Following the recent recall of Parliament and the passage of the Government’s hate speech laws in January 2026, Andrew Willcox MP, Member for Dawson, is calling for urgent action to criminalise the burning and desecration of the Australian flag.

Despite repeated attempts, including an amendment during the January 2026 sitting, the Albanese Labor Government voted against making flag burning a criminal offence. This leaves the national flag, the enduring symbol of our history, freedoms and shared values, vulnerable to public desecration.

“The Australian flag is not just a piece of fabric,” Mr Willcox said.

“It represents our shared history, our sacrifices, and the freedoms earned through generations of courage and service. Sadly, most recently on Australia Day, we’ve seen the flag set alight in public protests, actions that are celebrated by some, but which show contempt for everything the flag stands for.”

Mr Willcox referenced recent protests in Brisbane and other cities where the flag has been burned in front of crowds, while Australians wearing the flag with pride have been threatened or attacked.

“It is deeply disturbing that someone proudly displaying the Australian flag can be targeted, while those who burn it face no consequence under federal law. This is not a race or religion matter, it is about respect for our nation, its symbols, and the values we all share,” he said.

“No words can describe the feelings I believe the majority of Australians hold when seeing this disgraceful act,” Mr Willcox added.

“Burning our Australian flag, or any flag, isn’t ‘brave’ or ‘activism’, it’s disrespectful and wrong.

“Protest is a democratic right but desecrating our national flag is not.

“Our flag represents our shared history, the sacrifices of Australians before us, and the freedoms that allow peaceful protests to occur in the first place.

“This has been raised in Parliament twice now and I have spoken in support of making this illegal. Yet the Albanese Government refused to support this, voting it down.

“Burning our flag doesn’t advance justice or unity, it deepens division and erodes respect.

“Twice in the space of six months, the Albanese Government has shelved this important protection.

“The question is simple: why is the government so determined to leave our national flag unprotected?”

Mr Willcox emphasised that protecting the Australian flag is about unity.

“We do our best as a nation when we stand together under one flag. I will continue to fight for legislation that ensures our national symbol is respected and safeguarded for generations to come.”

After strong public support, Mr Willcox has launched an online petition on his website to criminalise the desecration of the Australian flag. People can find the petition at andrewwillcox.com.au.

Contributed with thanks to the office of Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox MP

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The 2026 Isaac Region Australia Day Awards honoured locals making a real difference in their communities at a ceremony in Clermont on January 25. Kevin Elliott was named Citizen of the Year for decades of service across St Lawrence and the wider region, including volunteer work with the ambulance and rural fire brigade, forming the Clarke Creek Campdraft, and supporting countless community events.

Young Citizen of the Year Jixie Navarro was recognised for her leadership, volunteering, fundraising and music contributions in Moranbah, including the Moranbah Memory 5K Walk and Jog for Dementia and Dance for Sick Kids.

Community Event of the Year went to the Nebo Hotel Street Party, while Corporate Community Contribution of the Year recognised Kylie and Craig Stanley from QRI Services, Coppabella. The Spirit of Isaac Award celebrated the Clermont branch of the Queensland Country Women’s Association for 100 years of ongoing community support.

The Queensland Country Women’s Association Clermont Branch claimed The Spirit of Isaac Award. Photo supplied

The People Of The Isaac Region Honoured
At The 2026 Australia Day Awards

The 2026 Isaac Region Australia Day Award winners were recognised at Isaac’s Regional Awards Ceremony in Clermont on Sunday, January 25, celebrating outstanding service, leadership and community contribution across the region.

A lifetime of dedication to St Lawrence and the wider Isaac region was formally recognised when Kevin Elliott was named Citizen of the Year for his long history of service through both his professional career and extensive community involvement. His family operated the St Lawrence Hotel, and he later managed the Post Office before joining Council. He worked with Council from the late 1990s until retiring late last year. Mr Elliott also helped form the Clarke Creek Campdraft in 1975 and proudly carried the Olympic Torch in 2000.

His volunteer service has been equally significant, including more than 50 years as a volunteer ambulance officer and more than 25 years with the rural fire brigade. He has also been a long-time member of the St Lawrence Sportsground Committee and the Recreation Group, where he is known for consistently supporting events, working bees and community activities. Widely regarded for helping anyone who asks, day or night, Mr Elliott was described as a worthy recipient of the region’s highest honour.

Jixie Navarro received the Young Citizen of the Year award in recognition of her strong contribution to Moranbah across volunteering, music, leadership and academic achievement. She organised the Moranbah Memory 5K Walk and Jog for Dementia, supported a range of local events, and raised funds for Ronald McDonald House Charities through Dance for Sick Kids. Ms Navarro also performs regularly with Jam N Butter, bringing live music to community and charity events across the region.

As Moranbah State High School Vice Captain in 2025, she played an active role in student leadership and mentoring, and was recognised with the QRC WIMARQ Exceptional Female QMEA Student of the Year award for her advocacy and leadership in STEM.

