Willcox Backs Cheaper, Better, Fairer Path Forward

Federal Member for Dawson and Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability Andrew Willcox says the Coalition’s decision to abandon Labor’s net-zero target is a victory for common sense, cost-of-living relief and Australian industry.

Mr Willcox said the Coalition reached a principled position “the right way, through consultation, evidence and respect, not ideology, slogans or political theatre.”

“This decision puts Australians, and Dawson, first. It’s a practical plan to lower emissions without raising energy bills, because when energy costs more, everything costs more,” Mr Willcox said.

“Labor’s $9 trillion net-zero experiment would leave Medicare, the NDIS and the entire social compact at risk. Our plan doesn’t gamble the nation’s finances or sacrifice regional jobs to keep the activists happy.”

Mr Willcox said Australia is already pulling its weight on climate action. OECD nations are reducing emissions by around one per cent a year, Australia is reducing ours at double that rate.

“We are not climate laggards, we are climate over-achievers. We should do our fair share, but not twice everyone else’s share at an unsustainable cost.”

Meanwhile, Labor’s climate economics are failing every test of reality. Electricity prices are up 39 per cent, gas is up 46 per cent, real wages have fallen back to 2011 levels, and 7000 manufacturing jobs have disappeared.

“Labor’s net-zero policy has lost its social licence because it is costing households, costing jobs and costing us our competitive edge.”

Cheaper: Mr Willcox said the Coalition will back the best energy mix for Australia, not put “all our renewable eggs in one unreliable basket.” The policy opens the grid to zero-emissions nuclear, backs clean technology in gas and coal, and keeps renewables as part of the mix, just not the whole show.
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Labor instructs the market operator to chase targets. We will instruct it to chase the cheapest power. If we want affordable bills, the grid must buy affordability, not ideology.”

Better: Mr Willcox said Australia should focus on practical environmental action instead of locking up farmland to prove a point.

“Ninety-five per cent of Australia’s emission reductions so far have come from restricting productive land. That’s not environmentalism, that’s economic vandalism. We should invest more in bushfire mitigation, disaster-proof infrastructure, better land management and targeted local waterway health; solutions that protect both people and productivity.”

Fairer: Mr Willcox said Australia must continue to reduce emissions, but not in a way that destroys its economy.

“Labor’s targets require us to cut emissions by 4.7 per cent every year. That’s not a transition, that’s an amputation. If we sprint ahead of the world, we price ourselves out of markets, out of manufacturing and out of jobs.”

Mr Willcox said the Dawson region stands to benefit directly from a saner energy policy.

“Tourism operators, farmers, manufacturing plants, caravan parks, cold-stores, welding shops – every one of them runs on energy before they run on anything else.

“When power goes up, every room night, every crop, every truckload, every service costs more.

“Farmers don’t just harvest produce; they harvest power bills. A sugar mill can’t crush cane on a cloudy day and hope the batteries hold.

“Manufacturers don’t just compete with other nations; they compete with their electricity prices. You can’t forge steel on sunshine and good intentions.

“And our tourism operators can’t welcome more visitors if their overheads are soaring faster than the airfare.”

Mr Willcox said that in the real world, every dollar added to energy costs also increases costs for food, freight, housing materials, hospital expenses, and small business overhead.

“That’s why the Coalition has chosen cheaper, better and fairer – and Labor has chosen expensive, unreliable and unrealistic.

“I’m calling on local businesses to share their experiences with energy costs; you can reach me at andrew.willcox.mp@aph.gov.au.”

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Blue River Ice owner Francis Vigliante is feeling the freeze, while his power bills are boiling. His monthly bill jumped from $10,000 to $25,000 in 2024. Photos supplied

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The Queensland State Emergency Service Volunteer Association (QSESVA) is pleased to announce the election of Justin Englert as its new State President.

Mr Englert brings more than 23 years of dedicated service to the Queensland State Emergency Service (SES), with a career that spans leadership, training, and community development. He began with the Eastern Group, Brisbane City Unit, serving as Deputy Group Leader for Training before relocating to Mackay, where he went on to serve as Deputy Local Controller and later Local Controller of the Mackay City Unit. Following the 2008 council amalgamations, he was appointed the inaugural Local Controller of the Mackay Regional SES Unit, a position he held for eight years.

