Greater Whitsunday Communities can fill them for you!
The Greater Whitsunday Housing Alliance has rallied residents to step up and fill a gaping accommodation hole by renting their spare bedrooms to teachers hoping to live and work in the Mackay-Isaac-Whitsunday regions.
Greater Whitsunday Communities (GWC) Chief Executive Carol Norris said the Housing Alliance, operated by GWC, was appealing to individuals, families and community members linked to the region’s schools and care organisations, with a room or granny flat to spare to take in a lodger.
Mrs Norris said the critical shortage in affordable rental accommodations throughout the region was making it almost impossible for teaching, care and support staff arriving in the region to find a place to call home.
“We have some dedicated and highly skilled people coming to our region through December this year and then early next year to work in our education and care sectors and they have nowhere to live,” Mrs Norris said.
“It’s not good enough. This is a gap that has not been filled by the State Government, so we are hoping that under a new government, we will see something actioned to better support the housing needs of these vital workers coming to our region.”
Mrs Norris said the number of rental properties available throughout the Greater Whitsunday region had dropped by about 40 per cent in the last 24 months.
She said this, coupled with the slow pace of new houses being built, was making it extremely challenging for people moving to the region for work to find accommodation. However, she said Greater Whitsunday Housing Playbook showed there were many people in the region with spare bedrooms.
“With this in mind, the quickest way we can help employers bringing new staff to the region is to encourage people to consider taking in a lodger, Mrs Norris said.
“Already, GWC is helping care organisations to house some of their nurses and carers with women over 55 years of age being assisted to sustain their tenancies as their rents continue to rise.
“This is vital to enable care organisations to grow and deliver services in our community.”
Mrs Norris said the Greater Whitsunday Housing Alliance had reported most schools in the region had been asking the parents of their students to help house teachers.
“School principals and teachers are taking to Facebook to find lodgings for newcomers.”
Mrs Norris cited a Facebook post from Sian Burrows at Northern Beaches State High School, which stated: “We attract quality teachers to Mackay and our school, but availability of accommodation means that they then cannot find somewhere to live (and can’t come!).”
She said the problem was further compounded by the fact many existing teachers in the region had not been able to find accommodation.
“Some of our regions’ existing teachers cannot find somewhere to live because their landlords have sold their home to owner-occupiers,” she said.
“Teachers are forced to move out and then they cannot find anywhere else to live.
“If schools cannot attract and retain teachers it affects the stability and consistency of tutelage and quality of education our children receive.
“Similarly, If carers cannot attract and retain nurses and carers it affects the quality of care our elders and disabled in the community receive.
“This lack of affordable housing is having an impact on the levels of service available in our region and peoples’ willingness to live here and visit.”
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Anyone with spare rooms or a granny flat, who are willing to consider taking in a lodger, should contact Greater Whitsunday Communities, via tonia@gwcommunities.org.au

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For over 75 years, Ron “Mengie” Meng has been a cherished figure in the Victoria Park State School community. As a former student, proud graduate and lifelong supporter, Mr Meng’s bond with the school has only deepened with time.

Last Thursday evening, he made a remarkable contribution to the school’s tradition of celebrating academic excellence, donating $5,000 to fund future Ron Meng Academic Excellence Shields at the year 6 graduation awards ceremony.

“I started at Victoria Park in Grade One after moving schools a couple of times,” he reminisced.

“It was at Victoria Park that I was given the nickname Mengie, and it has stuck with me 75 years later.

“I am 85 years old now and I'm still known around town only as Mengie.”

For Mr Meng, the school was more than just an academic institution, but rather a place that shaped his character and gave him lifelong memories. He fondly recalls playing cricket on the school grounds, including one memorable match where his powerful hit shattered a passing car’s windscreen.

"My effort was enough for us to win the match,” he chuckled.

Beyond academics and sports, Meng was also instrumental in building the school’s first swimming pool.

“I sold tickets at the Metropolitan Hotel on Friday afternoons after school to help fund the construction of the Victoria Park Swimming Pool,” he shared.

