Dry paddocks and rising costs weigh heavily on Mackay’s cane growers, as El Niño and soaring fuel prices push irrigation decisions to the brink. Photo source: ABC News

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In the coming weeks, the 2026 El Niño is forecast to be one of the hottest on record, bringing prolonged dry conditions across the country. Conditions both nation and state-wide are compounding existing pressures, with rising fuel and fertiliser costs, linked to ongoing conflict in the Middle East, placing further strain on already stretched rural communities and amplifying financial stress in drought-affected regions.

Deputy Chairman of Mackay Canegrowers, Brett Leach said that while an extended period of heat and dry conditions may be on the horizon, farmers across the region are already taking proactive steps to prepare, with harvesting expected to begin as early as June.  

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“Ideally, when it’s a smaller crop like this year, we want to get in and get out as quick as we can,” he said.

“A little bit of rain would be nice, and you want that for the ratooning cane, but you don’t want much winter rain – the last thing you want is wages dragged out, time dragged out. If the mills run fairly well, and it’s dry, we can get the crop harvested.”

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However, beyond the impact of El Niño, Mr Leach said growers are increasingly focused on the ongoing fuel crisis and the rising cost of fertiliser, warning the combined pressures are making basic farming decisions far more difficult.

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“The biggest concern if fuel costs remain the way they are, is that if you are running diesel irrigation pumps, combined with the cost of water, you won’t be able to afford to turn the pumps on,” said Mr Leach.

“The current world sugar price, the current price of fertiliser, the current price of diesel, on top of high electricity prices, on top of rising water prices: it’s going to make an irrigation decision be ‘only when I have to do it’, to be frank.”

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Mr Leach said while he has been able to offset some costs through solar, many growers are not in the same position. With diesel prices sitting between $3 and $3.50 per litre, and irrigation pumps consuming around 120 litres per day, he said daily costs could quickly climb beyond $360 to $420.

“You do that for a week, it’s over $2500. Who can afford that? Then you have water charges. No one is going to turn a pump on for those sorts of costs.”

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Mr Leach said there would be a need for practical, on-the-ground solutions to support growers through the current conditions, and while the region has avoided drought on the scale seen eight years ago, he noted that past dry periods had prompted effective responses that delivered real benefits to the industry.

However, Mr Leach warned that a softening sugar price, combined with sharply rising production costs, was placing increasing pressure on growers and threatening the long-term stability of the industry.

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“If you’ve got big debt, the last thing you need is more debt. The cruel thing for us in the sugar industry is two or three years ago, we had a chance, where sugar prices were $700 to $900 a tonne, to bank some real money, and we missed it due to poor mill performance. We were not able to take full advantage of that,” he said.

“Last year we cut 500,000 tonnes of standover in Mackay area. If you take a cane price of $50 per tonne, that is $25million out of the pockets of growers in Mackay Sugar area alone. That’s the money you count on to get you over these times.”

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Mr Leach said fluctuations are a normal part of the agricultural cycle but warned the current conflict in Iran and the broader Middle East has added a new layer of pressure, driving up the cost of key inputs such as fuel and fertiliser.

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“There’s certainly a great deal of angst and uncertainty out there amongst our growers. You can see it in them at meetings. You can hear it in their voices, the worry,” said Mr Leach.

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“The government needs to take that into account: though no fault of their own, some people are really in trouble.  

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We need to make sure that firstly the mental health and physical health support is there and freely available for families. They need it, and they need to be encouraged to seek out that help.”

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In previous periods of severe drought, Mr Leach pointed to government support measures that provided a vital lifeline for growers, including access to Centrelink payments and assistance with managing debt. Canegrowers Mackay are now calling for similar support to be introduced urgently, to help farmers navigate the current challenges and maintain the viability of their operations during this severe cost of production crisis.

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“It is up to the Federal Government to come to the party and say, “we will make up for the poor decisions made before this” just to help people get over this hump that is no fault of their own,” Mr Leach said.

“Any financial assistance is appreciated. This is not just a situation for the sugar industry, but right across agriculture. If a drought is also factored into this equation for farming regions, it spells disaster.”