The Community Event of the Year award was presented to the Nebo Hotel Street Party. The much-loved annual event brings the community together each year, featuring live music, food, family activities and strong local involvement, celebrating the spirit of small-town life in regional Queensland.

Kylie and Craig Stanley from QRI Services in Coppabella were honoured with the Corporate Community Contribution of the Year award. The pair have helped transform Coppabella through their leadership with QRI Services and Coppabella One Stop.

The Spirit of Isaac Award was presented to the Queensland Country Women’s Association Clermont Branch. The Clermont QCWA celebrated 100 years of service in 2025 with a Centenary Ball that brought the community together in vintage style, while raising funds for BMA CQ Rescue and the Royal Flying Doctor Service.

The Clermont QCWA continues to play a vital role in local life through its hands-on support across the community, including volunteering at events, teaching cooking in schools, preparing birthing kits and catering at cattle sales, with its ongoing commitment making it a valued and well-loved part of the Clermont community.

Isaac Regional Council Mayor Kelly Vea Vea said, “These awards reflect the people who make the Isaac region what it is, locals who give their time, step up for others, and lead by example in ways that often go unseen,” Mayor Vea Vea said.

“With 149 nominations received this year, it is clear our communities are full of people making a real difference, and today we are proud to recognise and celebrate their contribution to our towns and to the Isaac region.”

The 2026 Isaac Region Australia Day and Citizenship Ceremony also welcomed 25 new Australian citizens in Clermont.

The 2027 event will be held on the Isaac Coast as part of the new rotation, with the ceremony hosted in the hometown of the previous Citizen of the Year winner.

The following recipients were also presented with the Mayor’s Award and Community Champion Award.

Mayor’s Award:

• St Lawrence Creatives (Isaac Coast)
• Clermont Men’s Shed (Clermont)
• Dysart Men’s Shed (Dysart)
• Sharni Wood (Glenden)
• Cooper Downing (Middlemount)
• Kylie Howe (Moranbah)
• Valkyrie Mini Olympics (Nebo)

Community Champion Award:

• Courtney Quinn (Isaac Coast)
• Lou Power (Clermont)
• Sandy & Jason Moffat (Dysart)
• Tevin Waerea (Glenden)
• Elizabeth Stewart (Middlemount)
• Jacob King (Moranbah)
• Joy Cooper (Nebo)
• Malakai Rich (Coppabella)
• Anneli Day (Clarke Creek)

 


Community Event of the Year-Nebo Hotel Street Party

Corporate Community Contribution of the Year-QRI Services Coppabella

Spirit of Isaac-Clermont Branch-Queensland Country Women's Association

Young Citizen of the Year-Jixie Navarro. Photos supplied

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Krystal Demaid – Access and Inclusion Achievement Award

Krystal Demaid has turned personal challenge into a platform for community impact. After a fall left her with Functional Neurological Disease and paralysis from the waist down, Krystal committed herself to reshaping perceptions of disability and demonstrating what is possible with determination. She mentors others navigating rehabilitation, advocates nationally for inclusion, disability awareness and mental health, and inspires through her honesty and lived experience.

Her sporting achievements are equally impressive. Since taking up wheelchair basketball in 2019, she has earned bronze and silver medals, a major trophy, and recognition as a rising talent. Playing with the Mackay Machines brought her into the national spotlight, earning an invitation to Australia’s women’s team, the Comets, with hopes to join the 2025 Women’s National Wheelchair Basketball Team. Krystal also made history as the first woman in Mackay to complete the 21km Marina Run in a wheelchair, overcoming setbacks to set a record.

Her advocacy, resilience, and sporting excellence earned her the 2026 Brenden Borellini Access and Inclusion Achievement Award.

Dr Alison Pighills – Environmental Achievement Award

Dr Alison Pighills has dedicated nearly a decade to wildlife rehabilitation, transforming her rural Mount Jukes property into a sanctuary for injured and orphaned animals. Beginning with possums in 2016, her work has expanded to wallabies and koalas, with more than 100 wallabies successfully returned to the wild.

Alison serves as treasurer and koala coordinator for Fauna Rescue Whitsundays and led the creation of the Fauna Rescue Whitsundays Koala and Wildlife Rehabilitation Facility, officially opened in April 2025. The 40m by 40m sanctuary features a medical treatment room, isolation space, and outdoor bushland for koalas to practice foraging before release.

Her dedication has provided countless animals a second chance, while also fostering community awareness and involvement in wildlife conservation. Through her tireless efforts, Alison has made a profound and lasting contribution to Mackay’s environmental landscape, earning her the 2026 Environmental Achievement Award.

Nicole Thomson – Arts and Culture Award

Nicole Thomson is a driving force in Mackay’s performing arts community, combining leadership, expertise, and mentorship to enrich local culture. In 2025, she played a central role in productions at the MECC, guiding Mackay Choral Society members in Sisters Are Doing It for Themselves and leading the children’s chorus for Opera Australia’s La Bohème. Her meticulous preparation and calm leadership ensure performers of all levels thrive on stage.

