Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
“In summing up, it’s the constitution, it’s Mabo, it’s justice, it’s law, it’s the vibe. And, no, that’s it, it’s the vibe. I rest my case.” The quote is from the Australian film classic The Castle and is taken from the memorable courtroom scene. “It’s the vibe” is now a commonly quoted line and it could in many ways be used to describe the current behaviour of the Australian real estate market. In summing up, it’s inflation, it’s interest rates, it’s the Iran conflict, it’s the price of fuel, it’s cost of living, it’s the vibe. The vibe is spread and reinforced on the nightly news and there is no doubt it is having an impact. Herron Todd White property valuers recently released their October review and it gave a good snapshot of the state of play for the national property market. The review covered off on some of the big factors at play: “National dwelling values fell 3.7 per cent over the September quarter, sales volumes are more than 17 per cent below last year, and the median property now spends 47 days on the market, roughly double the time it took a year ago. Tellingly, fewer owners than usual are listing at what should be the year's busiest time. This isn't a market flooded by forced sellers. It's one where buyers have stepped back,” the report said. What is clear around the country, and in Mackay, is that there are great opportunities, particularly for first home buyers. The HTW report says: “Conditions remain favourable for first home buyers in several markets. As prices ease, entry points are becoming more accessible, and a pullback in investor activity is reducing competition at the lower end of the market, where first home buyers and investors typically compete most directly. “First home buyers need to carefully assess competing factors. A lower purchase price today may be attractive but is it an indicator of limited capital growth? Properties in fringe locations are more affordable, but are new owners of those properties facing significantly increased living costs as, say, fuel prices remain high?” Fringe locations are more of a consideration than they are in Mackay as we don’t have the travel distances that the larger cities have to manage. But it is clear that there are some fantastic opportunities on the table for buyers in Mackay. It is true that the investors who were driving the market over recent years have definitely pulled back, however we agents have started getting calls from buyers agents who have clients who see value in the Mackay market. The Mackay market is not suffering the same way as other southern markets and I only need to look at my open house numbers at the weekend to show there is still good buyer interest. Two of my open houses had seven groups at the open homes and one of those properties had another three private inspections in the following couple of days. Buyers are looking and engaged and many are ready to snap up an opportunity. It will be interesting to see if those investors do start coming back into the market. For them, it’s all about the rental yield. With prices down a bit the rental yield creates a very good return for investors. As agents it’s our job to get the best price for our clients, the sellers. However, we would all love that buyer to be a local rather than a southern investor. But “the vibe” is having an impact in Mackay as it is elsewhere and it could mean that some locals again miss out on the opportunities in the current market. Nothing to panic about but people who don’t act because of the vibe could end up regretting their delay. How many times did I hear over the past few years?: “We really should have bought a couple of years ago when the market wasn’t so hot.”
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The power of a good hair day is not to be underestimated, and Botanical Hair Collective has made it their business to help people find that feeling, whether they need a big, bold change, a simple refresh or relaxing pamper. What sets Botanical Hair apart is their commitment to using only natural and organic products, which reduces the chemical stress on their clients' hair and bodies, ensuring the hair that walks out of the salon not only looks but feels healthy. Their colour range from Oway is organic and entirely plant-based; even the bleach is ammonia-free, with Kukui butter as its main ingredient. Botanical Hair is a two-woman show, run by Chloe, the owner and senior stylist, and her third-year apprentice, Bonny. Chloe looks after her own clients, as well as overseeing Bonny's training and taking care of the behind-the-scenes work. Passionate about blondes and colours, Chloe is chatty and bubbly, offering a killer cut and even better conversation on the side. Bonny loves all things styling and colour. She offers all services at an emerging stylist price and will be offering heavily discounted prices for her foiling training. Following in her boss's footsteps, she is welcoming, chatty and outgoing. Chloe's dream of building a hair business began when she was a kid, looking up to her hairstylist older sister. She started her apprenticeship in Airlie Beach with an amazing boss who worked with organic hair products, and realised that helping clients make healthy hair choices was a path she wanted to continue to pursue. Chloe moved from Airlie Beach to Mackay and expanded her skills by working in a range of salons using different tools. It was through these experiences that Chloe realised she was ready to have her own salon. Creating a space where clients felt appreciated and relaxed, alongside stylists who felt supported, was the goal Chloe set at start of her career. As the years have passed, the smiles, laughs and confidence are what Chloe enjoys the most, alongside creating iconic looks. “Seeing the brightness that comes from my clients when they get that look they’re after always makes my day, making it easier and easier every day to fall deeper in love with creating gorgeous hair,” Chloe said. “Another thing that is very special to me is watching Bonny grow and fall in love with hairdressing every day, like I did when I was an apprentice.” Chloe's salon sticks to an effective framework: organic, relaxing and grounded. From her products and styles to the way she makes her clients feel confident, her main priority is always the client in the chair. “We strongly believe in quality over quantity, and if they come to us, they won’t be just another number. We like to make connections with our clients.” P1. Botanica Hair Collective creates a welcoming space. Photo Supplied: Botanica hair.
