The Whitsunday Conservation Council (WCC) has been actively campaigning to save trees threatened by the proposed widening of Shute Harbour Road between Paluma Road and the Tropic Road roundabout.

WCC explained that they first met with the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) in February 2023, after it was announced that work would begin on preparations for the widening of Shute Harbour Road, including moving power lines, reconstructing pathways and removing trees and vegetation.

WCC stated that further on-site meetings have been held over the past couple of years. At a recent meeting, WCC was advised that these “enabling” works are about to continue up to Macarthur Road, although no date has been set for the actual widening of the road.

Since the initial meeting, WCC have said that TMR has responded to their concerns and altered some plans. Trees that were originally marked for removal will now be retained, and several overhead streetlights due to be relocated have been repositioned to keep other trees in situ. WCC stated that they and TMR liaised with Whitsunday Regional Council when large garden beds were removed, taking hundreds of cuttings, repositioning succulents and relocating some palm trees off-site.

WCC have stated that the large old mango tree opposite Valley Drive, which lies directly in the path of the planned road extension, cannot be saved and will be removed later this week.

“No doubt whoever planted this tree could not have envisaged that one day Shute Harbour Road at Tropic Road intersection would need to be 4 to 6 lanes wide,” WCC Secretary Faye Chapman said.

WCC has said they received assurances from TMR that all the Indian almond trees close to MacArthur Drive, important food sources for Red-tailed Black Cockatoos, will be retained except for one tree with a rotten core. Two other large habitat trees will also be retained.

WCC noted that these trees will need trimming to accommodate the repositioning of overhead powerlines but will not be cut down. They also provide much-needed shade over the existing walkway. Negotiations continue with TMR to protect a large stand of remnant gum trees adjacent to Waite Creek and the Big 4 Adventure Whitsundays bus stop.

“This stand of mature trees has been there for a very long time. Well before Airlie Beach developed into the community it is now,” Faye Chapman said, adding that “WCC was appreciative of TMR’s input into these continuing discussions.”

“Of course, it would certainly help if in the future, TMR is planning to expand roads or move powerlines that they consult with environmental groups such as WCC before the advanced planning stage.”

“By doing so, concerns could be made known and awareness of aspects of the local conditions raised earlier. This would allow better protection for our local environment including these beautiful old trees that are part of our heritage.”

In response to media enquiries, Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said it is great to see the upgrade getting underway.

“This section between Paluma Road and the Tropic Road roundabout is a key connection for residents, workers and visitors, and widening it to four lanes will make a real difference to safety and traffic flow.”

“Council has been advocating for these improvements for some time, so it’s fantastic to see the Department of Transport and Main Roads progressing the works.

“As the road owner, TMR is leading delivery of the project and is best placed to provide detailed updates as construction moves forward.”

The WCC has stated that they will continue to work closely with TMR and Council to protect as many trees as possible and to ensure environmental considerations are included in infrastructure planning.

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L to R: WCC Faye Chapman, TMR Chris Spiteri, Nicholas
Gibson/Vassallo Constructions and TMR Nick Ryan meet on
site Shute Harbour Rd Cannonvale. Photo supplied.

In Australia, there are 425,000 people living with dementia as of 2024, with that number expected to more than double to over 800,000 by 2054.

Even if dementia doesn’t directly affect you, the likelihood of it touching someone close to you in your lifetime is very high.

Rebecca Ross is one of those people. Her beloved mother was recently diagnosed with frontal temporal and vascular dementia. It has been a journey she describes as heartbreaking, but one she is determined to turn into hope and awareness for others.

“My mum’s always been very independent. She raised five children on her own and owned multiple businesses, and to see her needing help now is heartbreaking,” Rebecca explained.
“It’s just watching the decline of somebody that you love, seeing them slowly change from the person they’ve always been.”

Rebecca’s experience has inspired her to host Coffee for Dementia Day, a community fundraising event in support of Dementia Australia. The morning tea will be held on Thursday, 16 October, at The Bali Hut at the Sailing Club, and aims to raise both funds and awareness of the disease.

Tickets are $20 or $15 for pensioners, and include a delicious morning tea of tea, coffee, sandwiches, cakes, sausage rolls and sweets. There will also be a raffle featuring prizes from generous local businesses, including SeaLink, Red Cat, LiveLife Pharmacy, and several Whitsunday hospitality groups.