Nicole has also contributed to Mackay Choral Society’s 80th anniversary, Carols by Candlelight, and the Exchange for Peace collaboration with Malaysian musicians. Her work extends to musical theatre, directing productions at CQUniversity and Mackay Musical Comedy Players. Nationally recognised, she presented research at the ANATS Conference in Melbourne and earned a nomination for the Lynette Denny Award.

Through her dedication, Nicole has nurtured emerging talent, strengthened community arts, and created lasting opportunities, securing her place as the 2026 Arts and Culture Award winner.

Mackay parkrun – Community Group Award

Mackay parkrun has become a vibrant fixture in the community, bringing people together every Saturday morning at 7am in the Botanic Gardens for a free 5km walk, jog, or run. Since its launch, the event has been held 466 times, entirely organised by volunteers, with Christine Davies and Michael Vella leading the way alongside a dedicated team.

The event is inclusive and welcoming, encouraging participants of all ages and abilities to get active in a safe, supportive environment. There are no time limits, and no one finishes last, creating a culture of celebration and camaraderie. Regular participation has grown into a thriving community of cheerleaders, friendships, and health-conscious residents.

Mackay parkrun’s success also inspired the creation of Seaview parkrun in Bucasia, extending the program to Mackay’s Northern Beaches. The initiative highlights the power of grassroots community engagement, improving health, fostering connections, and bringing joy to residents, making Mackay parkrun a standout nominee for the 2026 Community Group Award.

Ayla Moon – Young Sports Award

At just 14, Ayla Moon is emerging as one of Australia’s most promising middle-distance runners. Her performances across 2024 and 2025 have earned national recognition, highlighted by multiple championship wins and record-breaking runs.

In September 2025, at the Athletics North Queensland Championships in Townsville, Ayla captured gold in the 400m, 800m, and 1500m, and silver in the 200m, breaking championship records in both the 400m and 800m. She also won the 400m at the inaugural Run With Cathy Freeman event and claimed the national Under-14 400m title at the Australian All Schools Championships, placing second in the 800m.

Beyond her results, Ayla’s humility, determination, and dedication to supporting fellow athletes have set her apart. She is admired by coaches and peers alike for her work ethic and commitment. With her talent, drive, and leadership, Ayla is not just a champion athlete, but a role model for young sportspeople, earning her the 2026 Young Sports Award.

Daniel Mayfield – Senior Sports Award
Daniel “Danny” Mayfield has dedicated decades to developing hockey in Mackay, inspiring players of all ages while strengthening the local sporting community. A talented player in his youth, Danny represented both Mackay and Queensland across multiple age groups, culminating in his selection for the Australian Masters team.

However, his greatest impact has been as a coach. He has guided numerous teams, including Mackay’s Under-14 boys at the Queensland titles, blending tactical expertise with encouragement and patience. Danny also contributed to indoor hockey, coaching the Under-18 boys’ indoor team to a state championship in 2023 and earning recognition as a Queensland coach.

Beyond the field, Danny has served on the executive of the Mackay School Hockey Association, offering his time, leadership, and guidance wherever needed. His dedication, skill, and community spirit have elevated the sport locally, inspiring countless players. For his lifelong commitment to hockey and the Mackay community, Danny is the deserving recipient of the 2026 Senior Sports Award.

Edie Weiss – Lori Burgess Community Volunteer Award

For 25 years, Edie Weiss has been a cornerstone of suicide prevention and crisis support in Mackay through her work with Lifeline Australia. Her dedication extends across Grapevine Suicide Prevention initiatives, Run for Mi Life, and widespread delivery of SafeTALK training to community groups.

Edie also facilitates the two-day ASIST (Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training) program, equipping participants, particularly those who work closely with people in crisis, with life-saving skills. Her commitment to suicide prevention is underpinned by a vision to foster awareness, reduce stigma, and encourage open conversation about mental health.

Her support extends beyond training, assisting vulnerable communities affected by natural disasters with communication and emotional support. Over the past 25 years, Edie’s tireless work has directly contributed to the wellbeing of thousands, providing reassurance, guidance, and hope to those in their most challenging moments. Her extraordinary commitment earned her the 2026 Lori Burgess Community Volunteer Award.

Amelia Bishop – Young Citizen Award

Amelia Bishop exemplifies leadership, service, and community spirit. A dedicated volunteer, she contributes to the Mackay community through Eimeo Surf Lifesaving Club patrols, Mackay Road Runners, and the Mackay Marina Run. Within her school, Whitsunday Anglican, she serves as 2026 School Captain Elect, Zonta Club President, Year 1 Reading Program Coordinator, and SONY Camp Companion.

Amelia founded an Indigenous scrunchie business at just 11, showcasing entrepreneurship, creativity, and cultural pride. Her commitment to Indigenous health includes work experience with ATSICHS Mackay and the Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service, aligning with her aspirations to pursue a career in Indigenous health.

Her leadership, achievements, and contributions have been recognised through awards including the ADF Long Tan Youth Leadership and Teamwork Award and participation in prestigious programs like the ANU Indigenous Summer School and Queensland Surf Lifesaving Youth Excellence Leadership Program. Amelia’s dedication to service and cultural pride earned her the 2026 Young Citizen Award.

