Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
OPINION PIECE from the office of Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox There is no question that immigration into Australia is out of control. The government’s numbers are too high, and standards are too low. A sustainable migration program must consider our capacity to provide housing, healthcare, infrastructure and the essential services everyone relies on, and Australians must come first. But Labor’s decision to target Working Holiday Makers Visa holders is not the answer. These people filling vital gaps in our workforce are not the cause of Australia’s housing crisis. In many cases, they are living in accommodation provided by the very businesses that employ them. The National Farmers’ Federation has made the point that Working Holiday Makers generally stay in hostels, caravan parks or purpose-built on-farm accommodation. Resorts usually have on-site staff quarters. They are not the source of Australia’s housing shortage. So why is Labor making it harder for them to come here, when these workers fill genuine jobs that regional Australia holds? Working Holiday Makers fill approximately one in seven farm jobs nationally and are particularly important during peak agricultural periods, which for Dawson, it is right now! Farmers rely on these workers to plant, pick, pack and harvest the produce that ends up on Australian supermarket shelves. Having run one of Australia’s largest tomato farms, at times Working Holiday Makers made up more than 50 per cent of my workforce. Without them, much of our crop simply would not have been picked in time and rotted in the paddock. Some may say, why not employ the Australians who don’t have a job and are on “the dole”? Can I say, this does not work. Most farmers will employ Aussies over travelling backpackers, but many either don’t want to do the work or don’t turn up after the first day. Who picks the fruit or veggies then? Farmers are already warning that visa delays are leaving them without workers. The NFF says approvals that once took days are now facing processing times of up to three months, and this time frame can be the difference between harvesting a crop or losing it. That should concern every Australian already feeling the pressure at the supermarket checkout. The same problem is playing out in tourism. Across Dawson, Working Holiday Makers are an important part of the workforce supporting tourism and hospitality, particularly in the Whitsundays. They help fill shifts, work in hotels and restaurants, support tour operators and keep businesses running through their busiest periods. They also contribute to the local economy. They spend money on food, fuel, attractions and tours, supporting the small businesses that depend on a strong visitor economy. That is why tourism and business leaders across North Queensland are raising the alarm. They understand what happens when a regional business cannot get enough staff: opening hours are reduced, and services are cut, creating a downward spiral. We do need to reduce migration to sustainable levels. We need stronger integrity measures, and we need to crack down on rorts. But responsible migration policy means understanding which parts of the system are creating pressure and which parts are helping Australia function. Working Holiday Makers are not the problem. They are part of the workforce solution for regional. Australia. People have had a gutful of watching their standard of living go backwards. Groceries, fuel, housing and everyday expenses are already putting enormous pressure on families. The last thing Australians need is another reckless policy that makes it harder to produce food, harder to run regional businesses and harder for tourism operators to find the workers they need.
Read the full storySomeone sold a house in Sydney last week for $9 million less than they bought it for four or five years ago. The sellers had bought the property in Sydney’s eastern suburbs for $29 million and sold it for $20 million in a sale forced by their bank. I imagine the sellers are a little disappointed by the government’s decisions on negative gearing and capital gains tax and feeling pretty hurt by the increased interest rates. Australia’s interest rates are on the rise and are now sitting at levels not seen since 2011. Increased cost of living is hurting people around the country and interest rates are playing into that. But the impact of interest rates is not felt evenly around the country. The far-higher property prices mean people in the major cities suffer much more than regional areas with the rates increase. That is certainly not to say people in Mackay are unaffected by the cost of living; it’s just that the impact of interest rates increase on a $400,000 mortgage is much less than the impact on a $1m mortgage. There are other Mackay-specific factors that are in play when discussing the current housing market. The big factor is the role of coal in our economy. Most of the coal extracted and exported from our region is coking coal, which is used to make steel. The price of coking coal is around $280 a tonne, which is about 50 per cent up. Good activity in the coal market translates to good news for the Mackay economy, as it is an economic engine that other cities and regions just don’t have. Good activity in Bowen Basin flows throughout the Mackay economy; Paget workshops, transport, suppliers and related businesses all benefit. But so do other, non-mining-related businesses as they benefit from the general confidence and spending that goes on. The strong mining activity also means mines need to keep their staff levels up and that means more people moving to Mackay. Of course, Mackay is much more than a coal mining town but if the coal sector is going well those other areas definitely benefit. It is a confidence boost for Mackay people looking to get into the housing market and those wanting to upgrade or downsize. It also means continuing strong demand from people wanting to rent a property and it will be interesting to see what sort of activity that creates from investors. Investors have walked away from the big-city markets because they can no longer use negative gearing on established properties that do not have a sufficient yield to be positively geared. Negative gearing has never been a big thing in Mackay because our prices are lower and rental returns continue to be strong so many investors have a positively geared property. Around the country everyone is nervous about the state of play and the probability of more interest rate rises. But strong coal prices and an economy that is performing well mean Mackay might just be presenting an opportunity for buyers and sellers that doesn’t exist in other parts. I remember when national confidence was flying high and Mackay prices were going up significantly that many buyers were saying “I wish we had bought a while ago when the market wasn’t so hot”. I’m not armed with a crystal ball so I’m not here to tell you what is going to happen but I suspect there is a very good buying window right now for those looking for an opportunity.
