Cathy Freeman OAM, the iconic Australian Olympic champion born in Mackay has recently expressed her strong support for the planned Stage 2 development at the Great Barrier Reef Arena.
She highlighted the critical need for international-standard training and competition facilities for athletes in regional Queensland.
The Stage 2 development at the Great Barrier Reef Arena will feature accessible accommodation and amenities, allowing athletes and school students from regional, state and interstate areas to fully utilise the sports facilities. This expansion will also attract and host more carnivals, camps and clinics, providing a significant boost to the regional visitor economy.
As a proud advocate for regional athletes and the future of sports in Queensland, Cathy Freeman OAM said, “As we look ahead from Paris 2024 to the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Queensland, I am delighted to add my full support for the plans for the new multi-sport regional training centre at Great Barrier Reef Arena in Mackay. 
“It is so important for young and aspiring athletes from all over Central and Northern Queensland to have facilities of international standard in their own backyard that can help them realise their full potential and achieve their dreams. 
“In particular, the inclusion of accommodation facilities for participants of all abilities from remote and rural communities is vital to allowing everyone to benefit from these opportunities.”
With deep ties to the Mackay region and a lifelong passion for advancing opportunities in sports, Freeman expressed that her connection with the Mackay region and State remains strong and that she is thrilled to see that this initiative has the support of so many people across so many different sports. 
“This development at Great Barrier Reef Arena will truly be a game changer for the community and an incredible asset for all athletes, sports participants and future stars,” Freeman remarked.
The new accommodation will also further support training and competition for both Australian and international athletes and teams in preparation for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Great Barrier Reef Arena General Manager Adrian Young said, “Cathy is not only an Australian Olympic legend but a local legend who is loved in our region.
“It will be of huge value to athletes from all areas of Queensland, providing them with greater opportunity to participate in multi-day camps, clinics and carnivals across a range of sports, including cricket, basketball, AFL and netball.
“Together with the incredible new indoor training and competition facilities Stage 2 will provide, it will make Great Barrier Reef Arena one of the most well equipped and attractive sports destinations in regional Australia.
“We are delighted to have her encouragement and support for the further development of the Great Barrier Reef Arena precinct.”

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Olympic champion Cathy Freeman backs game-changing sports development in Mackay.

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By Amanda Wright

The ongoing crime wave in Mackay has left local businesses and residents frustrated and fearful, with many calling for stronger measures to combat the rising tide of offences. As part of their campaign for the upcoming Queensland election, LNP representatives have pledged to restore law and order in the region through their “Adult Crime, Adult Time” policy.

Shadow Minister for Police and Community Safety, Dan Purdie MP, visited Mackay recently to highlight the alarming crime statistics and propose the LNP’s solution to what he described as a crisis spiralling out of control. Joined by former police officer and Mackay candidate Nigel Dalton, as well as local business owner Evan Corry, Purdie outlined the LNP’s tough stance on crime, particularly youth crime.

“Regional Queensland is the epicentre of a crime crisis,” Mr Purdie said.

“The crime crisis has torn communities apart. Proud regional cities like Mackay have been hijacked by a generation of untouchables.”

According to Queensland Police Service statistics, crime rates in regional areas have surged significantly, with Mackay reporting 953 offences per 100,000 people. This rise has prompted calls for immediate and decisive action to protect businesses and residents from further harm.

Evan Corry, Director of Corry Cycles, has experienced the impact of this peak in crime firsthand. His business has been broken into roughly a dozen times in the last two years alone, forcing him to invest heavily in security measures.

“The cost to our business has been huge, but also the cost to personal time,” Mr Corry explained.

“In the last two years, it’s been about a dozen times we’ve been broken into with a price tag of around $50,000 in lost stock, damage repair and increased investment into security measures.

“Last month alone we were broken into three times.

“It seems to be a revolving door for these criminals. The community and the police will often know who these offenders are, but they’re back out the next day, roaming the streets at 2am breaking into more businesses.

“It’s really disappointing.”