Read the full storyBe honest. When was the last time you caught yourself humming in the kitchen for no reason, or smiled at a stranger without immediately wondering if you’d just done something weird? Happiness has a sneaky reputation as something that arrives once the to-do list is finished, the perfect relationship appears, or the digestive system finally behaves itself. Spoiler: it doesn’t work that way. Happiness is less of a destination and more of a daily practice that starts with whether your body feels safe enough to relax. Your gut, for example, has opinions. A calm, well-hydrated digestive system is far more likely to let you feel content than one that’s staging a protest after lunch. Movement helps too, nothing dramatic, just enough to remind your body it still lives in a body. Breathing deeply (the kind where your shoulders actually drop) signals safety. So does drinking water before you reach for a coffee. These aren’t glamorous, but they’re surprisingly effective at turning down the internal alarm system. Then there are the humans. Non-toxic relationships matter more than most people admit. The ones where you don’t have to perform, explain, or shrink. Add a sense of passion or mission. When you have something that makes you want to get out of bed excited for the day, your internal state improves. Regular breaks from the work and to-do list help as well. Having something to look forward to (a walk, a meal with a friend, even a ridiculous comedy show) gives the nervous system a reason to stay out of permanent emergency mode. Here’s the part most of us miss: we can react or we can respond. Reacting is the sharp, automatic version: tight chest, racing thoughts, the story that this moment is a catastrophe. Responding is calmer. It asks, “What meaning am I giving this?” The same delayed email can mean “they hate me” or “they’re busy.” One version keeps the body in stress. The other lets it calm. Over time, the meaning we assign becomes the internal environment we live in. The more happiness we can cultivate from the inside, the more healing and rejuvenation follows. Happiness really is the greatest virus ever! Contagious in the best way. In a public setting it spreads fast. People want a piece of it, and rightly so. Happiness has healing qualities that nothing else can replicate. The best part? It comes from inside each one of us. Not from perfect circumstances. It’s available to everyone. Like most people, my own health journey took me through some deeply uncomfortable moments. I never knew that upgrading my health would land me in places of genuine happiness, joy and gratitude. I had experienced these feelings in the past but never as intense and long lasting. That experience is what I wish for others: the internal joy that appears when the body finally has the conditions it needs to do its job. The path starts simply. By paying attention to what your particular body is asking for and honouring those requests. Digestive calm, movement, hydration, breath, loving connections, purpose, and regular relief from the grind. That’s where real happiness has room to grow. That’s also where we can help.
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Year 10 Agricultural students from Mackay North State High School have raised and released 13 barramundis into the Goose ponds, making your next catch a possible close friend of a Mackay Student. Under the supervision of two classes and the help of Mackay Area Fish Stocking Association, the fish have tripled in length in six months, growing from about 100mm to 300mm. The barramundi growth was comparable to rates achieved on commercial fish farms, shared Mackay Area Fish Stocking Association hatchery coordinator Brandon Ford. “We’re releasing fish so these kids and their kids will have fish in the future to go fishing for,” Brandon said. North High and MAFSA’s partnership began when Aquatics, Science and Agriculture teacher Josh Grant reached out to the association about stocking the school’s recirculating aquaculture system. The association helped the school create perfect growing conditions, whilst Mr. Ford sourced fish from a local barra farm. Cleaning filters, checking pumps and monitoring water levels are all part of the students' regular work to keep the fish healthy, according to science teacher Kelly Dunne. “They are the first ones to notice if there is anything amiss,” she said. The students were fascinated by the Barramundi; observing them in class gave them new insights into the fish. For student Julian, feeding time revealed a measure of how much the fish had changed. “They’ve definitely gotten bigger and a lot feistier,” he said, adding that he had been fascinated to learn during the unit that barramundi could change their sex. “They actually don’t turn into a female until they hit a certain size or a certain age,” he said. The change generally happens when barramundi reaches about 85–100cm long. While they can live in freshwater, they need saltwater to breed. The students tagged their barra for release into the Mackay Goose ponds. With the help of Mr. Ford and his daughter Evelyn, they used drops of clove oil in a transfer tank to keep the fish calm. Suntag tags will help track their growth and movements, with Mr. Ford saying the barra could eventually reach saltwater through connected waterways, particularly during floods. MAFSA’s volunteers are supported by the school's efforts. MAFSA raises thousands of barramundis and sooty grunters for local waterways, including Kinchant, Teemburra and Eungella dams. MAFSA’s scheme has had great results, with one barramundi being released at Platypus Beach in Mirani and then being recorded in the Fitzroy River seven years later, by which time it had grown to about 1.2m. Anglers who report a tagged catch to Suntag can receive a certificate showing when and where the fish was tagged, how much it has grown and how far it has travelled. Mackay North State High School Year 10 Agriculture student with one of the 13 barramundis raised at school and released into the Goose ponds. Photo supplied: Mackay North State High School Mackay Area Fish Stocking Association hatchery coordinator Brandon Ford helps Mackay North State High School students prepare their barramundi for tagging and release into the Goose ponds. Photo Supplied: Mackay North State High School.
