On Saturday, October 19th, Rover Matthew Vella was presented with the prestigious Baden Powell Scout Award, the highest honour in Scouting for his age group.

The award ceremony was attended by notable figures, including Mayor Greg Williamson and Region Commissioner Dougal McWhinney, who both commended Matthew for his well-deserved achievements.

Mayor Williamson even recalled presenting Matthew with his Queen Scout Award as a Venturer in 2019, highlighting his ongoing commitment to Scouting.

Matthew, supported by his family, received his award from Joanne Hamilton, with Rover Unit Chair Kat Allen outlining the significant work involved in achieving this accomplishment. The Baden Powell Scout Award requires completing six challenging elements, each demanding at least 18 hours of effort, along with a personal development course, an adventurous journey, and proficiency in outdoor adventure skills.

Since joining Rovers in 2019, Matthew demonstrated a remarkable work ethic, quickly setting his sights on the award. He earned a Certificate II in Outdoor Recreation, provided service to younger Scouts and took on leadership roles in large Scouting events. His passion for the outdoors extended beyond Scouting, as he also completed a Diploma of Outdoor Leadership.

One of Matthew’s personal achievements has been mastering Greenland-style rolling for sea kayaking, a difficult skill that requires intense practice. He can now execute seven consecutive rolls and sometimes adds an eighth for fun. This passion for kayaking will continue, as Matthew has accepted the challenge of coordinating the water base for the Australian Scout Jamboree (AJ2025) in Maryborough, where 9,000 Scouts will participate in water-based activities over 10 days.

As part of his personal development, Matthew earned his Wood Badge and a Certificate IV in Leadership and Management. His adventurous journey involved a 5-day sea kayaking expedition around the Keppel Bay Islands, covering 88.4 km and visiting nine islands.

In his speech, Matthew reflected on his Scouting journey and encouraged others to embrace the opportunities Scouting offers.

“Scouting offers opportunities you can’t even begin to imagine. It challenges you to grow, to explore, and to lead. So, when life presents you with a new opportunity, take it.

“Step into the unknown, because that’s where growth happens…You never know what doors it will open or where it might lead, but I can promise you this—it will lead to something extraordinary.”

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Pictured with Mayor Greg Williamson and Joanne Hamilton, Matthew celebrated this milestone alongside his family and fellow Scouts. Photos supplied

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As the Queensland elections loom, we find ourselves in a familiar yet invigorating cycle of public discourse and spirited debate. It’s no small feat for candidates to step up and put themselves out there for scrutiny, juggling the expectations of their communities while navigating the often turbulent waters of politics. I have immense respect for those who have dedicated months to their campaigns, genuinely listening to locals and identifying the pressing issues that affect us all.
Elections are not just a referendum on individual candidates but a litmus test for our collective aspirations. They present a pivotal moment for reflection—on the values we uphold, the issues we prioritise, and the vision we collectively embrace for our future.
With the polls approaching, it’s a prime opportunity for fresh ideas and policies to take centre stage—policies that could truly position Queensland as a leading place to live and thrive. Our elected officials have a critical role to play; from supporting the most vulnerable in our community to championing the business leaders who drive our economy, their decisions will shape our collective future.
True leadership isn’t just about making grand promises; it’s about fostering a community where everyone has the opportunity to flourish. It’s a delicate balancing act—ensuring that the needs of the many are met while encouraging innovation and growth. When we support one another, we build a stronger, more resilient society that benefits all.
You can find our election feature on pages 9-13, covering the Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce debate, key announcements from candidates as well as a list of locations throughout the region where you can cast your vote.
In a world increasingly driven by polarising rhetoric, it is vital that we champion leaders who are attuned to the pressing challenges we face. Ultimately, the integrity of our democracy rests on the premise that every voice matters, so make your vote count.
Amanda

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Caring has the remarkable ability to transform the ordinary into something truly special.

The ambulatory and elective care team at Mackay Base Hospital exemplifies this sentiment by coming together to support those in their community who need it most. In response to a heartfelt request from Chances House Mackay, which supports vulnerable individuals and families dealing with crises like homelessness and hunger, the committed team promptly sprang into action to create a positive impact.

With compassion and determination, they collected an array of food donations. Partnering with Woolworths Ooralea, the team assembled an impressive basket filled with non-perishable items. This generous contribution was delivered to Chances last week, reflecting the spirit of giving that defines their commitment to the community.

Unfortunately, homelessness remains a pressing issue, impacting many in the region. The compassionate actions of the hospital staff aim not only to provide immediate relief to those in need but also to raise awareness about the challenges faced by vulnerable individuals and families in Mackay.

Through their efforts, the ambulatory and elective care team is not only offering support but also shining a light on the importance of caring for one another in the community.

A spokesperson from the ambulatory and elective care team commented: “Our very generous staff hope this donation provides some relief to those in need, but also helps raise awareness and prompts others to consider those in our region who are less fortunate.”

