Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, says Labor’s humiliating reversal on forcing regional communities onto slower, lower-quality roads confirms what locals have been saying for months: the policy was unworkable, unsafe, and designed to shift costs away from Canberra and onto the bush.

Mr Willcox said he heard the message “loud and clear” from residents right across the Dawson electorate.

“People in Dawson told me bluntly that they don’t want to be slowed down on rural roads that already look like something out of a third-world country. They want roads brought up to standard, not pushed backwards,” Mr Willcox said.

He said the policy had nothing to do with safety and everything to do with cost-cutting.

“This was never about improving safety. It was about Labor avoiding its responsibility to invest in rural and regional roads. They tried cost-shifting, they got caught out, and now they’re scrambling.”

Mr Willcox noted that even Labor MPs publicly criticised the proposal.

“When members of the Government itself are recorded saying it’s a bad idea, you know it’s bad.

Labor can spin it however they like, their own team didn’t believe in it.”

He also made clear that the Albanese Government is dragging its feet when it comes to funding for regional roads.

“This government is showing nothing but contempt for the people who live and work in our regions.”

The Member for Dawson said constituents were rightly furious that the Government ever considered forcing slower speeds as a substitute for proper investment.“You can’t run an agricultural powerhouse on degraded roads.

“You can’t get produce to market, livestock to sale yards or machinery to farms on reduced- standard corridors.

“Slowing everyone down was never a solution; it was an insult.”

Mr Willcox added that the Government needed to stop playing politics with regional infrastructure and start treating rural communities with respect.

“Labor tried to penny-pinch on the backs of rural Australians. They failed. Now they need to recommit to long-term, reliable, fit-for-purpose funding for regional roads, because these roads are the economic arteries of electorates like Dawson.”

Mr Willcox said he would continue to fight for the road infrastructure local communities need and deserve.

“Dawson deserves roads that support our industries, not roads that hold us back.

“I’ll keep pushing until the Federal Government stops cutting corners and starts delivering for the regions.”

‍

Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox is calling for urgent upgrades to Dawson’s rural roads, urging the Albanese Government to fund the infrastructure regional communities rely on every day. Photo supplied

‍

Mackay’s sporting future is set for a major upgrade, with the Government committing $23.5 million to Stage 2 of the Great Barrier Reef Arena under the statewide Games On! program.

The funding, now received by Harrup Park, will support the development of a state-of-the-art multi-sport facility designed to become a central community and events hub for the Mackay–Whitsundays region. Once complete, the venue could play host to cricket during the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, cementing its place on the international sporting stage.

The expansion forms part of the government’s plan to build a long-term sporting legacy for regional Queensland. Officials say the upgrades will significantly enhance opportunities across cricket, AFL and grassroots sport, helping to strengthen pathways for athletes at all levels.

To date, 119 projects across the state have been supported through the Games On! program, delivering new or improved clubhouses, changerooms, fields, courts and lighting for local sporting organisations. The government says the program is reversing “a decade of decline under Labor” and ensuring communities feel the benefits of the 2032 Games.

The Great Barrier Reef Arena project is currently in its early planning stages, with design workshops and stakeholder consultation underway.

Minister for Sport and Racing and Minister for the Olympic and Paralympic Games Tim Mander said the upgraded facility would help more Queenslanders get involved in sport.

“As we position Queensland as Australia’s sports capital, we will continue to develop our regional sporting hubs to ensure the benefits of our growing schedule of major sporting events can be shared throughout the State,” Minister Mander said.

“We know that to get more people playing, officiating, volunteering and watching sport, we need to invest in quality facilities that serve the community.

“Stage 2 upgrades will support multiple sporting codes, including training for elite athletes, grassroots clubs and major event broadcasting.”

Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said Harrup Park had long been a cornerstone of the local sporting community.

“Harrup Park has been the heart of cricket in Mackay for many years, recently hosting its first international men’s cricket match, which was warmly embraced by locals,” Mr Dalton said.