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There’s plenty to celebrate down on the farm at Oh Deere Farm Stay, with the Calen-based business adding another accolade to its paddock of achievements after taking home bronze at the recent Queensland Tourism Awards.
The state recognition follows a strong showing at the Mackay Isaac Tourism Awards, where Oh Deere Farm Stay took out Unique Accommodation and Tour and Transport Operators, along with the People’s Choice Award for Accommodation. Both Oh Deere businesses were also named Queensland Tourism Awards finalists, with the farm stay now converting its nomination into a bronze win in the Unique Accommodation category.
For owners Karinda and Dale Anderson, the recognition is particularly meaningful, especially knowing the effort that goes into running a farm while welcoming visitors from near and far.
“To get to bronze at a state level is a big thing,” said Karinda.
“There are a lot of big operators and well-established businesses in Queensland, so it's a real achievement for us,” she said.
The event was held on Friday 6th November on the Gold Coast, and it’s the second time Oh Deere Farm Stay has earned bronze at the state awards, having also received the same recognition for Unique Accommodation in 2024.
But while awards are a welcome pat on the back, Karinda said recognition was never the reason they started welcoming guests.
“We never went into it to win awards. We went into it to make a difference in people's lives and give them somewhere to stay.”
Farm tours also offer an opportunity to learn more about agriculture, including the journey from plant to plate, bringing visitors closer to the sugarcane industry and lifestyle that shape the region.
Having owners Karinda and Dale on site means guests can enjoy a more hands-on and welcoming experience, with every stay offering something a little different.
“Every one of our stays is different. It's a little piece of paradise that you can't just get at a caravan park or anywhere else. That's what makes it unique and enjoyable for our guests,” Karinda said.
“We’re honoured with the outcome, but it doesn't just happen overnight.”
“It’s taken a lot of work, a lot of effort and a lot of determination to get to where we are.”
With the Queensland bronze now added to many other achievements, Oh Deere Farm Stay continues to put the region's rural charm on the tourism map.
Those looking for an award-winning country escape over the Christmas and holiday period can enquire about bookings at Oh Deere Farm Stay, with accommodation and farm tours available all year round, weather permitting.
There is plenty of current running through Barcam Electrical Service, and after almost 70 years of keeping Mackay connected, the locally owned business has yet another reason to celebrate, taking home Queensland’s Master Electrician of the Year award for 2026.
For a company that has been part of the region since 1957, the recognition carries particular significance. Now 69 years into its journey, Barcam remains locally owned and operated, having looked after Mackay homes, businesses and worksites across three generations of local families.
The announcement was met with plenty of excitement from the team, along with a wholesome appreciation for the people who have helped build the business into what it is today.
“We felt excited to be nominated and to be announced as the ‘State Winner’. We were very excited and appreciative to each and every member of our team whose dedication and hard work has assisted us to have the company that we do, both past and present,” the team said.
While the award celebrates the business as a whole, Barcam sees it as recognition of the collective effort happening both behind the scenes and out on site.
“Winning Master Electrician of the Year is recognition for the hard work and dedication from our team in both management and the field,” the team said.
“Collectively this is essential and how we have continued to service the industry both electrically and as a long-standing local company who continues to grow.”
It’s an achievement that has been a long time in the making, rather than something measured by the past 12 months alone.
In an industry that continues to evolve and carries significant risks, Barcam believes its longevity, customer relationships and focus on safety and improvement have helped set it apart.
Over the decades, the business has built a reputation through consistent workmanship, reliability and customer satisfaction. Repeat customers, word-of-mouth recommendations and numerous five-star reviews are among the indicators of the trust it has established over the years.
And while the electrical industry has changed considerably since the business first opened its doors, the people, have always remained their number one priority.
Barcam's family work culture is something the team says has been cultivated throughout its history, influencing not only the way it works together but also the relationships it builds with customers.
“Our team feel pride in being a part of an iconic business that’s prides itself on being locally owned and operated.”
That sense of familiarity is also supported by a strong focus on retaining experienced staff. With long-term employees, customers can often expect to see familiar faces returning to their homes or businesses, solidifying consistency and professionalism.
Today, Barcam has a team of 38, comprising 16 electricians, 10 apprentices, eight office staff and four managers.
The business also employs and mentors multiple apprentices each year to help develop the next generation of skilled tradespeople.
Barcam was also named Master Electrician of the Year State Winner in 2019 and shortlisted for Medium Employer of the Year in the Central Queensland region at the 2023 Queensland Training Awards.
Its low staff turnover is another point of pride, reflecting the importance placed on leadership, workplace culture and creating an environment where people like to stay and grow.
