Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox MP, is proud to announce that 44 outstanding young athletes from across the Dawson electorate have been successful recipients of the Australian Government’s Local Sporting Champions program.

The successful applicants come from communities right across the electorate, including Wulguru, Balnagowan, Mount Pleasant, Riordanvale, Idalia, Glenella, Slade Point, Rural View, South Mackay, Seaforth, Ayr, Breadalbane, Cannonvale, Annandale, Shoal Point, Andergrove, North Mackay, Erakala, Hampden, Bowen, Sugarloaf, Midge Point, and surrounding areas.

“These 44 young athletes are a credit to themselves, their families, their coaches, and the local clubs that support them,” Mr Willcox said.

“Dawson has a strong and proud sporting culture, and it is terrific to see so many young people earning the opportunity to represent our region at state, national, and international level.”

The Local Sporting Champions grants assist recipients with the significant costs associated with elite competition, including travel, accommodation, uniforms, and essential sporting equipment. Each successful applicant may receive up to $750 to support their participation.

Athletes from the Dawson electorate will go on to represent their communities across a broad range of sports, including rugby union, rugby league, basketball, touch football, softball, netball, hockey, football, athletics, cross country, swimming, rowing, volleyball, gymnastics, BMX, motocross, pony club, skate hockey, and Australian football. Competitions range from Queensland state championships through to national championships and international events.

“Regional athletes often face additional financial pressures simply due to distance and travel requirements,” Mr Willcox said.

“The Local Sporting Champions program helps ensure that young people from regional communities like Dawson are not disadvantaged and can compete on an equal footing with their metropolitan counterparts.”

Applications Now Open

Mr Willcox is encouraging families across the Dawson electorate to apply for the next round of Local Sporting Champions funding.

The program provides financial assistance to athletes, coaches, and officials aged 12 to 18 who are participating in state, national, or international championships. Grants of up to $750 are available to help cover competition-related expenses.

The current round is now open and will close at 11:59pm on Wednesday, January 31, 2026.

Further information on eligibility requirements and how to apply is available through the Australian Sports Commission at: https://www.sportaus.gov.au/grants_and_funding/local_sporting_champions

“Every young athlete deserves the chance to pursue their sporting ambitions,” Mr Willcox said.

“I strongly encourage eligible families across Dawson to apply and take advantage of this valuable support.”

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Andrew Willcox MP with junior sailors. Image supplied

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Opinion Piece By Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox

Next week will mark one month since 15 innocent Australians lost their lives at one of our nation’s most iconic spots. Bondi will now forever be synonymous with the worst terror attack on Australian soil. It devastated families, shattered communities, and scarred a nation. It should never have happened.

Since December 14, many words have been spoken, yet nothing of substance has changed. The government’s response has been worse than weak. A country in mourning deserves answers, accountability, and action. Instead, Australians have been served excuses and deflection.

First, the Prime Minister blamed the guns. Then he told us events like this are “hard to legislate against.” After days of backlash came talk of tougher hate laws, yet, despite the Coalition standing ready to act, Parliament at the time of writing has not been recalled (I hope it has by the time you are reading this).

The Prime Minister’s last attempt to quiet public backlash was the announcement of a government appointed review, largely focused on security agencies. This review does not strike at the heart of the problem and it is a watered-down substitute for transparency.

The Coalition, Jewish community leaders, national figures, and sporting greats have all called for a Royal Commission. Most importantly, the families of the victims have demanded one. Even a public letter from grieving families has not moved the Prime Minister.

A Royal Commission matters because it is independent, public, and thorough. Hearings are led by judges and senior officials. Ministers, including the Prime Minister can be questioned. That level of scrutiny is essential, and it is precisely why this government is resisting it.

The government offers two excuses for not announcing a Royal Commission: concern about re-traumatising families, and time.

Well, families of the victims are asking for it, and this government has enthusiastically supported multiple Royal Commissions involving victims in the recent past.

Time, however, is the real reason. Although not because action would be delayed, because a Royal Commission does not prevent urgent laws being passed. Action can and must happen concurrently. But because a Royal Commission would keep the government’s failures in the public eye for longer.