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A local Mackay and Sarina based model has created a dress out of newspapers, including Mackay Life, for her upcoming pageant, representing her region and hometown on the runway as she vies for Miss Diamond International in Brisbane. Zoe Place will be competing this weekend in the three-day event, beginning this Friday 2nd October and ending on Sunday 4th October. The young model spent around a month creating her eco-fashion outfit, using old newspapers as the main material and transforming them into a bodice, skirt and flowers. Red elements were also incorporated into the design to give the dress a bold and glamorous pageant feel. Zoe said, “The entire concept was really about taking something that would normally be thrown away and turning it into something beautiful and meaningful.” Her eco-fashion creation will form part of a busy weekend in Brisbane, with the Miss Diamond International event including photo shoots, interviews, an eco-fashion show and the final pageant. Zoe has been preparing for the event by practising her strut and walking, preparing for interviews and getting comfortable in the different outfits she will wear throughout the weekend. Alongside her love of modelling, pageantry has also provided Zoe with a platform to raise awareness about causes close to her heart, including mental health, while fundraising for Beyond Blue. “Pageantry has given me more of a platform to combine my love for modelling with something that is really important to me.” “When I first started, I was more nervous about putting myself out there and worried about what others would think about me – but I’ve changed a lot through my journey in pageantry.” “Pageantry has also taught me that it’s not about how you look on stage. It’s about the person you are when you step off it.” “Every woman has their own unique journey and that journey is something we should all be really proud of.” “To me, it represents confidence, empowerment, kindness, and using your voice to make a difference.” Zoe said she was looking forward to meeting the other contestants, making new connections and creating memories. “I’m definitely looking forward to meeting all the new contestants and making new connections and creating memories that I will carry with me for a lifetime.” While Zoe hopes to eventually move to the city, her sights are set even further afield, with a dream of one day walking in New York Fashion Week. Mackay and Sarina local Zoe Place has created an eco-fashion dress from recycled newspapers, including Mackay Life, ahead of her Miss Diamond International pageant in Brisbane. Photos supplied
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Trends, reels and the endless cycle of always wanting more has quietly bombarded the minds of countless social media users of all ages, but one former Mackay local has made it her mission to help others understand the effects of social media and find practical ways to break free from online addiction. Alexis Zahner is in Mackay over the next week to teach upcoming generations about social media and the effects it can have on the mind, particularly on identity, self-discovery, as well as the marketing strategies that get viewers hooked and influence their decisions. It is something Alexis knows first-hand can be a useful tool, but also a great disruption to authenticity and the world as we see and experience it. Alexis will hold a free meet and greet and book launch today, Friday 2nd October, at 5.30pm at the Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club, where she will give a talk and answer questions relating to her debut book, Real: Reconnecting to Yourself in a World of Likes and Lies. A former Mackay girl, Alexis spent the past 15 years working across business psychology, marketing and media, with her interest in social media influence beginning during her university studies at James Cook University in Townsville. Her own experience as a social media user, travel blogger and influencer eventually led her to question how much of her identity, decisions and values were being shaped by what she saw online. “The tipping point came for me about 3 years ago when I had this feeling that I couldn't separate influence from my own personal decision making,” she said. “I couldn't separate my own likes, dislikes, values, relationships from what I was being exposed to and being influenced by online.” “I found that I needed to take some time away from social media to recalibrate what was important to me and sort of reconnect and come back to myself.” Alexis said she understood the feeling of questioning who you are outside of social media. “I know what it feels like to live a life under the influence of social media and have that existential crisis of thinking to yourself, who am I? What do I like? What's the kind of life I want to live? and struggling to separate myself from influence.” Alexis is particularly passionate about reaching teenagers, who she says are in an important stage of identity development, and will share this message with Mackay high school students during her upcoming school talks. “Teenagers are really easily influenced by social media. So it's a really important age where we start educating them – not just on the mental health repercussions of things like social media and how it shortens their attention span, but how it actually influences who they become.” “If you're asking yourself these questions, it's not your fault. Social media is actually geared to create this impact on you.” Alexis encourages people of all ages to “start expanding beyond what you see on the platform.” “Dare to indulge in the things that you've always been curious about or things you used to love,” she said. “Don't be afraid to put the phone down to let yourself be curious and have fun.” What: Alexis Zahner's 'Real' Book launch When: 5.30pm Friday 2nd October 2026 Where: Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club Former Mackay local and author Alexis Zahner is returning home to share her experiences with social media and her debut book, Real. Photo supplied
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Left to Right: Trevor Peterson, Doug Peterson, Councillor Peter Sheedy and Councillor Ash-Lee Johnson. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Local historian Doug Peterson recently welcomed Mackay Regional Councillors Ash-Lee Johnson and Peter Sheedy to his Bucasia home, sharing his collection of original plans and historical material connected to the former Mount Pelion State School and other important sites across the region.