Nigel Dalton, a seasoned former police officer, echoed Corry’s sentiments, expressing his dismay at the lack of consequences for offenders.

“We need to make sure that the people who are offending against people like Evan are getting adult time for an adult crime.

“If you commit a crime, you should be getting appropriate repercussions for those actions,” Mr Dalton said.

“We’re committed to ensuring that young offenders receive proper rehabilitation and support, with plans to extend post-prison supervision from 72 hours to 12 months, helping them secure employment or education and reducing the likelihood of reoffending.”

The LNP’s proposed changes include revising the Youth Justice Act, ensuring that youth offenders face the same sentences as adults when committing serious crimes. Additionally, the LNP plans to introduce a comprehensive rehabilitation package aimed at reducing recidivism, with extended supervision periods and support to help young offenders reintegrate into society.

“Our hardworking police have been crying out for stronger laws to back them up,” Mr Purdie added.

“This is the tough-on-crime response Queenslanders have been pleading for.”

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Dan Purdie MP, Evan Corry and Nigel Dalton discuss the impact of repeated break-ins on local businesses, highlighting the need for stronger consequences and better rehabilitation for offenders. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

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‘Pick up the early warning signs, know what to say, what to do and where to go for.’

CORES-Queensland is dedicated to fostering community-led initiatives to combat suicide through targeted training and workshops. Their upcoming events in the region are designed to equip participants with vital skills when it comes to suicide prevention and self-care.

Suicide Intervention Training – September 16
On September 16, from 9:00pm to 4:00pm, CORES-Queensland will host a comprehensive Suicide Intervention Training session at NQPHN, 2/45 Victoria Street, Mackay.
This training aims to provide essential skills for recognising and responding to individuals at risk of suicide.

Participants will learn to Identify early warning signs of suicide, support individuals in accessing available services, encourage proactive help-seeking behaviours before a crisis occurs and not only develop, but also identify personal self-care strategies.

The training is designed to prepare attendees to handle potential crises effectively, although it is not a crisis service itself. The cost of the training is $25.00, with participants asked to bring their own lunch.
If cost is a barrier, contact CORES-Queensland for information on free sponsorships.

Self-Care and Mental Wellbeing Workshop – September 17
Following this, on September 17, from 2:30pm to 4:30pm, CORES-Queensland will present a Self-Care and Mental Wellbeing Workshop, also held at NQPHN, 2/45 Victoria Street, Mackay.

This 2.5-hour workshop focuses on creating a personalised self-care and mental wellbeing plan, recognising personal signs of stress and implementing daily strategies to manage stress effectively.

The workshop will provide practical resources for enhancing physical, emotional and mental health. This workshop costs $25.00 and free sponsorships are available upon request.

"By the Community For The Community" – CORES-Queensland continues to play a pivotal role in strengthening community resilience and support systems.

For more details on either of these events, or to RSVP, contact CORES-Queensland at adminqld@kentishrc.com.au or 0448 894 525.

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Have you ever stopped to think what it would be like if you were suddenly diagnosed with a severe disease only to then find out treatments available in Australia don’t work for you?
What about if there were other treatments you could access, but they were only available in Brisbane?
Sadly, only 5 years ago that was the case for many in the Mackay-Isaac-Whitsunday region. However, in 2018, the Coral Sea Clinical Research Institute (CSCRI) was established because a doctor was frustrated in seeing his patients miss out, and since then many people in the region (including as south as Rockhampton) have now accessed treatments many years before they have become commercially available anywhere else in the world.
The doctor involved was Dr Daveson, a gastroenterologist (someone who specialises in bowel diseases and who grew up in Mackay) and as such the 30 or so studies CSCSRI has conducted in the region since have focussed mainly on bowel diseases, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD which includes Crohn’s disease or Ulcerative colitis) and Coeliac disease.
To be involved in the IBD studies, patients usually must have not responded to other available treatments. However, once in the study, all treatments and related costs, such as doctor visits and hospital procedures such as colonoscopies, are covered by the study. Travel reimbursements are also available, important for those finding it difficult to afford or access treatment.
To be involved, people must have or be diagnosed with a condition, and be willing to follow the study requirements. Importantly, in some of the studies, although there may not be an immediate benefit for the person participating, the information gathered will likely help others or their relatives in the future.
CSCRI has been an important innovation in the Mackay-Isaac-Whitsunday region and has put its role in clinical trials on the global map. Patients involved in clinical trials at CSCRI are closely cared for by an experienced research team made up of registered nurses, general practitioners and gastroenterologists.
If you are interested in learning more contact CSCRI on 1800 69 27 27 or email admin@coralseaclinical.com.