Col Benson – Citizen of the Year

Col Benson has dedicated more than 40 years to supporting veterans and families through the Mackay RSL Sub-branch. A Vietnam War veteran and long-serving member of the Royal Australian Air Force, he has shaped the community’s commemorative traditions with humble dedication.

Col plays a central role in organising ANZAC Day, Remembrance Day, Victory in Europe and Pacific Day ceremonies, the Rats of Tobruk tribute, the Bakers Creek Memorial, and the annual Fokker Friendship crash remembrance, ensuring each event honours Australia’s servicemen and women with solemnity and care.

He also educates young people on military history, fostering understanding and gratitude, while offering vital support to veterans and families in times of need, from mental health guidance to personalised funeral services. Through decades of service, leadership, and compassion, Col Benson embodies community spirit and is a fitting recipient of the 2026 Citizen of the Year Award.

Congratulations to all the award winners and nominees!

Col Benson – Citizen of the Year. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Amelia Bishop – Young Citizen Award. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

Edie Weiss – Lori Burgess Community Volunteer Award
Krystal Demaid – Access and Inclusion Achievement Award

Dr Alison Pighills – Environmental Achievement Award

Nicole Thomson – Arts and Culture Award
Mackay parkrun – Community Group Award
Ayla Moon – Young Sports Award. Photo source: Mackay Regional Council

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Mackay Regional Council has strengthened its future workforce, welcoming 10 new apprentices and trainees through its doors last Tuesday, with another five set to join in the coming weeks. The intake provides a timely boost to the region’s skills pipeline, supporting local talent and career pathways just ahead of National Apprenticeship Week, running from 9 – 15 February.

Mayor Greg Williamson congratulated the successful applicants, saying the Apprentice and Trainee Program provided an invaluable pathway into both council and the wider workforce.

“Congratulations to all our new apprentices and trainees – council is a fantastic place to begin your career and we’re thrilled to welcome people from diverse backgrounds into our organisation,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Our Apprenticeship and Traineeship Program often leads to long-term employment and we’re extremely proud that many past participants are still contributing to council more than a decade later.

“This program is central to our long-term workforce planning – it helps us pass on knowledge from one generation to the next while strengthening skills and capability across council and our broader community.”

Former trainee Peta Burridge said her traineeship kick-started her career in youth work.

“My traineeship has been the highlight of my career – I learnt so much and everyone in the team was so encouraging and supportive,” Ms Burridge said.

“As a Youth Worker Trainee, I learnt how to support youth councils and run activities for young people, and now in my job as a Youth Worker at council I work with a large range of young people across the Mackay region every day.”

Former horticulture trainee Tahni Cross said council provided the career change opportunity she was looking for.

“For me, it’s been a great way to try something different – to transition to a role outside of the office and broaden my skillset,” Ms Cross said.

“I did a Certificate III in Horticulture at council’s Nursery and then moved to Natural Areas on the Beach Crew and now I am a full-time Parks Maintenance Officer at the Botanic Gardens. I wanted to try something different – this was a really good opportunity to broaden my skillset and I really love it.”

The newest intake will step into a diverse range of hands-on and community-focused roles across Council, including:

   • Live Production and Staging Trainee at the MECC.
   • Youth Worker Trainee working across Mackay, Sarina and the Pioneer Valley communities.
   • Two Library Services trainees working across Gordon White and Dudley Denny library branches.
   • Information Technology Trainee in council’s Corporate Services team.
   • Business Trainee working across the Customer Experience and Waste Services teams.
   • Apprentice Mechanic (Small Engine) starting at the Paget Workshop.
   • Apprentice Plumber starting in the Field Services team.
   • Apprentice Electrician starting in the Facilities and Open Spaces team.
   • Horticulture Trainee starting in the Parks Maintenance team.

New apprentices and trainees start at council: (Left to right) Felicity Allen, Jade Coleman, Hailey Quiazon, Flynn Cureton, Katie Large, Kai-Yi Comerford, Patrick Gleeson, Mayor Greg Williamson, CEO Gerard Carlyon, Jake Toonen, Claire Pasetti, Tyler Casey. Photo supplied

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On 20 January 1918, Mackay faced one of the most destructive natural disasters in Queensland’s history. An unnamed cyclone with wind gusts estimated at 195 kilometres an hour tore through the city, while a storm surge produced waves up to 2.7 metres high. Over three days, relentless rainfall totalling 1,141 mm flooded the Pioneer River, leaving a trail of devastation. Communication breakdowns meant news of the disaster did not reach the wider world for five days.

Reports suggest thirty lives were lost across the Mackay region, however only 28 men, women and children are identified on the official memorial plaque that stands by the Pioneer River at the Bluewater Quay today.

Among those who perished was William Coakley, a respected community member who is believed to have donated land in Farley for the local Catholic Church.

“He was known to be a very polite, nice man,” said Local Historian and 2026 Mackay Australian Citizen of the Year, Col Benson.

The Welsh family also suffered horrific losses, with a father and five children swept away by floodwaters. Only one child, Edward, survived when he became lodged against a window and was later rescued by a legendary local man.