“To this day, I’ve never stepped foot in that pool, but thankfully, my grandchildren learned to swim there.”

In 2002, Meng initiated the Academic Excellence Shield to celebrate the achievements of the school’s top students. The shield has since become a symbol of dedication, perseverance, and success, with engraved names inspiring generations of learners.

“The Head Teacher mentioned they couldn’t afford another one, so I said, ‘Leave it to me.’”

This latest donation ensures the tradition continues, with new shields now proudly bearing Mr Meng’s name.

His grandson, Dylan Meng, and Dylan’s wife, Holly, attended the recent presentation to show their support. Dylan highlighted his grandfather’s dedication, calling the initiative “a fantastic way to encourage students,” and “something to strive for.”

Victoria Park State School Principal Sarah Mutton praised the shield’s impact.

“The Academic Excellence Shield recognises outstanding student achievements in academics, extracurricular involvement, and results from diagnostic testing,” she said.

“Recipients receive a medallion, their name on the school’s honour board, and a place on the perpetual shield donated by Mr Meng.”

It’s no doubt that Mr Meng's generous contributions will be highly cherished by the teachers and students of Victoria Park State School for years to come.

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For over 75 years, Ron "Mengie" Meng has supported Victoria Park State School, recently donating $5,000 to continue the Academic Excellence Shield tradition. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables (QCAR) has shared its dismay at the Australian Sugar Milling Council, saying it has lashed out at farmers for their criticism of the performance of mills this crushing season.
QCAR has said that ASMC CEO Ash Salardini accused cane farmers of taking “pot shots” at mill workers and alleged they were “seemingly blaming the mills for not controlling the weather”.
Mr Salardini further said he was “frankly dismayed” at commentary from grower collective groups as he claimed a senior Canegrowers representative had suggested mill breakdowns had cost farmers billions.
QCAR CEO Stephen Ryan said it was ridiculous for the AMSC to claim cane farmers were blaming mills for rain-induced delays.
“ASMC has conveniently glossed over what is at the core of farmers’ concerns, that is the year-after-year poor performances of the mills combined with delayed starts to the season and belligerently extended industrial activity,” Mr Ryan said.
“These factors combined, which are in the miller’s control and not Mother Nature’s or the growers, have significantly contributed to standover crops and a big hit to farmers’ incomes.
“ASMC is using mill workers as a pawn to try and draw a wedge between them and the farmers.
“QCAR members, and cane farmers as a whole, actually value the mill workers and we thank them for their service as many are literally our friends and family members.”
Mr Ryan added mill workers had themselves criticised the millers, demonstrated by the strikes and industrial disputes at Wilmar mills earlier this year.
“Some milling companies are the ones pulling strings in terms of their poor decisions to cut back on investment and not inject the necessary funds to get mills up to par,” he said.
“Mill workers keep telling us management is not listening to the advice of experienced, long-term employees, which is clearly contributing to the embarrassing predicament millers now find themselves in.
“Even when there’s not standover cane, unduly extended crushes have been progressively destroying our industry.”
QCAR said it invited ASMC and millers to attend a public forum in Ayr in July but neither attended.
“Earnest attempts by grower groups to raise legitimate issues in private hasn’t worked and farmers have been forced to go public with concerns,” Mr Ryan said.
“The next generation of farmers are looking on in dismay as the industry they love and want to succeed is being hollowed out before them, dashing their hopes and dreams.”
Mr Ryan said QCAR was not alone in its criticism with Canegrowers Mackay chair Kevin Borg also speaking out on behalf of growers’ frustrations with millers.
He said millers, instead of shaming growers over their legitimate concerns, should focus on performing to Australian expectations and standards.
“They must shape up, now,” he said.
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QCAR CEO Stephen Ryan

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By Sonia Ball (QCAR Central District Manager)