Behind the scenes, the business has also continued to refine its systems and processes, balancing operational improvements with the personal service and strong customer relationships that have helped sustain it for almost seven decades.
From replacing a power point in a family home to large-scale commercial warehouse fit-outs, Barcam has the workforce and expertise to manage projects of varying sizes across domestic, commercial and industrial settings.
Its services include electrical installations, repairs and maintenance, replacements, test and tag, EEL and RCD testing, thermal imaging, fault finding, switchboard upgrades, property pole installations and replacements, design and construction, pre-purchase electrical inspections, new builds and electrical upgrades.
The team also provides emergency electrical works, with fast response times an important part of its service offering.
For a business with such a long history, the latest award is both a milestone and an opportunity to reflect on the people and relationships that have made its journey possible.
“Whilst the recognition was humbling, we will continue with our commitment to delivering high-quality electrical services and continuing to build strong relationships with our customers through consistent workmanship, reliability, and customer satisfaction.”
November 2026 marks 50 years in business for Dave Griffith Electrical, a family-run Mackay operation that has completed more than 1500 electrical projects for commercial and industrial, and petrochemical clients across Queensland since its beginnings in 1976.
Built on hard work, quality workmanship and lasting customer relationships, the business has stood the test of time, with its original values continuing to guide the next generation.
Founded by Dave and Jan Griffith, the business is now led by their son, Luke Griffith, who has taken on the responsibility of carrying their legacy forward as managing director.
For Luke and the team, the milestone is an opportunity to reflect on the people and hard work behind five decades of operation, while looking ahead to what the next chapter may bring.
Dave Griffith Electrical began in 1976.
Originally from the Central Coast of New South Wales, Dave found his way to Mackay after undertaking construction work in the early 1970s. Jan, on the other hand, was born and bred in the region, making Mackay the home of the business they would build together.
Since then, the business has provided electrical maintenance and installation and hazardous area services throughout Mackay and surrounding areas, steadily building its experience and capabilities.
While the business has evolved over the decades, its foundations remain important to Luke, who is proud to continue what his parents started.
“I've always had Dad's legacy in the back of my mind,” he said.
“I'm just glad we can keep the business going and continue to grow what they started together all those years ago.”
Luke first joined the business around 2003 as an apprentice.
“After a gap year, I came back and finished my apprenticeship, after previously undertaking a school based apprenticeship . I wanted to move away and travel again, but Mum and Dad provided the opportunity to take on the business. They were looking to step away, and I embraced it.”
Dave has now been fully retired for close to 20 years, with Luke taking responsibility for the business and its ongoing development.
Today, Dave Griffith Electrical's work is primarily focused on commercial, industrial clients, with services spanning construction, routine maintenance, hazardous area installations and auditing, electrical compliance, design and automation, and EV chargers
While it still undertakes some domestic work for long-standing customers, its broader capabilities allow it to support businesses with a range of electrical requirements.
“We’re pretty much a one-stop shop for commercial installations, industrial installations, hazardous areas and electrical compliance,” Luke said.
“We can design PLCs and provide automation, so we can encompass everything a company or smaller business needs.”
“We're here, we're available and we're local.”
Behind the business is a team of six, including Luke, two supervisors, two other tradesmen and an apprentice, with administration also helping keep operations running smoothly.
For Luke, maintaining the values established by his parents is just as important as delivering the technical side of the work.
Transparency, honesty, reliability and quality workmanship remain central to how the business operates, alongside clear communication with customers.
“We pride ourselves on providing the best outcome for our clients,” Luke said.
“I guess that's how we've maintained a lot of the relationships we've had for a very long time. It's about hard work, honesty and quality of work.”
He said customers valued knowing the people completing their work would turn up when promised and keep them informed throughout the process.
“The ethos Dad always had was about being honest and reliable, turning up when you say you're going to turn up, and delivering quality work,” he said.
“Communication is also very important to us, especially these days. It's about letting customers know what's been done and the outcome of the job.”
Beyond its work across the electrical industry, Dave Griffith Electrical has maintained strong connections with the Mackay community through sponsorships, donations and charitable support.
The business supports the Mackay City Hawks AFL junior teams, Harrup Park and Mackay Surf Life Saving Club, alongside various community organisations and charitable causes.
Support for the Leukaemia Foundation and Starlight Foundation has also been part of the Griffith family's involvement in the community over the years.
Luke said giving back was something his parents had always valued, and a commitment he was pleased to continue.
“Mum and Dad were always happy to donate to community organisations and sporting clubs, including the Leukaemia Foundation and Starlight Foundation,” he said.
“They've always done that.”
Having experienced cancer himself at a young age, Luke said supporting organisations such as the Leukaemia Foundation was particularly meaningful.
As Dave Griffith Electrical approaches its next 50 years, Luke's focus is on keeping the business relevant while preserving the values that have carried it through the decades.
