Opinion Piece By Andrew Willcox MP

Australia went to bed wounded, and woke up confronting a truth we should never have had to
face.

What unfolded at Bondi was not just an act of violence. It was an act of terror. It was an attack
on innocent people, on a community gathered in peace, and on the values that bind us together
as Australians.

My first thoughts are with the victims, those who lost their lives, those who were injured, and the
families whose worlds have been shattered forever. No words can ease that pain. I also extend
my deepest respect and gratitude to the police officers, paramedics, doctors, nurses,
lifeguards, and everyday Australians who ran towards danger without hesitation.

Among the horror, there was extraordinary courage. Ahmed al Ahmed, a local fruit shop owner,
did not run from danger. He ran toward it. With no thought for his own safety, he tackled an
armed attacker from behind, wrestled the weapon from his hands, and helped stop further
bloodshed. In doing so, it has been reported by media that Ahmed was shot twice and required
surgery, yet his actions likely saved countless lives.

His bravery reminds us of something fundamental about Australia: that decency, courage, and
moral clarity still rise in our darkest moments.

Australia is grieving. Australia is angry. And Australia has every right to be.

This attack occurred as members of the Jewish community gathered to celebrate Chanukah by
the Sea. What should have been a moment of light, faith, and joy was transformed into horror.
We stand with Australia’s Jewish community today and always. Antisemitism has no place in
this country. It never has, and it never will.

But we must also confront an uncomfortable truth. This tragedy was not unimaginable. For
many Australians of Jewish faith, it was feared.

Since 7 October 2023, antisemitism has surged across Australia. We have seen hateful
protests, intimidation outside synagogues, Jewish schools requiring security to function, and
vile slogans shouted openly in our streets. Before the shameful scenes on the steps of the
Sydney Opera House in October 2023, many Australians would have said such hatred could
never take root here. That complacency was a mistake.

The warnings were there. They were repeated. They were ignored.

Leaders of the Jewish community sounded the alarm. International allies sounded the alarm.
Even foreign heads of government warned that failing to confront antisemitism early would only
embolden it. Yet the Albanese Government responded with hesitation, equivocation, and
silence when moral clarity was required.

Hatred does not disappear when it is tolerated. It grows.

Australia is a successful multicultural nation because we share a social contract. We welcome
people from all backgrounds, faiths, and cultures, but we ask something in return. We ask that
people respect our laws, our freedoms, and one another. We ask that grievances from overseas
are not imported and weaponised on Australian streets. We ask that loyalty lies with Australia,
not with extremist ideologies or foreign conflicts.

The vast majority of migrants honour that contract. They work hard, integrate, contribute, and
enrich our country. They are valued members of Team Australia.

But it is no longer honest to pretend that our immigration system is immune from failure.
Under Labor, immigration has surged to levels that are unsustainable. More than 1.2 million
people arrived in Labor’s first term alone, with two million expected by the end of the second.

Housing is stretched. Hospitals are under strain. Schools are full. Infrastructure is lagging.
These pressures affect Australians of every background.

A sustainable immigration program is not defined by volume, but by the values and social
cohesion it preserves.

A successful immigration program does not just count numbers. It enforces standards. It
ensures that those who come here accept equality between men and women, freedom of belief,
freedom of speech, and the rule of law. It does not turn a blind eye to extremism, radicalisation,
or imported hatred out of fear of political backlash.

What we have seen in recent times is a failure to uphold those standards. We have seen people
who reject Australian values, glorify violence, and openly express hatred toward Jewish
Australians. That should never have been allowed to take root here.

Raising these concerns does not make someone racist or anti-migrant. It makes them honest.
Australians are generous people. But generosity without boundaries is not compassion, it is
negligence. A government that refuses to police its immigration system properly, or confront
antisemitism decisively, is not being inclusive. It is failing in its most basic duty, which is to keep Australians safe.

This attack has forever changed our nation. We cannot undo what has been done, but we can
decide what happens next.

We must strengthen laws against hate crimes. We must enforce existing laws without fear or
favour. We must ensure migration settings serve Australia’s interests, not ideology. And we must
say, clearly and without apology, that antisemitism, terrorism, and extremist hatred will be met
with the full force of the law.

Australia deserves leadership that is honest, courageous, and prepared to act early, not issue
statements after lives are lost.

