Council Heads To Smaller Communities To Find Out What Matters Most To Them

The Mackay Mayor, councillors and senior staff are hitting the road, taking council to some of the region’s smaller communities.

Let’s Chat - Council Connect is holding sessions in areas from Bloomsbury in the north to Sarina in the south and west to the Valley.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the informal sessions were an opportunity to raise issues and ideas and have a chat.

“What we learnt through the recent discussion about divisions is that there are parts of the Mackay region that feel like they’re not being heard,” Mayor Williamson said.

“There was a clear message from these communities that they want more contact from council and councillors, so we are taking council to them,’’ he said.

“A recent session in Sarina at Hay Point was successful and we’re confident future sessions in Bloomsbury, Seaforth, Mirani and the Northern Beaches will be just as beneficial.

“The most recent sessions were held at Eungella and Finch Hatton.”

As part of the Let’s Chat sessions, attendees can also book one-on-one sessions to raise specific issues.

“These 10-minute sessions are done with just the resident and council representative, so it’s much more relaxed than a town hall style meeting,” Mayor Williamson said.

“There will also be staff on hand to help residents submit service requests through Snap Send Solve.”

Details on upcoming sessions can be found on the Connecting Mackay website.

No RSVP is required for general attendance, however bookings for one-on-one sessions need to be made through Eventbrite.

The Mayor, councillors and senior staff are hitting the road to chat to residents in some of Mackay's smaller communities. Photo supplied

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Mackay’s senior community is invited to come together this Tuesday, October 14, for the annual Seniors Expo, running from 9am to 12pm at The Big Shed, Mackay Showgrounds (25 Milton Street).

Now a much-loved fixture on the local calendar, the expo brings together more than 80 exhibitors and around 2000 visitors each year, creating a welcoming space where older residents, their carers, and families can explore services, programs, and activities that support healthy, active, and connected living.

The event is a key part of the Queensland Government’s Seniors Month celebrations, which aim to promote positive attitudes towards ageing, highlight the valuable role seniors play in the community, and encourage participation across generations.

Council’s Community Programs team said the expo continues to grow each year, offering something for everyone — whether it’s discovering a new activity, connecting with support services, or simply catching up with friends.

Free Bus Services Available

To make the event as accessible as possible, free bus services will operate from Sarina and Mirani, helping residents travel safely to and from the venue.

Sarina service:

50-seater coach
Pick-up: Broad Street Sarina bus stop (outside old post office) at 8.45am
Arrival: Mackay Showgrounds approximately 9.30am
Return: departs 12pm, arriving back in Sarina around 12.45pm

Mirani service:

27-seater midi bus
Pick-up: Mirani Central bus stop (outside park gazebos on Alexander Street) at 8.45am
Arrival: Mackay Showgrounds approximately 9.30am
Return: departs 12pm, arriving back in Mirani around 12.45pm
Seats can be booked by phoning the Community Programs team on 4961 9536.

A Showcase Of Local Support

This year’s expo will feature a wide range of exhibitors offering information and advice on everything from health and wellbeing to hobbies, home services, legal assistance, and social groups.

Stallholders include:

• Mackay VIEW Club
• Pioneer Nursing Services
• Mackay Regional Council Libraries
• Untapped Exercise Physiology
• TPF Care Service
• Mackay Hearing
• Nurse Next Door Mackay
• City Funerals
• Gallivanter Travel
• Wellways Carers Gateway
• Mackay Discount Drug Store
• Mackay Combined Probus Club Inc
• Life Without Barriers
• Mackay & District Senior Citizens' Association, Inc.
• Arden Maintenance Services
• Wellways - Universal Aftercare
• Move It Chiropractic
• The Neighbourhood Hub Mackay
• Mackay Regional Community Legal Centre Inc.
• MACKAY LOCAL AMBULANCE COMMITTEE
• Niagara Medical Therapy
• Integrate Health
• Right at Home Mackay
• U3A MACKAY INC
• Driving Miss Daisy Mackay North
• United Chemist Andergrove
• Whitsunday Funerals Mackay
• Mackay Fibre Arts
• Mackay City Ladies Bowling Club Inc.
• CPAP Direct
• Mackay Hospital and Health Services - CHATS
• Ergon Energy Retail
• Mackay District Home Care
• Telstra Regional Australia
• Office of Fair Trading
• Michelle Landry MP & Andrew Willcox MP
• MACKAY MUSICAL COMEDY PLAYERS INC
• selectability
• Sew Create Donate Mackay Inc
• Department of Families, Seniors, Disability Services and Child Safety
• Smoke Alarms Mackay
• Relationships Australia Queensland
• YAMADI AGED AND COMMUNITY CARE
• ADA AUSTRALIA
• Footprints Community
• CatholicCare CQ
• LifeInMotion Exercise Physiology Clinic
• Feros Care
• Acorn Stairlfits
• MHHS - Nurse Navigators
• Queensland Public Trustee
• Meals on Wheels Mackay
• Comlink Australia
• Good Shepherd Lodge Ltd

Residents are encouraged to follow the “Mackay Seniors Expo 2025” event on Facebook to see updates and highlights from past years.