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Mackay Airport has launched a new program aimed at better supporting customers with ‘invisible’ conditions such as autism, dementia, anxiety and more.
The Hidden Disabilities Program offers a discreet way for travellers to indicate to airport staff that they may need a little extra help or guidance.
Customers can choose to wear a sunflower lanyard or badge when they are travelling through Mackay Airport. Staff have been trained to recognise the symbol and will be prepared to provide additional support, if required. Some staff will also wear a sunflower badge or lanyard to help travellers feel more at ease.
Hidden disabilities can include autism, anxiety, dementia, mental health conditions, visual impairments, deaf or hard of hearing.
Mackay Airport Head of Operations Adrian Miles said creating an inclusive environment for all visitors to Mackay Airport was a top priority.
“Everyone deserves to have an enjoyable airport experience regardless of their abilities or where they are travelling to,” he said.
“The Hidden Disabilities Program offers a simple, yet highly effective way to take the stress out of travel for many in our community, by providing reassurance and a more predictable journey.”
The Hidden Disabilities Program enables customers to pre-plan their journey and make it as seamless as possible. Anyone who wishes to use a sunflower lanyard or badge simply needs to register online at the Mackay Airport website, and the items will be sent directly to them. The lanyards can be used at airports across Australia. Other airports that support the Hidden Disabilities Program include Cairns, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth. The program is backed by the Australian Airports Association.
Mackay mum Corissa Ivory said navigating noisy, bright and unfamiliar airport environments could be challenging for her 12-year-old son Logan and their family.
“The Hidden Disabilities Program will be an amazing asset and credit to Mackay Airport, helping travellers and families with disabilities to feel understood and accepted, and encouraging them to have confidence in their travel journey,” she said.
“It will create a more positive experience for neurodiverse travellers by creating an enjoyable transition through the airport, while obeying all the necessary safety protocols and guidelines.”
The launch of Mackay Airport’s Hidden Disabilities Program coincides with Invisible Disabilities Awareness Week 2024. For more information or to register for the Hidden Disabilities Program, visit Hidden Disabilities » Mackay Airport online.

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Corissa Ivory and her 12-year-old son, Logan. Photos supplied
Logan Ivory with Adrian Miles

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By Hannah McNamara

Mackay Regional Chamber of Commerce and Mackay Engineering College recently partnered to gift two refurbished cars to deserving recipients as part of their Cars for Community initiative. This program allows local students to gain hands-on automotive experience while contributing to a meaningful community cause.

Rebecca Snell, a counsellor for the Trudy Crowley Foundation, was one of those recipients. Ms Snell, who frequently travels long distances to tirelessly provide support to clients, was nominated for her selfless dedication to serving individuals in need. The gift of a car will allow her to continue offering critical home visits and assistance to those in remote areas. She expressed her gratitude, saying, "I’m very shocked, thank you so much.”

“We do a lot of home visits and community work, so it’s going to help greatly with that… I don’t even know what to say."

David Dobbie, a representative from the Salvation Army, also received a car through the program. His new vehicle will be used to assist learner drivers in reaching their required driving hours, an essential step toward obtaining their licenses. Mr Dobbie, like Ms Snell, was deeply appreciative of the students' efforts in fixing the cars, which were previously unroadworthy and destined for the scrap yard.

Simon Korneliussen, an automotive trainer and assessor at Mackay Engineering College, led the project, guiding grade eleven and twelve students from various schools through the complex task of restoring the vehicles.

"Every car comes in with a different set of problems to fix, so it’s a lot of work for them to learn from," Korneliussen said.

The cars required extensive repairs, from timing chain issues to suspension problems and oil leaks. These repairs provided students with real-world experience, enhancing their skills and preparing them for careers in the automotive industry.

The project received tremendous support from local businesses. Repco Mackay, now in its second year as a major sponsor, supplied the necessary parts for the students to complete their repairs. A grant from Major Training also enabled the college to purchase the cars for restoration.

Students, such as Deizel Kite, have found the project extremely invaluable and enjoyable.

"It’s really exhilarating to be able to give to those people in need the cars that we’ve enjoyed working on," Deizel shared.

Director of the Trudy Crowley Foundation, Jacquie Camilleri, praised the work of the students and the organisation behind the initiative for gifting her “beautiful councillor” a new car.

“We wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for this amazing community of Mackay, that is so giving to us, and here we are again today with other people blessing us,” Ms Camilleri said.

“These beautiful young people here, I just thank you so much for all your hard work, you don’t know what it means to us.”

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Rebecca Snell, a counsellor with the Trudy Crowley Foundation, and Salvation Army representative David Dobbie were each provided with new vehicles to support their ongoing, commendable work in the community. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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A 44-year-old Mirani man has been charged following an alleged series of arson and assaults in the Sarina area on the night of October 18.
Authorities were alerted shortly before 7pm, responding to reports that a man had allegedly set fire to a unit complex on Railway Square. Following this, it is alleged the man threatened several people with an axe at a nearby hotel before assaulting a man with the weapon. He is also accused of breaking into a grocery store and a liquor store during the rampage.
The man then allegedly fled the scene in a Nissan Navara utility. A short time later, at a property along the Bruce Highway in Chelona, the suspect allegedly assaulted another man in an attempt to steal a vehicle.
By around 8pm, the Nissan Navara had allegedly crashed into a house on Homebush Road in Rosella, and the suspect is accused of striking a pedestrian before fleeing the scene on foot.
With assistance from the police dog squad, officers apprehended the man in Bakers Creek shortly after 8pm.
He has been charged with one count each of arson, going armed to cause fear, trespassing, dangerous operation of a vehicle, and unlawful use of a motor vehicle, alongside four counts each of wilful damage and assault occasioning bodily harm. The man was remanded in custody and appeared in Mackay Magistrates Court on Monday, October 21.
The suspect, identified as Raymond Thomas Whyte, has had his case adjourned until January 28 next year.