Typically running 15 to 18 months, a Royal Commission established now would likely deliver its findings just months before the next federal election. That means sustained scrutiny of the government’s failure right up until the very moment voters are paying the closest attention. That is what Labor wants to avoid and this is the real reason the government is resisting.

The Bondi attack did not occur in isolation. For more than two years, Australians have witnessed escalating extremism, intimidation, and radicalisation. Warning signs were ignored. Hate was allowed to fester. The Prime Minister was silent as hate filled protests erupted, extremist rhetoric spread openly, and national symbols were attacked. Bondi is the consequence of that silence and inaction.

A Royal Commission will not bring back those we lost. But it could save lives in the future. A Royal Commission would tell the world Australia will not tolerate hate. It would not only explain what happened but identify holes in the current systems. It would give victims dignity not dismissal. And it would a deliver a tangible roadmap for preventing similar events.

Prime Minister, be accountable and take responsibility. Announce a Royal Commission now. Better late than never.

Australia must remember Bondi, not just today, but always.

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After years of community concern about overcrowding, limited parking and pressure on local health services, Mackay Base Hospital’s long-awaited expansion is now moving into a defined planning and delivery phase, with further announcements expected in the New Year.

On December 19, 2025, Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said the focus was on resetting the hospital’s direction and restoring confidence after what he described as a prolonged period without a workable plan.

“Today is about the hospital rescue plan… getting hospitals back on track after 10 years of decline,” Mr Dalton said.

“We’re now putting in the hard work on a plan that will make this hospital one of the best.”

“It’s about giving the community confidence in what this hospital will look like into the future.”

Health Infrastructure Queensland (HIQ) representative Sam Sangster confirmed the project is now guided by a comprehensive master planning process, designed to shape development over the next several decades.

“Today we’re talking about the re-planning that will now occur here, starting with a comprehensive master planning exercise,” Mr Sangster said.

“This was one of the projects where construction had started without a master plan, which is not how you normally plan a hospital.”

“We are now doing the work that should have been done some time ago to build this hospital for the community, for the long term.”

All elements of the hospital expansion plan will proceed, including a new hospital wing, a multi-storey car park, a helipad and a birth centre. Local builders and contractors will also have opportunities to be involved in upcoming stages of the project.

Car parking, a long-standing frustration for patients, visitors and staff, has been identified as an urgent priority.

“In the New Year we’ll commence procurement of the multi-level car park, with interim parking solutions also to be announced,” Mr Sangster said.

“Car parking is such a critical issue, particularly on this site, and we’re treating that as an urgent priority.”

When complete, Mackay Base Hospital is expected to have around 1660 parking spaces, which is approximately 600 more than currently available. An interim parking solution is being developed to ease congestion while construction of the new car park is underway.

Stage One works for the new hospital wing have already been completed, including excavation, site remediation and utilities installation. Work on the broader master plan is continuing to ensure future development meets the needs of both clinicians and the community.

Planning is also underway to deliver cancer care services locally.

“Mackay is one of the regional locations where infrastructure planning will now begin to deliver cancer care closer to home,” Mr Sangster said.

Mackay Hospital and Health Service Interim Chief Executive Sean Birgan said access, patient flow and site congestion remain major challenges.

“Patients, families and staff would all agree that car parking is one of our biggest challenges,” Mr Birgan said.

“The best healthcare we provide our patients is planned care, and the best capital planning is no different.”

Expressions of interest from local builders for construction of the multi-storey car park and other expansion works are expected to open in January 2026, with further updates to follow in the New Year.

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Health Infrastructure Queensland (HIQ) representative Sam Sangster, Mackay Hospital and Health Service Interim Chief Executive Sean Birgan and Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton met at Mackay Base Hospital on December 19 to discuss a 2026 rescue plan. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Council is pleased to announce the completion of the Sydney Street and River Street intersection upgrade and Bluewater Trail improvements.

The $4.8 million project, delivered by Vassallo Constructions Pty Ltd on behalf of council, has significantly enhanced pedestrian and cycle connectivity between the City Centre and Riverside precincts.

The upgrade includes 150 metres of new three-metre-wide off-road shared path along the Bluewater Trail on River Street.

