Photos supplied by Mackay Christian College  

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Enrolments Available From Kindergarten Through To Year 12

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Every student has unique gifts and talents, and Mackay Christian College is committed to helping young people discover their potential through an education grounded in faith, learning and opportunity.

Located across two spacious campuses, Mackay Christian College is a multi-denominational, co-educational private school offering a continuous learning journey from Kindergarten through to Year 12.

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With a vision to present excellent, Christ-centred learning opportunities, the college provides a diverse range of learning experiences spanning academics, trade studies, instrumental music, sport, personal development and service.

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At the heart of the school’s ethos is a desire to nurture each student's individual, God-given abilities while encouraging them to become responsible and successful members of the wider community.

Students can begin their learning journey in Kindergarten before progressing through Prep to Year 12, with high-quality Australian Curriculum learning underpinned by a foundational Christian worldview.

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The college also offers Outside School Hours Care (OSHCare) for its students from Kindergarten to Year 6, catering to the busy lives of families, parents and carers.

Combining educational opportunity with a strong Christian foundation, Mackay Christian College aims to support students as they grow, learn and develop throughout every stage of their schooling.

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The outstanding achievements and contributions of Whitsunday Anglican School students were celebrated in last week’s Cultural and Academic Awards Assembly.  

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Students were congratulated for their academic excellence, cultural involvement, and dedication, recognising the myriad ways they contribute to the school community.

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To mark the occasion, musical performances were put on from the school’s very own Street Band. Helina performed Mozart’s Sonata and Lucas performed an excerpt from Beethoven’s Piano Sonata.  

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Congratulations to all of the award recipients on their achievements and contributions.  

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Members f the Community discussing the Unlocking Water Project. Photo Source: Queensland Government  

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Since the delivery of the Unlocking Water Project, an initiative run by the department of local government and water, results and recommendations have been released, all aiming to fulfill the key goals of releasing underutilized water, cutting red tape, and supporting growth and trading.  

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The results showed that more than 132,000 megaliters (ML) of water will now be made available for agriculture and industries in Queensland.  

The total number of completed Unlocking Water Project studies have risen to ten, with the latest additions of Cape York, the Burdekin Basin, and the Pioneer Valley.  

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Through the Watertight Water Security Plans, underutilised water will now be available to support regional growth and aid farmers and industries across the region for years to come.  

The recommendations for the Pioneer Valley include making better use of existing water, supporting water trading and unlocking opportunities for biofutures, which are the Mackay State Development Area and Prosper 2050.  

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In Cape York the recommendations aim to unlock 2,000 ML in the Lakeland area, create smaller releases across seven catchments, and improve access to available water through the reduction of red tape.  

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In the Burdekin Basin, recommendations include releasing 130,000 ML in the Belyando-Suttor sub-catchment and cutting red tape to improve water access, overland flow use and water trading.

Each water plan area is different. Varying on factors like the local demands, environmental and cultural values, the amount and type of water available, and the rules for accessing water.  

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The recommendations aim to create economic benefits for the Indigenous communities in the Cape, whilst also coordinating the use of water in the wider communities and smaller businesses.  

Elected members across the region are championing the success of the water project, amplifying the profit for their local communities.  

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Minister for Local Government and Water Ann Leahy said the Unlocking Water Project outcomes would support stronger regional economies and growth for our agriculture industries.  

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“Our government’s Unlocking Water Project is driving real outcomes to deliver for farmers and industries as promised, including supporting water trading and streamlined processes to support greater water availability.

“From Cape York to the Burdekin and Pioneer Valley, these studies are identifying practical opportunities to make better use of Queensland’s water resource.”

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Unlocking water in the Burdekin Basin will provide greater certainty for the region's agricultural industry, stated by the Member for Buredekin, Dale Last.  

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“The Burdekin is one of Queensland’s great agricultural regions, and unlocking up to 130,000 ML in the Belyando-Suttor catchment is a significant opportunity to support farmers, grow local industries and create jobs,” Mr Last said.

