I often get asked if I get surprised anymore by the level of innovation from our METS businesses. My answer to that is yes and no.

I have come to learn over my time as General Manager of RIN that our members don’t really see what they do as innovation. They simply saw that there was a problem, so they thought about a way to fix it. That, to me, says that innovation is part of our DNA. It is a huge part of what makes Mackay the largest METS sector in the Southern Hemisphere.

So that part doesn’t surprise me anymore. What does continue to surprise me is the amazing inventions that constantly come to my attention. The depth of thought that goes into developing these new innovations astounds me. Then, when you consider the skills and patience that go into developing them, it makes me proud to be associated with the METS sector in this region.

At the recent Queensland Resource and Innovation Expo, I was honoured to host the Mine Pitch event. Mine Pitch is sort of like The Shark Tank. It was created to help SME businesses develop connections into the resources sector by pitching their products or services to a panel of industry and subject matter experts. Resource Industry Network has partnered with Greater Whitsunday Innovation to deliver this event three times per year for the last four years.

What made this Mine Pitch different was that it was delivered in front of a live audience. Normally, Mine Pitch is a totally online event. This was done to give the pitchers confidence to deliver a compelling pitch to potential customers online, anywhere in the world.

The pitching businesses certainly embraced this version of Mine Pitch. While nervous, their commitment to their products and the passion they showed for their businesses was fantastic. The level of innovation on show certainly impressed the panel of industry experts and the audience.

A huge thank you to the panellists who gave up their time to be part of the event. The feedback given to the pitching businesses and the connections they made will stand them in great stead as they look to take their products into the market further.

I must give a shout-out to our partners in Mine Pitch, Greater Whitsunday Innovation. They are the innovation hub here in Mackay that continues to guide our budding innovators through the product development cycle.

Also, to the Resources Centre of Excellence for hosting the Queensland Resources and Innovation Expo. It is a fantastic concept that brought together great speakers and allowed innovative businesses to promote their fantastic products and services.

It was a great day all round.

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I remember, as a kid in the 1970s, seeing my father do the annual service and general maintenance on our cars.

It’s true that cars were less complicated then and you didn’t have to understand computer technology to service your vehicle.

Younger readers will be pleased to know that although we didn’t have computer technology in our homes and cars, we did have televisions. Early in the ‘70s they even broadcast in “living colour”.

There was little evidence of “hi-tech” in our lives except what you would see broadcast on that new colour TV.

Computers were limited to the world of science fiction and space travel, with Star Trek probably the most obvious example.

The only robot I ever knew of growing up was the one I saw on the absurd yet popular show Lost in Space. It ran on wheels, had arms like an old vacuum cleaner hose and went by the imaginative name “Robot”.

Later, The Six Million Dollar Man came on to our screens. After suffering life-threatening injuries we discovered that they had “the technology to rebuild him” and we knew that advanced computers and bionic humans were just around the corner.

But they weren’t here yet, so my father could still service our cars like he had always done and as his father had done before him.

It was all about carburettors, air filters, oil filters and spark plugs … never about on-board diagnostics.

But while my father was all over the car thing, when it came to selling houses he left that to the experts.

Our family grew quickly so we had to buy and sell a few houses, and I remember the responsibility for that was handed over to real estate agents.

My father could have sold a house without an agent but he knew that he didn’t have the skills and backing of an agency to guarantee he would get the best price.

There has been a feeling among some sellers in Mackay that because houses have been selling quickly, owners might as well sell their properties themselves.

I have heard people say, “My neighbour put up a For Sale sign and it was sold a few days later.” It’s as though the quick sale, in itself, means success.

It is true that a quick sale can be a good thing if it is a result of massive interest among qualified buyers who compete for the property and push the price up.

But creating the necessary competition requires marketing that reaches all the potential buyers. It needs an agency with a database of buyers, including those who have made offers but missed out on other properties.

Prices went up 20 per cent over the past 12 months in Mackay and that happened because marketing and expertise created competition. It didn’t happen because sellers sold privately for what they and the buyers thought was a “fair price”. It was because agents found the “market price”, a different thing.

I tell friends who want to buy to be on the lookout for the “Sale by Owner” opportunities because you don’t have the same level of competition.