The former Mount Pelion State School building now holds pride of place at Sarina’s Field of Dreams Precinct in Railway Square, where it serves as a venue and administrative home for the Sarina Arts and Crafts Centre.
For Mr Peterson, preserving these stories is about ensuring future generations understand the foundations upon which their community was built.
“To know where you're going, you've got to know where you come from,” he said.
“You have to recognise those that came before us, because they built what we've got now.”
The historic school building recently formed part of a community celebration marking several significant milestones, including 100 years of the Mount Pelion school building, 30 years of the Sarina Arts and Crafts Centre and 120 years of the former Sarina Courthouse and Watch House.
Councillor Ash-Lee Johnson said community members such as Mr Peterson played an invaluable role in passing local history on to others.
“I think it's just wonderful that we have engaged community members like Doug, that are really willing to teach people about the history,” Cr Johnson said.
“They have so much to give, and it’s just great to learn about the landmarks we have here in Mackay and surrounding regions.”
Councillor Peter Sheedy said viewing original documents offered a tangible connection to the region’s past.
“I think it really takes us back, with some original documents showing the origin of the building,” Cr Sheedy said.
“It originated up at Mount Pelion in 1926, so that's 100 years ago, and it’s wonderful to see some of the original documents still preserved.”
Mr Peterson’s brother, Trevor, also reflected on the significance of preserving the former Mount Pelion State School, describing it as an important part of Mackay’s long-term history.
He recalled the vision of establishing the building as an old-fashioned classroom, giving younger generations the opportunity to experience what education was once like – before modern classroom supplies like paper were even invented.
Mr Peterson believes as the region continues to change, preserving its history remains an important part of understanding where it has come from.
The Mackay community gathered on Monday 7th September to honour the history, resilience and ongoing contributions of Australian South Sea Islander people, marking 26 years since their formal recognition in Queensland. Photo source: Mackay Regional Council
Members of Mackay’s Australian South Sea Islander community joined Traditional Owners, Elders, local leaders and community members on Monday 7th September 2026 to commemorate the anniversary of Australian South Sea Islanders being formally recognised as a distinct cultural group.
Held at the Mackay Regional Council Civil Precinct, the community was invited to gather for the raising of the Australian South Sea Islander Flag in recognition of the Australian South Sea Islander people by both the Federal and Queensland Governments.
The gathering brought the community together in a ceremony acknowledging the history, resilience and ongoing contribution of Australian South Sea Islander people, with traditional dances and a special performance by Fitzgerald Primary School forming part of the occasion.
The event marked 26 years since the Queensland Government formally recognised Australian South Sea Islanders as a distinct cultural group in 2000.
Local Elder Marion Healy, who was part of the group involved in drafting and finalising the statement adopted by the Queensland Government, reflected on the significance of the anniversary.
“Today we stand together in visibility, with remembrance and pride. We acknowledge our ancestors, the strength of our journey and the legacy that continues through each of us,” Ms Healy said.
Fourth-generation Australian South Sea Islander Runhoa Fatnowna also addressed the gathering, sharing her family's history and acknowledging the experiences of many within the wider community.
“My great grandfather was kidnapped from the Soloman Islands to work in the emerging sugar plantations in Queensland. His story and my story are like so many others – stories of resilience.
“Our ancestors were unwelcome – excluded from land ownership and civic life. Behind every statistic is a family and I stand here today as one of those with a lost heritage.”
Mayor Greg Williamson acknowledged the significant contribution Australian South Sea Islanders have made to the Mackay community.
“We need to remember our origins and that as a community we ensure we don’t leave anybody behind,” Mayor Williamson said.
“There’s no one here that can change the past, but we can change the future.”