With free entry, easy transport, and a wealth of local knowledge on display, the Mackay Seniors Expo offers the perfect opportunity to connect, learn and celebrate ageing well in our community.

Mackay’s senior community is set to gather this Thursday at The Big Shed, Mackay Showgrounds, for the annual Seniors Expo - a  free event featuring over 80 exhibitors, transport services, and opportunities to connect and celebrate healthy, active ageing. Photo source: Mackay Regional Council

At The 2025 Mackay Family Carnival!
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The Mackay Showgrounds came alive last weekend as families flocked to enjoy the 2025 Mackay Family Carnival — a vibrant celebration of rides, lights, and laughter that ran from September 24 to October 5. Over twelve days, the Showgrounds transformed into a wonderland of colour and excitement, offering everything from thrilling rides and classic showbags to sizzling food stalls and crowd-favourite Pluto Pups.

Visitors of all ages immersed themselves in themed nights, including the lively Country and Western Night, a playful Dress-Up Party, and the adventurous Scavenger Hunt Sunday. Parents and children alike enjoyed the chance to test their skills at sideshow alley, take a spin on adrenaline-pumping rides, or simply soak up the bright carnival atmosphere under the glowing lights.

With free entry and daily specials adding to the fun, the Mackay Family Carnival proved a standout of the school holidays.

The Mackay Family Carnival lit up the Showgrounds last weekend, with families enjoying rides, games, themed nights, and a vibrant school holiday atmosphere. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

Hugh Reilly Through The Decades

1945 — Hugh Reilly returns from World War II and, together with Joe Griffin, begins his real estate career in Mackay. Shortly after, he and his wife, Anne Graham Reilly, officially establish Hugh Reilly Proprietary Limited. George Gibbs joins as an executive and shareholder, helping shape the agency’s early direction.

1971 — Hugh Reilly tragically passes away from a heart attack. His son, Steve Reilly, aged 22, steps into leadership alongside George Gibbs.

1970s–1980s — Edward Sydney Cowan, and Frank Comben (valuer) Join as partners and the partnership becomes Hugh Reilly Real Estate.
The agency grows under these partnerships. Frank Comben and later his son Barry who joins as a salesperson play key roles in guiding the business. George Gibbs’ family involvement continues along with his son, Chris Gibbs.

1986 — The agency relocates to the corner of Wood and Gordon Streets, a site it still occupies today, cementing its status as a Mackay landmark and a stable, locally owned institution.

1990s — The firm briefly experiments with a franchise identity (trading as Richardson & Wrench for a short period) before returning to the independent Hugh Reilly Real Estate name, responding to strong local recognition for the original brand.

1996 – Frank Comben retires and Barry Comben and Chris Gibbs enter the Partnership with Syd Cowan.

2007 — After more than two decades on staff, Josey Comerford rises through reception and property management to be offered a partnership stake when Syd Cowan retired, along with Barry Comben; she stepped into principal responsibilities whilst heading up the Property Management department.

2010s–2020s — Hugh Reilly Real Estate evolves its services to include modern digital marketing, commercial sales & leasing, project marketing and continued award-winning property management while remaining a locally owned, independent agency.

2022 — Barry Comben retires and Wendy Chatto buys into the business along with Josey Comerford. Wendy becomes a partner and Senior Property Manager, reinforcing the next generation of leadership in property management. Josey becomes the Managing Director.

Today (2025) — After 80 years, Hugh Reilly Real Estate remains a local, independent agency built on reputation, community service and continuity – a business that has adapted through technological shifts, natural disasters and changing markets while retaining its founding values of integrity.

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The History Of Hugh Reilly Real Estate

In 1945, a young Air Force bomber named Hugh Reilly returned from World War II determined to build something meaningful. With a vision for service, honesty, and community, he opened a real estate agency in Mackay – one that would grow to become one of the region’s longest-standing businesses.