Today we mourn. Tomorrow we must act.

For the victims. For their families. For our Jewish community. And for the future of a nation that
should never have allowed this to happen on its shores.

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Mackay Regional Council has raised concerns after the recently upgraded skate park in Bucasia was vandalised only weeks after the revamp was completed.

The popular community space, praised by residents for its fresh new look, has already been targeted by graffiti — a setback council describes as both frustrating and disheartening for the wider community.

Mayor Greg Williamson says the impact of this type of vandalism isn't insignificant.

"There's the cost to ratepayers for crews to have to go back and fix up this defacing of public assets, but it also means they're being pulled from other jobs and projects," Mayor Williamson said.

"The fact that they are having to go and fix up something that should never have needed to be fixed up in the first place is infuriating.

"Aussie culture is that we we don't dob people in, but this has to stop. If you see it, please report it."

Reports can be made through the Snap, Send, Solve app or call 1300 MACKAY.

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Mackay Regional Council has condemned fresh graffiti at the newly upgraded Bucasia skate park, calling the vandalism an unnecessary cost to ratepayers and urging locals to report any incidents. Photos supplied

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Queensland Government Extends Support for Greater Whitsunday Regional workforce collaboration Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) has welcomed the Queensland Government’s announcement of continued funding for the Greater Whitsunday Regional Jobs Committee (RJC), securing the program through to 2027.

This extension confirms GW3 as the host organisation for the Regional Jobs Committee program until 2027 and reinforces the vital role the committee plays in aligning local industry needs, training pathways, and regional workforce development.

The program is designed by locals, for locals, providing a coordinated approach to identifying unique skilling challenges and strengthening connections between industry, government, training providers and community organisations.

The Greater Whitsunday RJC forms part of a statewide network of 12 Regional Jobs Committees operating from Cairns to the Gold Coast. Together, these committees deliver region-specific skilling and workforce solutions that respond directly to local needs and support long-term economic growth.

Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) Chief Executive Officer, Ms Kylie Porter, said the commitment demonstrates the importance of proactive workforce planning as local industries continue to evolve.

“We are delighted the Queensland Government is continuing to invest in regional workforce development through the RJC program.

“This extension ensures we can keep driving a coordinated, industry-led approach to skills, training, and workforce attraction across Mackay, Isaac, and Whitsunday.

Greater Whitsunday Regional Jobs Committee Chair, Ms Carissa Mansfield, said sustained funding provides important certainty for industry and partners.

“Workforce remains one of the biggest challenges facing our region. The continuation of the RJC program means we can keep bringing local voices together to address barriers to training, participation, and business growth.”

Member for Mackay, Mr Nigel Dalton, said the Queensland Government is committed to supporting strong regional jobs and skills development.

“The Greater Whitsunday RJC is delivering real impact by strengthening local training pathways and helping businesses connect with the support they need. Extending this program through to 2027 ensures continued investment in regional jobs, industry alignment, and sustainable economic growth.”

“This funding reflects our commitment to ensuring local people have access to local opportunities, and that regional communities are supported to thrive.”

The Greater Whitsunday Regional Jobs Committee is proudly supported and funded by the
Queensland Government.

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Continued Queensland Government support for the Greater Whitsunday Regional Jobs Committee. Photo supplied

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Mackay residents are being encouraged to put their hand up to help shape the future of the Bruce Highway, with Expressions of Interest now open for regional representatives to join the Bruce Highway Advisory Council.

The State Government has opened applications for the next round of regional representatives, including one position for the Mackay Whitsunday region, as part of its commitment to improving safety, reliability and long-term planning along Queensland’s major north–south transport corridor.

The Bruce Highway Advisory Council brings together regional representatives and industry experts to help inform priorities for investment and upgrades, including the $9 billion Bruce Highway Targeted Safety Program and the development of a statewide Fatigue Management Strategy.

Chaired by the Minister for Transport and Main Roads, the Council includes stakeholders from Pine River to Far North Queensland and plays a key role in identifying local issues and directing where funding should be prioritised.

The six regional representatives will join five peak industry bodies on the Council, including the Royal Automobile Club of Queensland, Queensland Trucking Association, Queensland Farmers' Federation, Queensland Tourism Industry Council and the Local Government Association of Queensland.