"There are many families who still remember aspects of that disaster,” said Col.

“This year’s tribute reminded us of their resilience and the lives affected.”

He reflected personally on the impact: "My mother was just nine years old at the time, visiting her cousin. Their home was destroyed, and the water came up to the 12th step. It’s a story that has stayed with our family, and it represents so many others in Mackay.

“Their courage and the way the community rebuilt after the cyclone is what makes Mackay’s history so remarkable," Mr Benson said.

“The memorials we see today, like the Baker’s Creek Memorial, are there to honour those who survived and those who didn’t.”

The Pioneer River memorial, officially unveiled in 1998, lists the names of known victims, serving as a solemn reminder of the human cost. Yet, Mackay has never held an annual ceremony to honour the lives lost, leaving families without a formal way to remember.

Eyewitness accounts from the time describe the intensity of the storm. George Randall, former Officer in Charge of the Flat Top Lighthouse, recorded winds reaching hurricane force by midnight on 20 January and noted the destruction of homes, wharves, and the outer harbour embankment. Relief and communication efforts were hampered for days, with supplies and support only arriving after repeated attempts to signal passing ships. Randall’s log details both the physical devastation and the human perseverance that helped Mackay recover.

The 1918 cyclone remains Mackay’s greatest natural disaster, a story of both loss and the extraordinary resilience of its people in a bid to shape the region to what it is today.

The following is a list of those who lost their lives in the 1918 cyclone, as recorded on the memorial:

Aboriginal male recorded as “Dummy”
Aboriginal male recorded as “Jimmy”
Charles Anderson
William Anderson
Joseph Carr
William Coakley
Richard Francis
Edna Frier
Charles Hartwig
Edward Hehin
J. M. Kenney
Robert Morton
Armenia Pagel
Alice Amelia Shanks
Alice Shanks
Cyril Shanks
John Shanks
Elizabeth Welch
Mabel Welch
Rose Welch
Lucy Welch
Charles Welch
Sarah Welch
Georgina Renor
Mary Renor
Thomas Renor
Unknown Malay male

Mackay’s 1918 cyclone, with 195 km/h winds and massive flooding, claimed 30 lives and devastated the city, remembered today through survivor stories and the Pioneer River memorial. Photo source: Col Benson

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Queensland has welcomed 79 new police officers in the first graduating cohort of 2026, strengthening frontline policing across the state. The new officers, 56 men and 23 women, will be deployed across Brisbane, regional and remote communities, including five to the Mackay Whitsunday District.

Other regions receiving graduates include North Brisbane (14), South Brisbane (11), Far North (10), Townsville (8), Logan (7), Gold Coast (5), Ipswich (5), Capricornia (4), Moreton (4), Sunshine Coast (3), Wide Bay Burnett (2) and Mount Isa (1).

The cohort, aged 18 to 50, comes from diverse professional backgrounds including defence, health, engineering, trades, hospitality and customer service. The graduates follow a strong year of recruitment in 2025, when 1,180 new officers joined the Queensland Police Service, helping to ensure communities across the state are well supported.

Minister for Police and Emergency Services Dan Purdie said the graduates mark “the next wave in our plan to restore safety where you live and rebuild the frontline.”

Queensland Police Commissioner Steve Gollschewski welcomed the new officers, noting that the “newest Constables will have a career that makes a positive difference to the lives of others.”

“Queenslanders can be assured that these new officers are ready to support their communities with integrity, respect and courage.”

For Mackay and the Whitsundays, the deployment of five new officers provides a tangible boost to local policing, enhancing the district’s capacity to respond to community needs while strengthening safety across the region.

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The most memorable marketing campaigns don’t happen by chance. They’re built on strategic thinking, strong creative direction, and a deep understanding of how people behave, think, and make decisions. In this editorial, redhotblue takes a closer look at successful big-brand marketing campaigns and what local businesses can learn from them.

Strong brands build familiarity over time, but it’s not as simple as waiting for time to pass. They start with a clear, cohesive idea and reinforce it consistently across every channel. The message is repeated in ways that feel fresh, relevant, and meaningful, until it becomes instantly recognisable.

A standout example of this approach is Specsavers and its popular tagline, “Should’ve gone to Specsavers,” which has become a household phrase. Simple and relatable, it allows for endless creative interpretations while always delivering the same core message: that better vision helps you avoid unnecessary problems. What makes the campaign so effective is its consistency. While eyewear has a broad, diverse audience, Specsavers uses humour and exaggeration to tap into a shared human experience - when poor vision leads to awkward or amusing outcomes. Each ad is different yet unmistakably tied to the same concept.

The real success, however, isn’t a single clever campaign. It’s making the brand the first thing people think of when those moments occur. When a phrase becomes synonymous with a business, the brand benefits from constant, unpaid word-of-mouth exposure. Even without a logo or advertisement in sight, the message still lands. When ideas are repeated consistently, they become memorable, which assists in building trust.