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Mackay Regional Council is strongly advocating for state and federal funding to support a new local road connection that would help ease congestion on Mackay-Bucasia Road. The proposed extension of Reed Street to Norwood Parade, while not a long-term solution, presents a more immediate option that can be delivered faster than the construction of an entirely new road. This project would improve access for Northern Beaches residents without placing the financial burden on local ratepayers, addressing current traffic issues while longer-term infrastructure plans are developed.
An extension of Reed Street, adjacent to Northern Beaches State High School, to connect with Norwood Parade in Kerrisdale Estate, would provide the new route for local traffic, reducing the amount of traffic entering the roundabout at the bottom of Richmond Hill.
The new road would provide access to and from the Northern Beaches high school, the future Northern Beaches Community Hub and nearby commercial precinct.
It would also provide improved flood immunity for residents to access essential services, including a cyclone shelter at the high school, compared to the McCready’s Creek crossing on Mackay-Bucasia Road.
That crossing has previously been inundated by flood waters, cutting residents' access.
Mayor Greg Williamson said Mackay-Bucasia Road, a state-controlled road, regularly experienced congestion during peak traffic periods in the morning and afternoon, creating delays.
He said the State Government currently had no committed funding to upgrade the road to ease congestion as the daily traffic counts didn’t meet required thresholds.
“Council has identified the Reed Street-Norwood Parade extension, as well as completing the missing link of Dawson Boulevard in Richmond, as local road projects that could help ease congestion on Mackay-Bucasia Road.
“We’ve listed the Reed-Street-Norwood Parade connection as a priority project, with Dawson Boulevard a second priority.”
Council has prepared an advocacy pack, including letters and brochures, for this project and others to be given to candidates for the upcoming State election and next year’s Federal election.

“We’ll advocate for funding for these key projects for our region in the lead-up to the State election and beyond,’’ Mayor Williamson said.
“We’ll be seeking funding opportunities from both State and Federal governments for many of these projects,’’ he said.
The other projects showcased in the advocacy packs include stage two of the Finch Hatton Mountain Bike Project, future stages of the Northern Beaches Community Hub, an upgrade of the Holts/Glenella-Richmond roads intersection, and a new flood levee adjacent to Cemetery Road and Shakespeare Street.
Funding is also being sought for major upgrades to BB Print Stadium.
CEO Scott Owen said the projects council was advocating funding for were selected as many of them were shovel ready.
“These projects have been identified as important projects that will improve liveability for our rate payers and residents,’’ he said.
“Our Mayor and Councillors, senior leadership and other stakeholders will be advocating for funding on behalf of council and our region.”
More information on each of the projects, including advocacy brochures, can be found at council’s Connecting Mackay website.

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Traffic congestion on the Mackay Bucasia Road is a daily problem for commuters. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

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Roll up your sleeves and join The Great Spring Clean Up to help tidy up our beautiful region.
This year council is aligning with Clean Up Australia’s “The Great Spring Clean Up” which will be held during September and October in a bid to keep our region pristine.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the events were the perfect opportunity for residents to show their community pride and help keep our region beautiful.

“Spring cleaning our homes is a usual practice for most of us – so why not also get out and clean up our beaches, waterways and public spaces,” Mayor Williamson said.

“The Great Spring Clean Up aims to intercept litter before our notorious wet season, preventing rubbish from endangering our waterways and wildlife,” he said.