High-risk Domestic Violence Offender Charged
Moranbah investigators continue to take strong action against high-risk domestic violence offenders, charging a 47-year-old Moranbah man on October 16.
Police will allege the man stalked and seriously assaulted a woman in a series of incidents over the past year.
Following investigations, the man was taken into custody mid-morning Wednesday, October 16.
He has been charged with five counts of common assault (domestic violence offence), two counts of strangulation (domestic violence offence), and one count each of grievous bodily harm and unlawful stalking.
Detective Inspector Emma Novosel said officers in the Mackay Whitsunday District will continue to maintain a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to high-harm offenders in the community.
“We are committed to doing everything within our power to ensure violent offences are investigated, and victims are protected,” said Detective Inspector Novosel.
“Our Domestic and Family Violence (DFV) High Risk Team is dedicated to ensuring victims are supported and protected, and offenders are brought before the court.”
“The Mackay Whitsunday District are dedicated to ensuring victims are protected and supported.”
“The Vulnerable Person Unit work closely with investigators and officers across the Mackay Whitsunday District to ensure Domestic Violence offenders are held to account and bought before the court at every opportunity.”
“If you see or hear acts of violence, we encourage you to come forward to police as soon as possible.”
The 47-year-old man has been remanded in custody and due to reappear before Mackay Magistrates Court December 5.

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Mackay residents are encouraged to take up water-saving habits this National Water Week (October 21-27) to save more of the Mackay region’s precious drinking water and cut household bills.

Mayor Greg Williamson said National Water Week was the perfect opportunity to learn new water-saving habits and save some money.

"This National Water Week I'd like to encourage residents to embrace a water-wise lifestyle, particularly as we enter the warmer months," Mayor Williamson said.

“We know that outside is where our water consumption is its highest – it might be tempting to water your gardens and lawn every day when it’s dry, but we need them to be strong and resilient to survive our hot and dry conditions,” he said.

“The way to achieve this is to only water two to three times a week for a ‘deep water’, which is generally no more than 30 minutes.

“Watering every day can be detrimental as it causes roots to be shallow meaning they will be less tolerant during the drier periods.

“We need to be careful as water is a precious resource, and learning some new habits can save you a lot on your water bill.”

Mayor Williamson said residents could also save money by keeping track of their usage.

“Residents can keep track of their usage for free on council’s myh2o.qld.gov.au website,” he said.

“You can see how much water you’re using each day and receive alerts for high usage and potential water leaks on your property.”

For more water-saving tips this National Water Week head to mackay.qld.gov.au/water and don’t forget to sign up to myh2o.qld.gov.au – it’s easy to do, is free and might just save you a bucket load!

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As Queensland gears up for the state election on Saturday, 26th October 2024, voters will have the opportunity to cast their ballots at various polling locations from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Here’s a handy list of voting venues across the Mackay region to ensure you know where to go:
Mackay Voting Locations
   • Andergrove State School
Fernleigh Avenue, ANDERGROVE, QLD Australia 4740
   • Pioneer State High School
221 Bedford Road, ANDERGROVE, QLD Australia 4740
   • Beaconsfield State School
1 Nadina Street, BEACONSFIELD, QLD Australia 4740
   • Brisbane City Hall
64 Adelaide Street, BRISBANE, QLD Australia 4000
   • Glenella State School Hall
35 - 55 Hill End Road, GLENELLA, QLD Australia 4740
   • Jubilee Community Centre
73 Gordon Street, MACKAY, QLD Australia 4740
   • CQUniversity Mackay
90 Sydney St, MACKAY, QLD Australia 4740
   • St Mary's Catholic Primary School
42 Juliet Street, South Mackay, QLD Australia 4740
   • Mackay West State School Library Performing Arts Centre
20 Pinder Street, WEST MACKAY, QLD Australia 4740
   • Northview State School
54 Pioneer Street, Mount Pleasant, QLD Australia 4740
   • Fitzgerald State School
54 Norris Road, NORTH MACKAY, QLD Australia 4740
   • Mackay North State High School
Valley Street, NORTH MACKAY, QLD Australia 4740
   • Slade Point State School
362 Slade Point Road, Slade Point, QLD Australia 4740
Mirani Voting Locations
   • Alligator Creek State School
50 Grasstree Road, ALLIGATOR CREEK, QLD Australia 4740
   • Dundula State School
1 Main Street, BAKERS CREEK, QLD Australia 4740
   • Carmila State School
6A Carmila West Road, CARMILA, QLD Australia 4739
   • Chelona State School
Dunrock Road, CHELONA, QLD Australia 4740
   • Eton State School
10 Prospect Street, ETON, QLD Australia 4741
   • Finch Hatton State School
86 Mackay Eungella Road, FINCH HATTON, QLD Australia 4756
   • Koumala State School
10 Bull Street, KOUMALA, QLD Australia 4738
   • Marian State School
137 Anzac Avenue, MARIAN, QLD Australia 4753
   • Mirani State School
12 Maud Street, MIRANI, QLD Australia 4754
   • CQUniversity Mackay Ooralea
151 Boundary Road, OORALEA, QLD Australia 4740
   • St Luke's Anglican Church Hall
56-60 Broad Street, SARINA, QLD Australia 4737
   • Walkerston State School
13 McColl Street, Walkerston, QLD Australia 4751
Whitsunday Voting Locations (Mackay region)
   • Bloomsbury State School
8545 Bruce Highway, BLOOMSBURY, QLD Australia 4799
   • Bucasia State School
76 Kemp Street, BUCASIA, QLD Australia 4750
   • Calen District State College
38 Mcintyre Street, CALEN, QLD Australia 4798
   • Coningsby State School
1312 Bruce Highway, CONINGSBY, QLD Australia 4740
   • Mackay Northern Beaches State High School
30 Rosewood Drive, Rural View, QLD Australia 4740
   • Farleigh State School
1 Chidlow Street, FARLEIGH, QLD Australia 4741
   • Hampden State School
2880 Bruce Highway, KUTTABUL, QLD Australia 4741
   • Seaforth Community Hall
3 Prince Charles Avenue, SEAFORTH, QLD Australia 4741
   • Burdekin Voting Locations (Isaac region)