“The community is excited to see the next stage of this project progress, to create a facility that will support the region’s needs long into the future.”

Harrup Park General Manager Adrian Young said the development would deliver lasting regional benefits.

“We’re proud to work alongside the Queensland Government to bring this next stage of the Great Barrier Reef Arena to life, building on strong foundations to deliver an iconic facility ready to shine on the world stage in 2032 and beyond,” Mr Young said.

"The benefits of this project go far beyond sport. It will bring people together, strengthen community pride and create a lasting legacy that every person in our region can share in.”

‍

A new era for regional sport is on the horizon as Great Barrier Reef Arena secures $23.5 million in funding (Photo Supplied)

‍

A burst of colour, creativity and culture has officially shaped the face of the 2026 North Queensland Games, with local student Georgia Thorning announced as the winner of the region-wide mascot design competition.

The contest invited children aged up to 16 to create a brand-new mascot ahead of the Games’ return to Mackay in May 2026. Entries closed at Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre on October 6, 2025, with prizes including $500 cash and NQ Games merchandise for the winning design, and merchandise packs for two runners-up.

Georgia’s artwork – a vibrant version of Pedro the Platypus – captured the community’s imagination. Her design features Indigenous dot patterns across Pedro’s face, tail and shirt, representing the Yuwi people of the Mackay region and the platypus’ connection to Broken River.

After nearly 400 community votes across 10 finalists, Pedro was announced the winner by just four votes.

Georgia said she felt “really excited” to win and was especially looking forward to seeing Pedro transformed into a full-size mascot. She said her aunt encouraged her to enter, and she began sketching ideas on her iPad while staying with her grandmother, who helped come up with the name.

North Queensland Sports Foundation CEO Alexander J. Fisher said the initiative was designed to connect sport and the arts, noting that not every young person becomes a sporting star, but creativity is equally worth celebrating.

Councillor Ash-Lee Johnson praised Georgia’s design for showcasing local culture and the beauty of the Pioneer Valley. The mascot is expected to appear in early 2026, ahead of the Games beginning on May 1.

‍

Local student Georgia Thorning wins the 2026 North Queensland Games mascot competition with her culturally inspired Pedro the Platypus design, chosen by community vote to represent the Games in Mackay. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

‍

Mackay’s Women-Only Triathlon Set For A 2026 Comeback

Ready to turn “I can’t” into “I did”?

The countdown is on for one of the region’s most uplifting sporting events — the Women’s Only Triathlon, returning to the Mirani Swim Centre on 22 February 2026 and proudly supported by North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP).

The event continues to grow each year, built on a simple yet powerful motto: “Together we Rise.”

It’s an invitation for women of all ages, backgrounds and fitness levels to step forward, have a go and discover the confidence that comes from trying something new.

No pressure. No judgment. Just encouragement, connection and community.

The race format is intentionally achievable, making it the perfect entry point for beginners while still offering a rewarding challenge for experienced triathletes:
• 200 m pool swim
• 8 km flat bike course
• 2 km run

Swim aids are welcome, and first-timers are especially encouraged to take part. For younger athletes, the Mini Chicks Triathlon (ages 5–11) brings shorter distances and plenty of fun to help spark a love for movement and confidence in the water and on the track.

For women wanting extra skills or a head start, the Mackay Triathlon Club is also offering its optional 6-week training program beginning January 12, 2026. The squad includes coaching across swim, bike and run, a strength and nutrition workshop, a squad shirt, a free race entry and support from certified TA coaches and past participants. While spots fill quickly each year, the program exists simply to help women feel comfortable and prepared for race day.

Past participants have credited the squad, and the event itself, with changing their outlook on what they’re capable of:

"What an experience! It's safe to say that without this squad, I wouldn't have started my triathlon journey… Anything is possible."

"Hands down the best decision I made this year! Triathlon has given me so much joy. If you're thinking about trying it, this is a great way to do it.... so much support and encouragement."