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Member for Mirani Glen Kelly said Water is one of the most valuable resources we have in the Pioneer Valley, making sure it is being put to good use is important.  

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RDA GW and LBF’s Women in Leadership program class of 2026, Bowen Basin chapter. Photo supplied

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Applications are now open for the 2027 Mackay Women in Leadership program from Regional Development Australia Greater Whitsundays (RDA GW), supported by the Local Buying Foundation (LBF).

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With a focus on empowering women, the program provides workshops on developing leadership strategies and confidence in the workplace, while building professional networks and mentoring relationships.

RDA GW CEO Robert Cocco spoke on the importance of encouraging women to step into leadership roles in their careers.

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“The Women in Leadership program is about giving women the knowledge and skills to become incredible leaders in their chosen fields,” Mr Cocco said.

“By amplifying women who want to make a difference in the community, we set our region up for a future of female leaders who have the tools to strengthen the region around them.”

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The program involves five workshops, two masterclasses and mentor and mentee networking events over the course of ten months.  

Applications for the 2027 Mackay Women in Leadership Program close on 20 November for a February 2027 start. For more information or to apply, email projectmanager@rdagw.org.au or ring Nic Willis on 0487 895 796.

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QCGO Chairman Owen Menkens will join former QCGO Chairman and Mackay grower Paul Schembri as a Grower Director on the Sugar Terminals Limited, ensuring two powerful voices for growerson these critical industry assets.  Photo credit: QCGO

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By Joseph Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay

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The sugar industry is an ever-evolving and moving feast, with constant advances in nutrition, chemicals, research, technologies, and milling operations.  This is, of course, the hands-on growing, research and manufacturing side of the business.  

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On the flip-side, there is the evolving global trade landscape of the industry’s marketing, logistics and export terminals.  This side of the industry includes vitally important choke point assets which is a reality often overlooked by the general community.  

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In the last few weeks, we have seen some major steps forward for both Queensland Sugar Limited and Sugar Terminals Limited, which will now help both organisations better reflect the changing landscape of the logistical and marketing side of our industry.  

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At the 2025 Queensland Sugar Limited (QSL) Annual General Meeting, constitutional changes were put up to modernise the governance of the organisation to better reflect the position of QSL standing in the industry.  Unfortunately, these changes were voted down by a couple of milling companies, who it could be said were direct competitors to Queensland Sugar Limited in the marketing space.

Fast forward to the 1^st of July, 2026 and we saw Queensland Sugar Limited officially transfer the operations of the sugar terminals to allow Sugar Terminals Limited to begin insourcing operations and therefore transforming Queensland Sugar Limited into a pure marketing entity rather then also being a terminal operator.

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Moving forward, at the 2026 Queensland Sugar Limited Annual General Meeting, a slightly modified version of these constitutional changes was presented to both grower and miller reps and pleasantly were unanimously accepted and implemented.  

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It is a credit to all milling and grower representatives who have shown leadership in this arena to agree to the constitutional changes which will allow Queensland Sugar Limited’s governance to better reflect its current standing in the marketing space of the Australian sugar industry.  

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In a nutshell, it allows the entities which market the majority of their sugar through Queensland Sugar Limited to have a majority say in the governance of the organization which is a major positive for the customers of Queensland Sugar Limited and is long overdue.

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Finally, the other piece to this puzzle was the election of Queensland Cane Growers Organisation Chairman, Owen Menkens to the vacant Grower Director position on the Sugar Terminals Limited Board.  Congratulations must go to Owen who has replaced the retiring grower director Steve Kirby. A vote of thanks must go to Steve for his years of service through probably the most difficult period in Sugar Terminals Limited existence.  

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Owen will continue the important role of providing a strong grower voice to this board, diligently working alongside STL Grower Director and previous Queensland CANEGROWERS Chairman Paul Schembri.  

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It is a credit to the Canegrowers organisation to have both these incredibly passionate and fierce leaders holding directors’ positions on the board of the most important logistical organisation critical to the prosperity of the Australian sugar industry as a whole.  