A mate recently picked up a property for about $100,000 below current market value when he bought privately, directly from the owner. It was great for him but a bit sad for the seller, who saved $15,000 on commission but ended up out of pocket by about $85,000.

When weighing up their options for selling, owners who are thinking about for-sale-by-owner should remember the cautionary words of the Lost in Space Robot to his young companion Will: “Danger, Will Robinson.”

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Honouring The Region’s Most Celebrated Wedding Creatives

From heartfelt vows to cinematic memories and breathtaking venues, a wedding is a tapestry woven with the talents of many,  and in regional Queensland, we’re spoilt for choice. This special feature shines a spotlight on the exceptional local businesses that help bring the magic of “I do” to life.

Whether it’s a videographer capturing every tear and twirl, a celebrant turning love stories into timeless ceremonies, or a venue that sets the scene for unforgettable moments, our region is brimming with passionate professionals who pour their hearts into every wedding they touch. And recently, many of them have been recognised with awards and accolades that reflect their commitment to excellence.

As more couples choose to tie the knot in picturesque regional settings, our local wedding industry continues to flourish. From coastal backdrops and countryside charm to tropical gardens and rustic barns, the Mackay, Whitsunday, Isaac and surrounding areas offer some of the most enchanting wedding destinations in the country, and behind those dreamy days are hardworking local creatives and service providers making it all happen.

These award-winning individuals and businesses have turned their passion into an artform. They’re not just suppliers, they’re storytellers, planners, problem-solvers and dream-weavers. Whether it’s seamlessly coordinating a ceremony, styling a venue to perfection, or going the extra mile to capture candid moments on film, they understand that every detail matters.

Wedding awards are a way of recognising not just quality and professionalism, but also heart. These accolades are often driven by real feedback from clients, brides, grooms, families and friends who’ve experienced firsthand the magic and care these businesses bring to their special day. And when locals support locals, everyone wins.

In this feature, we’re proud to share the achievements of businesses who’ve stood out in their field, raised the bar, and helped put our region on the map as a destination for unforgettable weddings. From those who are new on the scene to seasoned professionals with shelves full of honour, every one of them is part of what makes the regional wedding industry so vibrant and unique.

So, whether you're planning your own big day or simply want to celebrate the talents in our community, join us in giving a round of applause to the businesses who make weddings not just happen, but truly shine.

Because in this region, love isn’t the only thing worth celebrating, it’s the people behind the scenes who bring that love to life.

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At Club Northern Beaches

Club Northern Beaches, winner of the 2025 Australian Wedding Industry Awards for Whitsundays & Mackay, is a licensed wedding venue renowned for exceptional service and stunning event spaces. Located in the charming Northern Beaches of Mackay, Queensland, it offers the ambience of a tropical retreat while being only 20 minutes from the Mackay CBD.

Boasting three unique venues within the facility, Club Northern Beaches is a destination that can host exceptional and unique events. The deck can accommodate wedding ceremonies and receptions as part of the venue’s new and exclusive wedding packages. The Marquee is ideal for small gatherings or, when combined with The Deck and Gardens, can host larger events

The venue can cater to intimate events for small groups or large, lavish affairs. The dedicated functions team is committed to assisting and planning each special day to perfection. With a highly experienced functions coordinator, talented chefs, unique reception spaces, and picturesque ceremony locations, Club Northern Beaches delivers a complete and memorable event experience.

Proudly community owned and operated, Club Northern Beaches is dedicated to providing great service, delicious food, and an expansive, exciting entertainment experience.

On-site facilities include 2 Bowling Greens, The Beaches Bistro, High Tide Café, Sports Bar 2.0, The Deck, Marquee Garden, The Greenery, and The Golden Sands Gaming Lounge.

The club is currently undergoing major renovations, including a brand-new Gaming Lounge, Sports Bar, and an expanded “Driftwood Deck Bar” overlooking the bowls green.

Book your special day at www.clubnb.com.au

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Mackay And Whitsundays Premier Wedding Videographer

A creative force lighting up the wedding scene, SunBuzz Media has been officially crowned the number one Wedding Videographer for the Whitsundays and Mackay region at the 2025 Australian Wedding Industry Awards.

At the heart of this rising creative powerhouse are wedding filmmakers Stacie Howarth and Simone Gallagher – longtime friends, collaborators, and the visionary duo behind the lens. With more than a decade of combined experience in live broadcast television, they bring a rare level of professionalism, artistry, and instinct to every wedding they film.