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Mackay Canegrowers remains committed to supporting the local community through regular branch meetings and by amplifying the concerns of growers. The district office also provides access to vital resources, assisting members in navigating government support programs and connecting them with services such as the Rural Financial Counselling Service.

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“The Queensland Cane Growers Organisation is there to speak up for growers. We’ve done this for 100 years, and we will not stop making sure we have their back,” added Mr Leach.

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“When times are tough, you need your community around you. Please don’t let problems be your downfall: we will help you find solutions. We are there for growers.”

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Every young worker who walks onto a site for the first time brings something we often forget: no bad habits yet.

They haven't learned to skip the pre-start check because the job's running late. They haven't been told to just step over the barrier because "that's how we've always done it." They arrive with fresh eyes and a genuine willingness to learn.

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The question is, what are we teaching them?

A few years back, I was on a construction site when a new apprentice asked his supervisor why they weren't using the designated access point. The supervisor laughed it off and said, "We only do that when the safety person’s around."

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That apprentice had been on site for less than a week. He filed that away like every other piece of on-the-job knowledge he'd picked up. From that day on, safety became something you practised only when someone was watching.

Right there, in that moment, a habit was formed. Not a safe one. A shortcut. And the lesson wasn't in any induction manual.

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This is the part we don't talk about enough. The formal training is usually fine. The inductions get done. The paperwork gets signed. But what happens in the first week on the job, the real stuff, the day-to-day behaviour they see from the experienced people around them, that'swhat sticks.

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Young workers are watching everything. They absorb the culture around them faster than any toolbox talk or online module can deliver.

So if we want the next generation to work safely, we must be honest about what we're modelling. Are we cutting corners in front of them? Are we dismissing their questions? Are we treating compliance as something that only matters when someone's watching?

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They will become what we show them.

I've seen this done well, too. A rigger with thirty years of experience who stopped mid-job to show a young offsider exactly how to inspect his harness. Not because it was required, but because he genuinely didn't want that kid going home hurt. He explained what to look for, why it mattered, and what could go wrong if it was missed. That young worker still talks about him. That's mentorship. That's how a career-long standard gets set.

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The good news is this works both ways. When experienced workers demonstrate genuine care, stop and explain the why, and treat safety as a professional standard rather than a burden, young workers carry that with them for the rest of their careers.

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The habits we hand them today are the culture we'll live with tomorrow.

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Kris Cotter

Founder: Regional Safety Expo Australia

Director: Synergy Safety Solutions

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This year’s pre-season crop estimate for the Wilmar group is up on last year’s total throughput. Photo supplied

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Wilmar Sugar and Renewables has locked in its 2026 pre-season crop estimate at 15.19M tonnes for the Wilmar group.

 General Manager Cane Supply and Grower Relations Dave Zeller said the pre-season estimate was about 960,000 tonnes up on last year's total throughput of 14.23M tonnes.

The estimated crop is also above the Wilmar group's five-year average of 14.95M tonnes.

The regional crop estimates are:

·       Herbert - 4.1M tonnes

·       Burdekin - 7.97M tonnes

·       Proserpine - 1.67M tonnes

·       Plane Creek - 1.45M tonnes

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Mr Zeller said start dates for Wilmar’s eight sugar factories would be announced after his team consulted with grower representatives in each region.

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Central Queensland grain growers, including those in the Isaac region, will receive support through a $1.75 million program aimed at improving productivity while reducing soil erosion and protecting waterways and the Great Barrier Reef. Photos supplied

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Grain growers across Central Queensland, including the Isaac region, are set to benefit from new funding support aimed at strengthening sustainable farming practices and protecting the Great Barrier Reef.

The Crisafulli Government has announced a $1.75 million Grain Sediment Reduction Program, designed to assist producers in improving on-farm productivity while reducing soil erosion and sediment runoff into waterways.

Member for Mirani, Glen Kelly MP, said the initiative is a practical investment in the future of regional agriculture.