In addition to his operational and leadership experience, Mr Englert served two terms as a Mackay Regional Councillor from 2016 to 2024. During this time, he established Queensland’s first Local Government SES Strategic Directions Group — a pioneering framework that formalised collaboration between councils and the SES. The initiative improved governance, accountability, and volunteer support, setting a benchmark for cooperation between State and Local Governments.

A passionate advocate for volunteer training and capability development, Mr Englert has served as a senior instructor and operator across all SES functions (excluding RCR) and has deployed across Queensland in support of other SES units. He also founded the Mackay Emergency Services Cadet Unit, helping to inspire and prepare the next generation of emergency service volunteers.

Mr Englert said he is honoured to take on the role and looks forward to representing Queensland’s SES volunteers at a state level.

“Our volunteers are the backbone of community response across Queensland,” he said.

“My focus will be on strengthening capability, supporting training, improving resources, and ensuring our volunteers have the structures they need to continue delivering outstanding service to their communities.”

The QSESVA is the peak body representing SES volunteers in Queensland, advocating for their welfare, recognition, and continued capability to serve communities across the state.

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Justin Englert, a long-serving SES leader with more than 23 years of experience, has been elected President of the Queensland State Emergency Service Volunteer Association. Photo supplied

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Juvenile Spotted On Bucasia Beach

A juvenile crocodile has allegedly been spotted slinking along Bucasia Beach, near the caravan park, sending a shiver through locals and visitors alike.

While some online commenters joked the sighting might be AI-generated, multiple eyewitnesses insist the croc was very real.

The alert came from an anonymous Facebook poster, who said the croc was likely 3–4 feet long.

“I have no interest in scaring people and far too busy to make up stuff on AI,” the resident said.

“I posted this to warn others who walk the area and swim, particularly with dogs and children.”

Keeping a safe distance, the poster avoided close-up photos to protect both themselves and the animal, noting that adult crocodiles could be nearby.

Recent social media posts show a growing awareness among locals, with many sharing sightings and warning friends and family about the increased activity at the beach.

According to the Queensland Crocodile Sighting Dashboard, 10 crocodiles have been reported in the Mackay region in the past 30 days.

These contribute to a total of 163 cases currently classified as active or designated problem crocodiles. Authorities are monitoring the situation closely to ensure community safety.

Residents are urged to stay ‘croc safe’ and exercise caution, particularly near the waterline.

This latest sighting is a snappy reminder that even familiar stretches of sand can hide unexpected dangers, and vigilance is key.

If you spot a crocodile, or would like to know more information on how to be ‘croc safe’, visit the Queensland Government Crocodile Sightings webpage.

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Image posted anonymously on a community Facebook page

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Last week, the award-winning children’s musical Safety Circus visited primary schools across the Mackay region, delivering an entertaining 45-minute show focused on children’s safety.

The performance, presented in partnership with the Daniel Morcombe Foundation, is designed to teach children to Recognise, React and Report whenever they feel scared or unsafe.

The Safety Circus crew expressed their gratitude to the Daniel Morcombe Foundation for supporting the 2025 tour, which began on Monday 3 November, visiting schools throughout the Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday regions.

Students and staff at St Mary’s Catholic School, Calen College, Pindi Pindi State School, Seaforth State School, and Bloomsbury State School were among those excited to see the show, along with Koumala SS, Sarina SS, Mackay Special School, Beaconsfield SS, Moranbah SS, Finch Hatton SS, Gargett SS, Walkerston SS, North Eton SS, Eton SS, St John’s Walkerston, Glenella SS, Northview SS, and Mackay Christian College.

The annual tour provides primary school students with a fun, engaging way to learn essential safety skills, reinforcing messages promoted by the Daniel Morcombe Foundation. By combining music, performance, and practical advice, the Safety Circus helps children understand how to stay safe in everyday situations while enjoying an unforgettable theatrical experience.

The Safety Circus continues to tour throughout the region, reaching hundreds of students and supporting the Foundation’s ongoing mission to keep children safe.

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Photo source: Safety Circus

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In a remarkable moment for the region, Cadet Sergeant Murray Macgroarty, known locally for his advocacy for homeless veterans, was awarded one of the highest honours in the Australian Army Cadets on Saturday, November 8.

National Commander of AAC, Brigadier David McCammon (DSM and bar), travelled to Mackay to personally present him with a Gold Level Commendation – which is the highest accolade an Australian Army Cadet can receive, awarded only in exceptional circumstances of service and leadership.