Having worked with major media outlets including 7 News and Sunrise, and collaborated with celebrities and high-profile clients across the country, Stacie and Simone have since channelled their talents into crafting emotive, detail-rich wedding films under the SunBuzz Media brand.

They believe every couple has a story worth telling, and they make it their mission to bring that story to life in a way that is cinematic, timeless, and cherished forever.

Backed by formal qualifications as well as creative flair, Stacie holds a Bachelor of Film and Screen Media Production, while Simone holds a Bachelor of Digital Media. Over the past two years, they’ve carved out a reputation as sought-after wedding videographers across Queensland and beyond.

In addition to weddings, SunBuzz Media has become the go-to team for high-end corporate video production and branded social media content.

Now, they’re elevating their craft even further, heading to the United States in October to take part in the leading international Film Workshop hosted by Runaway Vows, Emma K Films, and 31 Films – an immersive training experience focused on the latest cinematic techniques and storytelling trends.

“We know how important education is, especially in the ever-changing world of technology and trends, and that’s why we are constantly upskilling to give our couples the best cinematic quality films.

“We’re really looking forward to bringing a wealth of knowledge back to our region from the US. We really love what we do and we just can’t wait to see where this takes us.”

SunBuzz Media is also a finalist in the upcoming national Australian Wedding Industry Awards, set for January, as they continue to deliver heartfelt, high-quality films that couples treasure for a lifetime.

From intimate elopements to lavish ceremonies, Stacie and Simone pride themselves on capturing the unscripted – the tears, the toasts, the dance floor moments – all with an artistic lens and a strong eye for detail.

“We’re proud to represent cinematic storytelling at its finest and can’t wait to capture more magic in 2025 and beyond!”

Now booking for 2026 and 2027, SunBuzz Media invites couples to begin their storytelling journey with a cinematic keepsake of love, laughter, and everything in between.

Book the regions #1 videographers today at www.sunbuzzmedia.com

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Queensland’s Award-Winning Celebrant

When it comes to saying "I do," Barb Baretta is the name couples trust to make their moment special. Crowned the 2025 Wedding Industry Award winner for Civil Marriage Celebrant in the Whitsundays and Mackay region, Barb has become one of Queensland’s most respected and sought-after wedding celebrants.

In just eight years, she has officiated nearly 200 weddings, combining experience, professionalism, and a heartfelt personal touch that has earned her a cherished place in the lives and stories of countless couples.

Based in Mackay, Barb travels far and wide to help couples tie the knot – from remote cattle properties to coastal mountaintops, inner-city parks to private homes, and even the iconic Whitehaven Beach via helicopter. Whether it’s a tight-knit elopement beneath the gum trees or a grand wedding under a magnificent marquee, Barb ensures each ceremony reflects the unique needs of the bride and groom.

“I work around my couples,” Barb says.

“This is their day – it should reflect who they are and what matters most to them.”

It’s this couple-first approach that has earned her consistent praise and a growing client base. Known for being calm under pressure and genuinely invested in her clients, Barb takes time to understand every couple’s unique story, ensuring the ceremony feels personal and meaningful.

Her success stems from the simple fact that she loves what she does.

“I’m honoured to be a part of one of the most important days in people’s lives.

“For me, that joy never wears off.”

No matter the size, setting, or style, Barb Baretta brings warmth, grace, and professionalism to every ceremony, ensuring it’s truly memorable and entirely your day, your way.

Book with Barb today at www.celebrantbarbbaretta.com.au

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Local Advocate Set To Sparkle on National Stage

By Hannah McNamara

Jenna Kerschbaumer is redefining the pageantry world, turning years of heartache into a mission grounded in confidence-building - not just for herself, but for the wonderful women around her.

This October, she’ll step onto the Melbourne stage to compete in the Ultimate International Miss Australia pageant, proudly promoting self-love and empowerment with every stride.

Throughout school, Jenna was bullied for her appearance, so much so that she dropped out early and carried emotional scars for years. She says it took more than a decade to recover, and rediscover her self-worth.

“When I was younger, I actually dropped out of school because I was bullied,” Jenna said.

“It took me over 10 years to unlearn the lies I was told about myself and learn how to truly love who I am.”