“Even if people can’t make it on the day, they can still help by donating. Every bit makes a difference,” Rebecca says.

This is the second year Rebecca has hosted the fundraiser. Last year’s event was smaller, but with the support of friends such as Tina Cook from Whitsunday Party Hire and Margie Murphy from Airlie Events, this year’s morning tea promises to be even bigger.

While the atmosphere will be warm and welcoming, the cause is serious.

“We just need to be more aware. It’s now the leading cause of death among women in Australia,” Rebecca says.

“There are 130 different types of dementia, and no known cure.”

Through her mother’s diagnosis, Rebecca has discovered a deep passion for advocacy and education.

“The more I learn, the more passionate I become. It’s taken me down a path I never thought I’d be on.”

Despite the emotional toll, she finds comfort in small, joyful moments with her mother.

“There are happy moments too. Every now and then we share a giggle when she mixes up a word or says something funny.”

For Rebecca, the event is more than a fundraiser. It is a tribute.

“This event is about awareness, for my mum, for my friends, and for the future.”

Even if you cannot attend in person, you can still contribute by donating online. For enquiries, contact Rebecca Ross at rebecca@metrotilesab.com.au. Join the community in sharing a cuppa and showing support for an important cause that touches so many hearts.

With kindness, community spirit and a strong cup of tea, Rebecca Ross is proving that even in the face of loss, love and awareness can still lead the way.

What: Cuppa for Dementia
Where: Whitsunday Sailing Club - Bali Hut Pavilion and Lawn
When: Thursday, 16 October 2025 from 11:00am to 12:30pm
Tickets: $20 or $15 for a Pensioner Ticket

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Missing Man Brett Breeze Has Been Missing From Bowen For Six Weeks

More than six weeks after Brett Breeze was last seen, his family is still searching for answers — and holding on to hope.

The Bowen man, 49, vanished on Tuesday, 19 August, shortly after presenting to Bowen Hospital for treatment relating to his mental health. He was due to be transferred to Mackay Base Hospital the following day, but never arrived.

Despite extensive search efforts by police, SES volunteers, and professional trackers, Mr Breeze remains missing, and his disappearance has left his loved ones devastated.

Continued on page 3.

**Family Appeal For Any Sightings Of Brett

The family of missing Bowen man Brett Breeze say they are desperate for answers more than six weeks after he disappeared following a visit to Bowen Hospital in mid-August.

Mr Breeze, 49, was last seen at approximately 4.30pm on Tuesday, 19 August. He has not been seen or heard from since.

His sister, Amanda, has established a public Facebook group titled Missing Person Brett Breeze to help raise awareness and coordinate search efforts.

Ms Breeze said her brother, who has long lived with mental health challenges, was taken to Bowen Hospital by family members on the day of his disappearance for a medical review and to receive support for his condition.

“Mum could see that he was starting to become unwell — saying things he doesn’t normally say,” she told Whitsunday Life Newspaper.

Mr Breeze was scheduled to be transferred to the mental health unit at Mackay Base Hospital on Wednesday, 20 August, but the transfer reportedly did not occur.

Queensland Police issued a public appeal on Tuesday, 2 September, requesting assistance from the public to help locate Mr Breeze. He is described as Caucasian, approximately 180cm tall, with a solid build, auburn hair, and blue eyes.

In the early days of the search, a witness reported seeing a man matching Mr Breeze’s description acting erratically near a roadside location. Amanda later joined SES volunteers in an ATV search of nearby bushland, where they located several of Mr Breeze’s personal belongings — including his bank cards and Bible.

“He never left home without them,” she said.

Despite several days of coordinated efforts by trackers, SES, and local authorities, no further trace of Mr Breeze has been found. He remains listed as a missing person.

The family say ongoing speculation within the community has added to their distress.

“We just want Brett to know that his family loves him and we want him home safe,” Amanda said.

Police continue to appeal for any information from the public, particularly dashcam or CCTV footage from the Bowen region around the date of Mr Breeze’s disappearance.

At the time of publication, Wednesday 8 October, Mr Breeze remains missing. The Facebook group Missing Person Brett Breeze remains active, and the family is continuing to seek assistance in the search.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit www.crimestoppersqld.com.au

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Let’s Get Ready, Whitsundays!

This week is Get Ready Week, a reminder for all of our Whitsunday community to take a few simple steps now to prepare for the storm and cyclone season ahead.