The Sydney Street and River Street signalised intersection has also been widened to 5.5 metres and a new pedestrian crossing has been constructed.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the completion of the project marked another milestone in delivering the Mackay Waterfront Priority Development Area (PDA).

“This upgrade is about promoting active transport and making it easier and safer for people to move between our City Centre and Riverside precincts,” Mayor Williamson said.

“By creating new and wider footpaths, improving lighting and landscaping, and installing park furniture, we’re encouraging more walking and cycling, which supports healthier lifestyles and a more vibrant city,” he said.

“It also aligns perfectly with our Waterfront Place Strategy, which is focused on activating the Pioneer River and surrounding areas to create attractive, connected and welcoming spaces for residents and visitors.”

Two wayfinding signage packages are also being delivered as part of the project.  These will connect the key precincts, offer visitor information and provide directions and walk times to key locations within the City Centre and Waterfront.

This project is the fourth for the Mackay Waterfront Priority Development Area (PDA). Previous projects include the Queens Park Revitalisation and the Riverside Revitalisation project (comprising the recently completed Pioneer River pontoon and River Wharves).

The Sydney and River streets intersection active transport crossing is proudly supported by the Queensland Government’s Cycle Network Local Government Grant program and Mackay Regional Council.

Minister for Transport and Main Roads, Brent Mickelberg said the Queensland Government is committed to building stronger partnerships with local councils by investing in projects that encourage the community to enjoy upgraded facilities, which showcase the natural beauty of the Mackay region.

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The upgrade along River Street will make it safer and easier for people to move between City and Riverside precincts. Photo supplied

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A Mackay man has proven that not all life-changing moments come with fireworks and fanfare, after calmly discovering he’d pocketed more than $60,000 in a Keno draw just before the new year.

The North Queenslander claimed the Keno Classic 8 Spot jackpot in draw 116, drawn on Sunday, 28 December 2025, walking away with a tidy $60,227 — and doing so with remarkable composure.

“I was actually pretty cool and calm!” he laughed when an official from Keno confirmed the win.

“I was sat down with my wife’s parents, and we were in the café area, and I decided to put a game of Keno on. I looked up at the Keno screen and that’s when I saw my Keno numbers come up.

“I said to my mother-in-law, ‘I’m pretty sure I’ve won!’.  She was more shocked than me.

“It’s funny because I usually catch up with friends and we usually share a ticket, but I managed to have won all by myself.

“As soon as I confirmed the win with staff, I went home and kept the ticket very secure.

“We ended up celebrating that night.”

When asked about how he'd spend his winnings, the joyful man shared he would be sensible with the prize.

“It will help me pay off some of my mortgage!” he exclaimed.

“Thank you very much!”

His winning Keno Classic entry was purchased at Harrup Park, 89 Julet St, Mackay.

It was a big win, a calm reaction, and a very happy start to the new year for one Mackay local.

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Image supplied

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At The Neighbourhood Hub

As the decorations come down and the community settles into the new year, The Neighbourhood Hub is taking time to reflect on what made this past Christmas season truly special – the overwhelming generosity of the Mackay community.

In the weeks leading up to Christmas, The Neighbourhood Hub's centres at Shakespeare Street and George Street became bustling hubs of community spirit as staff, volunteers, and local partners came together to pack 117 Christmas hampers for families and individuals doing it tough.

The initiative brought out the very best in the region. Donations flowed in from every corner – community groups, local businesses, families, and individuals all stepping up to ensure neighbours would have extra support during the festive season. The BMA team generously gave their time to help sort, pack, and organise, turning the task into a day filled with connection and purpose.

The Neighbourhood Hub's General Manager, Nicolette Ffrost, said the initiative demonstrated what makes the Mackay community so special.

“While 117 hampers represent tangible support for 117 households, the true impact went far beyond the practical assistance,” Ms Ffrost said.

“What struck the team most was the quiet care taken by volunteers, the thoughtful conversations between packers about ensuring each hamper felt personal, and the genuine compassion that filled the workspace.

“This was neighbours supporting neighbours; a community that refuses to let anyone face hardship alone.”