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The QCAR Team delivered with a clear purpose and a strong and memorable message last week at Mackay’s QCAR Meet & Greet and information session at Wests Leagues Club.
That message, delivered by QCAR Board Chairman Christian Lago, CEO Stephen Ryan and QCAR Director and Central District Chairman Steve McKeering, was sound and compelling and indicative of the driving forces behind the growth and ever-broadening footprint of QCAR-ACFA across Queensland and into NSW.
We are strong, we are growing, and we are here to stay.
The Mackay event can be deemed a success with all three of the senior team attending grower meetings on both sides of the event.
And now we are going to do it again in Plane Creek.  
These meetings are every grower’s opportunity to meet the team, but also ask questions about the things that are important to them.  
QCAR Central District is extending an open invitation to all Plane Creek mill suppliers to do one of two things:
   • Attend our Meet & Greet and information session at Sarina Leagues Club (TBC) at 6pm on Tuesday 17 December, or

   • Give QCAR Central District Manager Sonia Ball a call to arrange an on-farm visit
At a local level we have representation in Proserpine, Mackay and Plane Creek and we are always keen to talk with the movers and shakers in these areas seeking change and striving to strengthen our sugarcane industry from the ground up.
There has been a lot of media around the sugarcane industry in recent months and not all of it is good, but not all of it is bad either.
Being familiar with the media machine, and speaking generally, it can help to understand why it has such an attraction to the contentious, the tragic and dramatic. Bad news unfortunately has its own attraction to the consumer hence the evolution to the status quo – bad news sells.
It is the very nature of the beast and has been for millennia. This is good news, yes? It is good news because we know there are a great many good things going on in our industry that do not make the newspapers (print and online), television or radio. I hope you feel better now, I know I do.
This of course does not change the fact that the ‘bad news’ is real, is happening, and in our industry we need to work together to turn this ship around and tack back to the point where, in the land of media, there is nothing to see here.
Be assured QCAR as a collective is making its mark and step-by-step will drive change. Are you with us? Give me a call, let’s talk about it!
Event:
Plane Creek
Tuesday, 17 December
Sarina Leagues Club (TBC)
RSVP required – text, call or email. Ph: 0467 573 321 | sonia.ball@qcar.org.au

For further information please contact QCAR Central District Manager Sonia Ball at Sonia.ball@qcar.org.au or phone 0467 573 321.

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Catching up at the QCAR Mackay Meet & Greet at Wests Leagues Club, Walkerston last week are, from left, Mackay Area Productivity Services (MAPS) CEO Anthony Schembri, QCAR Central District Manager Sonia Ball, QCAR Central District Committee Chairman and QCAR Director Steve McKeering and Queensland Sugar Limited’s (QSL) Brad Dunn. Photos supplied
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QCAR Central District Committee Member Blair Watt, left, QCAR Chairman Christian Lago, QCAR Central District Chairman Steve McKeering and QCAR Central District Committee Member Craig Keating (Plane Creek)

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Simon Hood
Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing
As we move into December and the much-anticipated drop off in the Brazilian 2024 crush, the ICE #11 contract continues to trade in shallow downtrend pattern.
The recent UNICA report covering the first half of November crush finally saw the season to date numbers drop below last year’s record cumulative total. The data was roughly in line with expectations and the consensus for total Brazilian sugar out is narrowing into the mid to high 39 million tonne range.
Given the specs’ lack of conviction on pushing the market up or down due to trade resistance on either side, the futures price continues to zig zag sideways. At some point the market will break out of this pattern but we may have to wait a bit longer to get a decisive move.
India has received some focus in the near term with both this year and next in the frame. For the 2024 crush, which is getting under way, the latest Wilmar forecast has been revised down to 26.7M tonnes. This is primarily due to a poor monsoon in 2023 limiting national planting along with recent flooding and disease in Uttar Pradesh.
We remain of the view that India will not be a player in global trade for the immediate future as ethanol production absorbs future sugar juice production. Low sugar stocks this season will build slightly next year thanks to a very good 2024 monsoon, replenishing reservoirs and allowing more widespread planting of cane, which remains a highly viable crop for growers. If the 25/26 crop is as large as expected, India may resume an export campaign in late 2025 to early 2026.
The Thai crop has enjoyed a good growing season and is expected to produce a large crop of 11M tonnes of sugar this year. For the raw sugar market, the expectation is that exports will remain limited as local refining and liquid sugar exports into China absorb the majority of raw sugar consumption.
Overall, the anticipated move higher for sugar futures in the first quarter of next year remains a possibility. The longer-term outlook for the #11 contract looks less encouraging on an anticipated large Indian crop for 25/26 season.