Locals know all too well how unpredictable the weather can be, from heavy rain and flash flooding to strong winds and tropical cyclones. Being prepared early makes a huge difference when severe weather hits, and this week is the perfect time to check your emergency plans, top up your supplies and talk with your family and neighbours about what you’ll do if the weather turns.

To help share that message in a fun and memorable way, we’ll be launching the Get Ready Whitsunday Song this Friday night on the big screen at the foreshore prior to the normal movie night.

The song is a creative project by our Disaster Management Coordinator Sandra Black that brings together local schools, emergency services and community members.

A big thank you goes to all the students, teachers and emergency service teams who helped make the song and video such a success. You’ve created something that not only shares an important safety message but also celebrates the energy and creativity of our community. I have no doubt it’s going to be stuck in everyone’s head!

Get Ready Week is also a timely reminder to:

Check your emergency kit — make sure you have batteries, a torch, first aid items and important documents handy.
Know your evacuation routes and where to find reliable information such as Council’s disaster dashboard, local radio and the Bureau of Meteorology.
Have a chat with your family, friends and neighbours about what you’ll do if a cyclone or flood warning is issued.
Preparedness really does start with each of us. The Get Ready Whitsunday Song is a fun way to remind us that staying safe doesn’t have to be complicated, it just takes a bit of planning and community spirit.

So this Get Ready Week, take a moment to check your plan, enjoy the song and help spread the word.

Let’s Get Ready, Whitsundays!

Then and Now

By the mid 1920s, many Proserpine districts boasted a hall of their own. These places were not only hubs of social events but also provided a centre for such activities as meetings of canegrowers, polling booths and Country Women’s Association gatherings. They were the heartbeat of these communities. Sadly, time has seen most of these halls fall into disrepair and close down. BUT not so, Kelsey Creek.

Kelsey Creek Hall, made of timber with corrugated iron walls, was built by J P Muller in 1927 and opened with no debt. District farmers each donated one truck of sugar cane towards the cost. “Bowen Independent” reported, “The Kelsey Creek Hall, measuring 40 x 24 feet with a 10 feet verandah, was opened on Saturday, 23rd April. Mr W B Biggs (Chairman) performed the opening ceremony and Mr Spoor kindly brought a plant along and lit the building up with electricity. A good crowd turned up from town and with the local residents in full force the evening passed (with) one continuous round of merriment.”

The hall had a good dance floor and there were plenty of talented local musicians to play at functions. Before electricity, carbide and kerosene lights, then later pressure kerosene lamps, were used to light up the hall.

Admission to dances was one shilling (ten cents) for gents and ladies – but if ladies provided a plate of goodies for supper, they were admitted free of charge. At supper, a round bath tub full of freshly made sandwiches would be taken around the hall along with cakes (lots of sponge cakes). Even gnocchi made by Italian settlers was served in inverted stump caps. Large enamel tea pots served tea and coffee, water being heated in a copper outside and brought in using enamel jugs. Dances were held by many different groups. On September 28, 1935, the “Proserpine Guardian” noted, “Dances at Kelsey Creek have become very popular, the hall being booked every fortnight until Christmas.”

Typical of all local halls, it was used for meetings of cane growers and the Country Women’s Association (who first met there on October 13, 1960). It was also available for weddings, handicrafts and hoy mornings.

At the meeting of the hall committee on May 7 1927, rules were adopted. Some were: -

· Dances to be held monthly in aid of the hall

· When leased for other benefits, the committee was to decide whether they would forgo one of their dances or add an extra one

· Fees for all dances or benefits other than hall or school dances to be 25/-. The fee may be given back at the committee’s discretion if the benefit was for charity

· Cleaning fee of 10/6d to be charged on all occasions; such fee to be handed back if the hall was cleaned satisfactorily

· All fees to be paid in advance to the secretary

In the early days, at one committee meeting, the following motion was passed – “two males are not allowed to dance together.”

While usage of the hall declined in the 2000s, it remained an important meeting point for locals. And if caught out in the floods, they knew the hall was open so they could wait there instead of sitting in their car at the edge of the creek.

When the hall was struck by vandals in August 2014, this almost spelt its total demise. Today, however, it is heartwarming to see an energetic group of young Kelsey Creekers, committed to preserving this important piece of history, undertaking repairs and maintenance, and injecting new life into their hall.

Story and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum.

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Kelsey Creek Hall. Photo supplied.
The Hall Comes Alive! Photo supplied.