Regional representatives are appointed on a voluntary basis for a 12-month term and may reapply if they wish to continue. The government said the process ensured a diverse mix of local experience and industry expertise was brought to the table.

Expressions of Interest are open for representatives from six regions, including Far North Queensland, North Queensland, Mackay Whitsunday, Fitzroy, Wide Bay Burnett and North Coast.

Applications for the Bruce Highway Advisory Council close on the 23rd of January.

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Help the Queensland Government improve road safety by joining the Bruce Highway Advisory Council as a voluntary member for a 12-month period. Photo supplied

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Mackay To Become Specialist Cancer Service Hub

The Queensland Government has confirmed major progress on its fully funded Hospital Rescue Plan, unveiling clear timelines for hospital upgrades and new facilities across the state — with Mackay set to benefit as part of a strengthened regional health network.

The plan has reached a significant milestone, with masterplans finalised for key hospital projects including Townsville University Hospital, Toowoomba Hospital, Coomera Hospital, Redcliffe Hospital and Bundaberg Hospital, alongside confirmed planning details for major upgrades at hospitals across Queensland.

The Government said the plan was introduced after inheriting what it described as a failed and under-funded health infrastructure program, which resulted in major delays, missing services and $7 billion in cost blowouts.

Under the Hospital Rescue Plan, the government is delivering a coordinated and fully costed approach to hospital construction and upgrades, aimed at restoring health services and delivering urgently needed hospital beds across Queensland.

While Mackay is not listed for a major hospital expansion under the current tranche of projects, the region is expected to benefit directly through the Queensland Cancer Plan, which will establish Mackay as one of several specialist cancer service hubs across the state. The network will support regional hospitals and improve access to cancer care for communities outside Brisbane.

As part of the statewide plan, specialist cancer hubs will be established in Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, Wide Bay, Darling Downs, Brisbane and the Gold Coast, helping reduce the need for patients to travel long distances for treatment.

Across Queensland, the Hospital Rescue Plan will deliver at least 2,600 additional hospital beds through new hospitals, expansions and upgrades, representing the largest hospital infrastructure investment in the state’s history.

Major hospital projects are already moving forward, including expansions at Townsville University Hospital, which will deliver at least 165 new beds by 2028, and Bundaberg Hospital, which is set to receive more than 200 new beds along with an expanded emergency department and improved maternity services by 2031.

Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Tim Nicholls said the government was focused on delivering hospital beds and services when Queenslanders need them most.

"Our fully-funded Hospital Rescue Plan is delivering new and expanded hospitals, 2,600 new hospital beds and health services when Queenslanders need them most," Minister Nicholls said.

"After Labor’s decade of decline that left the system in crisis and without a credible path to building the hospital beds needed, Queenslanders are starting to see the results of getting our hospital build back on track with masterplans, designs and construction moving forward.

"We’ve put to bed the poor planning, delays and cost blowouts we inherited and we’re now delivering the hospital beds Queensland needs now and into the future."

Queensland Health Implementation Lead Sam Sangster said extensive planning was underway to ensure hospital projects met the needs of local communities across the state.

“These masterplans mark an exciting first step in the process where Queenslanders will begin to see work intensifying on sites across the state,” Mr Sangster said.

“It’s important to take the time to properly plan these major projects to ensure we leave a lasting legacy through sustainable infrastructure that caters for staff, clinicians, patients and their families.”

The Queensland Government said the Hospital Rescue Plan marked a turning point for health infrastructure delivery, providing certainty for communities like Mackay through improved access to specialist services and a stronger statewide hospital network.

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The Government is determined to deliver the resources Queensland hospitals need. Photo supplied

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In celebration of 20 years, Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank has introduced an additional higher education scholarship as part of its Community Engagement Program, allowing more students to receive a share of $39,000.

For eligible degrees and apprenticeships at CQUniversity in 2026, the program includes three $9000 scholarships for undergraduate degrees and two $6000 scholarships for apprenticeships, providing not only financial assistance but also opportunities for professional development and growth.

Community Bank Sarina Board Deputy Chair Maree Franettovich highlighted Community Bank Sarina’s commitment to supporting local talent, describing the scholarships as “an ongoing investment in the personal growth and skills development of young people in our region, marking two decades of community impact."

“Scholarships show students that their community is behind them, allowing them to stay close to family, friends and support networks while pursuing their studies and careers,” Ms Franettovich said.