"This is an amazing opportunity. I've made so many great friends and the coaches are so supportive! If you've ever thought about trying triathlon, this is a great way to do it!"

Whether you're chasing a personal milestone, craving community, or simply curious about triathlon, the Women’s Only Triathlon offers a safe, welcoming place to begin.

Contact the Mackay Triathlon Club for more details

‍

"What an experience! It's safe to say that without this squad, I wouldn't have started my triathlon journey… Anything is possible."

"Hands down the best decision I made this year! Triathlon has given me so much joy. If you're thinking about trying it, this is a great way to do it.... so much support and encouragement."

"This is an amazing opportunity. I've made so many great friends and the coaches are so supportive! If you've ever thought about trying triathlon, this is a great way to do it!"

‍

Women across Mackay are being encouraged to take the first step into triathlon with a supportive 6-week training program starting January 12, 2026. Photos supplied

‍

Mackay welcomed 106 new Australians at a citizenship ceremony last week, celebrating residents from across the globe who have chosen to make the region their home. Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP attended the event, presenting each new citizen with an Australian flag and reading a message on behalf of the Minister for Home Affairs and Immigration.

Mr Willcox said he was pleased to be part of the milestone, noting, “Mackay has welcomed 106 new Australians and I was pleased to be part of the ceremony to officially welcome these people who have chosen to make our region, and our nation, their home.”

Since 2013, the Mackay region has embraced new citizens from 109 different countries, each contributing culture, skills and stories that continue to strengthen the community.

‍

Photo source: Andrew Willcox MP

‍

Researchers, clinicians, students and health leaders came together in Mackay on Friday 7 November for the 2025 Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) Research and Innovation Symposium, a forum showcasing research and innovation to improve healthcare and patient outcomes.

Hosted by the Mackay Institute of Research and Innovation (MIRI), the research and innovation arm of the Mackay HHS, this year’s symposium was themed ‘Research. Translate. Evolve’, underscoring the importance of translational research.

From new technology to managing chronic disease, to models of care to support at-risk groups, the symposium featured 16 presentations from researchers from Mackay HHS, local universities and other hospitals and health services in Queensland.

Keynote speaker Professor Eddy Strivens, geriatrician and Director of Research at Cairns Hospital and Health Service (HHS), opened the program with a presentation about co-designing healthcare for aging indigenous populations.

Dr Frederick Graham, clinical nurse consultant (dementia and delirium) from the Princess Alexandra Hospital, in Brisbane, delivered a keynote address about redesigning hospitals for patients with dementia and delirium and outlined his research journey as an academic nurse.

Mackay HHS Interim Chief Executive Sean Birgan described the one-day event as “truly inspiring.”

“It’s been a privilege to witness a number of researchers from diverse backgrounds, sharing their work and their passion for innovation and investigation that is really delivering positive change,” he said.

A highlight of the day was the presentation of the Mackay HHS Research and Innovation Excellence Awards by Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson.

The Bert Sadleir Senior Researcher Award was presented to Mackay HHS staff specialist endocrinologist and Associate Professor Harshal Deshmukh for his research in endocrine and metabolic disorders. Dr Deshmukh was commended for his outstanding track record of publications, invited presentations and successful grant funding.

Mackay HHS senior registrar (Respiratory) Dr Muhammad Nazmi took out the Bert Sadleir Junior Researcher Award for demonstrating strong research engagement in respiratory medicine. Dr Nazmi plays an active role in respiratory clinical trials and is undertaking research in improving respiratory care for renal transplant patients.

The Excellence in Innovation Award was presented to Mackay HHS Director of Clinical Measurements Mary Nunesco for her strong focus towards finding digital solutions to streamline time-sensitive clinical reporting processes to support and drive improved patient outcomes, and her dedication to developing innovative service models to bring care closer to home for rural patients.

The event also featured a Research and Innovation Poster Competition, showcasing projects from researchers and project teams across the Mackay HHS.