Each hamper was carefully assembled with dignity and respect in mind, packed with essential groceries, festive treats, and household items to help make Christmas a little brighter for those experiencing challenges.

Ms Ffrost said the collaboration witnessed during the initiative embodied TNHub's philosophy of “walking alongside” community members.

“This wasn't about charity in the traditional sense – it was about a community coming together around a shared purpose,” she said.

“The partnership between BMA volunteers, donors, and The Neighbourhood Hub's changemakers created something far greater than any single organisation could achieve alone. It reinforced that strength lies in how people support one another when it matters most.”

Ms Ffrost extended heartfelt thanks to all volunteers, donors, and community partners who made the initiative possible.

“To everyone who contributed time, donations, or encouragement – thank you,” she said.

The Neighbourhood Hub reopened on Monday, 5 January 2026, operating from its two locations at 43 Shakespeare Street and 4 George Street.

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Volunteers, partners and donors came together to pack 117 Christmas hampers, showcasing the generosity and community spirit that defines Mackay. Photos supplied

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By Cr Anne Baker

Being elected in the September by-election is something I’m genuinely grateful for. Can I start by saying thank you to everyone who took the time to vote, have a conversation with me or share their thoughts along the way. Whether you supported me or simply stopped for a chat, those conversations have meant a lot.

Since being elected, I’ve done my best to get out and about across the region. I’ve attended community meetings, dropped in on local groups, and spoken to residents and business owners wherever I can. What’s been most important to me is listening. People have been open about what’s working well, what isn’t and what they want to see change – something like the good, the bad and the ugly, and I’m thankful for that honesty.

One thing that’s really stood out is just how much people care about their communities. Each area has its own character and its own priorities, but there’s a shared sense of pride and a strong desire to see the whole region move in the right direction. Those conversations have already shaped how I approach my role, and they’ll continue to guide me over the year ahead.

I stood for the by-election because I care about this place and the people who live here. I bring local government experience; however, I don’t pretend to have all the answers. I believe in being approachable, straight-talking and willing to listen. If something isn’t working, I want to know about it. If something can be improved, I want to help make that happen.

The next year will not be without its challenges, and at times local government can be complex.

I’m committed to working hard and working constructively with colleagues. Working together is integral, always keeping local voices front and centre. I want people to feel comfortable getting in touch and confident that their concerns will be taken seriously.

As Co-Chair of the Infrastructure Advisory Committee and Co-Chair of the Financial Advisory Committee as additional responsibilities, I’m optimistic, excited and looking forward to the year ahead — continuing to listen, learn and do the best job I can for the people is a priority for 2025.

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Every business wants to be the best; few actually achieve it. When customers are ready to buy, they don’t open a spreadsheet to conduct a detailed comparison. They choose the brand that comes to mind first. That moment, often called the point of recall, is where buying decisions are made. If your business isn’t front and centre in that split second, you’re already playing catch-up, regardless of how good your product or service is.

Being first doesn’t mean being the biggest business in your industry. It’s about earning recognition and trust with the right audience. Consider the local café everyone recommends without thinking, or the mechanic that’s mentioned when value is a priority. Those brands don’t come to mind by accident; they earned their place through clear messaging and repetition. Brand preferences are built long before a purchase is made.

In crowded markets, memorability isn’t created by chasing trends or hoping for a viral moment. It comes from strong creative, a clear understanding of the value you offer, and consistent messaging across every touchpoint - all working together to create familiarity over time. From social media and websites to signage, uniforms, and vehicles, every interaction reinforces how a brand is perceived. Marketing is a battle for mental real estate, and if you’re not deliberately shaping how your business is viewed, your competitors will do it for you, often positioning you as second choice.

Marketing is a long game. One great campaign might generate attention, but sustained growth comes from strategy, not isolated activities. High-performing brands operate within a connected marketing ecosystem where each channel supports the next; for example, billboards to build awareness, radio to reinforce recall, digital advertising to drive consideration, and social media content to build trust. When those channels tell the same story and work together, they compound, making your brand easier to recognise. When they don’t, confusion creeps in, marketing spend leaks through the cracks, and audiences hesitate to act.