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These two changes which have occurred in the recent past have help secure the marketing and logistical future of our industry going forward but we still have a way to go.  Mackay Canegrowers, and the wider QCGO community, have publicly argued with vigour and determination on the future of these critical industry organisations. Change is inevitable, in industry, in our commodity markets, in the world. It is essential that our grower organisation is strong and active in continuing to ensure best outcomes for growers.

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Photo supplied  

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OPINION PIECE By Andrew Willcox MP, Federal Member for Dawson and Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability

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Australians who lived through the 1990s remember the pain of 17 per cent interest rates. It was a brutal period for homeowners, with families pushed to breaking point just trying to keep a roof over their heads.

But here's something that should alarm every Australian. Despite interest rates being nowhere near 17 per cent today, the average mortgage is consuming a greater share of a worker's wage than it did back then.

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In 1990, repayments on an average new home loan accounted for approximately 42 per cent of a full-time wage.

Today, that figure is around 51 per cent.

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More than half of your pay packet is gone before the groceries are purchased, the electricity bill is paid, or the car is filled with fuel.

When Anthony Albanese and Jim Chalmers talk about economic progress, I'd like them to explain that, to a family in Dawson, struggling to make ends meet.

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Last week's inflation figures showed annual inflation climbing to 4.3 per cent, well above the Reserve Bank's target. Underlying inflation also increased to 3.6 per cent.

These figures represent another hit to household budgets already stretched to their limits.

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Yet Jim Chalmers and Anthony Albanese keep telling Australians they've got the economy under control.

If that's true, why is inflation rising again? Why are mortgage holders bracing for another increase? And why are Australians still paying more while getting less?

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Labor cannot blame every economic problem on overseas events. Domestic inflation remains high, and government spending is causing the Reserve Bank to increase the interest rate.

Australians don't get to make excuses when their mortgage payment is due.

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They either find the money or face the consequences.

Across Dawson, I have talked with many hardworking people, who are doing the best they can in these difficult times. They've saved, bought a home, worked hard and tried to provide security for their families.

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Now they're wondering how much longer they can keep going.

Instead of more spending, more taxes and more excuses, Australia needs a government with economic discipline to lower inflation and have a serious plan to ease pressure on households.

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By Cr Belinda Hassan

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How often have you heard someone say, "There's nothing to do in Mackay"?

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Well, this December, something extraordinary is coming to our region – and for once, it's the rest of Australia that will need to travel to us to experience it!

From December 4th the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre will host Disney: The Exhibition – A Century of Magic, the only Australian destination for this internationally acclaimed exhibition.

Having already captivated audiences in cities including London, Paris, Munich and Chicago, the exhibition celebrates 100 years of Disney storytelling through eight immersive galleries, featuring more than 120 rare artefacts, costumes, props and interactive experiences. From beloved childhood classics to Marvel, Pixar and Star Wars, there's something for every generation.

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Bringing an exhibition of this calibre to regional Queensland is no small achievement. It represents considerable planning, collaboration and investment, but importantly, it's about much more than entertainment.

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The exhibition is expected to attract visitors from across Australia, creating opportunities for our accommodation providers, restaurants, retailers and tourism operators. Early economic modelling forecasts a potential $14 million boost to our local economy.

And for local families, it's an opportunity to experience something usually reserved for capital cities, right here on our doorstep.

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There has also been some recent discussion about council's procurement arrangements for the exhibition. To clarify, council undertook market testing with six specialist suppliers before approving the engagement of a preferred contractor. Due to the specialised requirements and tight installation timeframe, council approved an exemption from the usual public tender process, as permitted under local government legislation. Importantly, the expenditure was already included in the approved exhibition budget – it is not an additional, unexpected cost.

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I understand that residents expect accountability when public money is involved, and rightly so. But it's equally important to consider the broader economic and community benefits of initiatives like this.