“These events are a great opportunity for our community to be proactive and lend a hand to help keep our region looking its best, and this year we are giving groups the chance to nominate their own areas which have meaning to them, or they feel are worthy of a spring clean!”

“With the combined efforts of council and our community, this year’s events will help to make our region cleaner and greener.”

Once registered, community groups will be provided with bags and gloves for their clean-up event.
Register online at Clean Up Australia to receive your clean up pack.

Volunteers are asked to wear closed-in shoes, a hat, insect repellent and sunscreen. Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult.

Local residents and community groups that register their clean-up on the Clean Up Australia website can dispose of collected rubbish for free at council's waste transfer stations across the region.

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Volunteers from the 2023 Clean Up Mackay event

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After working for years as a boilermaker in the mines, Curtley Quakawoot is forging the tradespeople of the future as a schoolteacher, thanks to CQUniversity and the Queensland Government’s Trade to Teach Internship Program.
Curtley completed his Certificate III in Engineering Fabrication in 2010 and quickly found work in the mining industry.

“I spent three years post-trade on the tools out in the Bowen Basin in the coal mining industry before heading into a product conveyor support role as a sales and service technician,” he said.

“After pursuing that role for another seven years, an opportunity arose to take on a Queensland management role, but unfortunately, I was made redundant during the Covid-19 period, so I went back out the mines as a supervisor.”

After several tumultuous few years, Curtley said he decided he needed a career change, which is where the Trade to Teach Internship program came in.

The Queensland Government provides financial support, a paid internship teaching position and permanent teaching position for qualified tradespeople under the Trade to Teach Internship Program.

The Trade to Teach initiative aims to make a significant impact by bringing skilled professionals into the education sector.

“I wanted more time at home raising my family and working with students, so I applied for a teacher’s aide position at Mackay North High School and discovered I really enjoyed working with the students,” he said.

“I spent the next two years with Education Queensland undertaking a number of roles, such as teacher aide, community education counsellor and then at the Mackay Engineering College as a trainer/assessor, teaching the Cert II in Engineering.”

In his second year of the internship, Curtley said he enjoyed the structure of the training with CQU.

“I'm finding it ok as the further I'm getting through my subjects the smaller my university load is,” he said.

“(The training) was structured specifically, which I think was well thought out as I can adjust to classroom teaching a lot more smoothly. 

“I'm currently employed as an intern under the T2T program at North Mackay State High School.

“It has been good doing my internship at a different school to my first year prac placement, I've learned a lot from the staff and how some schools run slightly different.”

Curtley encouraged any tradesperson looking for a change to consider the T2T Internship Program.

“It’s a well supported system tailored to bridging the gap between industry and tertiary education,” he said.

Mackay North State High School Principal Catherine Rolfe said: “Curtley is a valued member of the trade team at school, given his trade experience and strong connections with the students.  He is a great role model.”

Applications for the 2025 intake of the Trade to Teach Internship Program close on 22 September 2024. Apply at www.qld.gov.au/tradetoteach.

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North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) has launched its 2024-25 Community Fund, offering $100,000 in funding—an increase of $40,000 from previous years—for initiatives across its port communities in Hay Point, Mackay, Abbot Point (Bowen), and Weipa.

NQBP Chief Executive Officer Brendan Webb said the annual NQBP Community Fund supports local groups and organisations in delivering valuable initiatives that make a real difference in their communities.

“NQBP values the importance of giving back to the communities in which it operates and has proudly provided more than $1 million in community sponsorships and donations over the last decade,” Mr Webb said.

“The NQBP Community Fund provides funding opportunities for community events, programs and activities that benefit our communities and promote the goals of NQBP.

“We’re proud to see the NQBP Community Fund at work within our port communities, with each initiative promoting our values of Care, Connection, Courage and Curiosity.”

Officer Commanding 122 Army Cadet Unit, Major AAC John Zimmermann OAM said NQBP’s sponsorship has the potential to help save lives and strengthen community resilience.