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#11 March 25 Futures Contract (USc/lb) – Daily price movement over the last six months.

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A smart irrigation system powered by artificial intelligence will tell sugarcane farmers when and where to water their crops in an advance that could one day revolutionise agriculture – and help preserve the health of the Great Barrier Reef.

Developed by Victoria’s La Trobe University for far-north Queensland ag-tech company Aglantis, the intelligent irrigation system uses the Internet of Things to automate water pump management and monitor sunlight, temperature, and humidity levels without human interaction.

The system was initially conceived as a project to improve land management and prevent fertiliser run-off from farms into the Great Barrier Reef, but with new technology making smart irrigation more affordable, Aglantis managing director Luke Malan said the potential of the product was almost limitless.

In addition to saving water, future AI additions could teach the system how to conserve energy, responding to solar or energy tariffs. It could also examine soil profiles and make intelligent choices around crop selection and yields.

“It essentially takes the guesswork out of farming,” Luke said.

“With growing pressures on profitability, it’s more imperative to know what you’re doing and how you can do it better.

“This flips conventional thinking on its head and opens the doorway to new possibilities.”

Professor Wei Xiang, Cisco Research Chair and Director of La Trobe University’s Cisco Centre for AI and the Internet of Things, said the smart irrigation system was the centre’s first commercial product and showed how industry could drive research to tangible and ground-breaking results.

La Trobe is already working with the Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS), creating the world’s first AI-powered three-dimensional digital twin of the Great Barrier Reef to monitor its health.

“Now we've proven the technology, the next step is to add additional features to improve productivity and crop yields through leveraging cutting-edge AI technology,” Professor Xiang said.

“This will make farming on the whole more sustainable."

Researchers Kamyar Karimi and Aravindan Madasamy, who developed the system for La Trobe under the supervision of Professor Xiang, said it would reduce labour costs, increase water efficiency and allow more precision in farm decision-making.

Ultimately, the system design could include intelligent sequencing to determine the perfect order of irrigation across different farm sections, predictive maintenance and continuous learning from historical data, seasonal patterns and crop responses.

"This technology represents a major shift towards data-driven, sustainable agriculture where AI and IoT optimise every drop of water for maximum farming efficiency," Kamyar said.

Aravindan said the development of the smart irrigation system was a transformative step forward for farmers.

"By automating labour-intensive processes and putting control in the hands of advanced technology, farmers can save time, conserve resources and focus on other priorities without the stress of manual management.”

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AI-powered irrigation revolutionises sugarcane farming, optimising water use, reducing labour, and preventing runoff to protect the Great Barrier Reef, ensuring sustainable, data-driven agriculture.

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CQUniversity has been selected as the new agribusiness provider under the Queensland Government Gateway to Industry Schools Program through to 2028.

The Gateway to Industry Schools Program builds partnerships between schools and key Queensland industries to enable young people to acquire the knowledge, skills and attributes to participate effectively in the State’s economy and provides opportunities for industry and the education sector to work together to deliver outcomes for students, local communities and businesses.

Each project is led by industry organisations which develop and implement tailored school engagement activities in line with their industry's key skills and workforce priorities.

As the new provider for the Agribusiness Gateway to Industry Schools project, CQUniversity will partner with AgForce Queensland, AgriFutures Australia and the Queensland Agricultural Teachers Association (QATA) to activate school engagement and education programs for 15 schools, with the goal of introducing young Queenslanders to the many careers available in the State’s agriculture industry.