Hi everyone,

Hope you’re having a great week as always!

This week, amid the busy pace of journalism, I’ve been reflecting on my “why.” They say that when you love what you do, you’ll never work a day in your life, and I’ve found that to be true!

Life can throw challenges our way, sometimes feeling like mountains. But knowing your why can turn those hurdles into blessings rather than burdens.

It’s easy to get caught up in what’s wrong in the world, especially in this fast-paced, digital age. If you struggle to see the goodness in life, I encourage you to pause and look deeper.

I know I did.

There was a time I was consumed by negativity, but when I put my faith in something greater than myself, I began to see life differently. Suddenly, grace, abundance, and goodness were everywhere — I just needed to lift the scales to see them.

Psalm 23:6 reminds us, “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life.”

So, no matter how dark the road feels sometimes, just know that there is hope, there is goodness, and there is joy waiting to be noticed.

With that in mind, and in the spirit of embracing the good things happening around us, I’m excited to share a little weekend fun - I’ll be at the BMA CQ Rescue Family Fun Day this Sunday… so get ready to say cheese!

Have a blessed week! :)

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Bringing Nostalgia Back To Modern Homes

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Kitchens are no longer just functional spaces; they’re the heart of the home, where style and personality meet practicality. In 2025, one of the standout trends reshaping these central hubs is the retro revival — a nostalgic nod to mid-century designs and vintage charm, now infused with modern convenience.

Retro-inspired kitchens are all about personality. Bold colours are making a statement, from candy-apple reds and deep teals to mustard yellows and pastel blues. These vibrant shades are being paired with geometric tiles, checkerboard patterns, and contrasting countertops, creating visual interest that draws the eye and adds a playful, energetic vibe. For homeowners, it’s a chance to break away from neutral palettes and bring warmth and life into the space.

Vintage appliances are another key feature of this trend. Think enamel fridges in bold colours, chrome-trimmed stoves, and classic kettle shapes reimagined for modern efficiency. These pieces are more than just functional; they act as conversation starters and focal points, blending the nostalgia of yesteryear with today’s technology. The beauty of this trend is that it celebrates the past without sacrificing contemporary functionality. Energy-efficient appliances, smart cooking tools, and durable surfaces ensure that retro kitchens are just as practical as they are stylish.

Cabinetry and storage solutions are also reflecting the retro revival. Rounded edges, shaker-style doors, and open shelving with vintage crockery add charm, while clever organisation and hidden storage maintain a modern level of convenience. Lighting plays a big role too — pendant lights with brass or colourful glass shades, paired with under-cabinet LEDs, create a layered effect that is both functional and visually striking.

Another appealing aspect of retro kitchens is their versatility. Whether homeowners prefer a fully immersive 1950s diner feel or subtle mid-century touches, the trend can be tailored to suit any style. Retro elements can complement industrial, coastal, or contemporary interiors, making it an accessible choice for a wide range of homes.

The rise of social media has also fueled the trend, with influencers and home renovation enthusiasts sharing photos of vibrant, retro-inspired kitchens. It’s easy to see why: the combination of bold design, nostalgic charm, and practical modern upgrades makes these spaces ideal for both daily life and entertaining guests.

Ultimately, the retro revival in kitchens is about more than aesthetics — it’s about creating a space that reflects personality, tells a story, and makes cooking and gathering at home a joyful experience. For homeowners looking to stand out while staying practical, this trend offers the perfect balance of fun, style, and functionality.

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The Longest-Running Breakfast Show In The Region

Triple M Mackay & The Whitsundays will mark a major milestone this Friday when Jay & Dave broadcast their 3,300th Breakfast Show, cementing their place as the longest-running breakfast team in the region.

Since their first show together in 2011, Jay Shipston and Dave Peters have been the voices locals wake up to. Across more than 11,500 hours on air, they’ve laughed, cried, and shared every major moment with the community — from cyclones and floods to grand finals and good news stories.

"Fifteen years of 3 a.m. alarms, bad coffee, and big laughs — it’s been the ride of a lifetime,” Jay Shipston said.

“We’ve grown up with our listeners. They’ve heard us get married, come out, win awards, and celebrate Mackay through it all.”

Dave Peters said, “When you’ve spent over eleven thousand hours together on air, you’re basically family — and that’s what our listeners are to us.

"Friday’s about thanking them for being part of our mornings for so long.”

