Marine Rescue Queensland Chief Officer Designate Tony Wulff claimed that “The modern vessel program is a cornerstone of the new Marine Rescue Queensland and a positive step to help keep the community and our volunteers safer on the water.

“Marine volunteers do so much to keep the community safe and this new vessel will help ensure they have the equipment they need to continue their valuable lifesaving work.”

Volunteer Marine Rescue Mackay President Russell McLennan expressed his gratitude, stating, “we would like to thank the Queensland Government for its ongoing support to enable us to deliver this valuable service to the community.”

Mackay Region received a new 7.5m rescue vessel to enhance the area’s marine rescue capabilities. Photo Credit: Hannah McNamara

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The state of safety reporting culture in Queensland’s mining industry was released by the Minister for Resources and Critical Minerals Scott Stewart and Interim Commissioner for Resources Safety and Health Andrew Clough at the Curragh and Oaky Creek mines in Central Queensland.
More than 7,500 people took part in the survey which aimed to identify strength and opportunity areas in Queensland’s mining industry to achieve a stronger safety reporting culture.
One of the strengths identified was that teams typically look out for each other and support each other to work safely, and frontline leaders encourage teams to take appropriate action if something feels unsafe.
It also identified that mine workers usually report their safety concerns and are encouraged to do so by leaders.
Resources and Critical Minerals Minister Scott Stewart said, “This is an incredibly important piece of work that heard directly from workers, and I welcome its release.
“The purpose of the survey is to identify strengths and opportunities in the mining industry to ensure there is a strong safety reporting culture in one of our most important industries.
“There are always more opportunities to improve safety reporting culture which is why this survey is important,” Minister Stewart added.
“Safety is my number one priority and we must do everything we can to make sure workers get home safely.”
Opportunity areas for improvements identified in the report included making reporting systems clearer and easier to use, improving feedback to workers on the outcomes of incidents, better recognition of positive safety behaviours, and better involvement of frontline workers in safety initiatives.
Resources Safety and Health Acting Commissioner Andrew Clough expressed, “The report establishes a baseline of the safety reporting behaviours exhibited at mine and quarry sites and sets a benchmark for the industry to measure its safety reporting culture against in the future.
“The survey was conducted by my office in cooperation with the tripartite Coal Mining Safety and Health Advisory Committee and Mining Safety and Health Advisory Committee.
“The report identified a number of opportunity areas for industry and the safety and health advisory committees to target for further research and continuous improvement.”
The survey was conducted by the Commissioner for Resources Safety and Health in cooperation with the Coal Mining Safety and Health Advisory Committee and the Mining Safety and Health Advisory Committee.

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Minister for Resources and Critical Minerals Scott Stewart releases the survey at Oaky Creek mine. Photo sourced from The Queensland Cabinet and Ministerial Directory

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• Minister for Resources and Critical Minerals Scott Stewart has released an industry wide survey into the state of safety reporting culture in Queensland’s mining industry
   • More than 7500 mine workers were surveyed
   • It is the first time an industry-wide survey of the safety reporting culture of the industry has been done

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NQBP CEO Brendan Webb said the project was a key priority for the North Queensland port authority.
“This project will see the replacement and undergrounding of around one kilometre of pipeline infrastructure,” Mr Webb said.
“The pipelines are currently used to supply ethanol, water, diesel, and petroleum to ships visiting Wharf 1.
“This project aims to provide greater resilience to the overall infrastructure and ensure the longevity of the pipeline system,” he said.
Fuel is the Port of Mackay’s largest commodity by volume, with almost 1.6 million tonnes passing through the Port in FY 22-23.
Approximately 90% of this fuel is transported for use at mines located in the Bowen Basin, with the remaining 10% distributed to local fuel stations.
The port has already clocked up 2.46 million tonnes of cargo this financial year, surpassing throughput in the same period of the previous financial year (2,070,495).
“The strong trade performance at the Port of Mackay reflects its pivotal role as a leading service centre for agricultural and mining industries,” Mr Webb said
“The port provides an essential connection between regional Queensland and the world boasting trading links to neighbouring countries in Asia as well as New Zealand and North America.”
“We’re continuing to invest in Port of Mackay infrastructure to boost our capabilities,” Mr Webb said.
NQBP are also pleased to announce the project contract has been awarded to local company, Wisely Group Pty Ltd.
Wisely Group Account Manager Ports and Infrastructure Rodney Parfitt said they were looking forward to delivering the project.