Associate Professor Amy Cosby, head of CQUniversity’s Agricultural Education and Extension team welcomed the announcement and said the University was well-placed to work with high schools and the agricultural industry across Queensland.

“CQUniversity has a strong track record in working with industry and schools across Australia to offer programs which raise the aspirations for students to pursue a career across the agricultural supply chain and highlight the vital contribution the of sector to the Queensland economy.

“We look forward to building on the great work of the QLD Department of Primary Industries (formerly DAF) who have delivered the project for the past three years,” said Assoc Prof Cosby.

“Our activities are designed to showcase the many different skills needed in the sector including on-farm roles and those that support the industry such as marketing, finance, science, technology, trades, and supply chain and logistics.

“It is our aim to introduce kids in high school to the industry and to build excitement and interest in agriculture – especially among those from non-farming backgrounds.”

Assoc Prof Cosby said the CQU project will offer two activity streams for schools to get involved in, the first is to apply to be a Gateway School where the project team will work closely with school staff over 12 months to create connections with industry and build capacity to embed agriculture across the curriculum.

“The second offers the chance to participate in teacher professional development or to host the project team in class to deliver curriculum aligned lessons focused on science and technology of agriculture,” she said.

CQUniversity will commence as the service provider for the Agribusiness Gateway to Industry Schools project in February 2025 and schools interested in becoming involved in the project will be able to apply from early 2025.

For more information, and project updates please visit CQU’s Agri-Tech Education and Extension website or email ageducation@cqu.edu.au.

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Paul Schembri's election as grower-director to the Sugar Terminals Limited (STL) board has been met with strong approval from grower advocacy organisations CANEGROWERS and Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables (QCAR). This milestone highlights the increasing demand for transparency, accountability, and grower-focused decision-making within the sugarcane industry.
CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens hailed Mr Schembri’s election as a victory for growers, emphasising the significance of his leadership.
“Paul Schembri’s election is a win for growers and the industry as a whole,” he said.
“Paul’s decades of experience and dedication make him an invaluable addition to the STL board. His presence signals a renewed focus on ensuring the voices of growers are not just heard but respected.”
QCAR Chairman Christian Lago also acknowledged the overwhelming support for Mr Schembri, describing him as a “bona-fide grower” and expressing optimism about his contributions.
“We congratulate Paul on his election,” Mr Lago said.
“He’s a bona-fide grower who QCAR wholeheartedly endorsed, and we look forward to working with him and fellow G Class director Steve Kirby, who are well-placed to represent the interests of G Class shareholders.”
The election outcome follows a contentious period for STL. Delays in finalising the voting process after the Annual General Meeting (AGM) were compounded by growing frustrations with STL’s leadership and its decision-making approach. CANEGROWERS and QCAR were among those critical of STL’s controversial 2023 move to insource terminal operations, which many growers view as unnecessary and poorly communicated.
“Most farmers do not support the plan—it’s a business model STL has no track record with,” Mr Lago said.
“STL’s claims that it can outperform Queensland Sugar Limited (QSL) are unsubstantiated, and we are yet to see any proof.”
CANEGROWERS also pointed to the rejection of STL’s remuneration report for the second consecutive year at the AGM as evidence of shareholder dissatisfaction. While a motion to spill the board was ultimately defeated, the result underscored the demand for change.
“This election is more than just a win for Paul—it’s a wake-up call for STL,” Mr Menkens said.
“Growers are demanding a change in leadership style and decision-making. They want transparency, accountability, and a commitment to the industry’s long-term interests.”
Both organisations have called for reform to address diminishing grower representation within STL. Mr Lago highlighted the decline in voting power among active G Class shareholders, which has dropped from 64% in 2000 to just 36% in 2024.
“Active growers must make up the majority of shareholders as was intended in STL’s founding charter,” he said.
“STL must focus on fixing the share registers and deal promptly, decisively, and fairly with dry shareholders.”
As Mr Schembri steps into his new role, there is cautious optimism that his leadership will help bridge divides and refocus STL’s priorities.
“These terminals represent generations of growers’ hard work and investment,” Mr Menkens said.
“Unilateral decisions that ignore grower input erode trust and unity. Paul’s election is an opportunity for STL to rebuild trust and honour the legacy of the sugarcane industry while preparing it for a sustainable future.”
The industry now watches closely, expecting STL to address concerns, restore grower representation, and provide clarity on its contentious insourcing model.
“This is a critical moment for STL to prove it can genuinely act in the best interests of the growers who built its foundation,” Mr Lago said.
A full STL update is available online: nsx.com.au/ftp/news/021744120.PDF.