To celebrate, Jay & Dave will broadcast live from 6 a.m. at Barnes Creek Road, just before the Forgan Bridge. One lucky listener will win tickets and accommodation to see Jelly Roll, plus there’ll be throwbacks, special guests, and plenty of surprises.

Event Details

What: Jay & Dave’s 3,300th Breakfast Show
When: Friday 10 October 2025 from 6 a.m.
Where: Barnes Creek Road (before the Forgan Bridge)
Giveaway: Jelly Roll tickets + accommodation
Listen: Triple M Mackay & The Whitsundays or on the LiSTNR app

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Jay & Dave celebrate their 3,300th Breakfast Show this Friday, marking them as Mackay’s longest-running breakfast duo. Photo source: Triple M Mackay & The Whitsundays (Facebook)

I got out of my car near my office in Victoria St the other day and was swooped by a pee wee that came from behind and landed a peck on my head.

Like most people, I’m not a big fan of being swooped but it’s usually aggressive male magpies that bring me grief during their breeding season, although I’ve clashed with a few plovers over the years.

It probably makes me a bad person but I often think rogue, aggressive male magpies are given a bit too much latitude when they constantly, aggressively chase and attack people.

I’ve seen young girls and boys on push bikes careening dangerously onto the street in panic as they try to escape a swooping magpie.

I was at the Mackay Base Hospital a few years ago and there was a magpie-swooping sign that warned patients, visitors and staff to beware of a particularly aggressive bird.

Patients, who already had enough to worry about, had the additional issue of being swooped if they dared get out of their room to enjoy some fresh air.

In my view we should be protecting kids, old people and hospital patients ahead of dangerous magpies and remove the ones who are clearly rogue and aggressive.

Although, as I said, I am a bad person so I would think that.

But I’ve never had a problem with pee wees before. They seem to be smart birds and I have seen them team up and attack predatory crows hanging around pee wee nests. Pee wees dive into my pool in the heat of summer and they are welcome guests.

What surprised me about being swooped by one the other day was not just that it was a pee wee but that it was in Victoria St. It got me wondering about why pee wees and other birds like city life so much. Surely life is better in Habana or Balnagowan or out in Devereux Creek.

Apparently there are good nesting places on buildings that are safe and fewer natural predators in the City Heart. There might be an unfortunate “fast food” dietary element as well, although I don’t see pee wees behaving in the disgraceful way ibis do around city garbage bins.

Like the pee wees, many humans are drawn to life in the City Heart. Other people like living outside the city and enjoy the space, privacy and tranquility of life in those areas outside suburbia.

I can understand that because in a busy, bustling world of business and traffic and pressure, your home and your land becomes a private sanctuary and your daily escape.

But, like the pee wees, plenty of people are drawn to the convenience and abundance of nesting places in the city.

People can step out of their unit or house and be in the café, restaurant or pub in minutes. Go for a morning walk along the river bank. Getting to work is a breeze and you’re right near all the shopping you need.

I like the architecture of Mackay’s City Heart and it’s an easy place to get around by foot.

The council often talks about getting more residents into the City Heart and I think it would be terrific to see more people living there.

We have several high-rise apartment blocks along the river but it would be great to see more and you can only imagine what a transformation of the city there would be if further development happened along the river. What about all those buildings along Wood St and Victoria St with space on their second levels?

At the moment a lot of the city-dwellers seem to be homeless people, which is a tragic and difficult problem of our times.

Rather than the homeless, I would love to see a City Heart bustling with more people enjoying their life in the CBD. Although they would have to watch out for the pee wees.

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Community is at the heart of Hugh Reilly Real Estate, and their support reaches far beyond the walls of their office. For more than 80 years, the agency has been a familiar and trusted name in Mackay, known not only for real estate expertise but for their generous commitment to giving back.

Partner and Managing Director, Josey Comerford, is often seen supporting local initiatives across the region. Recently, she joined fellow business leaders for the Chamber of Commerce B2B Brews event at Mackay Women’s Services, learning more about the vital work the organisation does in supporting women and families.

Hugh Reilly Real Estate has long supported the Mackay West Rotary Club, contributing to the club’s ongoing community projects and fundraising initiatives. Rotary’s values of service, integrity, and goodwill align closely with the agency’s own long-standing ethos.