The presentation took place during the 122 AAC Ceremonial Parade at Komiatum Barracks, where Brigadier McCammon acknowledged Murray’s exceptional contribution to supporting homeless veterans through the Just Keep Marching initiative.

In delivering the award, Brigadier McCammon praised Murray’s leadership, compassion and long-term dedication.

“I commend you for your superior actions and extraordinary achievements in your efforts to improve the lives of Australian Defence Force veterans,” he said.

“Over an extended period, your personal drive to develop effective and ongoing solutions, promote community engagement and develop significant long-term resources for homeless veterans in your local region has inspired other communities to action. In striving for increased awareness, you have promoted an enduring response to homeless veterans in need across the nation.

“Your proactive approach and courage in the face of adversity are examples of superior self-motivation and tenacity. Your selflessness and the achievements you have made for veterans are exceptional examples of the Australian Army Cadet values of Service, Courage, Respect, Integrity and Excellence.”

The ceremony also brought an unexpected second honour for Murray, who was presented with the annual Senior Leaders Award by Lieutenant Colonel AAC Glenda Lavery, Assistant Commander of the North Queensland Brigade. Lt Col Lavery was visiting Komiatum Barracks for the 80th anniversary celebration of Army Cadets in Mackay.

Reflecting on his commendation, Murray said he was “extremely honoured to receive this acknowledgement.”

While appreciative, he was quick to highlight the team effort behind the initiative.

“A lot of cadets did the walk with me… and while I wear the commendation, it’s really for all of them.

“It’s a great award for all of us.”

The Just Keep Marching effort, driven by Murray and supported widely throughout the region, has now raised just over $27,000 to assist homeless veterans in Mackay.

Local businesses, particularly those connected to housing, construction or mining accommodation, are encouraged to collaborate as RSL Mackay Sub-branch continues developing a long-term, equitable strategy for distributing the funds.

Murray is currently completing his final weeks of secondary education, with external exams underway, and looks ahead to his next chapter: enlistment into the Australian Army Corps on 23 February 2026.

He also delivered a heartfelt address at this year’s Remembrance Day service, further demonstrating the maturity and leadership qualities recognised by the national commendation.

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Cadet Sergeant Murray Macgroarty recently received two prestigious honours: the Australian Army Cadets’ highest award, a Gold Level Commendation, and the annual Senior Leaders Award, recognising his leadership and fundraising efforts supporting homeless veterans through the Just Keep Marching initiative. Photo credit: Cynthy Macgroarty and Graham Jackson

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Christmas has come early for community and not-for-profit groups across the Mackay region with $10,000 in grants awarded for festive events.

From lunches to provide social connection for seniors, to a treasured carols event and a festive bike ride, events will be held right around the region.

The Christmas Grants provide funding of up to $750 for groups to help provide events that bring the community together, with a total funding pool of $10,000.

This year’s successful events are:

• Do it your way ride and breakfast – Pioneer Valley Rail Trail
• Community Christmas lunch - Seaforth
• Community Christmas Party – Eungella
• Mackay kids Christmas bike ride – Bluewater Trail
• Neighbourhood Watch Community Christmas Party – Shoal Point
• Habana Christmas Calendar and Carols – Habana
• Community Christmas Party – St Helens Beach
• Sarina Beach Surf Lifesaving Carols – Sarina Beach
• Community Christmas Carols – Bucasia
• Calen community Christmas Fair – Calen
• Grasstree Beach Family Christmas Concert – Grasstree Beach
• Come together at Christmas Community Party – Dows Creek
• Pony club community events – Eton
• McEwens Beach Christmas Party – McEwens Beach.

The following events are supported by council's Christmas Grants Program:

SEAFORTH COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS LUNCH
Monday, November 17,11am to 2pm
Seaforth Community Centre, Prince Charles Avenue, Seaforth

PIONEER VALLEY RAIL TRAIL COMMUNITY RIDE AND BREAKFAST
Saturday, November 22.  Breakfast to start at 9am to 11am
Pioneer Valley Sporting Association Clubhouse, Gargett

MCEWENS BEACH COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS PARTY
Sunday, November 30, 4pm to 7pm
Reg Jones Park, Aura Street, McEwens Beach

SHOAL POINT NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS PARTY
Friday, December 5, 6.30pm to 9.30pm
Shoal Point Beach Park