Once that trust is established, brands can take creative risks. Bolder ideas can have a greater impact because the audience already connects with the brand and its personality. Specsavers demonstrated this with a striking airport campaign, where travellers arriving in Sydney were welcomed with signs reading ‘Welcome to Melbourne,’ while Melbourne arrivals saw ‘Welcome to Sydney.’ The deliberate mistake caused a moment of confusion until the viewer was reassured by the familiar “Should’ve gone to Specsavers” line. What could have been a frustrating gimmick became a memorable brand moment and a talking point.

Effective marketing doesn’t need to be complicated; however, it does need to be grounded in strategy, consistency, and creativity, to achieve extraordinary results. For businesses of any size, including those in regional communities, the principles remain the same. Strong brands are built deliberately, and when marketing is done right, the impact extends far beyond the advertisement itself.

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In regional Queensland, where reliable trade services are not just a convenience but a necessity, Tropical Coast Plumbing has emerged as a benchmark for professionalism, responsiveness and workforce development.

Founded by Co-owners Lachlan and Kym Cooke in 2019, the company’s rapid expansion in just six years reflects a leadership style grounded in opportunity, strategic growth and an unmatched devotion to regional customers.

Tropical Coast Plumbing provides an extensive range of licensed plumbing services across Mackay, Townsville, Rockhampton and surrounding areas, handling more than 5,000 jobs each year. Flexible payment options, including Afterpay, are also available to help make the process smooth, accessible and stress-free for customers.

Their services include general maintenance, leak repairs, blocked drains, hot water systems, gas fitting, backflow testing and compliance reporting. This is supported by advanced capabilities such as audible leak detection technology, no-dig pipe relining, CCTV drain inspections and commercial-grade jetting equipment.

Mr Cooke says, “It’s all about how we can best serve our customers.”

“You expect quality plumbing in the metro areas, so why would you settle for anything less here?”

At the heart of Tropical Coast Plumbing’s success is a deliberate investment in people, with apprenticeships playing a central role in shaping the future of the trade in regional Queensland.

Mr Cooke says early exposure to the trade is both practical, and personal.

“I got an apprenticeship through work experience… so I love to give back in that aspect.”

“We’ve got a great team behind us, and our apprentices do an exceptional job with the tradesmen.”

Beyond standard qualifications, Tropical Coast Plumbing continues to invest in advanced training, ensuring its teams arrive fully prepared, professionally presented, and rigorously safety-checked, giving clients added peace of mind when welcoming technicians into their homes.

As an essential service, the business operates around the clock, 24/7.

“Our guys are on shift 24/7, every day, including public holidays,” Mr Cooke said.

That operational readiness is underpinned by a strong internal culture, with leadership playing a key role in setting expectations and maintaining standards.

“We have a really strong leadership team here,” he said.

“We’re all extremely hardworking, and energetic.”

Mr Cooke said having skilled, qualified tradespeople in regional areas is critical to community safety and essential infrastructure.

“Plumbing is an essential service that requires qualified, experienced tradespeople,” he said.

“We pride ourselves on being able to help our community in times of need, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, including public holidays.”

Extending beyond the job site, is their heart for community.

Tropical Coast Plumbing regularly supports deserving not-for-profit organisations through their Giveback Community Fund, alongside a range of initiatives designed to strengthen the regions they serve.

It’s these acts of generosity, combined with operational excellence and a people-first culture, that define Tropical Coast Plumbing, not just as a trusted trade service, but as a team committed to delivering reliable, expert plumbing solutions wherever they’re needed.

Give Tropical Coast Plumbing a call today!

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Police are appealing for public assistance after a quantity of property was found dumped on agricultural land along Maraju-Yakapari Road, Erakala. The items, discovered on Monday, 19 January, were stored in two bags and included old jewellery, collector coins, spoons, gems and a block of gold. The property was handed in to Mackay Police Station on January 20. Officers believe the items may have been stolen and are seeking information to help reunite them with their rightful owners. Anyone with information is urged to contact Mackay Police Station on 07 4968 3444. Reference number: QP2600116509.

A man has been charged with multiple weapons and drug offences following a vehicle interception in Sarina. Just before 9pm on 24 January, police stopped a brown Holden Captiva on Hans Christian Street. A search of the vehicle allegedly uncovered two shortened firearms, four shotgun shells and a quantity of cannabis. A 41-year-old Oakenden man was charged with weapons, ammunition and drug-related offences. He is due to appear before Sarina Magistrates Court on March 9. Reference number: QP2600157251.

Police are appealing for community assistance following the theft of stationary mounted whale-watching binoculars from Lamberts Lookout Road, Slade Point. The binoculars were stolen sometime between 10 January and 14 January. Anyone with information relating to the incident is urged to contact police. Reference number: QP2600143892.

Detectives from Moranbah Criminal Investigation Branch have charged a man with multiple offences following the execution of a search warrant at a Clermont property. Around 12.10pm on Thursday 29 January, police attended a McDonald Flat Road residence as part of ongoing investigations into drug and weapon offences. Officers allegedly seized dangerous drugs, illegal weapons and a quantity of cash. A 29-year-old Clermont man has been charged with 12 offences and is due to reappear before Moranbah Magistrates Court on 16 April. Reference number: QP2600186518.