“Central Queensland’s grain growers are significant part of our region’s economy, and this program is about backing them with real support to improve their operations,” Mr Kelly said.

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“Eligible growers can now access grants of up to $100,000 to invest in on-farm infrastructure that reduces soil erosion and sediment runoff into our waterways.”

Mr Kelly said the program recognises the link between strong agricultural production and environmental care.

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“No farmer wants to see their topsoil wash away. These grants will help landholders put practical measures in place to protect their soil, improve ground cover, and ultimately boost productivity,” he said.

“And if those actions also help protect the Great Barrier Reef, that’s a win for everyone.”

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He highlighted the importance of the industry locally, noting: “In the 2024–25 financial year alone, more than 244,917 tonnes of grain passed through the Port of Mackay, which shows just how significant this industry is to Central Queensland.”

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Funded projects may include contour bank construction and repair, erosion control structures such as grassed buffer strips and waterways, adoption of controlled traffic farming through GPS and guidance technology, and upgrades to planting equipment supporting zero or minimal tillage.

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The program is open to eligible producers across the Isaac Regional Council area, along with other Central Queensland local government regions.

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Funded projects will focus on proven erosion control and land management practices, including:

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• Construction and repair of contour banks

• Installation of erosion control structures such as grassed buffer strips and waterways

• Adoption of controlled traffic farming through GPS and guidance technology

• Upgrading planting equipment to support zero or minimal tillage

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The Grain Sediment Reduction Program is open to dryland and broadacre grain and forage cropping producers across eligible local government areas, including:

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• Rockhampton Regional Council

• Livingstone Shire Council

• Gladstone Regional Council

• Banana Shire Council

• Central Highlands Regional Council

• Isaac Regional Council

• Woorabinda Aboriginal Shire Council

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Mackay residents living with neurological conditions are set to benefit from improved access to care, with the region named as one of eight locations for a new Neuro Wellness Hub under a statewide rollout.

The hubs form part of the Government’s $10.45 million investment in neurological healthcare, aimed at delivering more accessible, community-based support services across regional Queensland.

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Mackay will join centres including Townsville, Rockhampton and the Wide Bay region in hosting one of the new hubs, which are designed to complement existing care provided by specialists and general practitioners.

The initiative is expected to benefit more than 1.3 million Queenslanders, providing easier access to support services, information and tailored care closer to home.

Each hub will offer personalised therapies and peer support groups, with services tailored to meet the specific needs of local communities. The model focuses on creating a central, community-based space where people can access a range of supports in one location.

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Locations were selected following a detailed needs assessment, taking into account hospitalisation rates, demand for services, the prevalence of neurological conditions and gaps in access to allied health and neurorehabilitation services.

Procurement for the Mackay hub and other locations is set to begin mid-year, with contracts expected to be awarded by the end of June. The hubs are scheduled to be delivered in 2027.

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Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Tim Nicholls said the rollout would make it easier for Queenslanders to access the care they need.

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“The Government is getting on with the job of delivering these Neuro Wellness Hubs while ensuring support is targeted to where it is needed most,” Minister Nicholls said.

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“These Hubs will provide a central space for people living with neurological conditions to access the right support, information and services, when they need them.

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“By partnering with community organisations, we’re building a more connected system that better responds to the needs of Queenslanders living with a neurological condition.”

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The pre-dawn darkness at Finch Hatton carried a weight that was impossible to ignore. Guided by dim streetlights and the distant flash of emergency vehicles marking road closures, a quiet procession of people moved toward the cenotaph. There was no chatter, no distraction, only the steady rhythm of footsteps and a shared understanding of why we had gathered. In that silence, the significance of the dawn service spoke louder than any words could.

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When the service began, the stillness gave way to reflection. The words spoken were powerful, grounded in remembrance and respect. To lay a wreath on behalf of the Mackay Regional Council was an honour, made more meaningful by the setting away from the familiarity of the Mackay precinct and into a smaller, deeply connected community. It was a reminder that Anzac Day is not confined to large ceremonies; its spirit thrives just as strongly in quiet regional towns.