MACKAY KIDS CHRISTMAS BIKE RIDE
Friday, December 5, 6.30pm.  Ride should take 1.5 - 2 hours
Bluewater Quay

CALEN COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS FAIR
Saturday, December 6, 5.30pm to 9pm
Calen District State College

EUNGELLA COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS PARTY
Friday, December 12, 3pm to 10pm
Eungella Memorial Hall, 13 North Street, Eungella

GRASSTREE BEACH FAMILY CHRISTMAS CONCERT
Saturday, December 13, 3pm to 6pm
Grasstree Beach Foreshore

ETON PONY CLUB COMMUNITY EVENTS
Saturday, December 13, 10am to 6pm and Sunday, December 14, 9am to 5pm
Pony Club grounds, Langfords Park, Eton

DOWS CREEK HALL CHRISTMAS COMMUNITY PARTY
Sunday, December 14, 3pm to 9pm
Dows Creek Hall

BUCASIA COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS CAROLS
Sunday, December 14, 3pm to 6pm
Seaview Park, Bucasia Esplanade

HABANA CHRISTMAS CALENDAR AND CAROLS
Saturday, December 20, 7pm to 9.30pm
Habana Community Hub, 1091 Mackay-Habana Road

SARINA BEACH SURF LIFESAVING CAROLS
Saturday, December 20, 5.30pm to 8pm
Sarina Surf Lifesaving Club, 1 Owen Jenkins Drive, Sarina Beach

ST HELENS BEACH COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS PARTY
Saturday, December 27, 5pm
Repulse Esplanade, St Helens Beach

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Mackay Regional Council’s Christmas grants have been delivered just in time to ensure festive cheer reaches across the community. Photo supplied

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Alsatia Park has officially reopened, marking a significant moment for the Walkerston community as locals gathered last Sunday to celebrate the revitalisation of the much-loved space. The upgraded park now stands as a tribute to 18-year-old Luke Payne, a passionate skateboarder who tragically lost his life in 2022 and whose ideas helped shape the original skate facility.

Families, skaters and community groups turned out in strong numbers for the opening, enjoying a lively morning of free glitter tattoos, a sausage sizzle and community displays as the renewed park was unveiled.

Luke was remembered as “a passionate skateboarder,” whose early concepts for a local skate space have now been honoured through the redevelopment. Mayor Greg Williamson said the community had reached an important milestone.

“Yesterday was a very special day for the Walkerston community as we officially opened Alsatia Park — a much loved space that has been part of local family life for decades,” he said.

The upgrades were designed to reflect both the heritage of Walkerston and Luke’s lasting impact on the local skating community. His influence remains evident in the renewed skate area and the care taken throughout the project.

“It was an honour to stand with members of the Payne family, as the upgraded skate park continues to recognise and celebrate the legacy of Luke Payne,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Luke was a passionate skateboarder whose vision helped shape the original facility, and today’s renewed space carries that spirit forward for a new generation.”

Feedback from residents helped guide the upgrade, which now includes new barbeque facilities, football posts and refreshed recreational areas. The project was delivered with support from Vassallo Construction, Rotary, the Pioneer Valley Youth Council, artist Muddy Grimes and council’s engagement team, who worked closely with the Payne family.

“Alsatia Park has always been a place where families connect, kids play, and memories are made — and I’m proud to see this tradition continue with these fantastic new upgrades,” Mayor Williamson said.

The revitalised park at 8 Kellys Road, Walkerston is now open to the community, ready to welcome families and skaters to enjoy.

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The Walkerston community came together last Sunday to celebrate the reopening of Alsatia Park, a heartfelt revitalisation that honours young skateboarder Luke Payne’s lasting legacy. Photo source: Mayor Greg Williamson

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Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank has announced a record breaking year of community investment at its AGM, with over $1 million injected directly into supporting more than 100 local projects and initiatives during the 2024/25 financial year.

This milestone brings this profit for purpose organisation’s total community investment to more than $5 million since opening its doors in 2005, reaffirming its long standing commitment to creating an enduring impact in the Sarina and district community.

Strong financial results also delivered a fully franked dividend of 15 cents per share to local shareholders.

“A record community investment and the partnerships we’ve built across the community this year are something we are extremely proud of,” said Community Bank Sarina Board Chair, Karen May.

“By choosing to bank locally, our customers enable us to reinvest profits into projects and initiatives that strengthen and sustain our community,” Mrs May said.