Anyone with information for police is encouraged to contact Policelink or report anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

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Queensland councils are set to receive a boost in their fight against illegal dumping with the launch of the Governments’ $17.7 million Fighting Illegal Dumping Partnership Program (FIDPP). The initiative is designed to provide local councils with the tools and resources needed to prevent and respond to illegal waste dumping across the state.

Funding under the program can be used to employ dedicated illegal dumping compliance officers, purchase surveillance equipment, signage, vehicles, and other resources to enhance councils’ capacity to investigate and deter offenders. The program supports councils in protecting local communities and the environment, including parks, waterways, and public spaces, from the impacts of litter and unlawful dumping.

Minister for the Environment and Tourism, Andrew Powell, said the program strengthens collaboration with councils across Queensland, equipping them to safeguard the places residents care about.

“Queensland is blessed with some of the most extraordinary natural landscapes anywhere in the world, and we all have a responsibility to protect it from the harm caused by litter and illegal dumping,” he said.

Applications for the FIDPP are open until 4pm on 25th February 2026, with full grant guidelines and application forms available through the Queensland Government website. By providing councils with dedicated resources and compliance support, the program aims to reduce illegal dumping, maintain clean public spaces, and ensure Queensland communities benefit from safer, healthier environments.

Image for illustrative purposes only. Photo source: Shutterstock

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Queensland’s sugar industry has launched a new on-farm greenhouse gas emissions calculator to help growers meet growing market, financial and regulatory demands for verified sustainability data.

Released by CANEGROWERS through the Smartcane BMP platform, the tool allows farmers to measure total emissions and emissions intensity per tonne of sugar using internationally recognised standards. The calculator captures Scope 1, Scope 2 and Scope 3 emissions, with all data securely stored under the grower’s control.

CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan said the initiative responds to shifting market expectations.

“Emissions data is now part of the conversation with buyers, mills, refiners, marketers and finance institutions,” he said.

“This gives growers a practical way to generate credible information and remain competitive.”

The tool is voluntary and available to all growers, whether or not they are Smartcane BMP-accredited, forming part of Module 4 of the program, which links on-farm practices to downstream sustainability and reporting requirements.

“This is about providing useful information, not imposing new requirements, and ensuring farm data stays on the farm where it can be used for decision making,” Mr Galligan said.

He noted the calculator builds on decades of efficiency improvements by growers, making productivity gains and input reductions visible to markets when growers choose to share them.

Smartcane BMP, funded by the Queensland Government and industry investment—including proceeds from the first shipment of Smartcane BMP-accredited sugar to UK refiner Tate & Lyle—aims to strengthen Queensland sugar’s position in sustainable global markets.

“That shipment showed there is genuine market demand for sustainably produced Queensland sugar,” Mr Galligan said.

“This tool strengthens the industry’s ability to meet that demand.”

The emissions calculator is now available to all Queensland sugarcane growers via the Smartcane BMP platform.

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Queensland’s sugar industry has rolled out a new on-farm greenhouse gas emissions calculator. Photo source: CANEGROWERS

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A Federal Government review of the Horticulture Code of Conduct could have important implications for growers across the Mackay region, as one of Queensland’s key horticultural and food-producing hubs.

The Government has announced an independent review of the Code, to be led by Mr Chris Leptos AO. The review will assess whether the existing rules governing trade between growers and traders of wholesale, unprocessed fruit, vegetables, nuts and herbs remain fit for purpose in a changing industry.

While the Burdekin is widely recognised for its intensive horticultural production, Mackay and the surrounding Pioneer Valley also play a critical role in Queensland’s horticulture supply chain. Local growers produce a range of crops including vegetables, tropical fruits and small-scale specialty produce, much of which is sold through central wholesale markets regulated under the Code.

Nationally, horticulture is Australia’s third-largest agricultural industry, with production value forecast to reach a record $18.9 billion this financial year. Exports are also expected to hit a new high of $4.4 billion, highlighting the sector’s growing importance to the national economy.

The Horticulture Code of Conduct governs commercial relationships between growers and traders, particularly those supplying central wholesale markets. Around 10,000 growers supply produce through these markets, which are serviced by more than 400 wholesalers. Each year, approximately 4 million tonnes of horticultural produce—valued at more than $8 billion—is traded nationally.

The review will examine whether the Code remains effective, given significant changes to the horticulture sector since it was last reviewed in 2015. This includes shifts in market power, supply chain structures and competition dynamics that may directly affect regional producers, including those in Mackay.

Mr Leptos will consult widely with stakeholders across the horticulture supply chain over the coming months. Growers, traders, industry groups and government agencies are being encouraged to review the consultation paper and provide feedback on how the Code operates in practice and where improvements could be made.

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Julie Collins said the review aimed to ensure the Code continued to protect all parties.

“The horticulture sector has changed since the Code was last reviewed in 2015, and we want to understand if the Code is still fit-for-purpose,” she said.