From its earliest days, Hugh Reilly Real Estate stood apart for its integrity. So trusted was its name that when the United States Forces relinquished Post Office Box 1 in 1945, it was handed to the agency as a symbolic gesture marking its prominence in the heart of Mackay.

Through the 1950s and 60s, the office became a hive of activity. Locals still recall the weekend auctions held at its Victoria Street premises, bustling community events where everything from chooks to furniture went under the hammer. Real estate was personal then, and Hugh Reilly’s team built their reputation one handshake at a time.

In 1986, the agency moved to the corner of Wood and Gordon Streets, a site it still calls home. With only two office moves in 80 years, Hugh Reilly Real Estate has remained a steady landmark amid Mackay’s ever-changing skyline.

Over the decades, the business has weathered challenges that tested even the strongest of operators, from economic ups and downs to natural disasters. In 2008, when floods swept through the city, the office was inundated. Staff worked tirelessly to save files, equipment, and client records, embodying the same grit and commitment that has defined the agency since day one.

While technology has transformed the industry, from typewriters and carbon paper to smartphones and digital platforms, the agency’s ethos has never changed. It remains fiercely independent, having briefly trialled a franchise model in the 1990s before proudly reclaiming its original name.

“People trust Hugh Reilly because it’s local,” says Managing Director Josey Comerford.

“We’ve been here 80 years, and we’re here to stay.”

Today, the business is a full-service agency specialising in residential, commercial, and property management. But beyond property, its true legacy lies in the people it’s served with generations of families who bought, sold, and rented their first homes through Hugh Reilly.

This October, the agency will celebrate 80 years of service, inviting past staff to reunite and share stories from across the decades. The community is also encouraged to join in by sharing their own experiences online, ensuring every memory becomes part of this living history.

From wartime beginnings to a modern, family-driven enterprise, Hugh Reilly Real Estate remains built on integrity and guided by the values instilled by its founder, Hugh Reilly.

Here’s to 80 years of Hugh Reilly Real Estate!

Tom Andrews, Sales Consultant

Tom Andrews calls it as he sees it, and it’s that honesty that keeps clients returning. Born in Townsville and raised in Cardwell, Tom returned to Mackay in 1993 and has spent over three decades navigating the local property market, earning a reputation built on trust, honesty, and results.

Before stepping into real estate, Tom’s career was quite the journey. From marine engineering on ships and submarines to law enforcement, and setting up retirement living sales offices across Queensland, he learned firsthand how to read people, assess situations, and make decisions under pressure, which he now applies to every property transaction.

Joining Hugh Reilly Real Estate in August 2020, Tom focuses on residential and acreage sales, market analysis, and building solid, lasting relationships. He knows reputation is everything in a firm with 80 years of standing, and he works hard to earn his clients’ trust every step of the way.

Known for his dedication, loyalty, and straight-shooting approach, he also keeps the office light with his dry humour and playful banter.

Outside work, Tom enjoys fishing and embracing the North Queensland lifestyle.

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Josey Comerford, Partner And Managing Director

Born and raised in Mackay to a local cane farming family, Josey Comerford knows this region like the back of her hand. Her father was born here, and her Maltese heritage traces back through generations who helped shape Mackay’s close-knit community.

She began her career at Hugh Reilly Real Estate at just 20 years old after a few early jobs in law and medical offices. When an employment agency placed her at Hugh Reilly Real Estate, it turned out to be the perfect match.

“I think they did really well out of that one — and 37 years later, I’m still here,” she laughs.

Starting in reception, Josey climbed the ranks with heart and determination. Starting out as Receptionist, working up to senior property manager then to business partner and now Managing Director, her journey has been marked by loyalty and resilience.

Her first year as a principal commencing June 2007 wasn’t necessarily an easy one. After being allocated her daughter and travelling overseas to adopt Zuzana and then returning home in late Jan 2008 what was meant to be a time to bond with her daughter, did not happen as Mackay was hit by one of the region’s major floods.

“It was absolute chaos — the office went under, computers were soaked, and we were drying equipment with a hairdryer and then handling 60 plus insurance claims,” she recalls.

“And that was my introduction to business ownership.”

Today, Josey leads the agency’s sales and commercial division, bringing decades of insight and a people-first approach.

“I just really enjoy helping people. Just recently, a woman burst into tears because we found her a home when she’d almost given up… and that’s what makes it all worth it.”

Josey has witnessed real estate evolve from carbon paper and typewriters to digital marketing and social media.

“We started with two-way radios and paper receipts — now everything’s online. But one thing that hasn’t changed is our reputation for honesty.”