If we want Mackay to be a vibrant, attractive place to live, work and visit, we need to create opportunities that bring people here, support local businesses and give our community experiences worth celebrating.

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The benefits of hosting major events extend far beyond ticket sales. Visitors discover our beautiful region, spend money locally and, hopefully, leave wanting to return.

Disney's arrival is an opportunity to showcase Mackay on a national stage, while creating special memories for local families.

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So, rather than asking why something like this is coming to Mackay, perhaps we should be celebrating the fact that it is!

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After all, why should the capital cities have all the magic?

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Chamber Committee for 2026 - L-R: Kelly Parker, Elizabeth Dent, Fallon Drewett, Taren McAuley, Geoff O’Connor, Berta Collins, Solveig Lobo, Deb Rae, Vicki Smith. Photo Credit: Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce  

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The Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce has marked a significant milestone in its history, with members endorsing major governance changes and electing a new Management Committee at its Annual General Meeting on 8th October 2026.

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Geoff O'Connor will continue as President, supported by Vice President Deb Rae, Treasurer Lizzy Dent and Secretary Berta Collins.

The newly elected nine-member Management Committee also includes Fallon Drewett, Solveig Lobo, Taren McAuley, Kelly Parker and Vicki Smith.

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The AGM saw members vote in favour of transitioning the Chamber from an incorporated association to a Company Limited by Guarantee, adopting a new constitution and approving a name change to Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce Limited.

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Mr O'Connor said the decisions represented an important step in preparing the organisation for its next chapter.

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"The Chamber has grown considerably in recent years, not just in membership, but in the role, we play in representing and supporting businesses across our region," Mr O'Connor said.

"These changes are about making sure our governance structures keep pace with that growth and position the Chamber for the future.

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"It's particularly pleasing that our members have supported this direction. It's their Chamber, and these were important decisions for them to make."

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The strength of the Chamber's growing business community was evident at the sold-out AGM luncheon, with more than 100 members and guests in attendance.

"We still find it remarkable that we can sell out an AGM!" Mr O'Connor said.

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"Annual General Meetings aren't traditionally the hottest ticket in town, but to have more than 100 people turn up and take an active interest in the future of their Chamber says a lot about the level of engagement we're seeing from our members."

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That enthusiasm also extended to the committee elections, with 12 candidates nominating for the nine available positions.

"To have 12 people willing to put their hands up and contribute their time and experience is a terrific reflection of the strength of our Chamber.

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"We have a great mix of experience and fresh perspectives around the table, and the new committee has already hit the ground running."

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The Chamber's membership increased from 319 to 412 during the 2025–26 financial year, representing growth of almost 30 per cent.

Alongside that growth, the organisation has continued to expand its networking, business support and advocacy activities, strengthening its role as a voice for businesses across the Mackay region.

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Mr O'Connor said the Chamber's focus remained firmly on its members.

"While the organisation continues to evolve, what we do and who we do it for hasn't changed.

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"We're here to back Mackay region businesses, make sure their voices are heard and create opportunities for them to connect and succeed."

The transition to a Company Limited by Guarantee will progress through the required regulatory processes over the coming months.

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Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton urges locals to stay stinger safe this season! Photo source: Nigel Dalton MP  

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November has arrived, and with it comes the start of marine stinger season across Mackay’s tropical waters, prompting a reminder for locals to take care before heading in for a summer dip.

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While marine stingers can be present in tropical Queensland waters all year, Surf Life Saving Queensland says the risk from potentially dangerous species, including box jellyfish and Irukandji, is higher during the typical stinger season from November to May.

Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton reminded locals of two unwelcome visitors to watch out for this summer:

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“Two locals we'd all rather avoid meeting this stinger season... the Irukandji and Box Jellyfish!”

“With stinger season now underway, it's a timely reminder to check local beach conditions, follow safety signage and take appropriate precautions when heading into the water.”

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Surf Life Saving Queensland advises swimming only at patrolled beaches under the supervision of lifesavers and lifeguards, and following all beach warnings and directions.