Attendees had the opportunity to view posters throughout the day and vote for their favourite as People’s Choice Award.

The winning poster was Staff upskilling to boost participation in bowel cancer screening: Mackay HHS pilot, by Mackay HHS health promotion officer Bree Veivers and clinical nurse consultant Tania Mattinson.

“Congratulations to all of the presenters and award participants,” Mr Birgan said.

“You are the heart of research and innovation here at Mackay HHS and you will shape a brighter and healthier future for our communities by making a difference, a continuing difference."

‍

Dr Pieter Nel with award recipients Mary Nunesco, Dr Harshal Deshmukh and Dr Muhammad Nazmi.

Mackay HHS Interim Chief Executive Sean Birgan with poster competition winner clinical nurse consultant Tania Mattinson. Photos supplied

‍

Soroptimist International Mackay (SI Mackay) officially launched the Yarn Against Harm installation last Monday, 24 November 2025, at the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens Playground, marking the beginning of the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.

Led by SI Mackay and created with contributions from across the community, the Yarn Against Harm installation became a vibrant and meaningful display aimed at raising awareness, sparking conversation, and showing solidarity with survivors of violence. The installation will remain on display for the duration of the international campaign, from 25 November to 10 December.

The space is wrapped in orange, the official colour of the 16 Days campaign, symbolising hope, determination, and change. As part of the initiative, SI Mackay also arranged for the Sir Albert Abbott Administration Building on Gordon Street to be illuminated in orange, an in-kind show of support from Mackay Regional Council and a striking visual reminder of the campaign’s message.

SI Mackay Member Tanya Williams said the installation reflected the club’s ongoing commitment to advancing the rights, safety, and wellbeing of women and girls.

“Soroptimist International has branches all over the world, and here in Mackay our club has proudly served the community for almost 50 years.”

Throughout the campaign, SI Mackay encourages the community to visit the installation and use it as a prompt for important conversations, from discussing respectful relationships with children to reviewing workplace policies that contribute to safer, more supportive environments.

“Ending violence against women requires all of us,” Tanya said.

“Every conversation, every action, and every commitment matters.”

‍

Photo source: Soroptimist International Mackay

‍

Works are due to start shortly to improve access and visitor experience at the popular Tropical Shade Garden.

This much-loved garden, located next to the Botanic Gardens Visitor Information Building, showcases a diverse collection of shade-tolerant plants and is a favourite among visitors.

Works will include footpath improvements, with selected gravel paths being replaced by concrete surfaces and boardwalks.

The project is expected to take several months, with completion anticipated by late February 2026, weather permitting.

The Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens appreciates the community’s patience during this period and looks forward to welcoming visitors back to a more inclusive and enjoyable Tropical Shade Garden.

‍

Upgrades to the popular Tropical Shade Garden will make the area more accessible and improve visitor experience. Photo supplied

‍

Pioneer State High School students were given a hands-on introduction to environmental science, cultural knowledge and real-world problem-solving last week when Reef Catchments and STEM Punks Education visited as part of the Healthy Rivers to Reef Schools Program.

Reef Catchments’ Traditional Owner Engagement Officer Robert Congoo said his involvement comes through a partnership focused on “embedding different knowledge systems” into STEM programs delivered across the Whitsunday, Isaac and Mackay region. Throughout the session, he spoke with students about traditional knowledge used in science — from understanding seasonal patterns to traditional medicines, artefacts and the way long-held practices continue to inform modern monitoring.

He also walked students through local environmental monitoring projects carried out with organisations including James Cook University and CQUniversity, covering seagrass, dugong and turtle monitoring, and the importance of identifying the right locations for research.

Healthy Rivers to Reef Partnership Executive Officer Jamie Newborn said the program aims to engage students in STEM by helping them understand “design thinking, the importance of monitoring and data” and the wide range of local career pathways connected to science and the environment. The program has reached about 15 schools in the Mackay–Whitsunday–Isaac region, focusing on Years 6 to 9.