   • Clermont - Blair Athol Hall
93 Rubyvale Road, Clermont, QLD 4721

   • Dysart - Dysart Civic Centre
16 Queen Elizabeth Drive, Dysart, QLD 4745

   • Glenden - Glenden State School
48 Gillham Terrace, Glenden, QLD 4743

   • Middlemount - Middlemount Community School
James Randell Drive, Middlemount, QLD 4746

   • Moranbah Central - Moranbah Arts Centre - Darts Hall
38A Bacon Street, Moranbah, QLD 4744

   • Nebo - Nebo State School
34 Oxford Street, Nebo, QLD 4742

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At the Mackay Regional Chamber of Commerce 'Meet the Candidates' night, local candidates presented their policies in a lively debate. Held last Thursday at Ocean International, the event brought together contenders from various parties, each vying for what's best for the region ahead of the upcoming election.
The main topics of discussion were housing, infrastructure, crime, and regional development.
Here's how each candidate addressed these pressing issues:
Housing
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Belinda Hassan (Labor) mentioned plans for modular homes, expected to be available before Christmas, and announced a $1 million investment in Chances House to tackle homelessness.
“We have a housing action plan for Queensland…we are in the process of seven one-bedroom units in Mackay and 27 modular homes for the Mackay region.”
“There will be 79 social houses built right across the region and we are also committed to supporting Chances House for $1 million … we’ve also announced two new rent connect officers so that will help keep people in the existing property they’re living in or help them to secure a new one.”
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Amanda Camm (LNP) stressed the importance of building new homes rather than purchasing existing properties and highlighted their commitment to wipe stamp duty for young buyers, making it easier for first-time homebuyers to enter the market.
“We are going to wipe stamp duty for young buyers who want to purchase a home”
“We will also build new houses…and invest in up to two billion dollars of infrastructure for local governments and the development industry in this region where one billion dollars of that will be allocated to rural and regional Queensland.”
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Paula Creen (Greens) stated that her party plans to fund additional housing by, “Taxing big corporations and billionaires fairly.”
Creen boldly stated that, “Greens plans to build more houses than any other parties have offered.”
She also proposed a cap on rent prices, a two-year rent freeze, and wage increases to ease the burden on renters.
Julie Hall, Kylee Stanton and Brettlyn Neal (One Nation) advocated for opening up state land to build more housing.
Kylee Stanton said, “We will be looking to open up state land and build more housing.