Direction matters, and it’s not something most business owners should be expected to figure out on their own. The strongest brands are led by people who know when to seek expert guidance. Strategy isn’t about doing more marketing; it’s about doing the right marketing with the right creative and messaging. A clear roadmap removes guesswork, aligns investment, and ensures every action contributes to a bigger goal rather than ad-hock decisions.

Structured marketing workshops are a great way to create clarity so that money isn’t wasted on the wrong activities. They uncover opportunity, define market position, and establish a clear framework for future decisions. Squeeze is redhotblue’s premium one-on-one brand and marketing workshop, designed to give business owners a fresh perspective. These tailored, hands-on workshops deliver clarity, confidence, and ideas to help brands outperform competitors and stay top of mind.

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Mackay Hospital Foundation On The Hunt For Volunteers

Volunteers across Mackay are once again being called on to support vital community services, with two initiatives highlighting just how powerful a few hours of time can be, whether its helping doctors reach patients or raising funds that directly benefit our region.

The Mackay Hospital Foundation is currently seeking friendly and reliable volunteer drivers to assist with transporting travelling doctors between the airport and Mackay Base Hospital. The role is simple but essential, helping ensure visiting specialists arrive on time and can focus fully on providing care to the community.

Volunteers are provided with a vehicle and are asked only to drive. Morning duties involve collecting doctors from Mackay Base Hospital at 8.30am before heading to the airport for a 9.00am pick-up. Afternoon drop-offs depart the hospital at approximately 3.45pm. Days vary depending on doctors’ schedules, and flexibility is appreciated.

To be eligible, volunteers must hold a current open driver’s licence, have a Blue Card — or be willing to obtain one — and bring a friendly, professional attitude to the role. Organisers say it’s a rewarding way to support the hospital and contribute directly to patient care behind the scenes.

Anyone interested in volunteering or seeking further information is encouraged to get in touch by emailing mhf@health.qld.gov.au. Organisers say even small contributions of time can make a meaningful difference.

The call for new volunteers follows another successful year of community support, with the Mackay Hospital Foundation’s gift-wrapping volunteers raising an impressive $5,472 in December last year.

Organisers acknowledged the many volunteers who generously gave their time, energy and smiles throughout the campaign, turning a simple service into a successful fundraising effort driven by the community, for the community.

The combined efforts of volunteer drivers, gift wrappers, supporters and local partners underscore the vital role volunteers play in supporting health services across the region.

As the new year unfolds, organisers are encouraging more locals to consider volunteering, whether through driving, fundraising or other support roles within the community.

Why you should get involved in your community

Local organisations, charities and community groups rely heavily on volunteers to deliver essential services and programs. From supporting health and wellbeing initiatives to assisting at community events, fundraising activities, mentoring young people or providing practical support to those experiencing hardship, volunteers are often the backbone of community-led action.

Environmental groups, sporting clubs, schools, neighbourhood centres and emergency services also welcome community members willing to contribute their time and experience. Getting involved can be as simple as reaching out to an organisation directly, following community groups on social media, or keeping an eye on notices shared through councils, libraries and community hubs.

Many organisations offer flexible roles to suit different lifestyles, including weekday, weekend and short-term opportunities, with training and support provided to help volunteers feel confident and valued.

Community leaders consistently emphasise that volunteering is not just about giving help, but about strengthening social bonds and creating a culture of care. Just as importantly, volunteers often report a strong sense of fulfilment, connection and pride in contributing to something bigger than themselves.

In a community like Mackay, where collaboration and generosity run deep, volunteering remains one of the most powerful ways individuals can make a lasting, positive difference, not only for others, but for the wellbeing and resilience of the region as a whole.