The commemoration served as an opportunity to honour those who came before, reflect on the journey towards recognition and celebrate the strong and continuing presence of Australian South Sea Islander culture within the Mackay region.
“My grandad used to say a man with no history is a man with no future. Today, our future stands strong because of our history,” Ms Fatnowna said.
Queensland is home to 75 per cent of the nation’s ASSI, with the majority living in the Mackay region.
Photos supplied by the office of Glen Kelly, Member for Mirani MP
Sarina is set to gain 34 new beds, with work now underway to boost hospital capacity and support local patients.
Residents in Sarina may notice work underway on the newly announced modular unit at the Brewers Road hospital campus, with the project being delivered in conjunction with Health Infrastructure Queensland.
The new unit will provide 17 adult inpatient beds at the existing Sarina Hospital campus, forming part of the Queensland Government’s plan to ease hospital congestion and increase capacity for patients experiencing delayed discharge.
The project is in addition to the transformation of the former Sarina Hospital at 1 Hospital Street, which will provide a further 17-bed transitional care facility. Together, the two projects will increase capacity in Sarina by 34 beds, with the former hospital redevelopment expected to be completed by late 2027.
Member for Mirani Glen Kelly MP recently met with Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) Chief Executive Sean Birgan and hospital representatives to announce the additional beds.
Stage Two works at the former hospital will include internal refurbishment to provide single, double, triple and quad ensuite inpatient rooms, consultation rooms, a rehabilitation gym, lounge and dining room, and a cultural family space. The campus will also undergo driveway and foundation works to improve access to the facility.
Mr Kelly said the new beds in Sarina would complement the Queensland Government’s masterplan for Mackay Base Hospital, which includes 128 new beds, expanded services including birthing, and more than 1,000 car spaces by 2030.
“Sarina is a growing community, and it is important that our health infrastructure keeps up with the needs of the Sarina,” Mr Kelly said.
“These two projects will deliver 34 new beds in Sarina and provide more appropriate care options for patients who don’t need to remain in an acute hospital bed but still require support.
“Importantly, freeing up acute hospital beds also means greater capacity across our health service for emergency admissions and elective surgery.”
Mr Birgan said the 17-bed adult inpatient unit at Brewers Road would form another element of the Mackay Hospital Expansion Project.
“This is another element of the Mackay Hospital Expansion Project and it’s all about increasing our capacity to provide patients with the right care in the right place,” Mr Birgan said.
“The reality is that the demand for those long-stay patient beds is continuing to increase. These are patients who are not in need of intensive hospital care but do need support with daily living.
“Late last year we had an average of 30 to 35 patients in this cohort and this week we have about 90 patients.
“Our numbers have essentially tripled.”
The modular unit will be relocated from a hospital site in northern New South Wales, with commissioning expected in the first quarter of 2027.
Mr Birgan said the two Sarina projects would help improve care delivery across the wider region.
“This approach addresses two key priorities for us in that we can provide more beds for those long-stay patients, which in turn gives us the beds we need to perform more elective surgery,” he said.
“The hospital setting is not always the best environment for those who don’t need acute care but do need support with daily living.”
The latest Queensland Health point-in-time census identified 54 patients experiencing delayed discharge across Mackay Isaac region hospitals, including 43 older aged care patients and 11 younger NDIS patients.
Mr Kelly said the additional capacity represented an important investment in local health infrastructure.
“It is absolutely shocking that 54 people in hospitals across our region are clinically fit for discharge but remain there because the appropriate beds, services and Commonwealth supports simply aren’t available,” Mr Kelly said.
“For Sarina, this is a significant investment in our local health infrastructure and another important step towards ensuring our health services grow alongside our community.”
A record $200,000 raised at the Isaac Mayor’s Charity Ball will support BMA CQ Rescue and local tertiary education, with each receiving $100,000. Photo supplied by Isaac Regional Council
A record-breaking $200,000 has been raised to support tertiary education and lifesaving aeromedical services across the Isaac region following the 2026 Mayor’s Charity Ball.
A sold-out crowd of 280 people attended the event, with the Isaac Regional Charity Fund splitting the proceeds between two vital regional services. BMA CQ Rescue and Country Universities Centre Isaac each received $100,000, with the cheques officially presented in Moranbah on Monday 7th September.
Isaac Mayor and Charity Fund Chair Kelly Vea Vea said the result demonstrated what could be achieved when the region rallied behind a common cause.
“In regional communities like ours, access is everything. Access to education, access to emergency services and access to opportunity,” Mayor Vea Vea said.
“Country Universities Centre Isaac helps local students pursue tertiary education close to home, while BMA CQ Rescue provides lifesaving support when it matters most.”