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Former CANEGROWERS Chairman Paul Schembri's election to the STL board is a powerful step towards accountability and collaboration say cane growing advocacy groups. Photo supplied
QCAR Chairman Christian Lago

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As the year draws to a close, we at Alman Partners take this opportunity to reflect on an incredible 2024. It’s been a year of growth and triumphs, culminating in being recognised as a Financial Advice Association of Australia (FAAA) finalist in three national award categories. This achievement reflects not only the dedication of our team, but the trust and support of our valued clients and we thank them for being an integral part of our journey.
The past year has reminded us of the importance of proactive financial planning. Markets have seen the normal ebbs and flows, but as always, staying the course with a well-crafted strategy has proven its worth. Whether helping families secure their futures or assisting retirees live their dreams, we remain committed to helping every client live a life of true wealth.
As we step into the festive season, we encourage you to prioritise mindful spending. While it’s tempting to splurge during the holidays, consider setting a budget that balances joy today with goals for tomorrow. Small steps, like tracking expenses or making thoughtful gift choices, can keep the holiday cheer alive without the January blues.
Looking ahead, we’re excited to continue delivering excellence and innovation in financial planning in 2025. For now, let’s celebrate the successes of the past year and the opportunities of the next.
From all of us at Alman Partners, here’s to a joyful and prosperous holiday season!

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Facing a complex, time-consuming case that requires expert guidance?

While investigations can seem quite messy, costly and even unresolvable, cracking the code to a complicated investigation has never been so easy, thanks to Regional Queensland Investigations.

Regional Queensland Investigations aims to eliminate the common challenges most locals face, by introducing a highly regarded former law enforcement professional with a Security Firm Licence (Class 1), a Master of Laws (LLM), and a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) (Hons) degree to regional towns like Mackay.

Formerly known as J&D Online Investigations, Jason King has built up an impressive reputation over the last decade, relocating from Melbourne to regional Queensland to provide clients with invaluable service right in their backyard. Whether it's general investigations, cybercrime, workplace bullying or harassment, fraud, local government investigations, corporate matters or even undercover operations, Jason is ready to tackle all legal and investigative matters with confidence and precision.

Jason is well-known throughout Australia, with appearances on popular TV shows and in major news outlets further highlighting his success. His ability to unravel some of the nation’s most complex investigations and deliver a positive outcome has made him a trusted leader in the industry. With experience in conducting investigations across both Commonwealth and state jurisdictions, there’s no case too big or small.

As a former Federal Agent with the Australian Federal Police, and now the director of a private investigations company, Jason’s extensive experience across a variety of crimes positions him as an experienced resource for clients in need of top-tier investigative services.

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The holiday season is looking brighter for local families thanks to the hard work of the team at Vinnies. Volunteers have been busy packing multiple hampers, filled with essential items and festive goodies, to help those facing hardship this Christmas.

Local businesses and schools have generously donated handmade toys for children, ensuring they can experience the joy of Christmas. Families receiving the hampers are invited to select toys and wrap them, giving children a special gift to open on Christmas Day.

This year, Vinnies is responding to a major increase in requests for assistance, with demand rising due to the tough economic climate. Unfortunately, donations have decreased, making community support even more crucial. Vinnies continues to rely on the generosity of locals to provide for those in need, particularly as many families face difficulties during this time of year.