That means continuing to adapt to changes in the electrical industry, embracing new technology and finding ways to make everyday operations more efficient for both staff and customers.
The business is moving towards improved documentation and streamlined systems, reducing its reliance on traditional pen-and-paper processes while exploring technology that can make work easier and more flexible.
For Luke, staying informed about industry developments is an important part of remaining competitive.
“It's about adapting with the times and moving with technology. That's the big push,” he said.
“I think if you're on top of what's coming out and where the industry's moving, then you're a step ahead. It's about fine-tuning the methods we've already had for 50 years.”
He also recognises the importance of building a workplace that accommodates the needs of its employees, including family commitments and more flexible ways of working.
While the official milestone arrives at the end of November, celebrations are being planned for the new year, allowing the business to bring together customers, suppliers and the family behind its beginnings.
After five decades of serving Mackay, Luke hopes the next chapter will build on the same foundations that helped his parents turn a small business into a lasting part of the region's electrical industry.
Sarina local Josie Dahtler has been appointed Branch Manager of Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank. Photo supplied
A familiar face to many local customers, Josie Dahtler has been appointed as Branch Manager of Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank.
Since joining Community Bank Sarina in 2019, Josie has progressed through several roles, most recently as Customer Relationship Manager, gaining valuable experience and developing a strong understanding of the organisation along the way.
Josie’s connection with Community Bank Sarina began even earlier, when she became the first recipient of the Community Bank Sarina Senior Schooling Scholarship at Sarina State High School in 2017.
At the time, the scholarship eased the financial pressure of further study while providing valuable networking opportunities and building her confidence and personal development.
Following Year 12, Josie continued her studies through CQUniversity while pursuing local employment, joining Community Bank Sarina as a Customer Service Officer. She went on to complete a Bachelor of Science while building her career with the organisation.
Community Bank Sarina Chair Karen May said Josie’s appointment was a wonderful example of the opportunities that can come from investing in local people.
“Josie has grown with Community Bank Sarina over several years, building valuable experience, a strong understanding of our community and a genuine commitment to our customers. We’re delighted to see her take this next step and lead our branch team,” Mrs May said.
Josie said she was excited to take on the new role and continue to focus on supporting customers to achieve their financial and lifestyle goals as well as contributing to a profit for purpose organisation that invests in the local community.
“Having started as a scholarship recipient, it’s incredibly rewarding to now be stepping into the Branch Manager role. I’m looking forward to leading our team, continuing to build strong customer relationships and being part of Community Bank Sarina’s future,” she said.
Josie’s appointment is an excellent example of the impact of creating local opportunities and supporting people to grow, with her journey coming full circle at the organisation that first invested in her future.
Sarina and surrounding communities were left cleaning up after a severe storm brought down trees, damaged powerlines and cut electricity to more than 2,000 customers. Photo credit: Paul McNamara
Sarina and surrounding residents copped quite the downfall when a reported supercell charged through the region last weekend, causing havoc on local roads and leaving thousands without power.
Branches and shrubs were scattered across roads, while fallen trees and damaged power infrastructure kept crews and locals busy well into the following days.
According to Ergon Energy Network, more than 2,000 customers across Sarina, Koumala, Ilbilbie, Clairview, Armstrong Beach, Mount Christian and surrounding areas lost power following Sunday's storms on the 8th November.
In an update on Monday morning, the network reported at least five power poles needed replacing, with multiple sections of powerline brought down after 66,000 lightning strikes were recorded within 100 kilometres of Sarina.
Ergon Energy Network said crews from Mackay, Pinnacle and Cannonvale were assisting the Sarina depot, while aerial patrols were being carried out to assess damage in areas that could not be reached by road.
Ergon Energy Network also confirmed crews had cleared fallen wires blocking the Bruce Highway south of Sarina late Sunday night.
Power was reportedly restored to affected residents early Tuesday morning, following an extensive repair effort.
Gia and Ngaro Traditional Owner Robert Congoo, and Healthy Rivers to Reef Project Officer Ashlee DeVore collecting water samples as part of Project Blueprint. Photo credit: Brooke Miles Photography.
Project Blueprint is a collaborative water quality monitoring program in the Whitsundays, bringing together tourism, science and Traditional Owners. Each month, tourism operators welcome aboard Gia and Ngaro Traditional Owner Robert Congoo and Healthy Rivers to Reef Project Officer Ashlee DeVore to collect water samples at key tourism sites and share knowledge with Reef visitors.
Monthly sampling examines a range of water quality indicators such as nutrients, chlorophlly-a and water clarity to help understand environmental conditions, existing pressures, and inform future management actions. In addition to water quality parameters, the program has recently expanded to include the collection of environmental DNA (eDNA) which organisms can leave behind in their surroundings. By analysing this trace genetic material, scientists can gather data on organisms present in an area without necessarily needing to observe or capture them directly.