What followed was perhaps the most profound part of the morning. Conversations sparked among strangers who, within moments, felt like old friends. Stories were exchanged – some light, some heavy. I recall my conversations with people like Buzz and Bevan, whose openness captured the essence of the day. These were not rehearsed interactions, but genuine human connections formed through shared respect and collective memory. Over an early breakfast at the Criterion Hotel, those conversations continued, unforced and deeply engaging.

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It was only afterward, sitting alone, that the emotional weight truly settled. There was an unexpected sense of reluctance to leave, as though departing meant abandoning something meaningful. That feeling, difficult to articulate at first, soon became clear: it was patriotism in its truest form. Not the loud or performative kind, but a quiet, enduring bond, standing shoulder to shoulder with others in remembrance of sacrifice, loyalty and mateship.

Later in Mackay, the scale of the main service reinforced that same sentiment. With a record number of marchers, including more than 7000 children, and crowds lining the streets, the idea that Anzac Day is fading could not have been further from the truth. The presence of Major General Paul Kenny added to the significance, but it was the community itself that defined the day.

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From children waving flags in prams to elderly attendees sharing memories of years gone by, the spirit of Anzac Day was unmistakable. It lives on not just in ceremony, but in connection. In the stories told, the friendships formed and the collective act of remembering

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Let’s Chat – Council Connect

Residents can catch up with councillors in person at upcoming Let’s Chat - Council Connect sessions held across the region.  The next session will be held at Eton Hotel from 5pm on May 5, 2026.  

Further details can be found on the Connecting Mackay website.

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Greyhound owners and their beloved pets gathered with Nigel Dalton, Member for Mackay, to discuss Queensland’s muzzle laws. Reilly, with Keith and Anne McCollim, Higgins and Liam with Kate Chiconi, Lotti with Lyn Harris, and Pheobe with Lisa Veney. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara  

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A group of passionate greyhound owners from the Happy Greys Social Club recently met with Nigel Dalton, Member for Mackay, to advocate for a review of Queensland’s requirement that greyhounds must wear muzzles in public.

The gathering brought together several owners and their dogs, providing supporters an opportunity to demonstrate the gentle temperament that they say defines the breed.

Under current Queensland legislation, greyhounds are generally required to wear a muzzle in public unless they are recognised through the Queensland Greyhound Adoption Program (GAP) and identified by the program’s green collar. Where council local laws permit, this collar allows GAP greyhounds to be walked muzzle free.  

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Queensland is widely considered the only Australian state where a broad public muzzling requirement for greyhounds still applies.

Co-founder of Happy Greys Social Club in Mackay, Kate Chiconi explained the group reached out directly to Mr Dalton to begin the conversation.

“Lyn and I are co-founders of the Happy Greys Social Club and between us we wrote a letter and sent it to Nigel Daltons office.”

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She said the meeting allowed the Member for Mackay to see the dogs up close.

Ms Chiconi, who owns retired racing greyhounds Higgins and Liam, said the breed is often misunderstood.

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“People who know anything about greyhounds know that they are inherently not aggressive dogs,” she said.

“They’ve been trained to chase, not attack.”

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She described greyhounds as calm and affectionate companions.

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“They are gentle, they’re quiet, they rarely bark, they’re calm, they’re great with kids and good with each other,” she said.  

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“They absolutely don’t need to wear a muzzle outside.”

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Fellow club co-founder Lyn Harris attended with her dog Lotti, who she said came into her life after a difficult start.

“She came from the pound after being dumped in the bush,” Ms Harris said.

“We’ve had her for about five years now and she’s around seven. It’s wonderful that she landed on her feet with us. She’s such a good dog.”

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Ms Harris said greyhounds are known for their funny and relaxed nature.

“They do all the quirky things like lying on their back with their legs in the air. They call it ‘roaching’,” she said.

“They sleep for about 18 hours a day after half an hour of exercise,”  

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She, along with other group members believe the muzzle requirement sends the wrong message about the breed.