STEM Punks General Manager Christopher Buswell said the workshop is designed to be “very hands on”, allowing students to interact with their local environment, collect data and design water-quality solutions using tools such as coding and Minecraft.

Students also took part in a Lego-based problem-solving challenge, where they had to build and identify objects without instructions. Pioneer students Marissa Harvey and Katayah Collins said the activities helped them understand marine biology, encouraged teamwork and offered a more engaging alternative to textbook learning.

‍

Pioneer State High School students explored hands-on STEM learning last week through a Healthy Rivers to Reef workshop blending environmental science, cultural knowledge and interactive problem-solving. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

‍

At The Sarina State High School Awards Night

Sarina State High School (SSHS) students Makayli Moyle and Makylha Bourke were each awarded a $2000 Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank Senior Schooling Scholarship at the 2025 SSHS Awards Night.

In addition to the Scholarship Program, Community Bank Sarina sponsors the Community Citizenship Role Model Awards (Years 7–12), Employment Ready Award and Excellence in Business Award.

Community Bank Sarina Board Deputy Chair Maree Franettovich emphasised Community Bank Sarina’s dedication to reinvesting profits back into the community and supporting the next generation through high school, apprenticeship and higher education scholarships. As a profit for purpose organisation, Community Bank Sarina directs its profits toward initiatives that strengthen the local community.

“Scholarships are an investment not only in each student’s future, but also in the future of our entire community, and I congratulate Makylha Bourke and Makayli Moyle on their impressive efforts in applying for and attaining these scholarships,” Ms Franettovich said.

“By building local expertise and encouraging a commitment to lifelong learning, we can strengthen our community whilst nurturing future leaders and community citizens.”

SSHS 2025 Senior Schooling Scholarship recipients Makylha Bourke and Makayli Moyle expressed their gratitude for this “incredible opportunity”, noting their appreciation for Community Bank Sarina’s confidence in local students.

“When I found out I’d received the scholarship, I was honestly mixed emotions of shock, excitement and ready to keep pushing forward towards my goals,” Miss Bourke said.
“As I’ve been accepted into the SUN program at CQUniversity, I’m excited to keep working towards my dream career of becoming a high school HPE teacher through my primary education studies.”
“Being named a scholarship recipient was such an exciting surprise, and it opens up real opportunities as I work toward becoming a primary school teacher,” Miss Moyle said.
“Growing up in Sarina, I’ve seen the impact Community Bank Sarina has on our town, so it feels really special to be supported in this way – I’m also really grateful for this opportunity and encourage future Year 10 students to apply.”

Community Bank Sarina has partnered with SSHS since 2017 to offer scholarships and awards, creating valuable learning and development opportunities for local students.

_Be first to hear about upcoming application openings and announcements from Community Bank Sarina, including the SSHS and CQU scholarships. Visit: https://www.facebook.com/communitybanksarina _

Sarina State High School scholarship and award recipients:

2026 Sarina State High School Scholarship
• Makayli Moyle
• Makylha Bourke

2025 Citizenship Awards
• Year 7 - Mia Borg
• Year 8 - Caye Shyra Maniguez
• Year 9 - Odessa Marshman
• Year 10 - Jett Vincent
• Year 11 - Wyatt McKewen
• Year 12 - Scott Lockie

2025 Excellence in Business Award
• Skyla Willan

2025 Employment Ready Award
• Rory Ewart

‍

Customer Relationship Manager Josie Dahtler, SSHS Scholarship recipient Makayli Moyle, Makylha Bourke and Manager Erin Ryley.

Customer Relationship Manager Josie Dahtler, SSHS Award recipients Lockie Scott, Wyatt McKewen, Jett Vincent, Odessa Marshman, Caye Shyra Maniguez, Mia Borg and Manager Erin Ryley.