“We are thrilled to have been selected by NQBP for this crucial project at Mackay Harbour," Mr Parfitt said.
"This contract underscores our expertise in port infrastructure upgrades and commitment to providing sustainable and reliable solutions.
We look forward to collaborating with NQBP and delivering a project that will contribute to the regional economy and improve the efficiency of port operations at Mackay Harbour”, he said.
Wisely is planned to be onsite within the next month with construction expected to be completed in early 2025.
The Port of Mackay is one of four ports NQBP is responsible for, collectively facilitating around half of Queensland’s trade by tonnage.
“NQBP is one of Australia’s key gateways to trade, providing security, growth, and prosperity for our local North Queensland communities,” Mr Webb said.
“Our ports are flexible and capable of sustainably addressing the trade requirements of Queensland and the communities and stakeholders we serve.”

Wisely’s Rod Parfitt, NQBP’s Lynn Smart and Hossein Saadai, Wisely’s Chris Bugjea, NQBP’s Brendan Webb and Wisely’s Dan Wisely inspect the pipeline project

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The Mackay Youth Co-Responder Team (YCRT) has completed more than 5,000 engagements as it marks three years of working to intervene in the lives of at-risk young people and tackle the issue of youth offending.

The YCRT is a joint initiative between the Queensland Police Service and the Department of Youth Justice, which brings together a police officer and a youth justice professional to proactively engage at-risk young people and their families and refer them to services to address the underlying issues contributing to their offending behaviour.

Mackay YCRT launched in March 2021, and in the three years since has achieved 2,089 direct face-to-face engagements with young people and 2,943 engagements with family, guardians, and other support networks.
Minister for Police and Community Safety Mark Ryan said, “The safety of Queenslanders is our first priority, and it’s initiatives like the Youth Co-Responder model which shows the dedicated work government agencies are doing together to reduce offending and protect the public.
“While just one tactic in the fight against youth crime, we know that early intervention has the power to stop at-risk young people from going down the road towards a life of crime.

Vulnerable young people are also connected with the services they need to turn their lives around, including those that assist with housing, health, domestic and family violence, education, and employment.

Mackay District Officer, Superintendent Graeme Paine said, “While officers are on the ground proactively protecting the public and arresting serious repeat offenders, our Youth Co-Responder Teams are in the background doing the work to prevent at-risk young people from heading down that path to begin with.
“Every time our Youth Co-Responder Teams engage with a young person, not only is it an opportunity to direct them away from offending, but also to check on their welfare and what support they need to contribute positively to our community.

“Through building rapport and fostering positive relationships with the young people of Mackay, we can help intervene and prevent future offending, to enhance community safety.

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The Mackay Youth Co-Responder Team (YCRT) with Minister for Police and Community Safety Mark Ryan and Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert

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Check out M&P Services at the upcoming Mackay Ag Trade Expo, a locally owned business boasting a rich history of serving the region since its establishment in 1986. With a steadfast focus on manufacturing transportable buildings, M&P Services has emerged as a dominant option, securing the title of the largest manufacturer of portable buildings in Central and North Queensland.
Positioned at stand #20 at the Mackay Ag show, M&P Services will unveil a selection of their premium quality transportable buildings. Crafted with precision using Australian-made insulated BlueScope steel panels, these structures are renowned for their durability, providing a comfortable environment year-round with their cooling properties in summer and insulating warmth in winter. Not to mention, their easy-to-clean design adds a layer of convenience for customers.
From start to finish, M&P Services operate the entire manufacturing and distribution process in-house. This approach enables them to maintain a swift turnaround time without compromising on the hallmark quality they are known for. Expo attendees will have the opportunity to engage with the M&P Services team to discuss current lead times and availability, ensuring seamless access to their sought-after products.
Highlighted at the booth will be a prominent display featuring a 12m x 3.4m (41m2) Rural Living Quarters, featuring a generously sized 1200mm wide shower and instantaneous gas hot water.
M&P Services will be offering exclusive specials for current stock builds available from their Mackay Manufacturing Facility, including a notable $2200 saving on their popular 6m Newry series, with an option for both sales and hire solutions on all transportable modular space requirements.
Beyond their prowess in manufacturing, M&P Services remains deeply committed to their community. In the past year alone, they have contributed over 113,000k in sponsorships and donations to local charities, including The Trudy Crowley Foundation, RACQ CQ Rescue, The Ronald McDonald Family Room Mackay and a multitude of other worthy causes.
As the Mackay Ag Trade Expo approaches, anticipation builds for the unveiling of M&P Services' latest offerings and specials. With their team of experts on hand to provide detailed insights and assistance, attendees can expect an informative and engaging experience.
M&P Services eagerly awaits the opportunity to display their industry-leading solutions and demonstrate why they are the preferred choice for all your transportable building needs!