“This initiative creates opportunities for networking, mentoring and connection with local businesses - key elements in building a strong foundation for their future.”

Higher education scholarships are available for a range of fields for those commencing their studies in 2026, including accounting, agriculture/agribusiness, business, digital media, environmental science, health, information technology, law, nursing, science and teaching.

In addition, scholarships are offered for first-year apprentices in automotive engineering and technology, building and construction, electrical, manufacturing engineering and technology, hairdressing, horticulture, hospitality and mechanical trades.

2026 Community Bank Sarina CQUniversity Scholarship applications close 28 February. To find out more information and request an application pack, email executive@sarinacommunity.com.au.

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(L-R) Community Bank Sarina (CBS)’s Josie Dahtler, CBS Board Director Rainee Shepperson, 2025 CBS scholarship recipients Neve Macdonald, Fletcher McFadzen and Taylah Hayles, CBS Board Chair Karen May, CBS Deputy Chair Maree Franettovich and CQUniversity Associate Vice-President NQ Prof. Rob Brown.

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It’s the most wonderful time of the year!  There are lights on Christmas trees, topped with bright stars.  Everything is merry and bright.  Have you ever noticed that there is a definite theme of “Light” at Christmas time?  But here is the catch; It is at night that the lights are on and shinning in all their glory.

About 700 years before Jesus Christ was born the prophet Isaiah wrote about him; For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders.  And he will be called Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Isaiah also said; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned.   And here is my point; The darkness!  Christmas is a joyful time, but we realize that there are people for whom Christmas is a time of great sadness because things are not the way that they should be.  The message of Christmas is most authentically for the people living, not just in darkness, but in deep darkness.

That might be YOU this Christmas.  However, into that darkness, Christ wants to enter and transform it.  God loves you and waits for permission to be born in your life and for you to experience his magnificent transformative light.

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What’s all the fuss about Christmas?  We see our city dotted with Christmas lights each December, pointing to some great thing, and the Christian belief is that great thing is Jesus.  Christmas is the annual celebration of the birth of Jesus, some 2,000 years ago in the tiny town of Bethlehem.

Christian tradition approaches Christmas with four great themes – hope, peace, joy and love – four things greatly needed.

Hope is that we are not consigned to a random life of trouble followed by oblivion, but that God is real, and that God’s promise of salvation would be fulfilled.  And it was, in Jesus.

Peace is between us and God.  How we wish it was the cessation of war, all the way from global conflicts to our homes.  But this peace which Jesus brings is between us and God.  If we could all grasp that, perhaps the other wars would cease.

Joy is not the fleeting happiness we pursue, but the deep abiding thing that rises within us because we know that God really is with us, even in the darkest of times.

Love is the sacrificial love of God, and this is the love that Jesus brought, demonstrated, and ultimately enacted as he was crucified on a Roman cross.

Christian belief is that Jesus was (and is) the Son of God, who came among us to reunite us with God.  Hence his birth is something truly worth celebrating.

Blessings to you this Christmas, whatever your circumstance may be.

• Rev Wayne McHugh of Northside Worship Centre

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As we head into Christmas — the season of full trolleys, long wish lists, and the annual mystery of
“what on earth do I buy Aunty Carol this year?” — we want to offer something a little different: a
message of hope, grounded in the reality of the work we do every single day.

The truth is, the last two months have been some of the hardest we’ve ever faced. More animals
needing refuge, more people reaching breaking point, and fewer resources to stretch across growing
needs. Our volunteer foster carers have done what they always do: opened their homes and their
hearts. Because every animal deserves safety, and everyone deserves a second chance.

Right now, around 80 pets are in our care — from scared little kittens to old dogs who just want a
soft bed and someone to finally choose them. And every year, the Christmas period hits rescues
hard. We see pets bought on impulse and surrendered once the novelty wears off, and animals
abandoned when families travel or move. It’s heartbreaking and preventable.

So this year, we’re inviting Mackay locals to think differently about giving. Instead of buying
another gift that ends up in a drawer, consider donating to a local charity — ours or any that speaks
to your heart. A small contribution can keep an animal safe, fed, desexed, and given a real chance at
a happy life. That’s a gift that lasts far longer than a pair of socks.