Box jellyfish stings can cause severe pain and, in serious cases, life-threatening symptoms. Irukandji stings may initially appear minor, with more serious symptoms sometimes developing between five and 40 minutes later.

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For suspected tropical marine stings, pour vinegar over the affected area for at least 30 seconds and call Triple Zero (000) for an ambulance. Keep the person out of the water and seek assistance from a lifeguard if available.

For bluebottle stings, avoid rubbing the area, carefully remove any tentacles, rinse with seawater (not freshwater), then soak the affected area in hot water for 20 minutes, ensuring it is not too hot; or use cold icepacks in a dry plastic bag. Seek medical help if symptoms persist.

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Find further marine stinger safety and first-aid information via lifesaving.com.au/safety-info/marine-stingers

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Footage by Queensland Police Service, Mackay

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Operation Diamantina, conducted by local Queensland Police officers, has resulted in 17 people being charged in relation to 89 property crime offences.

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Since October 8th, police have been in full force targeting property offences, including burglary, stealing, unlawful use of motor vehicles, unlawful weapons and dangerous drugs.

On October 16th, at around 5.30am, Mackay police responded to reports of a man allegedly siphoning approximately 1,600 litres of diesel from a cane farm at Te Kowai.

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Officers from Mackay’s Property Crime Task Force, Dog Squad, Tactical Crime Squad and Mackay Criminal Investigation Branch (CIB) attended the area, arresting a 30-year-old man a short time later in nearby cane fields.

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The East Mackay man was subsequently charged with 11 offences, including enter premises and commit indictable offence, possess utensils, obstruct police officer, possession of implements used in the commission of an offence, receiving tainted property, stealing and vehicle-related offences.

He has been remanded in custody and is due to reappear before Mackay Magistrates Court on November 18th.

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In a separate incident, between October 9th and 10th, an offender allegedly entered the residence of an 80-year-old woman at Andergrove while the resident was away.

Following targeted investigative enquiries, police arrested a 27-year-old woman and recovered several stolen items, including jewellery and other personal belongings.

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The woman has since been charged with one count each of enter dwelling and commit, and wilful damage. She has been remanded in custody and is due to reappear before Mackay Magistrates Court on November 18th.

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Around midday on October 29th, police responded to reports of a stolen vehicle on Milton Street in Mackay.

Police will allege a 35-year-old man attended the Mackay Showgrounds and stole a black and orange Kubota RTV900.

The vehicle was later located abandoned, with police locating and arresting the man a short time afterwards.

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The 35-year-old man was charged with unlawful use of a motor vehicle and was due to appear before Mackay Magistrates Court on October 30.

Detective Acting Senior Sergeant Andrew McNamara said the work by Mackay’s Property Crime Task Force was an example of the district’s commitment to pursuing property crime offences.

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“Investigating property crime remains a priority, and I commend the work being undertaken by our Property Crime Task Force,” said Detective Acting Senior Sergeant McNamara.

“The work undertaken by our team in just a few weeks has seen multiple offenders held to account.”

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“Our team also ensured treasured family items were returned, and that vulnerable people will be supported through proactive investigations.”

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“Stolen property will be actively pursued and recovered wherever possible, and we ask the community to continue to report any instances of property offending to police.”

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Sarina State High School celebrated staff reaching 10, 15, 25 and 30 years of service at a morning tea for World Teachers’ Day. Photo source: Sarina State High School  

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Sarina State High School has recognised the dedication of its teachers and support staff, celebrating a combined range of service milestones as part of World Teachers’ Day.

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Staff gathered for a morning tea to acknowledge colleagues who have reached 10, 15, 25 and 30 years of service, recognising the contribution they have made to the school community over the years.

Among those celebrating 10 years were Mr Bermingham, Ms Koschel, Mrs Beveridge, Vanessa Wright and Mrs Mcintosh.

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The 15-year milestone was reached by Ms Wright, Ms Flynn, Mr Clegg, Mrs Allen, Mrs Hall and Mrs Grendon, while Mrs Berry and Mr Ford were recognised for 25 years of service.