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Need a durable transportable building? M&P Services will have the solution for you! Images supplied

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Phoenix Powersports is preparing to roll in an impressive line-up of ATVs, SSVs and other top-tier brands at the upcoming Mackay Sugar Ag Trade Expo.
Among Segway's featured products are the ATV 5S Quad Pro, ATV 6S EPS and UT10 Rugged EPS, each boasting powerful engines and versatile functionalities, delivering high performance and durable solutions.
One of the standout features of Segway's UTV range is its impressive payload capacity, allowing farmers to transport all their gear in one trip with ease. These vehicles are designed to tackle various terrains with stability and reliability, ensuring farmers can reach their destinations safely and confidently. Safety features such as automatic traction adjustments and real-time monitoring further enhance the utility and security of the vehicles.
Can-Am's often impress with their strong capabilities, including increased payload capacity and versatile cargo bed options. Can-Am's Commander DPS 7 and HD9 XU will be on display, offering significant savings and robust performance for both work and play. With features like winches, drive functions, and LINQ attachments, Can-Am vehicles are designed to make farm work more efficient and convenient.
Need a repayment option? Phoenix Powersports offers a variety of financing options providing flexibility and financial relief to farmers and potential buyers.
Exclusive Segway buyers may be eligible for a buy now and first repayment will be delayed for 90 days, with specific terms and conditions for approved customers. This is provided by Urban Motor finance and is for specific models only, referring to the 2023 stock that will be on display.
Phoenix Powersports is committed to supporting local farmers and providing them with a range of options to suit their needs. By bringing another top-tier brand to the Mackay region, they aim to offer even more choices while continuing to support local companies and communities.
Attendees of the Mackay Sugar Ag Trade Expo can look forward to exploring these innovative vehicles and learning more about the benefits they offer for agricultural use.
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Visit Phoenix Powersports to discover the perfect vehicle for your farming needs!

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Phoenix Powersports have a range of options for all your work/play farming needs! Images supplied

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Mackay Containers and Mackay Trailers are gearing up to make a significant appearance at the upcoming sugar trade expo, showcasing their diverse range of equipment.
Offering FREE registration on all display trailers during the event, this means potential customers can explore their options without the added hassle of registration fees, making it easier than ever to find the perfect fit for their needs.
“Our expertise lies in providing top-quality solutions in secure storage including the hire, sale and modification of new and used containers. We can also custom-build a container to suit your needs.”
Looking to hire? Mackay Containers offer a diverse range of options, from new to near-new containers available for short or extended hires. Customers can opt for on-site storage or have it delivered to their premises, with assistance available for transport arrangements.
Wanting to buy? Mackay Containers maintain a well-stocked inventory of new and used containers in Mackay, ensuring a prompt delivery, with an extended reach beyond the local area, serving major Australian cities along with various other countries.
Need specific modifications? Mackay Containers specialise in modifying containers to suit both personal and industrial requirements.

With a reputation for industry expertise, durable products, secure storage, competitive pricing, extensive selection, specialised modifications, exceptional service and high customer satisfaction, Mackay Containers stands as the locally owned premier choice for your container solutions.

Mackay Trailers will also be in the spotlight at the expo. From standard box trailers to custom-built commercial trailers and everything in between, their ABCAR trailer range allows customers to find the perfect option with ease.
To sweeten the deal, attendees can snag a Mackay Trailers string bag filled with merchandise, including keyrings, pens, hats, coffee mugs, coolers, and stickers.
For a chance to receive more goodies, attendees are encouraged to take photos of the trade stand, share them to Facebook, and tag Mackay Containers and Mackay Trailers.
The highly experienced sales team will see you at the upcoming Mackay Sugar Ag Trade Expo to answer all your questions and inquiries. Don’t miss out on a cracking good deal on your next container or trailer!