In 2005, she entered her very first pageant on the Gold Coast, and ever since then, her confidence has blossomed.

Now, she’s loving the skin she's in, and embracing her most authentic self, with a clear mission to uplift others.

“I think it’s so important for young women – especially in this social media age – to realise they don’t have to look or act a certain way. You deserve to love yourself exactly as you are.”

“It’s all about giving yourself permission to grow into the person you want to be, no matter what challenges you’ve faced.”

With that mindset, Jenna is shedding light on the true meaning of modern pageantry - beyond just appearance.

“This pageant celebrates more than just appearances. It’s about empowerment, purpose, and making a difference in our communities,” she said.

“People think pageants are just about sparkly dresses and crowns, but they’re so much more. You grow as a person, gain real-life skills like public speaking, and connect with a sisterhood of strong, like-minded women.”

Though she’s focused on representing Mackay at the national level, Jenna is also making waves at home through her very own fundraiser – Mackay Beeyoutiful Charity Pageants – offering women and girls aged seven and up the same sense of connection, confidence and glamour right here in the region.

Founded in 2022, Beeyoutiful Charity Pageants unites women and girls of all ages, backgrounds and beauty, with the goal of combating bullying, low self-esteem and harmful body image pressures. Men are also welcome to participate, with the event focused on helping all individuals rediscover their worth beyond social media filters.

And better yet – it’s all for a good cause.

The next event will be held on Friday, August 30, with all proceeds going to the Starlight Children’s Foundation.

“This is the first year we’ve supported the Starlight Children’s Foundation. In the past, we’ve supported the Mackay Hospital Foundation and other local causes,” she said.

“It’s just a lovely way to give back to the local community by promoting confidence, self-love, and a positive mindset, especially for women and young people.”

“If anyone is struggling with confidence or mindset, they’re welcome to reach out to me personally. I’m not a certified coach… just someone who’s been through a lot, and if I can help even one person, that’s exactly why I do this.”

Now preparing for her return to the national stage after a few years away, Jenna says she’s embracing the moment.

“It’s been three or four years since I last competed at a national level, so I’m really looking forward to meeting new people, getting back on stage, and raising awareness for my platform: Freedom to Flourish.”

“I’m just so grateful for the chance to advocate, sparkle, and represent something bigger than myself.

“The motto of the pageant is: ‘Behind every successful woman is a tribe of other successful women who have her back.’

“And that’s why I chose to be part of it… because it aligns with everything I believe in.

“I’m hoping this experience will open the door to representing Australia internationally next year… that would be an absolute dream come true.”

Wearing a crown of resilience, Jenna Kerschbaumer is determined to walk the stage with sparkle, strength and heart.

For more information or to enter the upcoming local pageant, visit the Beeyoutiful Charity Pageants Facebook page.

After overcoming years of bullying and self-doubt, Jenna Kerschbaumer is using pageantry to promote confidence, self-love, and empowerment, both on the national stage and through her Mackay-based Beeyoutiful Charity Pageants supporting others to flourish. Photos supplied

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At Alman Partners True Wealth, we’re passionate about helping people live their best lives - both our clients and our team. That’s why we’re proud to be part of the Mackay Careers Expo, where we’ll be showcasing exciting career pathways in the profession of financial advice.

Whether you're a student, graduate, or professional seeking a meaningful career change, our firm offers more than just a job - we offer a future. With our Trusted Adviser Development Program, designed to guide aspiring financial advisers through a structured journey of technical training, mentorship, and personal growth, you’ll gain real-world experience, build trusted relationships, and be supported by a team that values integrity, excellence, and heart.

As a leading holistic financial advisory firm, with 40 years of experience, we are highly regarded in the financial advice world, being named the Financial Advice Association Australia’s (FAAA) Professional Practice of the Year in 2022; and in 2023, a Finalist in the ifa Excellence Awards - Best Financial Advice Employer.

We invest in our team through tailored learning pathways, professional study support, and opportunities for leadership roles. Many of our advisers began in support roles and have grown into senior positions or business partners.

Visit our booth at the Expo to meet our team and discover how you can grow with us. Let’s shape the future of financial advice – together.

www.alman.com.au/careers

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Empowering Our Community - Lessons Learned And Resources Discovered

Since being elected to council in April last year, I’ve learned just how much valuable information and support is available to our community and just how many residents don’t know it exists.