“We need to work with our local council in order to do that and make it a number one priority.”
Infrastructure
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Nigel Dalton (LNP) noted that road infrastructure, particularly flooding issues, requires urgent attention. He also noted the LNP’s recent sporting fund which will benefit the youth as well as boost the regions sporting opportunities.
Nigel stated that, “When it floods, we have many flood issues on our roads, so these are things that need to be sorted out.
“We also announced a fund for nine different sporting organisations so this is a great investment for our youth and great for things like the Olympics coming up in 2032.”
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Amanda Camm (LNP) emphasised her commitment to ensuring real-time data in healthcare and giving doctors and nurses control over decisions.
“We have made a commitment around health that put nurses and doctors back in charge”
Paula Creen (Greens) called for frequent and free public transport in the region to address infrastructure issues and ensure that residents have accessible and sustainable transport options.
Creen said, “We believe in frequent, free transport” and “fully funding public schools to get them up to the national standard is critical.”
Brettlyn Neal, Julie Hall, and Kylee Stanton (One Nation) criticised the Pioneer-Burdekin Pumped Hydro Project, arguing that such renewable energy projects would lead to rising electricity and fuel prices.
“The rate at which these parties are trying to install these are pushing power prices up and this is now in-tern causing this cost-of-living crisis, or majority of it.”
Crime
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Amanda Camm and Nigel Dalton (LNP) took a strong stance on youth crime, advocating for adult time for adult crime.
Camm said that LNP were committed to “Adult time adult crime with consequences for youth crime… and detention and early intervention.”
“We will make those laws by Christmas”
Brettlyn Neal, Julie Hall, and Kylee Stanton (One Nation) proposed similar consequences, such as, “Early intervention programs, including boot camp rehabilitation, to help youths reform their behaviours.”
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Belinda Hassan (Labor) argued that, “Crime prevention programs are already in place,” but acknowledged that ongoing efforts are needed to maintain safety in the community.
Regional Development
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Belinda Hassan (Labor) highlighted the importance of supporting the Resource Centre of Excellence, as well as funding a satellite hospital to reduce emergency departments as well as potentially introducing a multi-story carpark.
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Stephen Andrew (Katter’s Australian Party) emphasised the importance of supporting Queensland families and family land sharing. He proposed reducing stamp duties to make homeownership more affordable and called for an assessment of Queensland’s debt.
Andrew said, “It’s more than what we want, and more about what we have to work with.
“How about we support the people that support Queensland…so we can get the best outcomes for Queensland”
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Ben Gauci (Legalise Cannabis Queensland) advocated for economic diversification through the hemp industry, which he argued could be worth $5 billion.
“It’s not all about getting high…the hemp is a potential five-billion-dollar industry that is ignored by the major parties.
“We allow people to take the euthanasia out but won’t allow people to grow a couple of plants… what’s wrong with that picture.”
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Julie Hall (One Nation) spoke about the need to represent the community’s interests and said, “We have the ability to do what’s best for our community.”
Brettlyn Neal added that, “Net zero in immigration would be a good start in bringing down our homeless crisis so look after Australians before you look after those overseas.”
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Paula Creen (Greens) expressed frustration with the current system, arguing that the region’s resources are not benefiting local residents.
“We plan to fund our policies through taxing big co-operations and billionaires fairly… the top 10 mining companies in Queensland pay no cooperate tax… these are our resources that we’re not getting any money for.
“It’s our recourses and it’s meant to be for our region.”

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In the lead-up to the Queensland election, both the Liberal National Party (LNP) and the Labor Party have made significant commitments to fund Stage 2 of the Great Barrier Reef Arena, highlighting their dedication to enhancing Mackay's community and sporting infrastructure.

The LNP, represented by candidate Nigel Dalton for Mackay and Amanda Camm for Whitsunday, pledged $23.5 million to kickstart this project.

This commitment was swiftly met with a matching pledge from Labor's Premier Steven Miles and Labor candidate for Mackay, Belinda Hassan, in a rare moment of bipartisan support for a project that promises to bring lasting benefits to the region.

Stage 2 of the Great Barrier Reef Arena is poised to transform the Mackay landscape, offering economic, social, and sporting benefits that will resonate throughout the community. By providing state-of-the-art facilities, this project aims to create jobs during both the construction and operational phases, boost local businesses, and position Mackay as a premier destination for large-scale sporting and entertainment events. The Arena is expected to attract national and international visitors, showcasing the region as a hub for significant events. Moreover, it will offer elite athletes and grassroots sporting organisations access to world-class infrastructure, fostering local talent and enhancing community engagement.

Ms Hassan said it had been a project that local Labor candidates had been advocating for since day one.

“To see it being backed by both sides of government is a fantastic achievement for our region,” she said.

Ms Hassan further highlighted its potential role in the upcoming Olympics.

“We know that both BB Print stadium and the Great Barrier Reef Arena have been listed on the Olympic site as potential training venues when the Olympics does come to Queensland.

“We just can't understate the importance of the Great Barrier Reef Arena to this region.”

Jarrod Bleijie MP and Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm highlighted the increasing recognition of the potential impact of the Great Barrier Reef Arena.

Mr. Bleijie said, "This investment will boost grassroots sport participation in the Mackay region" and added, "It will give Queensland the fresh start it needs."

Alongside this pivotal project, both parties have made additional funding commitments to further enhance the region's sporting facilities. The LNP has promised $450,000 to improve lighting at the North Mackay Saints AFL Club, allowing for more night matches and benefiting over 600 players and their supporters. It also promised to help fund an all-weather bowling green shade structure as part of the renovations at the Mackay Northern Beaches Bowls club if elected later this month.

LNP MP for Whitsunday, Amanda Camm said the Club supported more than 30 community and sporting groups as well as eight schools in the Mackay and Northern Beaches area and deserved to offer weatherproof activities.

“This $500 000 commitment will allow this fantastic club to offer more playing hours, in all-weather to help more residents enjoy the community atmosphere,” said Ms Camm.