How locals can get involved in volunteering

• Contact local charities, not-for-profit organisations or community groups directly to ask about current volunteer roles
• Follow community organisations, neighbourhood centres and sporting clubs on social media for volunteer calls and events
• Register with volunteer coordination services or community hubs to be matched with suitable opportunities
• Offer skills you already have, such as driving, administration, event support, mentoring, cooking or fundraising
• Volunteer casually or for short-term projects if ongoing commitments are not possible
• Attend local events, markets or fundraisers and ask how to get involved behind the scenes
• Encourage friends, family or workplaces to volunteer together as a group

Why volunteering matters

• Helps essential community services continue to operate and reach more people
• Supports vulnerable individuals and families during times of need
• Strengthens community connection, trust and resilience
• Creates a culture of care and shared responsibility
• Builds personal skills, confidence and social networks
• Provides a sense of purpose and fulfilment
• Allows locals to directly contribute to the wellbeing and future of the Mackay community

As 2026 unfolds, now is the perfect time to tick that New Year’s resolution off your bucket list and get involved in the community!

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Gift-wrapping volunteers raised an incredible $5,472 last year, and locals are encouraged to join in, share their time, and help make a positive impact in the community. Photo source: Mackay Hospital and Health Service

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Sarina’s much loved Community Native Gardens are set for a major upgrade, thanks to a community grant of just over $24,000 from Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank.

Delivered by the Sarina Landcare Catchment Management Association (SLCMA), the Enhancing Sarina’s Community Native Gardens project will revitalise the space, improve accessibility and create new learning opportunities for people of all ages.

The project will include weatherproofing and redefining walking tracks to ensure safe access year-round, as well as installing durable interpretive signage to help visitors learn about native plants, biodiversity and sustainable gardening practices.

A dedicated page on the SLCMA website will allow visitors to explore more information via QR codes in the gardens.

SLCMA Coordinator Saskia von Fahland said the upgrades will help the gardens reach even more people across the region, “making the gardens more accessible, more informative and ultimately more inviting”.

“People will be able to explore at their own pace, learn about native plants and enjoy a space that truly reflects the beauty of our local environment. This project will create long term value for the community,” Ms von Fahland said.

Community Bank Sarina Board Chair Karen May said supporting legacy projects like this aligns with the Community Bank Sarina’s commitment to building the capacity of and strengthening the Sarina region for generations to come.

“Community spaces like the Sarina Community Native Gardens contribute so much to our wellbeing, culture and sense of connection,” Mrs May said.

“By investing in this project, we’re ensuring this wonderful space continues to grow as a place for learning, recreation and community pride.”

The project will also support local contractors, suppliers and volunteers, helping keep skills and economic benefits within the region. Longer term, the upgrades complement plans to incorporate cultural knowledge and connections through initiatives such as a yarning circle.

Works on the project have an estimated completion date of June 2026, set to deliver a lasting environmental legacy for many years to come.

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Sarina’s Community Native Gardens are set for a $24,000+ upgrade, enhancing accessibility, educational features, and visitor experiences while supporting local contractors and creating a lasting community and environmental legacy by June 2026. Photos supplied

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After more than 46 years of dedicated service, beloved Sarina Library team member Troy officially retired just before Christmas on the 23rd of December, closing the chapter on a remarkable career.

To mark the occasion, library staff organised a surprise morning tea to celebrate her decades of commitment.

“Troy’s commitment and passion for helping others have made a lasting impact on the library service and the Sarina community,” a library representative said.

The library and local residents extended their congratulations to Troy on an extraordinary career and wish her a happy, fulfilling retirement.

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Beloved Sarina Library team member Troy retired on December 23 after 46 years of dedicated service, celebrated with a surprise morning tea by staff and the community. Photo source: Mackay Regional Council Libraries

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Queensland’s protected area network has grown by more than 90,000 hectares following the declaration of two new private nature refuges, including one located just north-west of Mackay.

The newly declared Urannah Nature Refuge spans 32,877 hectares around 80 kilometres north-west of Mackay and plays a vital role in protecting critical habitat for threatened species, including the elusive Irwin’s turtle. The refuge also strengthens environmental connections by linking directly with Eungella National Park, Macartney State Forest and Sandy Falls Nature Refuge, while enhancing waterway protection for the Broken River catchment.

The second refuge, Watson River Nature Refuge, covers 57,283 hectares on Cape York Peninsula, approximately 140 kilometres south-east of Weipa. It protects threatened species and regional ecosystems and provides important catchment protection for the Watson River, while improving landscape connectivity with surrounding national parks and existing nature refuges.