The funding comes during a particularly busy year for BMA CQ Rescue, which recorded 182 tasks and more than 326 flight hours between April and June alone. Crews responded to incidents across Central Queensland, including Moranbah, Dysart, Clermont and Nebo.
BMA CQ Rescue CEO Tim Healee said record tasking numbers demonstrated just how important the aeromedical service remained for regional communities.
“Every mission represents someone in our community who needs urgent medical care, often in a remote location where time is critical,” Mr Healee said.
He said the $100,000 contribution would help maintain the skilled crews, specialist medical capabilities and aviation resources needed to respond to emergencies. The other half of the record fundraising total will support Country Universities Centre Isaac, which provides local study facilities and face-to-face assistance to students in Moranbah and Clermont.
The centre has supported more than 120 students, with almost 55 per cent the first in their family to attend university. Students are currently studying across 42 courses through 34 education providers, with 60 per cent training in teaching or health-related fields.
CUC Isaac Chair Melissa Westcott said the contribution would help the centre continue giving regional students opportunities to pursue tertiary education without leaving their communities.
The Isaac Regional Charity Fund is now looking ahead to the 2027 Mayor’s Charity Ball, with sponsorship opportunities available for next year’s event.
Photo supplied: Queensland Police Service – Mackay District
Recognition was given to the service and bravery of those who have dedicated their careers to protecting the community last Wednesday 2nd September, as 73 Queensland Police Service members from across the Mackay Whitsunday District received medals, certificates and awards during a special ceremony.
With more than 100 individual honours presented throughout the event, the awards recognised a broad range of service and achievements. Awards included the National Police Service Medal, National Medal and Clasps, National Emergency Medal, Queensland Police Exemplary Conduct Medal, Queensland Police Valour Medal, Queensland Police Emergency Response Medal, Commissioner and Assistant Commissioner Certificates, and District Officer Certificates.
Among those recognised was Northern Beaches Officer in Charge Senior Sergeant Mitch Benson, who received a Queensland Police Valour Medal for an act of exceptional bravery performed during the devastating Scenic Rim bushfires in 2019.
On 6th September 2019, then-Senior Constable Benson and fellow officers volunteered to evacuate residents as raging fires rapidly spread throughout the region.
Working through thick smoke and falling embers, the officers faced significant difficulties breathing and communicating, while visibility was severely reduced. Flames behind properties reached approximately one metre in height and intensified with each gust of wind.
As the emergency continued into the early hours of 7th September, officers were again tasked with driving through affected estates and broadcasting warnings about the rapidly approaching fire, with winds predicted to reach up to 90 kilometres per hour. As homes began to ignite, officers continued clearing the estates, running from door to door to ensure residents were safely evacuated.
Their actions ensured all residents were safely accounted for despite the life-threatening conditions.
Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton, himself a former police officer, attended the ceremony and said it was a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with former colleagues and reflect on the stories behind the medals.
He particularly acknowledged Senior Sergeant Benson’s courage and ongoing community engagement.
“His bravery was helping people out of their houses, who had basically been reluctant to leave their house until the flames were almost at their back door,” Mr Dalton said.
“He went way beyond what he could safely do, but he did it to get those people out, because he loved the community.”
Mr Dalton also highlighted the recognition of Dan Goldberg, who established an innovative learner driver program designed to help young drivers better understand how to interact with police and remain safe on the roads.
The initiative provides learner drivers with practical advice and guidance, with Mr Dalton describing it as “a really good program” and noting hopes for it to eventually expand further afield.
Mackay Whitsunday District Officer Superintendent Dean Cavanagh commended every recipient recognised on the day of the ceremony.
“Everyone awarded today should be proud of their hard work, sacrifice and dedication they deliver each and every day,” said Superintendent Cavanagh.
“Their integrity and professionalism has a profound and lasting impact on the communities they serve.”
“I am pleased to recognise and honour both officers and civilians for their significant contributions to the Queensland Police Service.”
The ceremony provided a moment to pause and recognise the people behind the uniform, celebrating exceptional service alongside acts of courage that have helped protect communities both locally and across Queensland.
Mackay’s industry leaders came together for a night of celebrating, connecting and plenty of well-earned recognition. Photo source: Resource Industry Network
The region’s resources and METS sector came together to celebrate at the 2026 Resource Industry Network Awards, recognising the businesses and individuals making a difference across the industry.
The special evening also marked RIN’s 25th anniversary. Jennmar Australia was a standout on the night, taking home two awards, while Mick Crowe and Tim Magoffin jointly received the Tony Britton Award. From manufacturing and safety to workplace culture and community involvement, the awards celebrated the hard work, innovation and people helping drive the region’s resources sector forward.