“The club is currently undertaking major renovations to the clubhouse which will expand their capacity to help service the community.

“The LNP commitment to help fund the bowling shade structure will allow them to expand their capacity with the sport as well”, Ms Camm stated.

Manager of the club, Doug Dalley welcomed the announcement.

“Having an all-weather bowling green will enable the club to offer more playing hours, on more playing days and also allow the club to become more inclusive and offer more school bowling programs,” said Mr Dalley.

Additionally, the LNP has pledged $1.6 million for shade protection over Mackay’s netball courts, a commitment that Amanda Camm highlighted as crucial for player safety.

“Considering we live in the tropics where players are exposed to high UV levels, this funding is of huge benefit for all players across Mackay and the Whitsundays.”

The funding will cover four courts, benefiting approximately 1,600 regular competition players.

“With this announcement, Mackay netball players will be able to shoot for success and play safely, even under our harsh sun,” Mr Dalton said.

Labor has also promised $3.2 million for upgrades to BB Print Stadium, which include enhancements to accessibility features and parking. Additionally, Labor has pledged $1.5 million to Mackay Hockey for an indoor hockey stadium and Centre of Excellence for North Queensland.

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Belinda Hassan, Labor candidate for Mackay, and LNP candidate Nigel Dalton, have announced key sporting initiatives and funding commitments for the Mackay region. Photos supplied

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Labor's Focus on Healthcare
Premier Steven Miles has revealed a significant $365 million investment aimed at establishing bulk billing GP clinics across Queensland. The priority locations for these clinics have been identified based on areas with gaps in bulk billing primary care and rapidly expanding populations. In the Mackay Isaac Whitsunday region alone, six clinics are set to be established.
Premier Miles expressed his commitment to improving healthcare access.
“Too many people can’t access a bulk billing GP, especially in regional Queensland.
“What I’m doing is delivering the infrastructure needed to get more GPs working in communities where their services are most needed.”
Statistics from the Australian Bureau of Statistics highlight the urgency of this initiative, revealing that 7 per cent of people who needed to see a GP in 2022-23 delayed or did not see one due to cost, which Labor says was double the rate from the previous year. This situation puts additional pressure on local emergency departments, which are witnessing increased presentations of chronic conditions that could have been managed at a primary care level. Between April and June 2024, over 592,000 people presented at emergency departments across Queensland, marking a 1.4 per cent increase compared to the same period in 2023.
“More doctors, nurses, ambos, hospital beds, bulk billing GPs, and satellite hospitals will help alleviate that pressure and improve the health outcomes of Queenslanders,” Premier Miles asserted.
Labor’s initiatives also include the establishment of a Satellite Hospital in Mackay. This facility will feature a Minor Injury and Illness Clinic operating from 8 am to 10 pm, providing free treatment for non-life-threatening conditions such as fevers, earaches, cuts, burns, and broken bones, all managed by qualified doctors and senior nurses. The Satellite Hospital will also offer specialist outpatient services tailored to local community needs, including renal dialysis, chemotherapy, oral healthcare, and mental health support.
Belinda Hassan, the Labor candidate for Mackay, expressed her gratitude to the Premier, stating, “I want to thank the Premier for listening to our local Mackay community.
“If elected, I will deliver the healthcare Mackay locals need, closer to home.”
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LNP's Stance on Crime
The LNP is framing its campaign around the pressing issue of crime, which has left local businesses and residents in Mackay feeling frustrated and fearful. Shadow Minister for Police and Community Safety, Dan Purdie, visited Mackay earlier in the campaign to highlight alarming crime statistics and present the LNP's proposed solutions under their “Adult Crime, Adult Time” policy.
Mr Purdie noted that crime rates in regional areas have surged significantly, with Mackay reporting 953 offences per 100,000 people.
“The crime crisis has torn communities apart. Proud regional cities like Mackay have been hijacked by a generation of untouchables,” he added.
The LNP's approach includes revising the Youth Justice Act, ensuring that youth offenders face the same sentences as adults when committing serious crimes. Nigel Dalton, a former police officer and LNP candidate for Mackay, echoed the call for stronger measures.
“If you commit a crime, you should be getting appropriate repercussions for those actions.”
The LNP plans to extend post-prison supervision for young offenders from 72 hours to 12 months, providing essential support to help them secure employment or education and reducing the likelihood of reoffending.
Leader of the opposition, David Crisafulli, said “Youth criminals have been running riot through our communities, knowing there are no consequences and little punishment for serious crime, but this will end under the LNP’s Adult Crime, Adult Time plan.”
“If you commit a serious crime, you will pay with adult time.”

State Owned Businesses From The Greens
The Greens are determined to reshape Queensland's political landscape by aiming to win up to ten seats and disrupt the traditional two-party system. Their campaign focuses on addressing the cost of living and housing crisis, tackling climate change, and ensuring that big corporations contribute fairly through taxation to fund essential services.