Both refuges were established through a joint investment by the Queensland and Australian governments aimed at boosting conservation efforts on private land.

Queensland Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said the new refuges highlighted the importance of collaboration between governments and landholders.

“This expansion shows Queensland is serious about protecting what makes us unique – our incredible natural environment,” Minister Powell said.

“Nature refuges are a smart way to protect what makes Queensland so special while keeping the land productive, supporting grazing, tourism and conservation side by side.”

The refuges were made possible through the $4.1 million NatureAssist Round 11 grants, jointly funded by the Queensland and Australian governments. Since launching in 2007, NatureAssist has delivered more than $19 million across 132 projects, adding thousands of hectares to Queensland’s protected area estate.

Private protected areas now make up around one-third of Queensland’s total protected network, which spans more than 14.9 million hectares. These areas are especially important for biodiversity, with 62 per cent of Queensland’s regional ecosystem types found on privately protected land.
Nature refuges are created voluntarily under the Nature Conservation Act 1992, allowing landholders to protect unique landscapes and species while continuing sustainable land use.

The Queensland Government is currently reviewing feedback from a public consultation on private protected areas, with plans to strengthen and expand the program, which marked its 31st year in 2025.

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Watson River Nature Refuge (pictured) and Urannah Nature Refuge are now officially protected areas. Photo supplied

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Over a million trees have been planted this year in South Australia and Western Australia, bringing the total since 2020 to 7.6 million, thanks to multi-year funding from AstraZeneca. The effort, led by Greening Australia and supported by One Tree Planted through the AZ Forest initiative, is among the largest privately-funded restoration programs in the country.

In South Australia, the biggest planting site of the year was on Eyre Peninsula, restoring critically endangered Drooping Sheoak Woodland. On Fleurieu Peninsula, crews navigated steep terrain to hand-plant and guard over 50,000 seedlings, creating habitat for the endangered Kangaroo Island Glossy Black Cockatoo.

The majority of trees planted since 2020, 3.2 million, are in Western Australia, including nearly 600,000 at two properties in the Great Southern region.

AstraZeneca Australia and New Zealand Country President Ben McDonald said, “It is great to see the enormous progress made with millions of biodiverse and locally appropriate native trees springing up in priority regions across five states. The projects being delivered in Western Australia showcase the positive impact behind the numbers, for local farmers, for communities and especially for biodiversity.”

Needilup graingrowers Quentin and Natasha Brown received trees through the initiative to buffer salt scalds and sequester carbon. Natasha said, “One of the main issues in this region is creeping salinity. Once the plantings get established, they should be able to hold it at bay to some extent, and also make some of our land that’s not very productive a little bit more so.”

Greening Australia Senior Program Officer Glen Steven added, “At Quentin and Natasha’s, we’re looking to recreate habitats including Clay Eucalypt Woodland, Sandy Mallee Woodland, and Melaleuca shrubland. There are already a few patches of bushland on this property; by putting in more trees, it means less distance for native animals to travel to find food and resources. Every bit of bushland is important.”

The plantings were established via direct seeding using locally collected native seeds and are part of a carbon project registered with the Clean Energy Regulator.

For landholders interested in biodiverse carbon plantings, visit greeningaustralia.org.au/landholders.

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Greening Australia’s Glen Steven and Natasha examining a direct seeding line. Photo source: Greening Australia

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The New Year will ring in a historic milestone for Queensland’s sugarcane industry, with CANEGROWERS marking 100 years of fighting for cane-farming families.

Founded in 1926, CANEGROWERS has spent a century representing growers and guiding the industry through profound change – from the hard physical labour of establishing farms and cutting cane by hand, through mechanisation and industry modernisation, and into an era of deregulation, global competition and complex trade policy.

Chairman Owen Menkens said sugarcane had helped shape Queensland’s economy, identity and regional landscape.

“The sugar industry helped build this state,” Mr Menkens said. “It was so central to Queensland’s development that sugarcane features on the Queensland Coat of Arms.

“Entire towns and cities grew up around mills and cane farms, and today tens of thousands of Queenslanders still rely on the industry for their livelihoods.”