“They’re not a dangerous or aggressive breed of dog,” Ms Harris said. “They deserve to be living their best life, muzzle free.”

Mr Dalton said he is now looking into the background of the legislation and whether it remains justified.

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“At this stage we’re doing research into why we have these laws in Queensland which say that a greyhound that has raced before has to wear a muzzle in public,” he said.

“I don’t think greyhounds should have that stigma.”

He said dangerous behaviour should be addressed regardless of breed.

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“A dangerous dog is a dangerous dog and they should be dealt with under the legislation,” Mr Dalton said.  

“But a dangerous dog could be any breed. Why are we just focusing on one particular breed?”

Mr Dalton said the next step is to examine the evidence.

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“I want to examine the evidence behind it and see whether or not it’s something we can change,” he said.

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While no immediate changes have been proposed, the conversation has prompted fresh discussion around whether greyhounds, often known as gentle giants, should be required to wear muzzles in public after retiring from racing in Queensland.

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Tough new laws targeting crime and antisocial behaviour will expand police powers in Mackay’s CBD precincts to help protect local businesses and improve community safety. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara  

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A suite of new laws aimed at tackling youth crime, drug offences and antisocial behaviour is set to roll out across Queensland, with Mackay identified as a key focus area.

The Government has passed the Expanding Adult Crime, Adult Time and Taking a Strong Stance on Drugs and Antisocial Behaviour Bill 2026, introducing tougher penalties for serious offences and expanded powers for police.

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Under the changes, 12 new offences have been added to the Adult Crime, Adult Time framework, bringing the total number of applicable offences to 45. The legislation also includes significant drug reforms and the introduction of Designated Business and Community Precincts, designed to help police better manage antisocial behaviour in high-risk areas.

Mackay is one of four priority locations selected for the new precincts, which will allow police to move on offenders and provide greater protection for local businesses, workers and families.

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Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said the reforms would deliver much-needed support to the region.

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“These laws are about restoring safety in Mackay and backing our local businesses who have been doing it tough,” Mr Dalton said.

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“For too long, businesses across Mackay have been targets of repeat offending and antisocial behaviour, and that has real impacts on jobs, confidence and our local economy.

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“Businesses like Kawasaki have unfortunately been frequent targets in the past, and that’s why these stronger police powers and tougher laws are so important.

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“Our community deserves to feel safe when they go to work, shop in the CBD, or spend time with their families, and these laws will help make that happen.

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“The Government is delivering exactly what we promised — stronger laws, better support for police, and real action to turn the tide on youth crime.”

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The expanded list of offences under Adult Crime, Adult Time includes serious crimes such as aggravated assault occasioning bodily harm, conspiring to murder, unlawful stalking and intimidation, riot, indecent treatment of a child under 16, choking or strangulation in a domestic setting, and administering poison with intent to harm.

Alongside tougher penalties, the legislation introduces a new Illicit Drug Enforcement and Diversion Framework, which aims to balance enforcement with rehabilitation by ensuring offenders face consequences while offering support pathways for low-risk cases.

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The government says the reforms are already contributing to a decline in crime, with a reported 7.2 per cent drop in the number of victims in 2025, and expects the new measures to further strengthen community safety across Queensland.

With enhanced police powers set to be implemented in Mackay’s CBD and surrounding precincts, the changes are intended to deter repeat offenders, reduce antisocial behaviour and restore confidence for businesses and the wider community.

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Photo source: Queensland Police Service

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Dysart Police are appealing for public assistance following an incident involving wilful damage and the unlawful use of a motor vehicle at two local businesses on Murphy Street, Dysart, between 1.28am and 2.35am on 19 April.

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Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident and have released information in relation to the matter, including an image they believe may assist with inquiries. Members of the public who recognise the person or have any information are urged to contact police as soon as possible.

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Officers are also reminding residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behaviour immediately, regardless of the time of day, as early reporting can assist in preventing further offending and support timely investigations.

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Driver Loses Licence Following High-Speed Detection – Alligator Creek

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A 20-year-old Sarina man has had his driver licence suspended after being allegedly detected travelling at 191km/h in a 100km/h zone during speed enforcement patrols on the Bruce Highway at Alligator Creek.