“The generous support provided by NQBP enabled cadets to receive accredited First Aid training”, Major Zimmermann said.

“Our beautiful part of Queensland has its fair share of natural disasters, and this raises the potential for a range of injuries. Training cadets to be capable first aiders living within the local community helps to develop self-confidence and is a valuable local resource when people suffer an injury, either from a disaster event or from everyday accidents.”

The NQBP Community Fund is open to non-profit groups and organisations, and registered charities, and seeks to support events, programs and activities that align with NQBP’s vision to be a leader in responsible port trade, where Queenslanders thrive for generations.

Applications that identify a community or environmental need and are consistent with or promote the principles of diversity and inclusion are encouraged. Applications for this year’s NQBP Community Fund close on Friday 20 September 2024. For further details or to apply visit www.nqbp.com.au.

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NQBP’s Community Fund enabled Army Cadets to receive accredited First Aid training - Lily Jeffs, Caitlin Lamb, and Taiga Yamamoto of the 122 Army Cadet Unit. Photo supplied: NQBP

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Armed with grit and an unwavering commitment to save lives, Australia’s top underground mines rescue teams are ready to prove their mettle against the best around the world. Anglo American teams from Grosvenor and Moranbah North mines won first and second place respectively at the 59th annual Australian Underground Coal Mines Rescue competition in October. This qualified the two Bowen Basin teams to compete at the International Mines Rescue Competition in Colombia from September 13 to 20 this year.
It will be the third consecutive time the Moranbah North mines rescue team has competed at an international level, having previously competed in Russia in 2018 and the United States in 2022. Grosvenor also debuted on the international stage in the US, so Colombia will be the team’s second tilt abroad. Mines rescue competitions provide an opportunity for teams to respond to simulations of real-life emergency situations to demonstrate agility and teamwork, as well as theoretical examinations.
Moranbah North Mine mines rescue team manager Ian Hawkins said the two teams had been training for months to ensure they were ready for the upcoming international competition.
“Our team members come from all different places, roles and competencies within the mines so that adds to the value and diversity,” he said.
“They have a great rapport with each other but when they hit that switch, they’re on. If you’re ever in a bind, these are two quality teams our coal mine workers appreciate having as emergency support.”
Moranbah North Mine team captain Jason Seaborn said the camaraderie and competitiveness of mines rescue had driven his involvement.
I’ve been part of the Moranbah North team for three years because I value safety and I value looking after my colleagues,” he said.
“Working as a team is the most rewarding part of going underground. It’s hard work but you have a really close work culture where you’ve got to have each other’s backs.”
Anglo American CEO in Australia, Dan van der Westhuizen, said it was a great source of pride these mines rescue teams had gained global recognition for their expertise.
“Our skilled mines rescue teams are a critical part of our continued commitment to the emergency capabilities of the Queensland coal mining industry,” he said.
“We know firsthand why mines rescue skills are so important. And while no one wants to be in a position where a mines rescue team is required, their training, camaraderie, unwavering dedication and unparalleled experience provide us all with confidence when we need them most.”
The Colombia competition runs September 13-19 with an international mines rescue body conference on September 20 to conclude the event. Representatives from each member country develop tests related to underground mining rescues and teams must comply with high safety standards and protocols.

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Australia’s place in the US $20 billion global banana market has been safeguarded, according to the federal government, with a new genetically modified banana being granted approval for commercial release and consumption.

The QCAV-4 variety of the Cavendish banana has been developed by the Queensland University of Technology (QUT) to counteract the effects of Panama Disease or Tropical Race 4 (TR4), a fungal disease that starves bananas of their nutrients eventually killing the plant.

Following 20 years of development and rigorous scientific assessment to ensure it is safe for consumption, QCAV-4 received final regulatory approval from Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) earlier this year.

The approval comes at an important time as the disease impacts banana industries across the world, including here in Australia which consumes around five million bananas per day.

With TR4 estimated to have the potential to impact 80 per cent of global banana production, Australian researchers have made a world-first breakthrough to protect local banana farms and secure our food production systems.