The region’s resources and METS sector took centre stage on Friday evening as businesses, industry representatives and guests gathered to celebrate the 2026 Resource Industry Network (RIN) Awards.
The evening marked a major milestone for the organisation, with RIN celebrating 25 years.
Finalists and their stories were showcased throughout the evening before businesses and individuals were recognised across categories celebrating manufacturing excellence, safety, expansion, workplace culture, community connection and individual achievement.
The awards provided an opportunity to celebrate the capability, innovation, people and community spirit found throughout the region’s resources and METS sector, while guests also enjoyed conversations and new connections throughout the evening.
Jennmar Australia was among the standout recipients, receiving two awards on the night, while the Tony Britton Award was jointly awarded to Mick Crowe and Tim Magoffin.
RIN also acknowledged its Major Partner, Ausgroup Industrial Services QLD Pty Ltd, and Silver Partner, Mackay Regional Council, for their support in helping deliver the milestone celebration.
The organisation extended its thanks to every finalist, winner, partner, sponsor and guest who attended and contributed to the occasion.
Celebrating 25 years, the evening reflected on the people and businesses helping shape the region’s resources and METS sector, while also looking towards what lies ahead.
The Whitsundays Writers Festival has officially sold out, but there is still a chance for the whole community to join the final chapter.
Book lovers will gather in Cannonvale this Sunday for the sold-out 2026 Whitsundays Writers Festival, celebrating a full day of stories, ideas and local creativity.
But those without a ticket have not missed out entirely. From 3pm, the festival will open its free waterfront finale, Stories by the Sea, at the Whitsunday Marine Club.
With more than 20 regional authors, live readings, music, children’s activities, book swaps and artists creating works before the crowd, there will be something for readers and families alike.
Photo source: Mater Private Hospital Mackay
A newlywed couple shared a little piece of their wedding-day with patients at Mater Private Hospital Mackay when they donated the leftover flowers following their celebrations.
The flowers offered an unexpected spark of joy for patients spending time in hospital, giving the wedding blooms a second life rather than letting them go to waste.
According to the hospital, the gesture was warmly received by patients, who were grateful to have something beautiful to brighten their stay.
“Small gestures like this make such a big difference. Patients were filled with gratitude to receive a little extra during their stay,” the representative said.
While a wedding is traditionally a day centred on celebrating the happy couple, this local pair extended that joy to others in the community.
It is a simple gesture, but one that demonstrates how small acts of kindness can bring comfort and connection during others’ difficult or uncertain times.
Contributed with thanks by the office of Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox
The Coalition will move to stop taxpayer money being used to help investment funds acquire Australian agricultural land for carbon projects, and scrap Labor’s Net Zero laws.
The move would prohibit the Clean Energy Finance Corporation from providing funding or financial assistance to entities acquiring agricultural land for the purpose of establishing tree plantations to generate carbon offsets.
The Coalition will also introduce legislation to abolish Labor’s Net Zero, Labor’s toxic carbon taxes and end the Government’s more than $80 billion Net Zero spending spree.
The announcement follows the controversial sale of Tasmania’s 21,745-hectare Rushy Lagoon property to UK investment firm Gresham House. The Clean Energy Finance Corporation is investing $69 million in the project, with around 9,000 hectares planned for pine plantations.
Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, said the Federal Government should be backing Australian farmers and protecting productive land, rather than using taxpayer money to compete with them.
“We have farmers across Dawson working incredibly hard to put food on Australian tables, yet Labor is prepared to help foreign investment funds acquire Australian land for carbon projects.
“The question for regional Australians is simple, what comes next?”
Mr Willcox said the Government’s approach to agriculture was also at odds with its own ambitions for Australia’s biofuels industry.
“Labor is now telling us that sugar and other agricultural products can provide the feedstocks for a new Australian bioenergy industry, but you cannot build a biofuels industry without the farmers who grow the feedstock.
“You cannot tell a cane farmer to produce more, while making it harder to use the land needed to grow the crop.
“If we want a future in biofuels, we need a future for Australian agriculture first.”
Mr Willcox said recent changes to agricultural land-clearing rules had added to uncertainty for Queensland farmers.
“Australia has some of the best farmers in the world. We should be giving them every opportunity to produce more, invest more and pass their farms on to the next generation.
“The Coalition will stand with our farmers, protect our food security and make sure Australian land is working for Australian families, Australian agriculture and Australia’s future.”
Living with anxiety can often feel exhausting. The mind may become focused on potential problems, while the body remains in a state of constant alertness. Recovery involves more than simply reducing symptoms; it involves building resilience, confidence, and the ability to navigate life’s challenges. Experiencing the feeling of being “comfortably uncomfortable” rather than in a state of alertness.