Deputy Chair Maree Franettovich announcing SSHS awards and scholarship recipients alongside Manager Erin Ryley and Customer Relationship Manager Josie Dahtler. Photos supplied

‍

Mellissa Austin's Commitment to Supporting Families with Knowledge, Care & Experience

With two decades of experience and a wealth of education behind her, Mellissa Austin owns and operates Empower 4 Success with expertise to provide her clients with personalised, holistic support.

Empower 4 Success offers a selection of comprehensive services to ensure the best results for you and your family, covering issues rooted in anger management, stress, depression, self-esteem, and anxiety. Mellissa emphasises it’s normal to feel a range of emotions, but if they begin to affect your daily life, it may be time to seek professional support to help you regain balance. Empower 4 Success’ services include behaviour support, inclusion and wellbeing coaching, complex case management, assessment and reporting, and personal and group training sessions.

“My philosophy is about giving the skills to parents and educators who are working with the kids every day, rather than me working with the kids individually,” said Mellissa.

“Giving them what they need to be successful on a daily basis is much more effective than what I can do once per week in a counselling or consultation session.”

An integral aspect of Mellissa’s approach to each of her clients draws inspiration from one of her key services which focuses on the teaching and learning about child development, and interventions. Published in July earlier this year, Mellissa’s book titled, Be the Change was written with such learnings in mind to support families to understand behaviours, navigate escalation, and understand neurodiversity.

Mellissa’s in person, one on one or workshop style approach has led countless clients to feel supported and seen in times of need across the Mackay Shire. To learn more about Mellissa's services, visit www.empower4success.com.au or email empower4success@hotmail.com.

‍

Mellissa Austin owns and operates Empower 4 Success with two decades of experience and education (Photo Supplied)

How Stress Shows Up in Your Pelvic Floor

Most of us know what stress feels like — the tight shoulders, the clenched jaw, the racing thoughts at 3am. But there’s one place stress loves to hide that almost no one talks about: your pelvic floor. Yes, the same group of muscles that help keep you dry when you sneeze, support your organs, and form the foundation of your core can also become tense and overworked when life gets busy.

Here in Mackay, it’s no surprise that many women are carrying tension in places they don’t even realise. Between work demands, kids’ sport, the heat, the housework, the mental load, and the endless rushing from one task to the next, the body learns to stay in constant “go mode.” And while we often notice stress in our neck, shoulders, or jaw, the pelvic floor responds in the same way, by tightening.

Most people associate pelvic floor problems with weakness, but many women actually experience the opposite; a pelvic floor that is too tight. Just like clenching your jaw when you’re overwhelmed, the pelvic floor can become subconsciously activated throughout the day. Over time, that tension adds up. A pelvic floor that never gets the chance to switch off can create a whole range of symptoms that are easy to misinterpret, and easy to dismiss.

A tight pelvic floor doesn’t always feel like tightness. It might show up as bladder urgency, that “I need to go right now” feeling that appears out of nowhere. It can cause urinary leaks despite doing pelvic floor exercises (aka Kegels), because muscles that are already overactive can’t contract properly or functionally when we need them to. Some women notice pelvic heaviness, constipation, incomplete emptying of the bladder, or discomfort during intimacy. Others feel lower back or hip tension that never quite resolves. These symptoms can be confusing, frustrating, and often dismissed or misunderstood.

Stress also affects the bladder directly. When your nervous system is constantly switched on, your bladder becomes jumpy, too. You may find yourself going to the toilet more often, relying on “just in case wees,” or feeling caught off guard by sudden urgency. The bladder and pelvic floor communicate closely, and stress can make their signals louder, sharper, and harder to ignore.

The empowering part is that pelvic floor health isn’t just about strength, it’s about balance. Relaxation is every bit as important as activation. Just as you wouldn’t walk around with your shoulders shrugged up to your ears all day, your pelvic floor also deserves moments of softness and release. Small changes like slow belly breathing, taking movement breaks, gentle stretching, or walking outdoors can help calm the nervous system and give the pelvic floor permission to relax. Even simply noticing when you’re clenching; often during concentrating, rushing, or lifting; can help you start to let go.