The $1 million of support for the community was delivered through Community Bank Sarina’s Community Engagement Program, which builds the capacity of local organisations, strengthens partnerships and supports initiatives that deliver direct social and economic benefit.

A key focus of this year’s program was supporting legacy projects with long-term benefits, designed to build resilience and create lasting community impact.

“Our goal is to deliver mutual benefits, supporting local organisations to grow and thrive while ensuring Community Bank Sarina remains strong and sustainable for years to come. Our ethos assures customers that we’re here for you and here to stay,” Mrs May said.

It was a record year for the community grants program, with $706,686 invested to directly support 15 organisations responding to local community need with significant legacy projects.

As a step towards addressing the region’s need for housing, the program included a $330,000 community grant to Wongabeena Sarina Aged Housing to construct four new units, increasing affordable housing options for low-income seniors in Sarina.

The project is scheduled for completion in 2026. Wongabeena President Kari Morphy said this investment from Community Bank Sarina has been transformative, laying the groundwork for a project that will improve quality of life for seniors in Sarina for years to come.

“These new units will give more local seniors the chance to stay in the community they love, close to family, friends and the support networks that make Sarina home,” Mrs Morphy said.

Other projects supported this financial year by Community Bank Sarina’s Community Engagement Program included essential health service upgrades, community infrastructure, technology upgrades and swim programs for local students, and more.

This year’s AGM also saw the re-election of Directors Karen May, Rainee Shepperson and Ann Fordyce, rejoining current Director Maree Franettovich, and acknowledged the retirement of Director Nicholas McDougall, recognising his contribution to the Board.

To learn more about Community Bank Sarina’s results and community support during the 2024/25 financial year, view the annual report at https://bit.ly/4oTeUqH.

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Recipients of Community Bank Sarina’s Community Engagement Program across FY24/25 celebrating together at the recent AGM. Photos supplied

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Sarina Woman Marks 100 Years With Wisdom

Celebrating A Century
Joy Robinson Turns 100

It’s not every day a community gathers to celebrate a 100th birthday, but Sarina’s own Joy Robinson reached the milestone in style, surrounded by four generations of family, friends, and bridge club members last Wednesday.

“Aren’t I lucky,” Joy said with a smile.

“I’m thrilled and it’s a real privilege to be here.”

With a smile as striking as her bridge play, Joy says her secret to longevity is simply, to just be happy.

“Just try to be happy and active… have regular meals…and be happy and be active,” she says.

Joy’s dedication to staying active extends to the bridge table, where she continues to compete and win.

Receiving a letter from the King was a highlight of the day, along with the many other cards filled with kind words from her peers.

“It’s very thrilling to receive a letter from the King,” she said, smiling at the congratulatory note from King Charles III, a recognition of her remarkable milestone.

Despite her century of life, Joy’s competitive spirit hasn’t waned, and her love for the game remains as strong as ever.

Mayor Greg Williamson was among the many well-wishers, praising Joy’s incredible energy and contribution to the community.

“It’s a fantastic pleasure to be here today… absolutely incredible. It’s wonderful to see you still playing bridge after 40 years,” he said.

He also highlighted her wider role in Sarina, acknowledging her involvement in local business and community initiatives over decades. On behalf of Mackay, he extended heartfelt birthday congratulations, saying, “Happy birthday and congratulations on behalf of the community of Mackay.”

The event was a true family affair, with relatives, bridge partners, and friends gathering to honour Joy’s life and achievements. Among the highlights was the ceremonial cake-cutting, where Joy’s grandson helped her blow out the candles. Guests enjoyed a warm, celebratory atmosphere as they shared memories, laughter, and stories of Joy’s competitive, yet impressive bridge play.

Joy reflected on the people who have shaped her life, from loving parents and a devoted husband to her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She also shared memories of her community involvement, from early work as a banker to running a family business, and her longstanding membership in the local bridge club, which she described as “a wonderful club” that has kept her mind active and engaged.

Even at 100, Joy remains an inspiration, proving that age is no barrier to staying active, engaged, and happy. Her message to younger generations is to live fully, stay active, and embrace life with joy.

From the bridge table to community contributions, Joy Robinson’s century-long journey is a celebration of resilience, happiness, and a life well-lived.

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Sarina resident Joy Robinson celebrated her 100th birthday surrounded by family, friends, and bridge club members at Mackay Contract Bridge Club. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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By Joseph Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay

As the crushing season draws out and moves into its sixth month, it is pleasing to see that we are finally getting onto the downhill run, with both millers issuing their end-of-crush notices.