By connecting environmental science with tourism and Traditional Owners, Project Blueprint demonstrates how different groups can contribute to a shared understanding of the places they depend on and care for.
Project Blueprint is funded by the Healthy Rivers to Reef Partnership in collaboration with BHP Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA) and North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation. The project was initially established thanks to funding through the partnership between the Australian Government’s Reef Trust and the Great Barrier Reef Foundation.
Additional project contributors include JCU TropWATER, the Whitsunday Charter Boat Industry Association, and Reef Catchments. The project would not be possible without strong support from local tourism operators, Ocean Rafting, Red Cat Adventures, ZigZagWhitsundays, Scamper and OzSail who provide regular passage to the Whitsundays.
By Councillor Ash-Lee Johnson
Between being a Councillor, staying involved in the community and raising my young family, life certainly keeps me busy, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.
When I do have an extra few moments while travelling around, I love to wander through the shops, market stalls and local retail areas I am in, whether it is Mackay, Sarina, Calen, Marian, Eungella, Seaforth, Bloomsbury and places in between.
I have long been interested in small and medium business. They are the engine of our local economy and are critical for growing our prosperity. Meeting these hard-working business owners inspires me every day, with their passion for their business and dedication to making it successful. Their passion is something I can relate to, given how much I love seeing our region thrive.
There are certainly plenty of online options available, and I understand that price and convenience are important considerations for many households. But choosing to shop locally is one simple way we can give something back to our community, and the Mackay region has proven this time and time again. In fact, we’re known as one of the most giving communities in the country.
As Christmas fast approaches, I am starting to work through my festive purchasing. At the top of my mind is to be intentional and buy locally where I can from local small and medium retailers who are continuing to navigate rising operating costs and a challenging economic environment.
The cost of operating a business is higher than it has been for a long time, with profit margins trimmed to the bare bones. Any local spending will be an enormous support for these businesses.
When I visit stores across our region, I am constantly amazed by the range and quality of items that are available and knowing I can also count on expert advice and personal service from local retailers.
This festive season, I invite you to join me in buying local. Together, we can make a huge difference, supporting the local businesses and families who help make our region such a great place to live.
I hope to see you around the community!
Mackay Regional Council welcomed 118 new Aussie citizens at a ceremony last Friday night on Australian Citizenship Day.
The celebration, held at the MECC, honoured the values of diversity and equality within Australia and welcomed a new generation of Australians, acknowledging the value and greatness that they will be adding to the nation.
The new Aussie citizens came from 25 countries around the world. Since counting began, 109 countries have been represented at Mackay Regional Council ceremonies.
Each new citizen received a free native plant to mark the occasion.
Last week, I had the honour of attending the UDIA - Urban Development Institute of Australia’s Awards for Excellence with our client, Urbex.
Our work for Dunes Harbour Beach was a finalist in the “Connecting with Community” category. For our team at redhotblue, that recognition meant so much.
We’ve watched a beachside green space become a place where people connect. Families gathering for the colour and excitement of Coastal Kids. Picnic blankets spread beneath fairy lights as local musicians play at Tunes in the Dunes. Locals welcoming Sunday with sunrise yoga by the beach.
Sitting in the magnificent Brisbane City Hall alongside the Urbex team was a moment to appreciate how much goes into that work.
We didn’t take home the trophy. But something happened at our table that has stayed with me far longer than the announcement.
Our client raised a glass and thanked redhotblue for the work we deliver and the partnership we’ve built.
There was no microphone. No spotlight. Just a heartfelt acknowledgement shared around a table of ten.
Of course, hearing our name announced would have been wonderful. But hearing how much our work mattered to the people who trusted us to deliver it? That was its own kind of gold.
Yesterday, another client conversation turned to company values and integrity. This business consistently delivers outstanding work, drawing on experience, knowledge and a commitment to doing things properly.
Yet, like many good businesses, they sometimes lose jobs to someone cheaper.
That can sting. Especially when you know the care, skill and effort behind your price. But winning a job and delivering an outcome worth paying for are two different achievements.
It made me think about how we measure success.
Is it the trophy? The number of jobs secured? The attention we attract? Or is it the trust we earn, the standards we maintain and the relationships that keep growing?
In a world full of noise, trends and promises of quick results, it’s easy to lose sight of what you set out to achieve.
Recognition matters. Ambition matters. We should absolutely celebrate excellence and keep striving for it.
Go for gold every time. Just don’t let the trophy define the value of what you do.
Sometimes, the real win is sitting right beside you.
Flagon and Dragon President Scott Jamieson and Treasurer Melinda Doidge. Photo Supplied: Mater
A long-running Mackay fundraiser has raised more than $300,000 for local children’s charities, with $54,000 allocated to supporting newborn babies at Mater Private Hospital Mackay.
The result brings the organisation’s total fundraising efforts to almost $2.5 million since its establishment.
Flagon and Dragon President Scott Jamieson said the event was founded following a lunch between several local businessmen who wanted to help a sick child.