It will be alleged the motorist was intercepted at approximately 7.20am on 24 April while travelling northbound, exceeding the posted speed limit by 91km/h.

The driver was issued a traffic infringement notice totalling $1,919, resulting in the loss of eight demerit points and a six-month licence suspension.

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Police have reiterated their focus on road safety across the Mackay Whitsunday district, including remote and high-risk areas, through ongoing enforcement operations targeting dangerous driving behaviour.

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Senior Constable Donna Hill, from the Mackay Crime Prevention Unit, said in some cases vehicles linked to high-speed offences may also be subject to impoundment.

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The junior playground at the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens will be temporarily closed from Wednesday, April 29 until approximately May 9 to allow for scheduled improvement works.

Mackay Regional Council will install a new water sand play unit and a new excavator as part of the upgrade, enhancing play opportunities for younger visitors at the popular riverside parkland precinct.

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The closure will ensure works can be completed safely and efficiently, with access to the area restricted during the construction period. Council has advised the public that all other areas of the Botanic Gardens remain open for use during this time.

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Once installation is complete and safety checks have been finalised, the playground will be reopened to the community. Council will provide an update when the works are finished and the space is ready for use.

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Council has thanked the community for its patience and understanding while the improvements are carried out, noting the short-term closure will support longer-term benefits for park users.

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Residents are encouraged to plan alternative play options during the closure period.

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Coal haulage between the Vulcan and Moranbah North mines will resume temporarily, with Isaac Regional Council granting short-term approval for Anglo American to transport approximately 20,000 tonnes. Photo source: ABC News

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Isaac Regional Council has temporarily reinstated approval for the road haulage of coal from the Vulcan Mine to Moranbah North Mine near Moranbah over an estimated three-week period commencing 27^th April 2026.

The original haulage permits were suspended in February 2026 following the Vitrinite companies entering receivership and administration. Isaac Regional Council’s previous decision related specifically to the Vitrinite companies and the suspension of their approvals while the future of the business and its assets was being determined.

Council has now granted a request from Anglo American to retrieve approximately 20,000 tonnes of coal purchased from the Receiver of the Vitrinite companies and currently located at the Vulcan Mine site.

This temporary approval is for haulage to Anglo American only for short period of weeks. It does not reinstate any other approvals, nor does it authorise any ongoing operations by the Vitrinite companies.

Mayor Kelly Vea Vea said Council’s decision reflects that the coal is being removed for a different company.

This is an approval for Anglo American to remove coal it has acquired from the Receiver.

“Council has made it clear to both Vitrinite and Anglo that the same conditions that applied previously will continue to apply, including the payment of road haulage fees.”

The approval restores the conditions of the suspended permits, including approved haulage routes, operational requirements and the payment of road haulage fees to Council.

Council will continue to monitor the haulage operation during the temporary three-week period.

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Dan Peters with his son on ANZAC day. Photos supplied

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An Australian Army veteran who served across East Timor, the Solomon Islands and Afghanistan has reflected on his military career shaped by discipline, hardship, mateship and the long, often unseen aftermath of war.

Dan Peters enlisted in 1999 at the age of 19, shortly after finishing high school, driven by a longstanding interest in the military and aviation. He began in the infantry before transferring into the Royal Australian Electrical and Mechanical Engineers, working as a helicopter mechanic after completing trade training and specialist aviation courses in Australia and the United States.

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His service took him into some of Australia’s most significant deployments, including Timor in 1999 and again in 2001 to 2002, the Solomon Islands in 2003 and Afghanistan in 2011.

He described his first deployment to Timor as confronting yet influential, marked by both destruction and connection.

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“We took time to get to know the community and show compassion on the people of Timor.”

“They were very happy for us to be there and liberate them as an independent country, especially the children,” he said.

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Amid the intensity, he said it was often the smallest interactions that carried the deepest meaning, including engagement with locals and moments of lightness such as servicemen racing children on karts.