And if you are thinking about adding a pet to your home this Christmas, we ask you to choose
adoption — and choose it with your eyes wide open. Pets are not presents. They’re long-term
companions who feel every high and every hardship right alongside us.

Despite the challenges, we remain hopeful. The generosity of this community has kept us going
through one of our toughest periods, and for that, we’re deeply grateful. From all of us at Mackay
Pet Rescue Inc., we wish you a Christmas filled with compassion, rest, and a reminder that kindness
is still the most meaningful gift you can give.

Warm wishes,
Mackay Pet Rescue Inc.

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Queensland students are celebrating a significant year of achievement, with Year 12 results released this week alongside encouraging improvements in attendance and academic performance across other year levels.

A total of 57,909 students graduated from high school in 2025, with 93.4 per cent achieving a Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE). In addition, 1,192 students received a Queensland Certificate of Individual Achievement (QCIA), recognising learning pathways for students with disabilities that affect their education.

Around half of eligible Year 12 graduates received an ATAR, with almost one in four achieving an ATAR of 90 or above, highlighting strong academic outcomes across the cohort.

Attendance across Queensland state schools has also reached its highest level since 2021, rising to 87.3 per cent despite disruptions caused by severe weather events throughout the year. This increase represents approximately 500,000 additional days of learning compared with 2024.

Schools also recorded notable improvements in English and mathematics results for students in Years 7 to 9, with report card outcomes among the strongest seen in recent years.

The Government has focused on lifting attendance and results through targeted support and new initiatives aimed at strengthening literacy and numeracy outcomes. Measures include new online teaching resources, a renewed emphasis on reading with 2025 designated as the Year of Reading, and the rollout of phonics and numeracy testing in Year 1.

Minister for Education John-Paul Langbroek congratulated students on their achievements and acknowledged the broader school community for its role in supporting learning outcomes.

“Congratulations to all Year 12 students receiving their results today,” Minister Langbroek said.

“Queensland graduates should be incredibly proud of their achievements, and I want to thank all the parents, teachers, principals and school staff who have supported them along the way."

Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority Acting Chief Executive Officer Claude Jones also praised the graduating cohort and the flexibility of the education system.

“Today we celebrate the class of 2025 – an inspiring group of young people,” Mr Jones said.

“Many of these young graduates will move on to further education or training, while others are stepping straight into the workforce. That’s the strength of the QCE system — it provides opportunities and pathways for all students.”

Statistics from the Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority show that more than 40,000 students achieved a VET qualification, while 1,683 completed a university subject while still at school, underscoring the diverse pathways available to Queensland students as they transition beyond the classroom.

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Queensland students are celebrating a standout year, with strong Year 12 results, improved attendance and rising English and maths outcomes across the state. Photo source: Unsplash

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Three regional students have been given a welcome boost to their artistic ambitions, receiving a combined $7500 in creative arts bursaries.

The Artspace Mackay Foundation Bursary, the MECC’s Jack Sturgeon Bursary and the Friends of the MECC Foundation Families Bursary were presented by Mayor Greg Williamson during a morning tea on Wednesday, December 10, acknowledging the promise and dedication of Mackay’s emerging young artists.

Mayor Williamson congratulated the recipients and praised their dedication to the arts.

“These bursaries are an investment in the next generation of creative talent,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Ashling, Jaxon and Nerida have shown incredible passion and commitment to their craft, and we’re proud to help them take the next step in their artistic journeys,” he said.

Ashling Scanlon received the $3000 Artspace Mackay Foundation Bursary for 2025.

A recent St Patrick’s College graduate, Ashling will study a dual degree in Education and Creative Arts at QUT in Brisbane.

“This grant will enable me to purchase materials so I can further expand my experimentation with art and support my education as a whole,” Ashling said.

Ashling is a multi-disciplinary artist, focusing on oil and water-based figure painting, while also exploring acrylics.

Jaxon Anderson was awarded the $3000 Jack Sturgeon Bursary, sponsored by the MECC and Friends of the MECC.

Jaxon, also a St Patrick’s College graduate, has been accepted into the Diploma of Musical Theatre at Queensland College of Dance and a Bachelor of Acting at Queensland Conservatorium.

Jaxon has performed in Mackay Musical Comedy Players productions since age 11 and hopes his studies will lead to a career in musical theatre across Australia and beyond.