Mr Menkens said the industry’s growth had been driven by waves of migrant families who brought skills, resilience and a strong work ethic to cane-growing regions.

“Generations of migrant families – Italian, Maltese, Greek, Indian, German, English and many others – helped build the industry we have today,” he said.

“They cleared land, cut cane, established farms and businesses, and built communities that remain at the heart of regional Queensland.”

Chief Executive Officer Dan Galligan said CANEGROWERS’ role had evolved alongside the industry itself.

“Our organisation has had to change as the industry has changed – helping guide growers through mechanisation, structural reform and deregulation, while continuing to fight for fair returns and strong regional economies,” Mr Galligan said.

“At its core, our role has always been about ensuring growers have a seat at the table on decisions that affect them, and that their voices are heard, understood and respected.

“Today, sugar remains a critical export industry, supporting regional jobs, underpinning local communities and contributing to Australia’s economy. The advocacy challenge now is ensuring the industry remains vibrant in the face of rising costs, climate risk and global trade pressures.

Mr Galligan said effective advocacy took many forms.

“Sometimes that means being a strong public voice – a megaphone for farming families when it’s needed,

“At other times, it’s about quiet diplomacy, building relationships and influencing outcomes behind the scenes. Both are essential, and both have been part of CANEGROWERS’ story for a century.”

Mr Galligan said the centenary year would highlight both the industry’s legacy and its future.

“This year is about recognising the contribution sugarcane has made to Queensland and Australia, while reinforcing the importance of strong, effective advocacy to carry the industry through its next chapter,” he said.

CANEGROWERS will mark its centenary throughout 2026 with a program of events, storytelling, education initiatives and public activities across Queensland’s 13 cane-growing regions, with further details to be announced during the year.

For more information on the Centenary year and CANEGROWERS history visit https://www.canegrowers.com.au/cane-to-coast/100

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Chairman Owen Menkens. Photo supplied

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With Little Treehouse Lane

Back to school season has arrived and across Mackay, families are once again preparing for early mornings, packed lunches and the excitement that comes with a fresh school year. For parents looking to simplify the process, Little Treehouse Lane in Caneland Central is making back to school shopping easier, calmer and far more enjoyable.

From the moment school bags are unpacked at home, practicality becomes a priority. One of the most popular essentials this year is Little Treehouse Lane’s range of insulated lunch bags, an ideal solution for schools without fridges, because in Mackay’s warm climate, keeping food cool is essential.

When lunches stay fresh, children are more likely to eat nutritious options such as fruit and dairy, while reducing the risk of upset tummies. Insulated lunch bags also help protect lunchboxes from spills and daily wear, making them a smart and reliable choice for those summer school days.

Alongside lunch solutions, the range also includes book covers, library bags, swim bags and pencil cases, with new additions this year such as hat clips designed for wide brim school hats that don’t fit inside backpacks.

Adding excitement to the back-to-school range is the recent introduction of the Kinnder brand. Launched in store just last month, the current selection includes the ever-popular insulated lunch bags as well as a stylish campus backpack designed for school aged children.

While back to school takes centre stage at this time of year, Little Treehouse Lane continues its long-standing commitment to supporting families from pregnancy through to the school years and beyond. Although more space is currently dedicated to school essentials, the store carries products for the whole family all year round.

Convenience is also a key focus, which is why Little Treehouse Lane’s online store is open 24 hours a day, offering click and collect for busy families. Orders placed during business hours are generally packed within five to ten minutes, with an email sent once the order is ready. Located on Level 1 of Caneland Central, parents can park nearby and collect their order hassle-free.

A store relocation is planned in the coming months, with Little Treehouse Lane expected to open in early March in a new Level 1 location opposite Factorie near the Myer entrance, however the current store will continue trading until the move.

For families navigating school routines for the first time, Little Treehouse Lane also offers organiser and responsibility charts from Prepp’d Kids, designed to help children build independence before and after school.

To help ease the cost of the school year ahead, Little Treehouse Lane runs a January Bundle and Save Sale, offering discounts when three back to school items are purchased in the same transaction.

Check out their store online or in-person today at Little Treehouse Lane Mackay!

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