Assistant Minister for Productivity, Competition, Charities and Treasury Andrew Leigh said fair competition was essential for industry sustainability.

“The Horticulture Code exists to stop unfair dealing and keep the playing field level,” he said.

A final report is expected to be delivered to the Federal Government by the end of April. Submissions can be made through the Department of Agriculture’s ‘Have Your Say’ website.

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Mackay’s home to a thriving horticulture industry. Photo supplied

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Sleep is often the first thing sacrificed in our busy lives, yet its influence on both health and mood is profound. Far from just a nightly pause, sleep is a vital reset for the body and mind, and a natural process that affects everything from memory to immunity.

Experts say a lack of quality sleep doesn’t just lead to grogginess; it can quietly undermine physical and mental wellbeing. During sleep, the body repairs cells, strengthens the immune system, and balances hormones that regulate appetite and stress. Skimping on rest can increase the risk of conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity, while also intensifying feelings of irritability, anxiety, and depression.

Beyond physical health, sleep plays a crucial role in cognitive function. Studies reveal that people who consistently get adequate rest are better at problem-solving, decision-making, and retaining information. Conversely, even one night of poor sleep can leave the brain foggy, emotions heightened, and focus compromised.

Simple habits can dramatically improve sleep quality: maintaining a consistent bedtime, limiting screen exposure before bed, and creating a calm, dark environment all set the stage for restorative rest. Experts also highlight the importance of listening to your body, and recognising when you’re tired and allowing yourself to recharge.

Ultimately, sleep isn’t a luxury; it’s a cornerstone of wellbeing. Prioritising it can transform your energy, resilience, and mood, making every day not just manageable but enjoyable.

After all, a rested body is a thriving body, and a rested mind is a happier one!

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My Chiropractor continues to build on its long-standing presence in the local community, offering personalised, gentle chiropractic care supported by modern technology and decades of combined clinical experience.

Under the ownership of Principal Chiropractor Marti Harris and his wife Colleen Harris, the locally owned practice has expanded its services and invested in advanced spinal decompression technology, positioning the clinic among a select group nationwide.

The practice operates two of only 17 Spine MT Core decompression machines in Australia, giving local patients access to highly specialised treatment options for disc issues and nerve compression without travelling to major metropolitan centres.

With more than 25 year’s experience each and a decade working together, Dr Marti and Dr Rod Le Coz place a strong emphasis on tailored treatment rather than a one-size-fits-all model.

“We’re not a cookie-cutter clinic… every person has a tailored program designed to achieve their health goals,” Dr Marti said.

Dr Marti said patients are drawn to the clinic’s blend of experience and innovation.

“The reason people come here is for a combination of knowledge, experience and the integration of modern technology,” he said.

Services include spinal adjustments, spinal decompression, dry needling, shockwave therapy, tailored rehabilitation and nutritional supplementation, supporting patients with disc injuries, nerve-related pain, arthritis, sporting injuries and those seeking alternatives to surgery or long-term medication.

“We just want to help people get better so they can function at work, pick up their kids and live their lives without suffering with pain,” Colleen said.

Centrally located and known for its friendly, welcoming team, My Chiropractor continues to build strong community relationships, helping patients move better, feel better and live better every day.

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As January wraps up and classrooms fill again, families across the region are adjusting to earlier mornings, packed lunches and the return of school routines. While the new year brings excitement, it can also bring fatigue and emotional overload for both children and parents.

Developmental paediatrician Dr Angela Owens says the return to school is a major transition, and it’s normal for the first few weeks to feel unsettled. With some planning and gentle strategies, she says families can build routines that support learning, wellbeing and connection.

Here are Dr Owens’ top 10 back-to-school tips to help families start the year on a positive note:

• Expect a bumpy start: New routines and social dynamics can be tiring. Behaviour may be more challenging at home, but this usually settles within a few weeks.

• Understand after-school meltdowns: Many children hold it together all day and release emotions at home. Keep after-school time low-pressure and offer snacks, movement or quiet time.

• Prioritise sleep: Consistent bedtimes and wake-up times support emotional regulation, focus and smoother mornings.

• Fuel the brain: Even small breakfasts help with stamina and concentration. Smoothies or grab-and-go options can work when time is tight.

• Use social stories: Simple stories or visual schedules can help younger children prepare for tricky situations like drop-off or playground challenges.

• Share a one-page snapshot with teachers: A brief summary of your child’s strengths, interests and support needs can help teachers respond quickly and effectively.

• Regulation before expectations: When children are overwhelmed, connection and calm come first. Predictable routines and positive cues can help.

• Short-term rewards are okay: In the early weeks, connection-based rewards can support emotional adjustment and motivation.

• Restart shared reading: Just 10 minutes a day supports learning, attention and emotional wellbeing.

• Schedule fun: Keeping enjoyable family time on the calendar supports resilience and helps children feel emotionally supported.

Dr Owens also reminds families that support is available. If challenges persist or stress levels remain high, speaking with a GP can be a helpful next step to ensure both children and parents are well supported as the school year unfolds.

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Dr Angela Owens. Photo source: Queensland Health

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