Nerida Hansen received the $1500 Foundation Families Bursary, thanks to the Friends of the MECC. Nerida, a seasoned performer with 14 years of experience, has appeared with Opera Australia, Mackay Musical Comedy Players, Kucom Theatre and more.

She will study a Bachelor of Theatre (Musical Theatre) at CQUniversity’s Conservatorium of Music.

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Mayor Greg Williamson, centre, presented the Jack Sturgeon Bursary to Jaxon Anderson, accepted on his behalf by Kyra Geoghegan, the Foundation Families Bursary to Nerida Hansen, second from left, and the Artspace Mackay Foundation Bursary to Ashling Scanlon. Also pictured is Artspace Mackay Foundation bursary judge Leonie Wood.
Photo supplied

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Australian Agriculture on Track for $100 Billion

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Australia’s agriculture industry is on track to reach a record value of almost $100 billion this financial year, according to new figures released earlier this month. The latest ABARES Agricultural Commodities Report forecasts the gross value of agricultural production to rise to $99.5 billion in 2025-26, with fisheries and forestry included pushing the total to over $106.4 billion.

Exports are also expected to reach a record $83.9 billion, reflecting strong international demand for Australian produce. Industry leaders credit this milestone to the skill, resilience, and hard work of farmers, alongside ongoing support from the Albanese Labor Government.

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Julie Collins said: “It’s been a significant year for our farmers and producers, and thanks to their hard work, innovation and commitment to excellence, the value of our agriculture industry is on track to reach almost $100 billion this financial year.

“Our Government is backing our farmers and producers to reach this record result by expanding trade opportunities, supporting them to boost their climate resilience, and by strengthening our biosecurity system.

“This is supporting our farmers to supply their world-class products to communities across Australia and around the globe, to employ more people in our regions, and to strengthen our local economies.

“Our commitment to working with farmers to progress their priorities and to deliver support when they are facing challenges, particularly during drought conditions, never stops.”

The growth comes amid ongoing efforts to diversify markets, remove red tape, and strengthen biosecurity, while $1 billion in new concessional loan funding through the Regional Investment Corporation aims to support farmers facing financial pressures.

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Farmers across the country are celebrating a record year, with strong exports and robust local production driving Australia’s agriculture sector toward a historic $100 billion valuation in 2025-26. Photo source: Unsplash

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Australian farmers have welcomed a major reform that will give them greater control over the repair of agricultural machinery, with the Federal Albanese Labor Government extending Right to Repair laws to the farming sector.

The reform will require manufacturers to share critical repair information with farmers and independent mechanics, ending long-standing frustrations caused by costly delays when machinery breaks down during peak periods such as harvest.

For many producers, downtime can mean significant financial losses. By allowing farmers to choose who repairs their equipment, the changes are expected to improve productivity, reduce costs and strengthen competition across the sector.

According to the Productivity Commission, extending Right to Repair to agriculture could increase annual GDP by $97 million through improved grain output alone, largely by reducing harvest delays. The announcement also comes as new figures show Australia’s agriculture industry is on track to reach a record value of almost $100 billion this financial year.

Farm groups have strongly backed the reform, with leaders describing it as landmark and game-changing for the industry. The changes are also expected to benefit regional communities by supporting local repair businesses and keeping money circulating in rural towns.

Treasury will work alongside the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry to consult farmers, manufacturers and repairers as the framework is expanded, building on the success of existing Right to Repair laws in the motor vehicle sector.

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Julie Collins said the reform was about fairness and practical support for farmers.

“The Albanese Labor Government has listened to our farmers and worked with them to deliver these reforms, they’re a matter of fairness for farmers and will make a big difference,” Ms Collins said.

“Farmers are backing this change because they know it will save time and money.

“The Albanese Labor Government will keep backing our farmers to succeed.”

Assistant Minister for Productivity, Competition, Charities and Treasury Andrew Leigh said the reform would strengthen both competition and regional economies.

“Farmers have been clear, they want the freedom to choose who repairs their machinery. This reform delivers that choice, strengthens regional economies and ensures technology works for the people who rely on it most,” Dr Leigh said.

“This is a win for farmers and a win for competition. When markets are open, businesses thrive, and consumers benefit. Right to Repair is about giving farmers control and creating a level playing field for independent repairers.