Plane Creek expect to finish harvesting 26 November and Mackay Sugar announcing completion around 12 December, with any continuation dependent on sufficient cane supply.

This follows a reduction of crop estimates in both districts, being 1.35Mt in Plane Creek and 4.85Mt for Mackay Sugar area. I would say, however, that these still appear to be a little on the high side and whether this materialises in a season shortening is yet to be seen.

Another critical factor in this equation is that the onset of the storm season has begun in late October and is appearing to continue, potentially even ramping up in the lead-up to our annual wet season.  Both of these factors, in addition to factory performance, will at the end of the day dictate the final end date of the 2025 crushing season.

I believe it is fair to say that the sooner the end date materialises, the better for all parties involved, on the proviso that growers are given the opportunity to harvest all cane that they want to harvest.  This will hopefully allow a much-needed reset in our local industry, giving the crop more time to grow and millers more time to do the necessary repairs and get their factories where they need to be for the commencement of the 2026 harvest.

It must be said that growers and harvesting contractors cannot sustain these extended season lengths for what would be considered average crop totals.

It appears that with the rainfall which has followed the prolonged dry spell, is beginning to have an effect on CCS and weight in the crop. Both of these appear to have an expected but concerning a downward trend.

It has been a long season, and over the past few months, has seen several unfortunate accidents occur: some involving members of the public and industry vehicles, as well as inter-industry parties.  This is a concerning trend which must be rectified as we all know that everyone deserves to be able to come home safely and soundly to their loved ones at the end of the day.  I would like to wish those involved in these incidents all the best and hope that they make as successful recovery as is possible from their injuries, both physically and mentally.

I would ask members of the Industry and the wider public to please have patience over the next month or so until the end of the harvest season, and let’s work together to make the end-of-crush a safe and hopefully more timely ending then what we have seen over the past five years.

Stay safe everybody.

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The crush is in its final stages, giving the following crop a good chance to grow for 2026.  Photo credit: Kirili Lamb.

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Cultivating Tomorrow’s Opportunities

Tickets are now on sale for ABARES Outlook 2026, the Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences’ (ABARES) flagship annual conference, set to take place on the 3rd and 4th of March 2026 at Hotel Realm, Canberra, and online.

With the theme Reset. Rethink. Regrow: Cultivating Tomorrow’s Opportunities, the conference will explore the key forces shaping the future of Australian agriculture, fisheries, and forestry.

ABARES Executive Director Dr Jared Greenville said Outlook 2026 will be a valuable forum for discussion, innovation, and collaboration.

“We will host sessions to discuss commodity outlooks, competition in agriculture, land and sea use change, climate and sustainability, data, innovation and productivity, and food security,” Dr Greenville said.

“These discussions are important given the competing demands on farming and the challenging global trading environment.”

This year’s conference will feature 10 sessions, offering a mix of expert panels, presentations, and fireside chats. A key highlight will be a friendly debate on the focus for growing Australian agriculture — a new addition to the program that promises lively discussion and diverse perspectives.

Delegates can attend in person or virtually, with all sessions broadcast live and online discussions facilitated by Andrew Whitelaw and Matt Dalgleish of Episode 3.

Former BBC host, Nuffield Scholar, and agriculture advocate Claire Taylor will emcee the event, guiding attendees through the two-day program.

“We’re also excited to have the Council of Rural RDCs sponsor the Welcome Sundowners networking function at the end of day one,” Dr Greenville added.

In addition to keynote sessions, the conference will provide the latest commodity data, forecasts, and industry analysis, while also offering networking opportunities to help participants connect, collaborate, and contribute to a more sustainable and competitive agricultural future.

Early bird tickets are available until the 5th of December 2025, with both in-person and digital options.

For full program details, speaker announcements, and sponsorship opportunities, visit www.agriculture.gov.au/event/abares-outlook or contact abaresevents@aff.gov.au

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Early bird tickets are on sale now for 2026's ABARES Outlook (Photo Supplied)

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Local aged care provider Glenella Care is preparing to join Respect, one of Australia’s largest regional aged care organisations, in a move that honours Glenella’s legacy and invests in the future of care in Mackay.

It is anticipated that from 1 December 2025, Glenella Care will officially become part of the Respect community. A dedicated transition team will support the change, with a focus on continuity of care for residents and preserving employment for current staff.