If symptoms persist, a pelvic health physiotherapist can assess what your pelvic floor is actually doing and tailor an individualised plan to help everything function better again. Many women feel immediate relief just from understanding that there is a reason for what they’re experiencing, and that it’s treatable.

Stress may be part of modern life, but suffering through its silent effects doesn’t have to be. The tension you carry on the inside matters just as much as what people see on the outside, and your pelvic floor deserves a chance to breathe, too.

💜 Quick Tips to Relax a Stressed Pelvic Floor

Your calm down check list:

• Take slow belly breaths — soften your tummy and let your pelvic floor drop.
• Avoid 'just in case' wees — wait for a real urge.
• Relax your jaw and shoulders — your pelvic floor often follows.
• Add movement breaks to your day — even 2 minutes helps.
• Try gentle stretching, walking or yoga to calm your system

‍

Pleystowe Says No To BESS

Member for Mirani, Glen Kelly MP, is calling on Mackay Regional Councillors to stand with the community and vote against the proposed Pleystowe Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) when it comes before Council.

Submissions have now closed, with close to 100 objections lodged by local residents, a powerful show of community concern from one of the most pristine rural localities in the region.

Mr Kelly said the message from Pleystowe and the wider Pioneer Valley is crystal clear.

“This community has done everything right. They’ve read the documents, had their say, made their submissions, and raised legitimate concerns about safety, noise, land use and environmental impacts,” Mr Kelly said.

“Now it’s over to Council. They have a responsibility to listen to their ratepayers, not big multinationals, and to protect one of the most productive agricultural areas in Queensland.”

Residents have repeatedly raised concerns about the fire risks of large-scale battery systems, chemical runoff from firefighting operations, and the irreversible industrialisation of rural landscapes.

Mr Kelly also pointed to the lived experience of Bouldercombe residents, who have endured years of noise issues and a major BESS fire that burned for three days.

“Pleystowe locals do not want a repeat of the Bouldercombe disaster, and frankly, who could blame them?” he said.

Community frustration has been further inflamed by recent remarks from TrinaSolar’s Australian Country Manager in an interview with the 7:30 report, John Zhong, whocompared a Victorian community’s opposition to one of their projects to “a child not wanting to go to Prep.”

Mr Kelly said this attitude shows exactly why locals are concerned about how TrinaSolar engages with communities.

“That kind of comment is incredibly disrespectful,” he said. “If that’s how they talk about locals in other regions, how seriously are they taking the very real concerns of Pleystowe residents?”

Pleystowe resident Dani Percival said the project would destroy the rural lifestyle her family invested heavily to secure.

“We didn’t buy a home in Paget, we bought in Pleystowe for the quiet and the rural setting. A BESS in our backyard would be devastating.”

Ms Percival said the strength of submissions reflects a united community.

“We might not have a huge population, but we are all ready to stand up to fight against this Battery Energy Storage System.”

Resident Richard Lancaster said locals made property decisions based on established planning rules.

“When you buy a property in a rural area, you don’t expect a BESS to be built close to you.”

“These batteries need to be placed in industrial areas, not in people’s backyards. I didn’t buy acreage in Pleystowe to raise a family next to something so dangerous.”

Carrie and Steve Galea whose home is 620 meters from the proposed BESS, also raised concerns that there are residents who are even closer than they are.

“We are on a one-way dirt road with one way in and one way out, and our peace and way of life will be severely disturbed, not only by the noise pollution, but also by the increased traffic and toxic pollutants.”

Mr Kelly said the sheer volume of objections should be impossible for Council to ignore.

“The number of objections from a tiny locality like Pleystowe is extraordinary. That is a community shouting as loudly as they can,” he said.

“I’m urging Mackay Regional Councillors to respect that. Listen to your ratepayers.

"Protect their homes, their safety, their livelihoods and their way of life for the future generations.