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The Greater Whitsunday AgTech Hub online portal is reshaping the future of the region's agriculture sector through technology and collaboration.
The Greater Whitsunday AgTech Hub, an integral component of the Agribusiness Futures Alliance project, supported by Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) and key stakeholders, represents a bold vision for a world-class agriculture and agribusiness sector empowered by technology.
The Greater Whitsunday AgTech Hub developed the online portal to bring new ways of farming, people, and capabilities to the region. Central to this vision is building producers' capacity to leverage and implement cutting-edge agriculture technology solutions that enhance productivity and sustainability to build upon our already successful agriculture industry.
Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) Chief Executive Officer Ms Kylie Porter said the Greater Whitsunday AgTech Hub portal, is an online platform to support producers and businesses better understand agtech solutions and connect them with service providers and investors.
The portal encourages and supports adoption of agtech and improved practices that will deliver real benefit to producers and supply chain partners.
“The portal is a platform that will ensure Greater Whitsunday growers and producers have the knowledge to progress their businesses in the face of change across technology and skills,” Ms Porter said.
“Importantly, the portal will also promote knowledge sharing with agribusiness and producers so that we create a community of best practice.
“Agtech is becoming increasingly important within the agriculture sector and this portal is an important step in building upon our already successful agriculture industry.  GW3 is incredibly proud to be involved in the launch of this portal.”
Ms Porter said along with regional case studies and news updates from across the agriculture sector, the portal will showcase innovation and product releases, provide key information and education around agtech and ultimately, drive positive change for the sector.

The Greater Whitsunday AgTech Hub portal will also be the place to find:

•            Local agtech suppliers.

•            See examples of agtech in action.

•            Access resources and source funding.

•            Get Involved in the agtech community.

“It will also increase accessibility to agtech and associated digital support by inclusion of an agtech supplier directory of those businesses servicing the Greater Whitsunday region.
“Becoming a part of the new Greater Whitsunday AgTech Hub online community means being a part of a sustainable and productive agriculture industry,” Ms Porter said.

Discover more today: https://greaterwhitsundayagtechhub.com.au

The Greater Whitsunday AgTech Hub online portal is reshaping the future of the region's agriculture sector through technology and collaboration.
The Greater Whitsunday AgTech Hub, an integral component of the Agribusiness Futures Alliance project, supported by Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) and key stakeholders, represents a bold vision for a world-class agriculture and agribusiness sector empowered by technology.
The Greater Whitsunday AgTech Hub developed the online portal to bring new ways of farming, people, and capabilities to the region. Central to this vision is building producers' capacity to leverage and implement cutting-edge agriculture technology solutions that enhance productivity and sustainability to build upon our already successful agriculture industry.
Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) Chief Executive Officer Ms Kylie Porter said the Greater Whitsunday AgTech Hub portal, is an online platform to support producers and businesses better understand agtech solutions and connect them with service providers and investors.
The portal encourages and supports adoption of agtech and improved practices that will deliver real benefit to producers and supply chain partners.
“The portal is a platform that will ensure Greater Whitsunday growers and producers have the knowledge to progress their businesses in the face of change across technology and skills,” Ms Porter said.
“Importantly, the portal will also promote knowledge sharing with agribusiness and producers so that we create a community of best practice.
“Agtech is becoming increasingly important within the agriculture sector and this portal is an important step in building upon our already successful agriculture industry.  GW3 is incredibly proud to be involved in the launch of this portal.”
Ms Porter said along with regional case studies and news updates from across the agriculture sector, the portal will showcase innovation and product releases, provide key information and education around agtech and ultimately, drive positive change for the sector.

The Greater Whitsunday AgTech Hub portal will also be the place to find:

•            Local agtech suppliers.

•            See examples of agtech in action.

•            Access resources and source funding.

•            Get Involved in the agtech community.

“It will also increase accessibility to agtech and associated digital support by inclusion of an agtech supplier directory of those businesses servicing the Greater Whitsunday region.
“Becoming a part of the new Greater Whitsunday AgTech Hub online community means being a part of a sustainable and productive agriculture industry,” Ms Porter said.