One of the Greens' flagship proposals is the establishment of a Queensland State Bank, designed to alleviate the financial pressures faced by mortgage holders. The current dominance of the Big Four banks—Commonwealth Bank, Westpac, NAB, and ANZ—has led to substantial profits at the expense of everyday Australians. In the wake of the housing crisis, these banks have raked in $30 billion annually, with what the Greens describe as “excessive” interest rates that significantly burden families.
The Greens plan to create a public bank that will offer owner-occupier mortgage holders rates 1.5 per cent  lower than those of the Big Four, saving the average first homebuyer an estimated $6,165 each year. This initiative aims to drive down overall home loan interest rates by introducing genuine competition in the banking sector. In addition, the Queensland State Bank would provide fair rates for credit cards, savings accounts, and EFTPOS facilities for small businesses, all without any fees.

The Greens are also advocating for a publicly owned mining company, Queensland Minerals, to manage the state's critical mineral wealth. With an estimated $500 billion in critical minerals, the Greens say that Queensland stands on the cusp of a new mining boom.
Queensland Minerals would ensure that the profits from mining activities are reinvested back into the community. By taking a direct ownership share of critical minerals, the Greens anticipate generating $14 billion in public revenue from 2030 onward, while also creating 1,000 mining jobs—prioritising employment for former coal and gas workers and aiming for 15 per cent representation of First Nations staff in management.
The proposal includes an initial investment of $4 billion from the Queensland Treasury, funded by raising royalties on coal and gas. This investment would facilitate the transition of strategic mineral sites from private to public ownership, ensuring that Queensland's resources benefit all residents.

One Nation's Commitment To Education And Energy
One Nation has shown its dedication to addressing the urgent needs of teachers and students, while also committing to sensible energy policies that will reduce household costs.
One Nation candidate for Whitsunday Julie Hall attended the Queensland Teachers Union Rally alongside Kylee Stanton, the candidate for Mackay, where they expressed their gratitude to teachers for their tireless dedication amid challenging circumstances. “Teachers and the education system are in dire straits right now,” Ms Hall said, acknowledging the critical need for reform.
While funding for teacher housing and regional incentives is crucial to attract and retain educators, it is equally important to understand the underlying reasons why teachers are leaving the profession in increasing numbers. Ms Hall highlighted the shocking statistic that home schooling has surged by over 200%.
“The conditions under which our educators currently endure are abhorrent, and change needs to happen fast. Our kids cannot be learning under these conditions,” she said.
As Queenslanders seek relief from soaring energy bills, Ms Hall highlighted both major partys’ 75% emissions reduction target by 2035. One Nation firmly opposes what it describes as a “radical” target set by major parties, which could lead to serious restrictions on diesel fuel use—critical for the transportation of goods across Queensland's vast landscape—as well as further clearing of prime farmland for wind farms and solar panels.
Ms Hall voiced concern over the potential consequences for Queensland's industries and the resulting increase in energy costs for households.
“We will not support crippling our economy or reducing our standard of living based on the ideology and fearmongering of the cult of climate change,” she asserted.
One Nation has also taken a stand against the Pioneer Burdekin Pumped Hydro project, advocating for the protection of natural habitats over renewable energy initiatives that threaten local ecosystems.
“We refuse to watch the destruction of natural habitats in the name of renewable energy.”

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The Mackay and Whitsunday region are still waiting for road infrastructure commitments from major parties in the lead up to the Queensland Government election this week, according to the Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3).

During the campaign, the ALP announced they will invest $157M, funded by progressive coal royalties, for critical improvements to Isaac region roads to enhance safety and supply chain efficiency, and the LNP committed $20M to improving traffic flow for the Mackay Bucasia Road, however other key Mackay and Whitsunday road projects are
still unfunded, GW3 Chief Executive Officer Ms Kylie Porter said.

“Additionally, the LNP have yet to match the $157M commitment for the Isaac region,” Ms Porter added.

Ms Porter said the condition of the region’s state-controlled roads network was identified as the key issue by all three regional councils and yet broadly, had been overlooked in funding announcements.

“The entire Greater Whitsunday region makes an oversized contribution to the Queensland economy, with a total economic output of $74.4B annually,” she said.

“Investment in road projects across our region, not only supports community safety but it promotes economic prosperity for the entire state of Queensland.

“Time is running out for major parties to clearly articulate their commitment to funding road projects across the entire Greater Whitsunday region in the next term of government.”

Ms Porter said that whilst there had been some positive announcements regarding sporting and community fishing across the region in the past weeks, roads have been woefully overlooked.

“The Greater Whitsunday region deserves its fair share of election commitments and funding announcements in anticipation of a new government.”

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Are you getting the best deal possible on your home loan?

It’s a tricky question to answer – but Bendigo Bank’s home loan health checks make keeping on top of things a breeze.

“A home loan health check is where we review with the customer all current loans and accounts and provide options,” explains Bendigo Bank Community Bank Sarina’s Manager, Charmaine Matsen.

It starts with a review of your current home loan situation. We’ll also ask you about your goals, aspirations and plans you have. From here, we’ll explore the options available to you.

Why do I need a home loan health check?
Keeping the same home loan for a long time may mean you miss out on better loan options and interest rates. Plus, as your life changes, you could benefit from new features, repayments or interest rates, and better align your home loan to your life plans. You may even be able to unlock equity in your home to fund renovations, holidays or other properties.