“Flagon and Dragon started at a Chinese restaurant with a few businessmen having a lunch and a few beers around the table,” he said.
“At the time one of the guys' kids was sick and was going through a bit of a tough time. So, they passed the hat around at the lunch, and that essentially was the genesis of Flagon and Dragon.”
Scott said the organisation remained focused on helping sick children access the treatment they need locally, allowing families to stay together.
He credited the generosity of Mackay’s business community for making the fundraising event possible, with approximately 350 people attending this year’s luncheon.
“We choose who’s there, and we know who will spend – we’re open about it because, bottom line, the purpose of the day is to raise money for the kids of Mackay,” Scott said.
The funds donated to the Mater Foundation will go towards new equipment in the midwifery unit at Mater Private Hospital Mackay,
Mater Private Hospital Mackay General Manager Karen Wade said the donation reflected the generosity of the local community and would help strengthen maternity and neonatal care.
“These donations will fund essential neonatal and maternity equipment, ensuring our healthcare teams have the tools they need to care for some of our smallest and most vulnerable patients close to home.”
BMA CQ Rescue crews completed eight patient transfers across the region and responded to a serious two-truck collision near Middlemount during a busy start to November. Photo source: BMA CQ Rescue
It’s been a busy start to the month for the BMA CQ Rescue Chopper, with crews completing eight inter-facility transfers across the region and responding to a serious two-truck collision near Middlemount.
During the first week of November, the team assisted patients requiring urgent and specialised medical care, with missions including transfers from Bowen to Townsville for a woman experiencing pregnancy complications, Mackay to Townsville for a woman requiring urgent medical care, Proserpine to Mackay for a woman in stable condition, and Clermont to Mackay for a man in a serious but stable condition.
Other transfers included Hayman Island to Proserpine for a male patient, Mackay to Townsville for a man with a suspected stroke, and Townsville to Bowen to transport a mother and child.
On the 6th November, crews were also tasked to Middlemount Airfield following a collision involving two semi-trailers.
A man in his 40s sustained internal injuries and required further treatment at Mackay Base Hospital, with the rescue team providing aeromedical support to transport him to Mackay.
A representative from BMA CQ Rescue wrote: “Every transfer is an important part of ensuring patients can access the care they need, closer to home or at a specialist facility.
“A big thank you to our pilots, aircrew and medical teams for their continued dedication, and to everyone who helps keep our helicopters mission-ready and available when our communities need us.
“Together, we're here for Central Queensland, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.”
Photo source: Shutterstock
Mackay Institute of Research and Innovation (MIRI) recently held its annual symposium, and whilst many things were on the agenda, in the spotlight was a celebration of the decade they have spent conducting regional medical research.
This 10-year achievement started with a simple dream; to improve the delivery of healthcare in the Mackay region.
MIRI’s founder Dr David Farlow is a former Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) executive director, and a former clinical dean of the JCU Medical School.
“The goal was to become a ‘learning health system’,” David said.
“This means a health system that learns from its own experience, gathers evidence, adds staff ideas to improve and then puts those improvements into practice.
“Research attracts clinicians who want to grow their careers, and existing staff have opportunities to learn, investigate and improve care.”
The impacts of this first decade have been profound.
“MIRI was instrumental in helping the Mackay HHS cardiac care team trial and introduce a coronary shockwave procedure which brought advanced treatment closer to home and reduced the need for transfers to tertiary centres,” David said.
Access to ground-breaking clinical trials and emerging treatments for conditions such as diabetes and diabetic foot disease, concussion, falls prevention, mental health and improved cardiac care have also been made accessible to patients in the region.
Sonny R representing his app to a panel. Photo Supplied: St Patrick’s College
Mackay student Sonny R has taken his innovative finance startup to the national stage, representing the region at the Grand Final of the 2026 Future Anything Challenge in Brisbane on Monday.
The St Patrick’s College Year 10 student secured his place in the finals after winning the semi-final People’s Choice Award for his startup concept, Quantum Finance.
Competing against more than 10,000 students from over 100 participating schools globally, Sonny's achievement highlights the hard work and dedication behind his project.
Developed as part of St Patrick’s Year 10 Economics and Business curriculum, Quantum Finance features an AI assistant, CORA, designed to help users manage their entire financial portfolio. From stocks and cryptocurrency to bank accounts and credit cards, the platform brings everything together in one place.
"I'm going down to Brisbane for the Future Anything Challenge to get assistance and funding to build the proper app, get the AI perfect and sort of launch it on a full scale," Sonny said.
Ahead of the event, Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson visited the campus to inspect the app and show his support for the young entrepreneur as he prepared to pitch for a share of more than $150,000 in seed funding.
"I think what I've seen, and I've only seen a small snapshot of it, this could have been a professional program presented by any commercial organisation in Australia," Mayor Williamson said.