Anxiety is not simply “being worried”; it is the body’s threat detection system (amygdala) becoming activated, sometimes when there is no immediate danger. The brain has evolved to protect us by rapidly identifying potential threats and preparing the body to respond through the fight, flight, freeze, or fawn response. This response helps in genuine danger, but when the alarm system becomes overly sensitive from frequent stimulation, everyday situations, uncertainty, or physical sensations can start to feel threatening.
This is how it works: when the brain perceives danger, the amygdala activates the body’s stress response. The sympathetic nervous system increases heart rate, speeds up breathing, tightens muscles, and redirects energy toward survival. Stress hormones, including adrenaline and cortisol, are released, increasing alertness and readiness to act. Prolonged activation heightens amygdala sensitivity and can leave the body in a state of ongoing stress. Individuals may experience racing thoughts, muscle tension, sleep disruption, irritability, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and increased awareness of physical sensations.
Psychotherapy, particularly approaches such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), can help individuals understand the connection between their thoughts, emotions, physical sensations, and behaviours. Therapy can provide strategies to recogniseunhelpful thinking patterns, gradually face fear-related situations, and develop more effective ways to respond to stress and uncertainty.
Exercise can complement psychotherapy by supporting both physical and psychological wellbeing. Physical activity naturally increases heart rate and breathing, creating sensations that can be similar to those experienced during anxiety. Experiencing these sensations in a safe and controlled environment may help individuals learn that an increased heart rate, sweating, or faster breathing does not necessarily mean something is wrong. This is similar to exposure therapy. As you are exposed to the physical symptoms of a perceived threat, but your mind lets you know you are in a safe space, the threat system sensitivity becomes less responsive and therefore reduces the feelings of anxiety. Exercise can also create opportunities to feel a sense of achievement, build confidence, improve sleep, and establish a routine and sense of control.
Importantly, resilience does not mean never feeling anxious or stressed. Resilience is the ability to recognise difficult emotions, respond effectively, and keep moving forward- that is, feeling “comfortably uncomfortable”. Combining psychological strategies with regular physical activity can give people more than one pathway to manage stress and strengthen their capacity to cope.
Recovery is therefore not about eliminating every uncomfortable thought or physical sensation. It is about learning that these experiences can be managed, understood, and tolerated. With the right support, individuals can move beyond simply coping with anxiety towards developing greater confidence, resilience, and participation in the things that matter to them.
If you’d like more support in managing ADHD for yourself or your family, visit my website Personal Transitions or give Cristie 0488667264 or me 0418708214.
Proserpine’s Club Championship Triples team travelled to Sarina at the weekend to contest the Champion of Champions.
Mark Holmes, Shane Kinnear and Michael Kinnear opened their campaign with a strong 26-18 victory over Sarina before falling 32-15 to Airlie Beach in the second round.
Airlie Beach then defeated Mackay Club 23-18 to advance to the final against Souths Suburban. Souths reached the decider after wins over Northern Beaches, Mackay City and Pioneer Valley, before defeating Airlie Beach 31-16 to claim the title.
Attention now turns to this weekend’s Pratt Cup, with Saturday’s games hosted by Seaforth, Mackay City, Marian and Pioneer Valley.
Proserpine will play at Mackay City, beginning with a morning match against Pioneer Valley. The winner will advance to face either North Mackay or Souths Suburban.
Representing Proserpine will be Michael Kinnear in the Singles; Shane Kinnear and Andrew Bell in the Pairs; and Gavin Noonan, Dale Haack, David Ling and Barry Saroglia in the Fours.
We wish the team good bowls for the weekend.
In Wednesday’s social bowls, Alen Sanderson, Barry Zillmann and Philip Brown defeated Alen Sanderson, Sandy Daffara and Graham Thropp 13-9.
Alen Sanderson, Graham Thropp and Barry Zillmann then drew 7-all with Alen Sanderson, Philip Brown and Sandy Daffara.
There were no social bowls on Sunday, with Philip and Heather both succumbing to colds they decided were better not shared around the club.
Lions out to support Nepal this weekend. Photo credit: Zach Houtenville
Across a busy week of fundraising, the Whitsunday Lions Club has raised about $8,100 for communities affected by devastating flash flooding in Nepal.
Efforts began on Thursday with a Father’s Day stall at Bunnings, before continuing at the weekly Saturday Lions’ markets and Sunday’s Colour Fun Run at Club Whitsunday.
“I’m not just proud of our club, I’m proud of Lions International and that we’re able to help Lions all over the world when there’s a crisis,” said Whitsunday Lions Club President Greg Smith.