Respect, a not-for-profit organisation, will grow to 40 aged care homes across five states following the transition. The organisation is known for its person-centred care, reinvestment in local communities, and strong support for staff wellbeing.

Jason Binder, CEO and Managing Director of Respect, said Respect is proud to welcome Glenella Care into its community of homes to build on the legacy it has established in Mackay.

“Glenella Care has been providing care to the Mackay community for over three
decades,” Mr Binder said.

“It was founded by a local family who believed older people should be able to age with dignity, surrounded by the people and places they know and love. That belief is at the heart of everything we do at Respect.”

Glenella began as a 62-bed nursing home and has grown into a 108-bed service offering residential and respite care. Owner Renata Litton said Respect was chosen for its reputation and alignment with Glenella’s values.

After almost 35 years, the family is ready to hand over the reins, confident the home’s legacy will continue.

To learn more about Respect, visit respect.com.au

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Photo source: Respect Aged Care

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Let me have a little rant for a moment: these days, it feels like everyone is a marketer. Boost one Facebook post, watch a few YouTube tutorials, finish a quick online course and suddenly people think they’re experts. No strategy. No accountability. Just confidence and Canva.

But real marketing is far more than pressing buttons. It’s understanding human behaviour, reading data, building funnels, testing creative, managing budgets, and turning insights into decisions that actually grow a business, not just create noise.

So how do you choose the right marketer to work with?

Start with strategy. A real marketer asks questions before offering solutions: Who is your audience? What are your goals? What does your customer journey look like? They see the full picture, not just the quick fix.

Next, look for clarity. If they can’t explain their process in simple, human terms, they probably don’t understand it well themselves. Transparency is a green flag; buzzwords are not.

And of course, results matter. Look for proven outcomes: conversions, lead quality, cost per acquisition, revenue growth. Pretty graphics alone don’t build businesses.

This is exactly how I operate at Glow Sphere Marketing. With more than 15 years of international marketing experience, I’ve worked across industries, countries, and platforms, helping businesses grow with strategy-first, data-led, human-focused marketing. I believe in systems, clarity, and solutions tailored to each business.

The right marketer doesn’t just make things look good. They make things work. And they walk beside you as a true partner in your growth.

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At The Mackay Woodturners Club Expo

This Christmas, why not find gifts that are truly one-of-a-kind? The Mackay Woodturners Club, tucked away at Snow Wright Ct, Andergrove, is opening its doors for a weekend of creativity, craftsmanship, and festive cheer.

This weekend, on 22nd and 23rd November, from 9am–3pm, visitors can explore the impressive skills of local artisans working in woodturning, scroll sawing, intarsia, wood burning (pyrography), and carving, with free entry!

Woodturning is far more than a hobby, it’s an art form that requires patience, precision, and a keen eye for detail. For the club’s members, it’s also a therapeutic and mindful practice, providing a creative escape and a chance to connect with a passionate community.

This year’s Expo will showcase a range of handmade gifts, from toys to homewares, each piece telling a story of dedication and skill. In a world of mass-produced goods, these handcrafted treasures offer quality, longevity, and the chance to support local talent.

Come along, browse the incredible creations, and grab Christmas gifts that will be treasured for years to come.

Event Details:

What: Mackay Woodturners Christmas Expo
When: Saturday 22 & Sunday 23 November, 9am–3pm
Where: Snow Wright Ct, Andergrove.
Free entry.

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Photo source: Mackay Woodturners Club

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Meet Maple

Breed: Border Collie X
Age: Young Adult
Personality: Playful, Energetic, Affectionate
Vet work: Microchipped, vaccinated and desexed

About Maple:

Maple is an affectionate girl who loves nothing more than cuddling up on the couch with her favorite people. She’s loyal, loving, and will be your biggest fan!
Her ideal home is active and consistent, with plenty of walks, playtime, and enrichment. She’s a bright dog who loves using her nose in fun scent games and would thrive with someone familiar with herding breeds.

If you’re looking for a devoted companion who’s full of energy, heart, and affection, she’s ready to join your loving home!

Contact Lucys Lucky Tags and Dog Rescue Inc on Facebook, or email
LLTagsandDogRescue@gmail.com for more information,

Donations can be made via the following account details:
BSB: 064-722
ACC: 1069 7243

Photos supplied

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