As the team prepares for Christmas, Vinnies remains a vital lifeline for many, offering support and hope when it’s needed most. Volunteers and staff are committed to making this holiday season a little easier for families who might otherwise struggle.

Visit Vinnies, Evans Ave at 2 Canberra St, North Mackay to grab a sale and support those less fortunate.

Opening Hours:
Monday: 9 am–4 pm
Tuesday: 9 am–4 pm
Wednesday: 9 am–4 pm
Thursday: 9 am–4 pm
Friday: 9 am–4 pm
Saturday: 8:30 am–12 pm
Sunday: Closed

All stores are closed for the Christmas holidays from 25th December - 2nd January.

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Boosting exercise is often on the agenda in the new year, but if you’re struggling to stick to a new fitness regime, University of South Australia research shows that virtual reality (VR) will not only make exercise feel easier but also ease chronic pain.

Using a novel bike system, researchers found that when people combine VR with cycling, their exercise enjoyment increases by 20% and they exercise for 15% longer.
 
Importantly, for patients with chronic pain, the technology distracts them from their condition, enabling them to engage in exercise and improve their recovery.
 
In Australia, exercise guidelines recommend that people exercise for 30 minutes at least three to five times a week. Yet statistics show that only one in five people actually achieve this.
 
There are 3.4 million people living with chronic pain in Australia. Globally, one in five people struggle with chronic pain.
 
“Being active is essential for people to stay physically and mentally fit and healthy, but it’s also incredibly important for helping people both recover from injuries and manage chronic conditions such as arthritis,” says PhD candidate Erin MacIntyre.
 
“We also know that exercise can play an important role in rehabilitation, often reducing pain and disability.
 
“But the challenge is that there are often barriers to exercise – many find it boring, or say that it requires too much effort, or can be painful. So, we’ve been looking at ways to help overcome these barriers.
 
“In our study, we combined VR with cycling, so when a rider started exercising with the VR headset on, it made it seem like they were riding in a digital countryside.
 
“We found that the VR experience distracted cyclists from the exertion of exercise and made the exercise feel easier, which together contributed to increased enjoyment and engagement.”
 
The study used a stationary bike system with a head-mounted VR display. The system was wirelessly linked to a bespoke VR program that allowed for remote control of the stationary bike’s resistance, as well as the ability to record how hard participants were working (power output in watts). Participants rode the VR bike for up to 30 minutes but were able to end their session early for any reason.
 
The study was funded by the Hospital Research Foundation Group.

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As we approach the holiday season, many of us look forward to time with family and friends, indulging in delicious festive meals, or simply unwinding after a busy year. For some, the season is a joyful time, while for others, it can be challenging, with food and drink often becoming primary sources of comfort. Between office Christmas parties, New Year celebrations, and holidays, this period often comes with increased food and alcohol intake, coupled with a drop in physical activity. Studies show that Australians tend to gain between 1-3 kilograms over this period, and many don’t lose it in the following months. Over a decade, these small annual gains can add up to 10-30 kilograms, with significant effects on long-term health and quality of life.

Living in rural areas, our community faces unique health challenges. Demanding jobs in farming, mining, and small business ownership mean long hours, and limited access to fitness facilities and fresh produce can make staying active and eating healthily more challenging. As a result, our rural communities have higher rates of overweight and obesity compared to urban areas. Carrying excess weight, especially when it crosses into obesity (a BMI over 30), is associated with a higher risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, infertility, joint problems, and mental health issues. As a community, we have much to gain from managing holiday weight and supporting each other in making healthy choices.

Practical Tips for a Healthier Holiday Season

The good news is that it’s possible to enjoy the season’s treats without gaining unwanted weight. A few mindful changes can help us keep holiday weight gain in check and start the new year feeling our best.

1. Practice Portion Control
   - Portion control allows us to enjoy festive foods without overindulging. Instead of piling up your plate, opt for smaller servings of each dish, giving you a taste of everything without excess.

2. Balance Indulgences with Healthier Choices
   - Add salads, vegetables, and lean proteins alongside holiday treats. Swapping sugary or alcoholic drinks for water or sparkling water is another easy way to cut down on extra calories without sacrificing the celebration.