“Every independent workshop is a small business that employs apprentices, sponsors local clubs and keeps money circulating locally. By unlocking repair information, we’re supporting those businesses and the communities they serve.”

The Right to Repair reform is expected to improve resilience, reduce waste and ensure valuable farming equipment stays in use for longer, delivering long-term benefits for Australia’s agricultural sector and regional communities.

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Right to repair reforms will give farmers more choice over machinery repairs, cutting harvest downtime and supporting local repairers. Photo source: Unsplash

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Cr Belinda Hassan

As we near the close of another busy year, I’m reflecting on the fantastic work achieved by Mackay Regional Council throughout 2025 and extending warm Christmas and New Year wishes to our entire community.

This year has seen council continue to deliver projects and services that make a meaningful difference to everyday life in our region — from strengthened community facilities to exciting strategic plans for the future. Significant progress has been made on the Northern Beaches Community Hub, where construction of Stage 1B is now underway. This new space will soon offer a modern library, flexible community rooms, café, event square and accessible facilities, further enriching our growing northern suburbs.

Council has also supported local creativity and connection through targeted grant programs such as Make Your Place, City Safety and Façade Improvement, injecting more than $80,000 into community-led projects that activate public spaces and champion local culture.

These grassroots initiatives — whether it’s interactive activities at the waterfront or community art installations — help bring people together and make our region an even better place to live.

On the environmental front, the Mackay Urban Greening Strategy sets a long-term vision to grow cooler, greener and more connected neighbourhoods. Council’s nursery team has already distributed tens of thousands of native plants to locals and community groups as part of this work.

We’ve also been forward-thinking with the release of the Mackay Region Economic Development Strategy 2025–2030, which will guide sustainable economic growth by shaping plans for industrial land, investment attraction, infrastructure and liveability. I’m proud to be the co-chair of our Economic Development and Growth Strategic Advisory Committee and sincerely thank all of our stakeholders for their valuable input over this past year.

Behind these headline projects, our dedicated council staff and volunteers continue to deliver high-quality services every day — from maintaining thousands of kilometres of roads to supporting library services and environmental programs.

As we celebrate the festive season, I want to wish every resident a very Merry Christmas and a safe and happy New Year. Whether you’re spending time with family, catching up with friends or simply taking a well-earned break, please look after yourselves — and each other.

Finally, with storm season approaching, I encourage everyone to take time now to prepare. Simple steps like checking emergency plans, securing loose items around your home and staying informed about severe weather warnings can make a big difference.

Thank you for your ongoing support and engagement. It’s a privilege to serve this wonderful community.

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The Queensland Government is paving the way for both more affordable energy and easier pathways to home ownership, delivering measures designed to provide long-term relief for households.

The 2025-26 Budget sets out a new energy roadmap, with more than $5 billion allocated for state-owned businesses to invest across the energy supply chain. This includes a record $2.4 billion investment in the CopperString transmission project by 2028-29, $1.6 billion over five years to support the Electricity Maintenance Guarantee, and $435 million in 2025-26 to progress three pumped hydro projects.

The Government’s Supercharged Solar for Renters plan will provide rebates of up to $3,500 to eligible landlords for solar panel installation, helping around 6,500 households. Additional investments include CleanCo’s investigation of a new open-cycle gas turbine at Swanbank and Stanwell’s Lockyer Energy Project.

On the housing front, Queensland is focused on unlocking land for new homes, boosting ownership, and easing rental pressures. Measures include: extending the $30,000 First Home Owner Grant for new builds until the 30th of June 2026, saving first-time buyers thousands; the nation-leading Boost to Buy scheme, which offers a government equity contribution of up to 30 per cent for new homes and 25 per cent for existing homes; and abolishing stamp duty for eligible first home buyers, with savings in Brisbane North reaching almost $39,500 for a house and land package, and over $24,000 in Toowoomba.

First home buyers who receive a grant or transfer duty concession can also rent out a room in their new home without losing their benefits.

Together, these initiatives aim to provide Queenslanders with lower power bills and more opportunities to achieve the dream of home ownership, marking a generational shift in both energy and housing support across the state.

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Queenslanders will benefit from lower energy bills and more opportunities for home ownership, thanks to new initiatives in the 2025-26 Budget. Photo source: Unsplash

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