The team’s generosity extends across a range of community causes. Earlier this year, they joined Laffo’s Bar & Pizzeria’s “Pizza for a Purpose” fundraiser, supporting The Grapevine Group’s mental health programs. In May, they hosted Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea, welcoming locals for tea, coffee, and cake while raising funds for the Cancer Council to support cancer research and prevention.

Over Easter, the team also donated a large hamper filled with chocolate eggs to the hardworking doctors and nurses at Mackay Base Hospital. Coordinated with the Mackay Hospital Foundation, the gesture offered a small but heartfelt thank you to healthcare staff working through the holiday.

In 2023, Hugh Reilly Real Estate was also a proud gold sponsor of Mackay Musical Comedy Players Inc, helping nurture local creativity and keep the arts thriving.

Through decades of change, the agency has proven that real success isn’t measured in property, but in people. In Mackay, when one hand reaches out, the whole community rises. From healthcare to mental health, the arts to advocacy, Hugh Reilly Real Estate shows that true local impact is built on heart, grit, and connection – a reminder that home isn’t just a place, it’s a community looking out for one another.

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The team at Hugh Reilly Real Estate proved that laughter truly is the best office policy this April Fools’ Day.

In a moment of light-hearted fun, Carol arrived at work to find her entire desk covered in the team’s funniest faces – a cheerful surprise that instantly set the tone for a day filled with laughter. Each photo featured a member of the Hugh Reilly team pulling their best expression, creating a collage of smiles that had everyone stopping by for a chuckle.

Known for their professionalism and long-standing commitment to clients, the Hugh Reilly team also know the value of joy in the workplace. Between managing properties, assisting buyers, and supporting the community, they take every opportunity to share a laugh and lift one another’s spirits.

The April Fools’ prank was a reminder that while real estate can be a serious business, it’s the people behind it who make it personal, and in this case, playful too.

It’s not every day you walk into the office to find yourself surrounded by a wall of friendly faces, but at Hugh Reilly Real Estate, it’s all part of the fun. Their team spirit shines through both in their work and their sense of humour, reminding everyone that success often starts with a smile.

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High-Speed Motorcycle Incident At Bakers Creek

A 21-year-old Sarina man has been intercepted by police following an alleged high-speed incident on the Mackay Ring Road at Bakers Creek on Saturday, October 4, 2025.

At approximately 8.49pm, officers conducting mobile speed enforcement patrols allegedly detected a Kawasaki ZX 12R motorcycle travelling at 178 kilometres per hour in an 80-kilometre-per-hour zone — 98 kilometres over the posted speed limit.

Police intercepted the motorcycle and spoke with the 21-year-old rider regarding the alleged offence. He was subsequently issued three infringement notices:

• Exceeding the speed limit by more than 40 km/h — $1919 fine, eight demerit points, and a six-month licence suspension
• Learner driver failing to display legible L plates — $267 fine and two demerit points
• Rider not authorised to ride the class of motorbike — $556 fine

Major Traffic Operation In Calen Yields 167 Charges

Calen police, supported by the Highway Patrol and Tactical Crime Squad, conducted a major traffic operation across the Bruce Highway between 19 and 22 September, resulting in a total of 167 charges.

The operation focused on high-visibility patrols targeting road-related offences, with officers conducting 3,516 roadside breath tests and 174 roadside drug tests. Of those, 47 motorists returned a positive result. A total of 48 infringement notices were also issued. Charges included drink and drug driving, speeding, possession or supply of dangerous drugs, and possession of drug-related utensils.

During the operation, police responded to a separate incident at approximately 11.40am on 20 September when they observed substantial smoke coming from nearby cane fields.

Officers saw a man exit the paddock and return toward the fire with his dog. The man, later identified as a 34-year-old Monkland resident, was arrested and a large quantity of drugs was located.

He has been charged with five counts of possessing dangerous drugs; two counts each of setting fire to vegetation and possessing property suspected of being used in connection with a drug offence; and one count each of animal cruelty, trafficking in dangerous drugs (methylamphetamine), possession of a knife in a public place, and an offence to buy or possess S4 or S8 medicines or hazardous poisons (dexamphetamine).

The man remains in custody and is due to reappear at Proserpine Magistrates Court on 10 November.

Photo source: Queensland Police Service

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Chances House Mackay provides vital support to people experiencing homelessness, and the team is reaching out to the community for a little extra help. Residents rely on the generosity of locals to access basic necessities, and right now the shelter is in need of a range of essential items.