3. Stay Active
   - Even brief physical activity can help offset extra holiday calories. Walking, playing sports, or even helping out with post-meal cleanup all add to activity levels. Try to keep moving, even if you can’t stick to your usual exercise routine.

4. Practice Mindful Eating
   - Slow down and savor your food, focusing on flavours and textures. Eating mindfully helps you feel satisfied with less and enhances your enjoyment.

Taking small, mindful steps now can make a big difference in our long-term health. This holiday season, let’s look out for each other and aim to start the new year healthier and ready for what’s ahead. 

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Yours in Good Health ,

Dr Mags Swenson
 
Oaktree Family Medical and Occupational Health Centre 

(A clinic coming soon to Mackay!) 

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For Mackay local Megan Dillon, a career in surveying wasn’t something she expected for herself. 
As a female entering a male-dominated industry, she decided to not let it deter her and is now the leader of a team of nine – who are all men.  
Megan was recently honoured on Monday December 9th for achieving her registration as a surveyor in Mackay.  
She hopes to encourage more women to step into the industry – as new data reveals only 4 per cent of surveyors in Queensland are female.  
“If we were living in the 1800’s I wouldn’t be doing this job, but I love being outside and working in the region that I live.
“Working for the local government with equal employment opportunities has created a safe space for me”. 
CEO of Surveyors Australia Michelle Blicavs is also strong on this call of getting more females interested in pursuing a career in the profession.  
She says there is so much opportunity for women in surveying and with technological advancements, the career opportunities continue to grow. 
“As an industry we have networks to provide support and connection, and we want more women getting on site and taking on leadership roles like Megan.”  
Megan was awarded the Women’s Leadership Award at the 2017 Queensland Spatial Excellence Awards where judges commented, “Megan leads by example and is a great role model for women in the spatial industry.”

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(L to R) Dale Atkinson, Megan Dillon, Michael Mulliss and Michelle Blicavs
Megan Dillon (Mackay Regional Council), Michael Mulliss (Locus Surveys)

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Newly elected Member for Mirani, Glen Kelly, has wrapped up his first week in Queensland Parliament, delivering his maiden speech and stepping into his roles as a member of the Primary Industries and Resources Committee and Deputy Government Whip.
 
A proud grazier and passionate advocate for regional Queensland, Mr. Kelly is focused on ensuring the voices of the Mirani electorate are heard loud and clear in Parliament.
 
Reflecting on his first week, Mr. Kelly said, “It has been an incredible honour to stand in Parliament as the voice of Mirani. My maiden speech was an opportunity to highlight the values and resilience of our community while laying the foundation for the work ahead. Being entrusted with roles on the Primary Industries and Resources Committee and as Deputy Whip reinforces my commitment to representing the interests of our region and our industries.”
 
Mr. Kelly emphasised his eagerness to transition from Parliament to working on the ground, connecting directly with constituents as his electorate office prepares to open.
 
“I am currently working hard on recruiting my team, to ensure my office is fully operational by January. This will be a vital hub for the Mirani community—a place where residents can share their concerns and ideas, and where we can work together on the solutions that will move Mirani forward,” Mr. Kelly said.
 
In his role on the Primary Industries and Resources Committee, Mr. Kelly is determined to advocate for the region’s vital industries, including agriculture, mining, and resources.
 
“These industries are the backbone of our electorate, and I’m committed to ensuring they have the support they need to grow and thrive,” he said.
 
As Deputy Government Whip, Mr. Kelly is also looking forward to playing a key role in fostering collaboration and unity within his parliamentary team.
 
Over the coming months, Mr. Kelly will focus on connecting with residents, local businesses, and community groups, ensuring Mirani remains a priority in government decision-making.
 
“This first week is just the beginning. I am committed to fighting for better infrastructure, supporting our industries, and addressing the needs of our families and communities. There is a lot to do, and I’m ready to get started,” he added.

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