Discover more today: https://greaterwhitsundayagtechhub.com.au

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Canegrowers Mackay
120 Wood St, Mackay
P: (07) 4944 2600
www.mackaycanegrowers.com.au

Elimix
P: 0467 689 997
Find us on facebook

Greater Whitsunday Alliance
Lev 1, 224 Victoria St, Mackay
P: 07 4845 8222
www.gw3.com.au

M&P Services
1 Diesel Dr, Paget
P: (07) 4898 0500
www.mpservices.net.au

Mackay Containers
Mackay Trailers
41 Malcomson St, North Mackay
P: (07) 49 400 722
www.mackaycontainers.com
www.mackaytrailers.com

Mackay Forestry
Dunwoody Road, Ball Bay
P: 1800 819 008
www.mackayforestry.com.au

Michelle Landry Office
71-73 Denham St, Rockhampton
P: (07) 4922 6604
Shop 8/13 Sarina Beach Rd, Sarina
P: (07) 4943 2722

Phoenix Powersports
165 Paradise St, Mackay
P: (07) 4952 2436
www.phoenixpowersports.com.au

Reef Catchments
Suite 1, 85 Gordon St, Mackay
P: (07) 4968 4200
www. reefcatchments.com.au

Western Suburbs Leagues Club
Branscombe Rd, Walkerston
P: (07) 4959 2480
www.weststigersmackay.com.au

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If the 2024 Mackay property market were a person, it would be spotted regularly emerging from the local gym with a smile on its face looking fit, strong and healthy and displaying the sort of energy required for continued intense activity.
Housing markets take on different looks, depending on location and their particular real estate cycle.
In recent years the Sydney market could be seen in its Dior gown and Prada bag stepping out of a limousine in all its finery and promenading along the red carpet into the latest on-trend nightclub.
At times various regional markets have been noticed working hard under the midday sun, glistening with sweat as they pour concrete and lay bricks. All hard work and no indulgence.
You would find other markets surreptitiously sneaking along darkened laneways, furtively looking over their shoulders in fear of something looming behind them.
Occasionally you would see a downtrodden real estate market in ragged old clothes begging on the street corner just hoping for a bit of luck from a passerby. “Couldn’t spare a fiver could you, old son?”
But today’s Mackay market is sporting a big grin, confidently striding along the street dressed in smart-casual clothes offering a friendly nod as it goes.  Full of optimism but not an arrogant show-off.
The first quarter of this calendar year was phenomenal. I remember kicking off the working year in the second week of January with five or six listings and being blown away by the number of inquiries.
I had groups of 20 and 30-plus at open homes with multiple offers coming in thick and fast. Buyers saw value in what was being offered and prices started going above what I expected.
It wasn’t the odd property, rather it was a trend. Properties I had appraised the year before at, say $450,000, were selling in the high $400,000s. Properties that late last year would have got $570,000 were selling for $620,000.
This trend continued in February and March … and April is just as strong.
Several factors are in play. Rental vacancies continue to be low so people in Mackay and those moving here are finding it difficult to find somewhere to rent. This makes it very difficult for a lot of people and it is a horrific challenge for many tenants who aren’t getting mining wages and cannot afford the increasing prices.
But, in terms of the sales market, many people are deciding to buy rather than rent and this is adding competition to the demand and supply dynamic.
Investors from southern states are also seeing great value in the Mackay market. They see rental returns of $550 a week for properties selling in the low-$400,000s and understand the yield on their investment is better here than pretty much anywhere in the country. They are now a source of additional competition for Mackay buyers.
The underlying source of market strength is, of course, the continuing confidence in the Mackay economy. Although the economy has diversified, coal mining continues to underpin the economy and those in the sector talk about how busy they are.
No one can predict what will happen in a given market but Mackay’s high per capita wages, low unemployment, strong economy and attraction as a sea change destination with all the services people need does put it in a good position.
Of course, there are external factors to take into account and Chinese economic growth is expected to slow down in the short and medium term. However, I just saw Mackay Market walk past and it still had a spring in its step.

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Repurposing household items is an eco-friendly and creative way to breathe new life into everyday objects while reducing waste. With a little imagination and resourcefulness, you can transform common household items into useful or decorative pieces for your home.
Here are six ways you can repurpose household items:
Glass Jars as Storage Containers: Empty glass jars from pasta sauce, pickles, or spreads can be repurposed as storage containers for pantry ingredients, spices, or dry goods. Clean and remove labels from the jars, then label them with chalkboard paint or adhesive labels for easy identification.

Plastic Bottles into Planters: Cut plastic bottles in half horizontally and use the bottom portion as planters for small herbs or succulents. Drill drainage holes in the bottom, fill them with soil, and plant your favourite greenery. These upcycled planters are lightweight, portable, and perfect for small spaces.