That realisation has become one of the biggest lessons of my first year and sparked a personal mission to help bridge that gap.

One of the best tools I’ve come across is the Snap Send Solve app. This easy-to-use platform allows residents to quickly report issues such as potholes, broken signage or dumped rubbish by simply taking a photo on their phone. The app uses GPS to pinpoint the location, making it even easier for council teams to respond and act efficiently.

Another valuable resource is MyH2O, a free online service that allows residents to track their water usage in near real-time. Not only can you monitor your consumption, but you will also be notified if you have a possible leak, helping save both water and money. You can sign up here: myh2o.qld.gov.au.

And as we all know, Mackay weather can change quickly. That’s why our Disaster Dashboard is such an important resource. It provides live updates during weather events, including road closures, warnings and emergency contacts, all in one central, easy-to-access location.

Once I fully realised the extent of these tools and how underused they are, I have made it my mission to spread the word. That’s why I attend local markets and shopping centres to chat face-to-face with residents and answer questions. I've also embraced social media, launching regular themed posts to share key information.

Every Top Tip Tuesday, I highlight one of our many council services or apps. On What’s On Wednesday, I share upcoming events from the Mackay Events calendar. And on Fun Fact Friday, I explore the rich history of Mackay, something I’ve always been passionate about.

To stay in the loop and learn more about the services available to you, follow my Facebook page: Cr. Nathenea MacRae

It’s been a rewarding journey so far and I’m excited to keep sharing, learning and supporting our community every step of the way.

By Cr Nathenea MacRae

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At The Mackay Careers Expo

Local students and jobseekers will have the chance to learn more about careers in Real Estate Sales, Commercial Sales, Leasing and Management, Finance, Insurance, Property Management, and Financial Planning when Gardian takes part in this year’s Mackay Careers Expo.

The well-established, family-owned firm will be located at Site 96 at the Mackay Showgrounds, where representatives from across the business will be available to discuss the wide range of roles and opportunities offered within the organisation. Visitors will also have the opportunity to speak with staff about day-to-day operations, workplace culture, and what it takes to succeed in each area.

With 25 years of service to the Mackay region, Gardian has built a strong reputation for professionalism, local knowledge, and community engagement. The company’s diverse operations include Finance, Insurance, Financial Planning, Real Estate Sales, Commercial Sales, Leasing and Management and Property Management offering a range of entry points for those starting out or looking to pivot careers.

Gardian is proud to invest in professional development, providing pathways for growth through mentoring, hands-on training, and ongoing support. Whether students are considering their first job, investigating further education options, or looking to enter a new field, Gardian’s team will be on hand to provide insights, guidance, and practical advice.

The expo presents an opportunity to gain a clearer understanding of the skills, attributes and pathways that can lead to a rewarding career in the property and finance sectors, and to connect directly with those working in the field.

Kickstart your career at Gardian – with you at every step.

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Endless Pathways, Shared Purpose: Enrich Hearts, Minds And Futures

Are you passionate about working with children and making a real difference?

Whether you're just beginning your career or pursuing long-term goals, Catholic Education – Diocese of Rockhampton (CEDR) offers a rich tapestry of career pathways grounded in the Catholic faith tradition. Each step is an opportunity to accompany students on their journeys of personal and spiritual growth.

Discover Your Pathway
Begin your journey in entry-level roles such as:
Outside School Hours Care (OSHC) Assistant
Kindergarten Assistant
Teacher Assistant

These foundational roles provide hands-on experience in nurturing the holistic development of children within a faith-filled environment. They are ideal for those exploring a vocation in education, offering insight into classroom dynamics, child development, and the life of a Catholic school community.

Advance with Purpose
Ready to take the next step? With further study, you can progress into teaching roles in:
Early Childhood Education
Primary Education
Secondary Education

As a CEDR educator, you’ll do more than teach—you’ll inspire, guide, and shape the future. Embark on a meaningful teaching pathway in our Catholic school communities, where education is enriched by a strong sense of community and dedicated to nurturing the whole person.

Lead and Serve
As your experience grows, so can your opportunities. Step into leadership pathways such as:
Middle Leaders (Head of Department)
Assistant Principal
Principal

These roles empower you to shape the spiritual and academic direction of the school, inspire entire school communities, and foster flourishing learning environments.