"If they don’t feel that their planning scheme adequately deals with BESS projects, they need to write to the Deputy Premier to have this project called in and assessed by him, because while I’ve spoken to him about this project, he needs something from the Mackay Council to act on it and I’ve communicated this to councillors already.”

The Crisafulli Government is currently preparing legislation changes to better manage BESS development applications with legislation restrictions similar to those around Wind and Solar that were passed earlier this year.

Rockhampton Regional Council has also been dealing with an influx of development applications for BESS projects, and have recently passed a Temporary Local Planning Instrument to be able to properly assess them under their planning scheme as an interim measure until the new state legislation is brought in.

This was brought on from calls from the Bouldercombe and Gracemere communities that were going to be living near these projects, and similar suggestions have been made to Mackay Regional Councillors by Glen Kelly’s office.

The Pleystowe BESS application is scheduled to be considered at the Mackay Regional
Council Ordinary Meeting on Wednesday, 26 November.

‍

Photo supplied

‍

The Heart of Our Region

The Mackay City Centre has long been recognised as the vibrant heart of the region, offering an inviting blend of local character, coastal charm and community spirit. From its warm, tropical atmosphere to its walkable streets and welcoming public spaces, the City Centre provides an experience that feels both relaxed and full of opportunity. Whether stopping in for a morning coffee, browsing boutique retailers, enjoying a treatment at a local beautician or settling in for dinner at one of the area’s many restaurants, the City Centre continues to offer something for everyone.

Local businesses remain central to what makes the Mackay City Centre such a distinctive destination. These establishments include cafés where staff greet you by name, beauticians who provide personalised care, restaurants that champion regional flavours and real estate agencies that are deeply connected to the community. Each business contributes to the City Centre’s identity and helps create a place that is not only commercially active but also genuinely welcoming.

As the region grows, the City Centre continues to evolve while embracing new ideas, supporting local talent and fostering spaces where people can meet, relax and celebrate. Despite ongoing development, it retains the approachable and down to earth charm that residents and visitors have always valued.

This feature highlights a selection of the many cafés, beauticians, restaurants, real estate professionals and specialty retailers who help keep the Mackay City Centre thriving. Their dedication, creativity and community focus ensure the precinct remains one of the premier destinations in the region.

Whether you are exploring for the first time or returning to familiar favourites, the Mackay City Centre offers a uniquely local experience that reflects the heart of the community.

‍

Redefining Skin Health In Mackay

Formerly known as Alli’s Beauty, Skin Transformations has proudly served Mackay since 2012. Locally owned and operated, the clinic is celebrated for exceptional service, transformative results, and loyal client relationships.

Founded by Allison Bekker—an Enrolled Nurse and Dermal Therapist with over 19 years of experience—Skin Transformations specialises in advanced Plasma Treatments. Allison is joined by Janeen Kearns, a highly accomplished Dermal Therapist with more than eight years of expertise. Together, they deliver world-class treatments with warmth, integrity, and results-driven precision.
Janeen’s expertise expands the clinic’s scope, offering intraoral facial massage, IPL therapy, skin needling, and chemical peels. Her evidence-based approach ensures safe, effective outcomes tailored to each client’s needs, with profound results in facial sculpting, lymphatic drainage, and muscular release.

More than a beauty clinic, Skin Transformations is a medically aligned space where skin health meets innovation. Allison’s dual expertise bridges cosmetic care with clinical insight, ensuring treatments that are both effective and safe. The clinic is one of the few in Queensland offering Fusion Plasma Pro—a breakthrough for skin tightening, lesion removal, and xanthelasma reduction—as well as Cold Plasma therapy for wound healing, rosacea, diabetic wounds, and more.

June 2026, Skin Transformations will expand into a new premium space at 1/118 Sams Road, styled with clinical elegance and designed for both individual treatments and group bookings.

Book your complimentary consultation today and discover why Skin Transformations is Mackay’s leader in advanced skin health.

Special Offer: Mention this ad to receive $25 off your first treatment

Amazing results can be seen in the before and after shots

‍