Ms Regan also marked an impressive 30 years.

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The school thanked each staff member for the knowledge, care and commitment they bring to their roles, and for the difference they make in the lives of students.

The celebration also acknowledged the support of the school's P&C, which provided the morning tea, and James Cook University, which supplied a cake for the occasion.

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Hannah wearing her pageant award. Photo Credit: Mackay Hospital and Health Service  

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Mackay doctor Hannah Penner is getting ready to swap her scrubs for heels and take part in the national final of the Miss Australia Pageant.  

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When Hannah competes in the Gold Coast next month, it will be about more than going for the crown. For her, it’s a chance to boost her confidence, promote her community and raise funds for an important cause.

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The Kattabul local currently divides her time between working as an ENT Principal House Officer at Mackay Base Hospital, studying for medical exams, and practicing her runway strut in high heels. And if that wasn't enough, she is developing her photography and videography skills.  

Hannah will be competing against more than 20 women across Australia for one of four national titles, with just two months to prepare.  

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For Hannah, the upcoming competition is a chance to “step outside [her] comfort zone, build confidence, meet people from different backgrounds” and use a public platform to make a difference.

“I’m quite a reserved person, so this is really quite challenging for me,” Hannah said.

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“But I believe in mind over matter, and I want to keep learning new things, be curious and become a more well-rounded and confident person.”

Hannah moved to Australia when she was eight. Originally from South Africa, she has made Kattabul her home for the past decade.  

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After attending Holy Spirit College in Mackay, she studied medicine at James Cook University in Townsville. She has spent the past five years working in surgery.

Her ENT colleagues have helped her along this newest journey.

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“It’s been a great team-building and bonding experience, and they’re just as invested in this pageant as I am,” Hannah said.  

“The ENT team has been amazing. They’re not only giving me great moral support but also helping me with their own different skills.”  

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Hannah is raising funds for Destiny Rescue, with a target of $3000, and is excited to champion the Mackay region and show what it has to offer.  

“Mackay and the surrounding region are a hidden gem. I love it here, and my future is here,” she said.  

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Photo source: Andrew Willcox MP  

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Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox has highlighted the importance of quality standards and accountability across disability and aged care services following an event at Parliament House.

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Mr Willcox attended the Every Australian Deserves Quality Care event, which brought together parliamentarians, community leaders and service providers to discuss access to safe, reliable and high-quality care for Australians.

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In a social media post following the event, Mr Willcox said the discussion included the work of Assistance Dogs Australia and the role assistance dogs play in helping people live more independently and confidently.

He said the event also highlighted the importance of ensuring people and families could have confidence in the services and support they accessed.

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“Quality standards build trust, and that trust gives people and families the confidence to access the support they need,” Mr Willcox said.

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He also said Australians should be able to expect properly trained and accountable organisations and workers, whether receiving support through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) or other community services.

“Whether it's through the NDIS or other community services, Australians deserve to know the people and organisations supporting them are properly trained, accountable and delivering quality care.”

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Mr Willcox said peace of mind was particularly important for families across Dawson navigating disability and aged care services.

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The event was an opportunity for parliamentarians, community representatives and service providers to gather and discuss the standards expected across the care sector, with a focus on building trust in the support available to individuals and families.

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Mr Willcox thanked those involved in bringing the discussion to Parliament House, as well as the assistance dogs who attended the event.

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Mackay Harbour Boat Ramp. Photo source: Shutterstock

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A local campaign is calling on the Queensland Government to take the next step towards improving boating access across the Mackay region, seeking funding for an independent assessment into options for additional protected, all-tide launching facilities.

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Mackay Boat Ramp Campaign organiser Brett Hoskin said the focus was on turning recognised demand for boating infrastructure into a practical plan for the region's future.

Following a January petition response from Transport Minister Brent Mickelberg, which encouraged proponents to engage directly with Mackay Regional Council and North Queensland Bulk Ports (NQBP) to explore potential solutions, the campaign has since approached both organisations.