"Sure. He recognises there's some roadblocks they've got to get around. But wow, to have this developed by a 16-year-old of that level here in Mackay."
Humanities Head of Department Diana Bailey praised the months of dedication behind the project, highlighting how St Patrick’s hands-on learning framework empowers students to turn classroom concepts into practical solutions.
"His passion was flawless in his presentation and then the hard work that he's put in with his classroom teacher to take it to where it is now,” Mrs Bailey said.
"There's been after schools, lunchtimes, and obviously Sonny's own personal time put into this in the last six months to get it to where it is."
Sonny pitched live before an expert judging panel at Brisbane's Thomas Dixon Centre on Monday night.
OPINION PIECE By Andrew Willcox MP, Federal Member for Dawson
Imagine being told you cannot receive the aged care support you need, even when a qualified assessor knows the decision is wrong. Not because of your circumstances or medical needs, but because a computer has made the call and the assessor cannot change it.
That is the reality of the Albanese Labor Government's aged care assessment system, and the Commonwealth Ombudsman has now delivered damning findings about how it operates.
Older Australians deserve dignity, compassion and common sense. They should never be reduced to a computer-generated score.
Across Dawson, I hear from older residents who want to remain independent in their own homes for as long as possible.
Whether that's a few hours of care each week, a shower rail or a ramp, these practical supports can make an enormous difference.
Yet since November 2025, Labor's aged care assessment system has relied on an algorithm to determine support allocations and waiting priorities, without allowing qualified assessors to directly override its decisions.
It reminds me of that famous British comedy sketch where a customer is repeatedly told “computer says no”.
It was funny on television, but there's nothing funny about older Australians being denied appropriate care because a computer overrides a trained professional.
The Commonwealth Ombudsman found the system “unreasonable”, warning that “a reasonable person would… lack confidence that the system is in fact fair and consistent”.
The Department of Health sought reconsideration of that finding, but the Ombudsman refused.
The investigation also found assessors could not override decisions, even when considered “clinically inappropriate”.
Think about that.
A qualified assessor could sit with an elderly resident, understand their circumstances and recognise the computer has made the wrong call, yet be powerless to correct it.
That is bureaucracy overriding professional judgement, and older Australians are paying the price.
Coalition senators joined the crossbench to pass legislation restoring assessors' ability to override these decisions, but Labor has refused to bring the Bill forward for a vote in the House of Representatives.
The Ombudsman's findings should have prompted immediate action. Instead, Labor continues resisting a commonsense change that would put qualified professionals back in control.
The Government should scrap this flawed approach. At the very least, it must support the Coalition's legislation and restore professional judgement.
When it comes to our seniors' health, dignity and independence, “computer says no” should never be the final word.
Mackay’s Southern Breakwater now has overnight vehicle restrictions, sparking mixed reactions from locals over access, anti-social behaviour and community use. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Changes to Mackay’s popular Southern Breakwater have officially been in place for a week, with vehicle and motorbike access now restricted between 7pm and 5am daily, prompting mixed reactions from the community.
Introduced on Friday 6th November, the change still allows pedestrians, cyclists, wheelchairs, prams and other mobility aids to access the breakwater at any time, while vehicles can continue entering between 5am and 7pm.
According to North Queensland Bulk Ports (NQBP), the night-time closure aims to address concerns about after-hours anti-social behaviour involving motor vehicles, raised by local residents and through its Port of Mackay Community Reference Group.
An NQBP spokesperson said, “We appreciate that the Southern Breakwater is a popular destination, and we recognise there will be a range of views about the change.”
The closure forms part of a broader package of staged improvements to the Southern Breakwater, including updated line-marking, signage and traffic management infrastructure, with works anticipated to commence in 2027.
NQBP confirmed the arrangement would remain ongoing, with emergency, security and maintenance vehicles able to gain access at all times by contacting Port Operations through its 24-hour line.
The gate can also be opened in specific circumstances, including allowing first responders through or assisting motorists who have remained beyond the closure time.
The decision has sparked considerable discussion among locals, with some questioning whether the restrictions unfairly affect the wider community.
One resident wrote that “the majority who enjoy the breakwater shouldn’t be punished”, suggesting a later closure time of 10pm would provide a more reasonable compromise for people wanting to enjoy evening fishing, the waterfront and the marina lights.
Others questioned whether restricting access was the best way to address the behaviour of a minority, suggesting greater enforcement and targeting individuals responsible for excessive noise and poor driving practices would be preferable.
However, the change has also received support from residents familiar with the concerns surrounding the area.
One local, who identified themselves as a member of the Mackay Harbour Community Reference Group, said the decision followed months of meetings, acoustic studies and input from police, harbour residents and fishers.
They said the issue involved balancing the expectations of different groups and encouraged locals to give the arrangement a chance.
Others welcomed the opportunity to enjoy the breakwater on foot, suggesting the location could even host community events such as 'Break Wall Eat Street' markets, bringing food stalls and local vendors to the waterfront.
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