“Interest rates are typically determined by the loan amount as compared to the property valuation (LVR),” Charmaine explains. “Lower loan to value ratios (LVR) can sometimes mean a lower interest rate.”

Signs that it’s time to review your home loan:
   • Your interest rate is higher than advertised rates for new customers (or you don’t know your rate at all!),
   • You don’t have access to features like an offset account.
   • Your circumstances have changed.
   • Your fixed rate has ended (or is ending soon).
   • You were on a ‘honeymoon’ rate that has reverted to a higher rate.
   • Your home value has increased.

Not reviewing your home loan can mean missing out on big opportunities. So, if you’ve got goals you’re working towards, a free home loan health check with Community Bank Sarina could get you there faster. Contact Charmaine and our team today on 4943 2634 to book your personalised review.

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It seems the storm season has arrived, potentially throwing another spanner in the works of the 2024 harvest.
In the week of 8-14 October, we saw rainfall across the region, with some localised totals up to 81mm for the week.
On the one hand, it is not surprising to see the onset of rainfall at this point in the year. A glance at the Bureau of Meteorology graphic shows the date range we can start to expect rain. We are in a more neutral climate state at present; however, we are in the “build-up”. The graphics pictured drive home the very good reasons that we should expect to be cutting out in mid-November. The onset of rain, tag-teaming with warmer temperatures to create storm season has a range of effects on the crop.

First of all, the cane plant returns to its growth cycle, and sugar content drops away. Also, where we are still harvesting, late cut crops ratoon poorly, severely affecting next year’s crop. A drive up the Pioneer Valley will show some paddocks that look a bit stunted and raggedy. This is the effect that late cut cane from last year has had on this year’s crop.
If storm season does set in, it could be difficult to finish removing the crop. With industrial action in Plane Creek and mill reliability issues across Mackay and Plane Creek, we are already well behind. In Plane Creek, at week ending 13 October we had processed 52% of the crop. In Mackay, we were at 57% at 12 October. It is a particularly poor situation to be in at this time of the year.

Delayed finishes to the harvest also interfere with work to be done in the paddocks, that particularly needs to be carried out before the monsoonal onset, such as fertiliser and chemical application. This is important for the crop, but also particularly important for environmental stewardship.

Growers are increasingly proactive on avoiding situations that could lead to run-off, and it’s imperative these inputs stay where they are needed: in the paddock.

This is a key part of best management practices, and Smartcane BMP is a cornerstone of our industry maintaining its strong record as a producer of some of the world’s most sustainably-produced sugar.

Among other things, BMP creates a clear system for fertiliser and chemical usages, and record-keeping parameters. We have had solid and growing uptake on the Smartcane BMP program, and I would encourage any growers that have not yet taken the next step of accreditation to get on board.

Most farmers are keeping good records and have engaged in practice change around timing and rates of application, so realistically, it is just a matter of formalising that by working with your BMP facilitators at Mackay and Plane Creek’s productivity services ahead of accreditation audit. Most growers are 95% there anyway.

The audit process is made easy by the BMP facilitators, and accreditation makes you less likely to have to undergo a government audit. It is well worth taking the steps now to organise completing your Smartcane BMP modules when the slack season finally comes.

It does appear that - provided wet weather does not wash the season out - the harvest will run into Christmas again. To that end, CANEGROWERS has once again successfully driven an agreement for the sugar industry with the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator, QLD Transport & Main Roads and Queensland Police Service, to allow permits to operate during the heavy vehicle Christmas curfew that runs 24 December to 3 January. It certainly is not the preferred option for industry or regulators, but we are thankful for their cooperation in helping us remove the crop. I’d like to congratulate our Mackay District Manager Michelle Martin and CANEGROWERS Senior Manager-Industry Burn Ashburner, for their work to achieve this for industry.

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Northern Rainfall Onset. Graphics: Commonwealth of Australia 2022, Australian Bureau of Meteorology

Late cut ratoon at right, versus an earlier cut

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This week
Season to date
Cane crushed
57,485
841,754
Average bin weight
3.94
3.90
CCS
14.84
13.98
Cane variety performance for region
Variety
%
CCS
Variety
%
CCS
Q183
29.3
15.13
Q253
10.9
14.32
Q240
14.4
15.28
SRA9
14.9
14.91
Q208
16.6
14.64
SP80
1.8
13.63
KQ228
1.6
13.70
Q138
5.7
13.70
Comments:
Plane Creek Mill processed just under 57,500 tonnes of cane for the week, bringing the season total to 841,754 tonnes.
Average CCS remained at 14.84 as per the previous week with the year-to-date average now sitting at 13.98 units.
Standover cane made up approximately one per cent of the week’s cane supply.
The highest CCS honour for the week was a rake of SRA 9 plant cane from the Mount Christian productivity area with a CCS of 17.20 units.
Growers and haul-out operators are reminded to take care when approaching cane rail crossings, particularly those that run across farms.
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Lindsay Wheeler
Cane Supply Manager
Plane Creek Region

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