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“The mateship is the biggest thing that you get from the military.”

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Mr Peters has remained closely involved in veteran wellbeing and RSL initiatives across Central Queensland, particularly within the Walkerston Pleystowe RSL sub branch, including leadership roles as Secretary and participation in commemorative and peer connection programs.

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He said the transition from military to civilian life can be disorienting, but not impossible with the right support.

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“The military is awesome at breaking a civilian down and building them back up again… but when we leave… we don’t know how to adjust back.”

“We just leave and we put on civilian clothes, but we’re still a military person.”

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A significant part of his ongoing advocacy focuses on veteran mental health and recovery programs that use shared experience as a pathway to healing. These initiatives often return veterans to Timor, combining reflection at historical sites with group discussion and storytelling.

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“There’s a lot of emotion, a lot of tears, a lot of stories… but people come back feeling refreshed.”

“It’s like they’ve got a whole new outlook on life.”

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At the centre of that process is forgiveness, not as erasure, but as a form of inner solace.  

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“It’s not about forgetting, but more about forgiving… so they heal inside and learn to deal with anger and resentment.”

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Mr Peters said remembrance and honour must extend beyond just one day per year to acknowledge the invisible burden carried by those who return.

“I think we need to remember all service men and women more than once a year.

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“A lot of times we remember those who didn’t make it home, but we sometimes forget to acknowledge and appreciate the people that fought and still came home alive, and the scars they still go through because of it.”

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Now, Mr Peters spends his days alongside his wife and three children, carving out time for his sons’ cricket matches and continuing his commitment to the Walkerston Pleystowe RSL Sub Branch as Secretary.

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Just ten days after her seventeenth birthday, on April 10^th 1995 Linda Elliott officially joined the Navy.

Growing up between Mackay and Moranbah, Linda was drawn to the idea of seeing the world beyond regional Queensland. Her introduction to naval life began through a cadet program, where she developed an early understanding of the structure and expectations of military life.

“I was a Navy cadet beforehand… so I had a bit of a background and I knew people that had already served.”

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Her early role placed her in close proximity to officers, working in a steward capacity where she supported their daily needs and operations during deployments.

“I was a steward, so my main job was to look after the officers.”

But life at sea rarely meant doing just one job. Sailors were expected to step into multiple responsibilities depending on operational demands.

Linda took part in boarding parties, emergency response training, medical assistance teams and firefighting drills, while also completing chemical warfare training.

“When you’re at sea, you’ve got more than one job.”

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Her time in uniform was marked by contrast. Some days followed routine and structure, while others demanded resilience and quick thinking.

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“Some days were really good… but other days could be really bad, so you just had to take each day as it came.”

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Life onboard ship also created strong bonds between those who served. Living in tight quarters, often sharing bunk beds and limited personal space, meant crew members relied heavily on one another.

“It turns into a family.”

Linda says many of those friendships have endured to this day.

“We still stay in touch.”

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“You might not see them for months or years, but as soon as you see them, it’s like we’re family again.”

Completing the demanding twelve weeks of recruit training stands out as one of her proudest milestones, and the discipline developed during those years continues to shape her life today.

Linda also hopes to broaden public understanding of who veterans are.

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“People think of a veteran and they think of an elderly man or a Vietnam vet… but there are younger women out there that have served as well.”

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Today, she balances life as a mother of three while remaining connected to the Walkerston-Pleystowe RSL Sub-Branch.

One of her daughters has recently decided to join the Navy, following in her footsteps, while her young son has begun taking an interest in the stories of her service.

She encourages younger generations considering military service to approach it with confidence.

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“Just believe in yourself.”

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“You’ve got to believe that you can do it.”

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And just as importantly, she hopes fellow veterans know support is available.

Linda now hopes to be that source of support for others. After navigating her own recovery through rehabilitation and a veteran’s program she speaks highly of, she is committed to giving back to a cause that remains close to her heart.

“Like many other veterans, it’s taken a lot of years for me to be able to speak about things I’ve seen, and what’s happened.”

“So many of our veterans go without help… but it doesn’t have to be like that.”