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Mr Hoskin said a formal proposal had been submitted seeking a funded, State-led assessment of potential options.

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The campaign has also received support from the Boating Industry Association, while the Queensland Recreational Boating Council's September letter backed the need for a State-funded, independent and impartial feasibility assessment.

Reef Marine owner Andrew Camilleri has also written to the Boating Industry Association and Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton in support of the campaign, outlining the effects he believes limited boating access is having on customers and local marine businesses.

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“The problem is hurting us all,” he told the campaign.

Mr Hoskin said Mackay Regional Council had confirmed it would participate in State-led boating planning, while NQBP had indicated it was willing to provide relevant information and participate in working groups on recreational boating matters.

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The proposed assessment would consider a range of potential locations and solutions, examining factors including sheltered access to open water, launching and retrieval capacity, trailer parking, road access, environmental constraints and associated costs.

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It would also build on previous studies, identify a shortlist of potential options and determine which proposals require more detailed investigation, including consideration of ongoing maintenance requirements and responsibilities.

Mr Hoskin said the campaign remained open to suitable locations, with relevant authorities, landholders, boating users and industry encouraged to contribute information for options to be assessed against consistent criteria.

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The immediate request, he said, was for the Queensland Government to provide funding, identify a responsible State lead and establish a timetable for the assessment.

The campaign is seeking this initial investigation before any decision is made about a preferred location or potential construction project.

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Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said he recognised the importance of safe and accessible boating infrastructure for the local community.

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“I’ve discussed this matter with the Transport Minister's office and understand that Maritime Safety Queensland is actively working with Mackay Regional Council and other stakeholders to investigate boating infrastructure options,” he said.

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“I’ll continue to advocate for an outcome that better meets the needs of Mackay boaties.”

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Safety Circus visited Mackay schools, using music and education to help Year 2 students recognise unsafe situations and feel confident speaking up. Photo source: Nigel Dalton MP  

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A splash of red was seen across Mackay last Friday 30^th October, as schools and members of the community joined a nationwide show of support for Day for Daniel, remembering a young life lost too soon while renewing an important conversation about child safety.

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More than two decades after 13-year-old Daniel Morcombe disappeared from Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, his story continues to resonate with families across the country, including here in the Mackay region.

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Daniel was living with his parents and brothers in Palmwoods when he went missing on Sunday, December 7^th 2003. He had been on his way to buy Christmas presents for his family and was last seen wearing a red T-shirt while waiting for a bus. Following years of searching and an extensive undercover police investigation, Daniel was found deceased in 2011.

In the wake of his disappearance, Daniel’s parents, Bruce and Denise, established the Daniel Morcombe Foundation, turning their family's devastating experience into a legacy of child safety education.

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The red T-shirt Daniel wore that day has since become a recognised symbol of the cause each year, with Day for Daniel held annually on the last Friday of October. The initiative encourages Australians to wear red, remember Daniel and help equip children with the knowledge to recognise unsafe situations and speak up.

Across Mackay, schools took part in this year's event, with students and teachers wearing red to show their support and help keep the message front of mind for another generation.

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Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton also spoke to the importance of education and community initiatives in helping children understand how to stay safe, including the Safety Circus program which visits Mackay schools.

“Through initiatives like Safety Circus, children are empowered with the knowledge and confidence to recognise unsafe situations and speak up when something doesn't feel right,” Mr Dalton said.

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“Daniel's legacy has helped educate generations of young Queenslanders and reminds us that keeping children safe is a responsibility we all share.

“With the next Safety Circus school tour kicking off, that important message will continue reaching students across our region.”

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Safety Circus is a 45-minute children's musical addressing a range of safety issues, helping young students build confidence in recognising unsafe situations and knowing when to speak up.

CQUniversity partners with the Daniel Morcombe Foundation to bring the award-winning production to Year 2 classes in primary schools each year. Having already visited a number of schools, the next tour will continue taking that message into classrooms across the Mackay region.