Lifelong Growth
Catholic education is a journey of purpose, service, and leadership. With ongoing professional development, mentoring, and a supportive network, your pathway is filled with opportunities to grow—personally, professionally, and spiritually.

Your future in Catholic Education starts here. Visit our website to explore your pathway:
www.rok.catholic.edu.au
Apply today!

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Bright skies and high spirits greeted racing fans on Saturday, 26 July 2025, as the Mackay Turf Club played host to the premier feature of its summer racing calendar — the Ladbrokes Mackay Cup. Part of the Northern Winter Carnival, the highly anticipated 2000-metre handicap boasted a total prize pool of $150,000, drawing elite trainers, jockeys, and thoroughbreds to compete at Mackay Racecourse in Ooralea.

The reigning champion Hype, piloted by Ryan Wiggins, struck again, defending the title with a commanding performance that saw her pull clear of the field. Following closely were Sir Grace in second, with Logan Street Lion claiming third, rounding out a standout podium for the local racing community. The quality of the field and the winning time underscored the depth of competition that makes this race a highlight of the region’s annual racing calendar.

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Frocks, fascinators and friendship – the Mackay Cup brought colour, style and smiles trackside as racegoers embraced a day of fashion and fun in the field. Photo credit: Mackay Turf Club

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The great diversity of Queensland’s 313 Catholic schools will be the focus of this year’s Catholic Education Week which runs from 27 July to 2 August.

The theme for this year’s celebrations is Communities of Faith Hope, and Love.

Queensland Catholic Education Commission (QCEC) Executive Director Mr Allan Blagaich said the theme reflected the broad range of social, economic, religious and cultural backgrounds of the 162 000 students in Catholic schools.

“Catholic Education Week is a wonderful opportunity for us to focus on the achievements of Catholic schools across the state,” Mr Blagaich said.

“It’s a time to celebrate the uniqueness of each of our school communities but to also realise that we are one in faith and drawn together through a common heritage.

“Our Catholic schools come in many shapes and sizes from our small rural schools to large metropolitan colleges, from boarding schools to flexi-schools for disengaged students and as a sector we listen to the voices of all those communities.”

Celebrations around the state will include Masses and other liturgical celebrations, parent and grandparent days, school activities focused on this year’s theme, and visits to community facilities such as aged care homes and childcare centres.

This year’s official launch of Catholic Education Week will take place on Wednesday, 30 July at St Joseph’s Cathedral in Rockhampton.

“We have had wonderful celebrations in regional cities in recent years, and we look forward to celebrating with the Catholic school communities within the Diocese of Rockhampton.”

Diocesan Director, Catholic Education – Diocese of Rockhampton, Mr Michael McCusker said schools throughout the Diocese of Rockhampton were looking forward to the celebrations.

“The launch will take place at St Joseph’s Cathedral, commencing at 11.00am with Mass celebrated by Archbishop Mark Coleridge (Apostolic Administrator, Archdiocese of Brisbane) and Bishop Michael McCarthy (Catholic Diocese of Rockhampton), and will include hospitality provided by the Rockhampton Catholic Education Office and the Rockhampton Region Catholic schools,” Mr McCusker said.

“Catholic Education Week is a time to celebrate our students and their achievements but also our staff and their outstanding contribution to the ministry of Catholic Education.”

The launch will include the presentation of the 2025 Spirit of Catholic Education Awards, and the Aunty Joan Hendriks Reconciliation Award, presented to staff and volunteers who have made an outstanding contribution to Catholic education from across Queensland.

“The awards recognise people from all walks of school life who have in common a desire to build up the school community and to see our young people achieve their best and will be presented on behalf of the Queensland Minister for Education by Donna Kirkland MP Member for Rockhampton,” he said.

“It’s always inspiring to hear the stories of the award recipients and know that they are just a few of the thousands of people making positive contributions in Catholic schools.” Mr McCusker said.

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Catholic Education Week, running from 27 July to 2 August, will celebrate the rich diversity of Queensland’s 313 Catholic schools under the theme Communities of Faith, Hope and Love, with statewide events highlighting student achievements, community connections, and the dedicated staff behind Catholic education. Image source: Catholic Education Queensland

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On Wednesday 30 July, Gilmour Space Technologies became the first company to launch an Australian-made orbital launch vehicle from Australian soil. While the flight lasted only around 14 seconds, Gilmour Space described the maiden launch as a strong and promising result.