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“I just want people to know that there is help out there for veterans… please just reach out.”

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Former Navy sailor Linda Elliott, who enlisted at 17, reflects on a life shaped by resilience, service at sea and motherhood, while encouraging veterans and young women to believe in themselves and seek support. Photos supplied

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Whitsunday Anglican School launches Medical Pathways research partnership with MHHS. L-R: Dr Matthew Hiskens, Mackay HHS Principal Research Fellow, Senara Wasalthilaka, Student, Soham Rana, Student, Andrew Wheaton, Principal, and Dr Ashwita Venkatesh, Director of Medical Pathways. Photo supplied

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Whitsunday Anglican School is proud to announce an exciting new partnership with Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) which will offer students a unique opportunity to experience real-world medical research.

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As part of the school’s expanding Medical Pathways programme, two students each term will have the opportunity to undertake a research placement with the Mackay Institute of Research and Innovation (MIRI) which is the research arm of Mackay HHS. The placements will occur during school holidays and run for over three to four days, providing students with valuable insight into clinical research and innovation.

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During the placement, students will work alongside research fellows, research translation staff and innovation teams, gaining experience in research planning, protocol design, project management, data analysis and writing for publication. They will also have the opportunity toassist with processing clinical samples, contribute to research communication through poster design with the communications team, attend Friday Hospital Grand Rounds, and engage in discussions with principal investigators of clinical trials.

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While students will not have direct patient contact, the experience is carefully designed to ensure confidentiality and uphold the highest ethical standards.

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This initiative will provide a broader cohort of students with exposure to research environments, career pathways, and the diverse roles within health and medical innovation.

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Director of Medical Pathways at Whitsunday Anglican School, Dr Ashwita Venkatesh, said the programme will provide students with an authentic and meaningful introduction to translational research.

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“Experiences such as attending Grand Rounds and contributing to research communication will help them better understand the connection between scientific discovery and patient outcomes,” Dr Venkatesh said.

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“We are particularly pleased to be working collaboratively on the ethics component of the programme. Introducing students to key principles such as professionalism, non-maleficence, autonomy and confidentiality will provide a strong foundation for any future pathway in medicine or health research.”

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Principal of Whitsunday Anglican School, Mr Andrew Wheaton, said the partnership reflects the school’s commitment to providing meaningful, future-focused learning opportunities.

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“We are delighted to be working alongside MHHS to bring these opportunities to life,” Mr Wheaton said.

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Mackay HHS Principal Research Fellow, Dr Matthew Hiskens said it’s important for students planning their career path to have knowledge of local opportunities available.

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“It’s great to highlight opportunities for the next generation of the medical workforce, and to show students that rewarding careers in health and research can happen right here in the Mackay region,”

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“After high school, what drew me to research was the chance to explore unknown questions, and I hope this experience gives the students an insight into research career paths.” Dr Hiskens said.

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Photo source: Mackay Hospital and Health Service

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A smoking ceremony, Welcome to Country and Torres Strait Islander prayer marked a significant beginning for the newly appointed Mackay Hospital and Health Board, as it convened for its first official meeting at Mackay Base Hospital.

Yuwi Elder Philip Kemp conducted the Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony, while Seba Kaigey delivered the Torres Strait Islander prayer.

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Following the cultural protocols, Board members, Mackay Hospital and Health Service Executive Leadership Team Chief Executive Sean Birgan, staff and attendees were invited to walk through the smoke or waft it over themselves, symbolising cleansing of spirit and body.

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The ceremonies established the tone for the board’s work moving forward, reflecting a commitment to partnership with community, cultural respect and holistic approaches to care. The moment also served to connect the hospital’s physical environment with broader principles of healing and wellbeing for the community it serves.

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The newly appointed Board is led by reappointed Chair Monica McKendry and includes five new members: Deputy Chair David Nebauer, Ron Nightingale, Dr Peter Malouf, Alana Moller and Lynn Smart. Reappointed members Associate Professor Luke Lawton and Andrea Ranson continue in their current terms.

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