Non-perishable foods are always appreciated, with tins featuring ring pulls preferred for ease of use. Donations of noodles, spaghetti, baked beans, tuna, fruit cups, and chunky soups go directly to those who need them most. For pet owners, wet dog and cat food is especially useful, complementing the shelter’s current supply of dry food.

Other items that make a real difference include sleeping bags, small tarpaulins, insect repellant, mozzie coils, small gas canisters, toothpaste, toothbrushes, and deodorant.

Clothing is not required at this time, as the shelter has ample supply.

Chances House Mackay encourages residents to help in any way they can, whether by dropping off donations, sharing this call-out on social media, or spreading the word to friends and family. Every contribution provides comfort, safety, and support to some of Mackay’s most vulnerable community members.

Donations can be dropped off directly at Chances House during opening hours. The team thanks the community for every gift, large or small, and for helping ensure that everyone in Mackay has the support they need to stay safe and cared for.

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Some of Mackay’s most vulnerable young patients are benefitting from the gift of refreshed rooms, new amenities, cosy therapeutic bean bags and modern furniture thanks to the generosity of AutoCorner Mackay.

Representatives visited the Children and Adolescent Unit mental health rooms to view the results of their generous donation which was arranged by the Mackay Hospital Foundation.

Nurse unit manager Louise Suner and enrolled nurse Kirby Green gave a tour of the refreshed lounge area and patient rooms.

“We have new couches and tables, all walls and doors are repainted and everything is in cool and calming colours of blue and green,” Louise said.

“The lounge area is more inviting so these patients can come out of their rooms, play board games, eat out here and interact with specialists and their family.

“There are also a couple of big therapeutic bean bags, a cupboard full of games and the blackboard as well.

“Full credit goes to Kirby in our team for arranging this and we are so grateful to Auto Corner Mackay and our Mackay Hospital Foundation for their support.”

Patient rooms also have new beds, and the same colour scheme in ensuite bathrooms with new vanity cabinets.

EN Kirby Green, CAU nurse unit manager Louise Suner, Auto Corner representatives Jason Watts and Kane McHardy and Mackay Hospital Foundation representative Leonie Hansen. Photo source: Mackay Hospital and Health Service (Facebook)

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Members of Mackay VIEW Club are calling on the community to give generously this Anti-Poverty Week [12-18 October] and sponsor a child or donate to the national children’s education charity The Smith Family. The focus of this Anti-Poverty Week is to end child poverty in Australia.

Mackay VIEW Club helps 5 children through The Smith Family’s Learning for Life education support program, which provides families with long term educational, financial, and personal assistance, so that children have all the essentials needed to make the most of their education.

President of the VIEW Club Elizabeth Butterworth said with one in six children in Australia growing up in poverty, there has never been a more important time to support a child with their education.

“Families are having to make impossible choices about how to spend limited resources, this could be prioritising rent over sending their child on a school excursion, being able to afford schoolbooks or essential digital learning tools,” said Elizabeth.

“A laptop and reliable internet access at home are now vital for any child’s education.”

“No child should have to miss out on the essentials for their education, and this is why VIEW is so passionate about supporting the work of The Smith Family.

"Its evidence-based approach helps children experiencing disadvantage to overcome the educational inequality they face. They support students for the duration of their education, and this helps them build the confidence and skills needed to create better futures for themselves.”

VIEW Clubs raised more than $1.5 million nationally last year to support The Smith Family’s important work, and they currently sponsor over 1,800 students on the Learning for Life scholarship program.

VIEW Clubs in 2025 also raised over $182,000 for The Smith Family’s Digital Learning Essentials program, that aims to close the digital divide and allow students to fully participate in their schooling.

While fundraising plays a vital role in helping children in need, President Elizabeth is also encouraging women of all ages to donate their time and skills by joining a VIEW Club.

Each year, VIEW members collectively volunteer over 70,000 hours of their time to help young people through homework, reading and mentoring programs run by the charity – but there’s still a need for more helping hands.

“Our VIEW members have a unique opportunity to provide hands-on support to children experiencing disadvantage, while also forming meaningful and lasting community relationships,” Elizabeth said.

“Recently, members in our local area have been participating in public awareness stalls at Riverside and Farmer’s Markets and we will also be at The Seniors Expo on October 14."

To find out more about joining VIEW, visit view.org.au or call 1800 805 366.

To sponsor a child or donate to The Smith Family, visit thesmithfamily.com.au or call 1800 633 622.

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