“For a maiden test flight, especially after an extended 18-month wait on the pad for final approvals, this is a strong result and a major step forward for Australia’s sovereign space capability,” the company said on Facebook.

The Eris rocket successfully lifted off from the Bowen Orbital Spaceport, clearing the tower and completing 14 seconds of powered flight using four hybrid rocket engines, with 23 seconds of total burn time planned. According to the company, all systems performed as expected, including flight software, guidance, navigation and control (GNC).

The autosequence and ignition systems were successful, with smooth operations through terminal count and T-0. Gilmour also confirmed that the rocket and ground systems worked in unison, the launch and range operations were executed safely, and early indications suggest the launch site infrastructure remains intact. Extensive flight data was also collected for analysis.

Looking Ahead To TestFlight 2

Despite the brief flight and the rocket not reaching orbit, Gilmour Space stressed that the most important outcome was the safety and morale of the team — and they’re now looking forward to TestFlight 2.

“Only six nations launch to orbit regularly — and just a handful are working to join them,” the company posted on Facebook.

“Today brings Australia closer to that club.

“A huge congratulations to our tireless team, and thank you all for your incredible support. Onwards to TestFlight 2!”

Hon Dale Last MP, Member for Burdekin said he was proud to have support Gilmour Space since the beginning, he was proud of what was achieved during the recent launch.

"It’s fair to say there is more work to do but I know how determined the team at Gilmour Space is to make their space program a success,” he said.

“Given that the ERIS rocket is ground-breaking technology, I think the launch was a success.  The history of the space industry is full of unsuccessful attempts, but it is those attempts that have triggered the biggest advances.

“I am also incredibly proud of the way in which Bowen, and the region, have supported the Gilmour Space team and I know that support has meant a lot to people working so hard to make Bowen the home of Australia’s space industry.”

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said the launch had been long-awaited and marked a major milestone for the Whitsundays.

“This morning, Gilmour Space’s Eris rocket got off the ground at the Bowen Orbital Spaceport,” Mayor Collins said.

“It wasn’t without its challenges, with the mission ending soon after, but the fact it got off the ground is a huge achievement in itself — and a testament to the persistence and innovation of James, Adam and the entire Gilmour Space Technologies team.

“For the Whitsundays, this is an important first step towards the giant leap of a future commercial space industry right here in our region.

“We’re really excited to be with them on this journey and to see the space industry in the Whitsundays develop further.”

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy, said that although the flight was short-lived, it was still a historic moment for Bowen, the region, and the nation.

“The Gilmour brothers have always made it clear that first test launches do not usually make it to orbit,” she said.

“There has been a lot of interest in the launch, from locals and visitors, and we look forward to hearing about the plans for future launches.”

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The Eris TestFlight 1 took flight on Wednesday morning. Photo sourced: Facebook

The rocket successfully launched and completed 14 seconds of flight
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins with Gilmour Space Technologies

Photos sourced: Facebook

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A heartfelt message of gratitude has been shared by a local woman after she and her two-year-old were left stranded in the dark when their trailer came loose just five minutes from Proserpine.

“I want to extend my deepest gratitude to the wonderful couple just 5 minutes from Proserpine who found me and my two year old stranded on the road when my trailer pin broke and came off my car,” she wrote in a public post.

“It was pitch black, and I was stuck, feeling pretty helpless. Your kindness in helping me put the trailer back on was truly appreciated, and it meant the world to me.”

She also thanked another driver who made a crucial difference in getting her back on the road safely.

“A special thank you also goes to the four-wheel drive driver heading south who generously gave me the pin from their vehicle so I could safely move my trailer and get ourselves off the road. Your selflessness and support made a stressful situation so much easier to handle.”

In a final message to those who helped, she added: “If you read this, please send me a message—I would love to return the favor by replacing the pin you kindly lent me.

“Once again, thank you all for your kindness, generosity, and help. Your actions remind me of the good in people, and I am forever grateful.”

The incident is yet another reminder of the strong community spirit in the Whitsundays, where locals consistently look out for one another, whether it’s on the road, during tough times, or simply when someone needs a helping hand.

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