While there is no immediate demand locally to bring QCAV-4 to market due to our biosecurity system successfully keeping Panama Disease from devastating the Australian banana industry, there are a number of countries with an increasing need to find a sustainable, long-term solution to the ravages of TR4.  

Genetically modified labelling provisions would apply to food derived from QCAV-4, so consumers can make informed choices should the banana be commercially produced and sold.

The team behind its creation are now turning their attention to developing a non-genetically modified, gene-edited version of the product that can resist TR4 and other diseases, continuing to future-proof one of the world’s favourite fruits.

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Julie Collins said this is an important milestone for researchers at QUT and a significant development in the fight against potential threats to Australian biosecurity.

“Panama disease has caused havoc in the Philippines and China, spreading quickly in South-East and south Asia, parts of Africa and now South America,” Minister Collins said.

“This has been a long process for the scientists at QUT, and the final approval is vindication of their work, skill and patience.

“This is a major Australian achievement worth celebrating.”

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CANEGROWERS is calling on Wilmar Sugar and unions representing mill workers to prove they are serious about resolving their long-running pay dispute by getting out of the way and letting the independent umpire decide a fair and reasonable outcome.
 
“After many months of fruitless and increasingly bitter negotiations, it’s time for both parties to step aside and let the Fair Work Commission decide,” CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens said.
 
“It’s clear that the parties involved are either unable or reluctant to reach an agreement, despite the damage it’s doing to farming families, the sugarcane industry, or their own communities,” Mr Menkens said.
 
“We have said repeatedly that workers deserve to be represented and achieve a fair pay deal and milling companies must be financially viable. But this dispute has become increasingly hostile and there is no sign of a compromise on the horizon.
 
Mr Menkins said that CANEGROWERS has taken strong action.

“Our representatives have had several meetings with Wilmar officials and union senior officials.
 
“What we’re saying is, you’ve had your chance to reach a compromise acceptable to both sides and you’ve failed. This can’t continue indefinitely. It’s impacting the harvest, it’s impacting growers and contractors, it’s impacting families, it’s impacting the industry, and it’s impacting communities. 
 
“It’s time to admit you’ve reached an intractable stalemate, step aside and let an independent third party decide the issue.”
  
Mr Menkins added that the current rolling stoppages at Wilmar mills, which crush about fifty per cent of Queensland’s sugarcane, have already cost growers and contractors dearly, not just financially but also in terms of the stress and anxiety they’re experiencing.

“It’s already a difficult season, and if we’re to have any chance of success we need to start pulling in the same direction, working together to make up ground, not continuing to be hampered by strike action.
 
“For everyone’s sake, either do a deal now, or engage the Fair Work Commission.

“Let’s get this crop off and try to make the 2024 season a success.”

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This week
Season to date
Cane crushed
50,817
427,811
Average bin weight
3.92
3.86
CCS
14.09
13.27
Cane variety performance for region
Variety
%
CCS
Variety
%
CCS
Q183
31.9
13.85
Q253
16.2
14.22
Q240
10.4
14.72
SP80
4.8
13.78
Q208
13.2
14.30
SRA9
6.5
13.76
KQ228
6.6
14.72
Q252
3.9
13.67
Comments:
Plane Creek Mill processed just over 50,000 tonnes of cane for the week, bringing the season total to just under 428,000 tonnes.
The Plane Creek crop continues to cut above the original estimate. As a result, we have revised the Plane Creek crop estimate upwards by 130,000 tonnes to 1.45 million tonnes.
Average CCS rose by 0.13 of a unit over the previous week, closing out at 14.09 units. The year-to-date average is now sitting at 13.27 units.
Standover cane made up 12 per cent of the week’s cane supply.
The highest CCS honour for the week was a rake of Q183 Plant cane from the Dawlish productivity area with a CCS of 16.5 units.
Please keep your train brain switched on. Be alert, stay clear of our rail network and always give way to cane trains.
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Lindsay Wheeler
Cane Supply Manager
Plane Creek Region