Kathmandu Lions Club Past District Governor Ram Chhetri praised the support shown by the Whitsunday community.
"The Lions members in Nepal were overwhelmed by the support and compassion of Australians in their hour of need,” he said.
“The plan is for the Lions of Nepal to ensure that the funds get to where they are needed most and are spent wisely for the benefit of those in most need.
“To this point they have been supporting the rescue teams in their efforts to find survivors, however they are now looking at how to best support the thousands of displaced and homeless survivors.”
While the fundraising was organized and facilitated by the Lions club, they recognised this outstanding effort as a community-achieved goal.
“We really want to drive home that this was achieved by the community as a whole,” Greg said.
Sandra Argo and Mark Jordan with their award-winning creations. Photo credit: Zach Houtenville
What began as a what-if over a few drinks in 2018 has grown into an award-winning boutique distillery for siblings Sandra Argo and Mark Jordan, who recently took home two Gold Awards and a Silver at the 2026 Australian Distilled Spirit Awards in Melbourne.
The success story began at a family gathering in 2018, when the conversation turned to the need for a local distillery. After plenty of careful planning and a wet season spent perfecting the recipe for tropical gin, the pair’s idea was well on the way to becoming reality.
Today, the boutique distillery produces gin, rum, vodka and whisky using an assortment of kit including a family of nine Portuguese copper stills affectionately named Rhonda, Sophia, Bill, Ben, Dad and Dave.
Production begins with a stripping run, which separates the alcohol, water and selected flavours from the fermented wash. The spirit then undergoes a slower second distillation, with some runs lasting up to 16 hours. For the tropical gin fresh limes, lychees, bananas and mangoes are gently steamed inside the still, allowing their flavours to infuse without stewing the fruit.
The distillery also uses three mechanical stills for whisky production, helping to retain its rich flavour and distinctive character.
The Barrel-Aged Rum offers smooth, warming notes of caramel, vanilla and oak, while the lighter, refreshing Hibiscus Pink Gin balances delicate floral flavours with a gentle citrus finish and a flower plucked from the garden floating inside.
The flavours certainly impressed the judges, with the Single Malt Redgum Smoked Whisky and Barrel-Aged Rum each claiming gold at the Australian Distilled Spirits Awards, while the Hibiscus Pink Gin received silver.
For the duo, the medals are a proud reward for years spent producing distinctive spirits in paradise, while supporting local ingredients and businesses wherever possible.
Catch ABC distillery at the Saturday Airlie Beach markets, or give them a call on 0413171404 to arrange a tasting.
Ash may have had a rough start to life, but this sweet little survivor is ready for a much brighter chapter.
The 8-to-12-week-old Bull Arab cross Staffy arrived at Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue through the council after police recovered him from a stolen vehicle crash.
Despite everything he has been through, Ash is a healthy and affectionate puppy with plenty of love to pass around.
At his young age, he is still learning the ropes of puppy life and will need a patient family ready to guide him as he grows. With the right training, care and encouragement, Ash can become the wonderful companion his new family helps shape him to be.
If you think Ash could be the perfect addition to your home, contact Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue by direct messaging your name, phone number and “Ash” to begin the adoption process.
Jessica and Luke Volker, Lower Don Organics, Bowen have trialled different vegetable crops in their two shade houses funded by a QRIDA First Start Loan
Bowen growers Luke and Jessica Volker are taking Lower Don Organics to the next level after purchasing a larger property and moving into full-time horticulture production.
The couple bought the property in early 2025 with support from a Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority First Start Loan.
“We used the First Start Loan to buy a second, larger property that we could grow more produce on and hopefully make our business viable,” Jessica said.
The move has given them more farming land, a larger packing shed and room to grow watermelons, cherry tomatoes, eggplants, beans, capsicums and cucumbers.
“We knew that if we wanted to continue farming and make it a viable business, we needed more land,” Jessica said.
They have also added two shade houses, protecting their produce from Bowen’s summer heat while extending their growing season and helping them use water and fertiliser more efficiently.
Putting together the loan application encouraged Luke and Jessica to take a closer look at their day-to-day costs and build a stronger understanding of their business.
QRIDA Regional Area Manager Tegan McBride began working with the couple early in the process, helping them examine their production schedules, costs and plans for growth.
“Looking at the economies of scale on five acres, they were certain that the next step was a little bit bigger for them, trying to maximise their growing space and potential sales into bigger markets,” Tegan said.
Tegan said understanding the numbers helped the couple see how their plans could be scaled across a larger property.
For information about QRIDA First Start Loans, visit QRIDA’s website or call 1800 623 946.
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