Empty Egg Cartons for Seed Starters: Use empty egg cartons as biodegradable seed starters for gardening. Fill each compartment with potting soil and plant seeds directly into the carton. Once the seedlings are ready to transplant, cut apart the compartments and plant them directly into the soil…carton and all.

Newspapers as Weed Barrier: Lay down layers of newspaper as an eco-friendly weed barrier in your garden beds. Wet the newspaper to prevent it from blowing away, then cover it with a layer of mulch or soil. The newspaper will decompose over time, smothering weeds and enriching the soil with organic matter.

Mason Jars as Bathroom Organisers: Repurpose mason jars as stylish bathroom organisers for toiletries, cotton balls, or makeup brushes. Attach the lids to the underside of a shelf or cabinet using screws, then screw the jars onto the lids to create hanging storage. This clever storage solution keeps bathroom essentials within reach and off the counter.

Old Books as Wall Art: Display old books as unique wall art by arranging them in a decorative pattern or stacking them to create shelves. Use books with colourful covers or interesting typography to add visual interest to your walls. This literary-inspired decor adds character and charm to any room in your home.
Repurposing household items is a creative and sustainable way to reduce waste and add personality to your home decor. With these ideas, you can give new life to everyday objects while saving money and minimising your environmental footprint!
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The National Fall Armyworm Symposium was held at Brisbane’s Ecosciences Precinct on April 17-18, bringing together industry, government, researchers, and funders to tackle the challenges posed by the invasive pest.
"Fall armyworm infestations are now found in every important growing area in Queensland," highlights Minister Mark Furner, stressing the severity of this year's infestations and the critical role of research and extension efforts.
Hort Innovation CEO Brett Fifield emphasises the collaborative approach taken by impacted industries in swiftly supporting growers and focusing on long-term research into combatting Fall Armyworm.
““As soon as fall armyworm arrived on our shores, the impacted industries swiftly leveraged their strong, collaborative relationships to support growers in Northern Australia.
"This symposium highlights the power of industry coming together and partnering on key biosecurity challenges," Fifield adds.
AUSVEG CEO Michael Coote underscores the urgency of the situation, especially as fall armyworm continues to spread to new areas and affect a broader range of crops.
“Fall Armyworm has caused significant damage to sweetcorn crops this year, and as it spreads to new areas, growers around the country are quickly trying to learn and apply best-practice management techniques.
"As a cross-agriculture problem, it’s heartening to see a broad range of industries working together to address the fall armyworm challenge," says Coote.
The symposium, hosted by the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, aims to share learnings, identify research priorities, and develop sustainable solutions for managing Fall Armyworm. With contributions from various industry leaders, researchers, and government agencies, the event provides a valuable platform to address this pressing agricultural challenge and safeguard Australia's farming sector.

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Fall armyworm was initially identified in Australia in the Torres Strait in January 2020 and has since extended its presence across the country. Photo source: Hort Innovation

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Queensland families are feeling the pinch at the supermarket as fresh produce prices soar while farmers struggle to make ends meet. To address this disparity, the Queensland Government says it is taking proactive steps by introducing a farm gate price monitoring scheme led by industry experts. This scheme aims to establish industry pricing standards and monitor trends across the top 20 products through collating and analysing farm financial performance and pricing data.
"As Premier, I shared a story earlier this year of a farmer selling watermelons by the road for $10 each, because he couldn’t afford to sell it for the $4 he was offered by the supermarkets," says Premier Steven Miles, highlighting the need for fair compensation for farmers' hard work.
"Gearing Up Growers is about levelling the playing field," emphasises Rachel Chambers, CEO of Queensland Fruit and Vegetable Growers.
“We know Queensland’s produce holds more value than what is currently being paid and we are going to do all we can to support our growers to achieve a fair return at market.”
Jo Sheppard, CEO of Queensland Farmers’ Federation, stresses the importance of market transparency and fair trading terms.

“Food insecurity in Australia and globally is rising. We cannot sit on our laurels. We must work to support a sustainable future for food and fibre production for the benefit of future generations.”
Premier Miles stated the importance of equipping farmers with the tools and knowledge to advocate for themselves effectively.
"My government will work with industry to capture and analyse the cost of products from the farm gate to plate.”

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