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Australian agriculture is set to benefit this financial year, as the gross value of agricultural production is forecast to increase by 4 per cent.
The ABARES Agricultural Commodities and Crop Reports show significant growth in the sector, from $82.5 billion in 2023-24 to $86.2 billion in 2024-25.
Executive Director of ABARES, Dr Jared Greenville, said this forecast shows value of production across agriculture, fisheries and forestry reaching $92.1 billion in 2024-25.
“We have seen more favourable seasonal conditions across large parts of the country, easing input prices, and higher livestock prices supporting farm incomes,” Dr Greenville said.
“Crop production across Australia has been driven by New South Wales and Queensland, and better than expected seasonal conditions in Western Australia.
“But unfavourable conditions in north and western Victoria and most of South Australia following below average winter rainfall have resulted in lower-than-expected crop production.”
“The value of agricultural exports is forecast to be $68.5 billion in 2024-25, or $72.6 billion when including fisheries and forestry,” Dr Greenville said.
This year has seen less carry-over stocks of grain available for export in comparison to the past two record-breaking years which is driving a slight fall in export value, despite production is still sitting comfortably as the third highest on record.
Australian exports continue to be in strong demand in key markets.
“Red meat exports are performing well in the US and Middle East,” Dr Greenville said.
“We’re expecting to see the price for cattle and sheep increase compared to last year, leading to this significant improvement in farm incomes,” Dr Greenville said.
“The horticulture industry is continuing to showcase its resilience as it maintains its forecast of record-breaking production values.”

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A new program aimed at achieving better health outcomes in our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community was launched this week at Mackay Base Hospital.

The Better Medication Access program will give Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients across the Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) access to any prescribed medications at no cost.

Uncle Gary Mooney provided the Welcome to Country and spoke about the hospital working with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to develop programs such as these to improve health and wellbeing outcomes. Pastor Henry Kennell delivered the Torres Strait Islander blessing and spoke of the importance of health equity and closing the gap for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Mackay HHS Executive Director of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Kerry Maley officially launched the program.

“We know that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people experience a disproportionate incidence of acute and chronic diseases resulting in increased disability and poor health outcomes,” she said.

“Significantly greater and more complex and chronic diseases, requires management with expensive medications. This is a financial barrier preventing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people from accessing the preventative health care they need.”

The event was attended by Mackay HHS Acting Chief Executive Nick Steele, Executive Director of Operations Jenny Farley, the Mackay Health Equity Advisory Group, the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Unit and the Mackay Base Hospital pharmacy.

The Better Medication Access Program provides Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with access to free medication at the Mackay Base Hospital Pharmacy following discharge from the Emergency Department, inpatient unit or following an outpatient appointment with a hospital prescription.

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Attendees at the launch of the Better Medication Access program, including key figures from Mackay Hospital and Health Service, local community leaders, and health equity advocates, gathered to celebrate the initiative aimed at improving health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients. Photo credit: MHHS

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While the community came together to fundraise at the Annual BMA CQ Rescue Gala Ball, the dedicated crew were hard at work, showcasing their life-saving skills. The new AW139 helicopter, which only arrived in Mackay last week, has already been put to the test, flying to Collinsville, then to Hamilton Island via Proserpine, and the following day to Bowen Hospital to assist a patient.

In another mission, the helicopter was dispatched to Cape Palmerston after a motorbike accident along the beach. The man involved was swiftly transported to Mackay for further treatment.

Christine Schmidt was at Cape Hillsborough when the accident occurred and praised the CQ Rescue team for their swift response, saying they did an amazing job.

With the arrival of the new AW139 helicopters, BMA CQ Rescue can now fly faster and further, ensuring that when time is of the essence, more lives will be saved.

View photos from the charity gala ball on page 28

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BMA CQ Rescue's new AW139 helicopter arrives at Cape Palmerston after a motorbike accident, swiftly transporting the injured rider to Mackay for urgent treatment. Photo supplied: CQ Rescue

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