Her leadership is anchored in values passed down from the late Hugh Reilly himself of integrity, community, and care.

“Our name means everything. We’re proud to be a local, independent agency — that’s what people trust.”

Outside of work, Josey enjoys gardening, family time, and long walks with her cheeky bullmastiff, Kenny. She’s also active in the community, having served over a decade on the Mackay Regional Housing Board and contributing to Zonta, a women’s advocacy group.

As Hugh Reilly Real Estate celebrates 80 years, Josey reflects with a great sense of pride.

“We’ve survived floods, market changes, and everything in between, because at our core, we care about the people. I believe that’s what’s kept us standing.

“It’s a major achievement to be able to celebrate 80 years… and I’m sure there’ll be plenty more to come.”

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Tanya Taylor, Leasing Manager And Trust Account Administrator

Tanya Taylor’s career with Hugh Reilly Real Estate began in 1991, straight out of high school, with a six-month TAFE course under her belt and a receptionist role that would become the start of a lifelong journey. What began as a job she needed, turned into a three-decade career, during which Tanya has worn many hats – such as Sales Admin, Leasing Co-ordinator, Trust Account Administrator and Office Manager – and is now recognised as the backbone of the business.

For Tanya, it’s the people who have kept her loyal.

“I love who I work with… they’re all family to me,” she says.

The family-friendly culture at Hugh Reilly allowed her to raise her own children while staying active in the business; her kids even spent time in the office growing up, with both working briefly for the agency themselves.

Tanya has been part of Hugh Reilly Real Estate through decades of milestones, from the 50th and 60th celebrations, to the 70th, and now the 80th. She’s cherished personal memories alongside professional ones, from supporting colleagues through motherhood to sharing joyful office moments.

Outside of work, Tanya embraces life with the same dedication and calm she brings to the office. She enjoys hockey, camping, and spending time with her family. Friendly, dependable, and endlessly helpful, Tanya is a cornerstone of Hugh Reilly Real Estate.

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Cr Peter Sheedy

Mackay Regional councillors warmly welcome our new CEO.

Gerard Carylon returned to Mackay Regional Council late last month, taking on the position of CEO. During a meeting with councillors, he was very candid about his desire to improve the relationship between the elected body of councillors and council staff, with a focus on delivering the objectives in our Corporate Plan. This includes allocating funding for each year of the plan. Mr Carlyon also outlined how he’d like to interact with the elected councillors and the vision he has for the next six months.

I believe all councillors were positively impressed by the new CEO's approach and look forward to a positive difference for Mackay under his leadership. I for one had the opportunity for a one-on-one meeting with the new CEO at the end of his first week on the job after having shared his company at the Council Connect – Let’s Chat session in the Pioneer Valley last Wednesday. We visited several sites of significance from Walkerston, Marian, Mirani, Dows Creek, Finch Hatton and Eungella, meeting with people to take in feedback on council work and projects as well as answering questions along the way.

Drainage maintenance prior to the wet season an important step in being Disaster Read

The urban footprint of Mackay is essentially spread over a largely flat flood plain, which has had several brushes with major floods. Significant investments have been made over the years to protect public and private assets and our community. It’s been good to see drain maintenance works being carried out in some of the key residential, commercial and industrial areas of Mackay. I look forward to seeing this work continuing to give our drainage outlets the best flow capacity to cope with the rainfall events we know and have experienced as recently as earlier this year.

Let’s Chat – Council Connect

There are several upcoming sessions across the region, including Seaforth, Mirani and Bloomsbury. To find out more details and book an informal one-on-one chat with a council representative, please search ‘Let’s Chat – Council Connect’ in your preferred search engine.

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Experience what coastal living is all about at Tunes in the Dunes — the final event for 2025!

This FREE event is perfect for families, friends, and individuals wanting to relax and reconnect. Live music, gorgeous ocean views, and picnics under a canopy of fairy lights create an enchanting outdoor atmosphere, not to be missed!

Join us oceanside on Saturday, 18th October at Dunes Harbour Beach. Pack your favourite snacks, drinks, picnic rug, and settle in from 4pm to 7pm for a laid-back afternoon in good company.

Local singer-songwriter, Hannah Roberts, will entertain the crowd with a range of acoustic songs we all know and love. Her beautiful voice and guitar skills will have the little ones up and dancing, a perfect snapshot of this wholesome afternoon.

Tunes in the Dunes brings people together in the best way possible - through shared joy.

Come along and discover the Dunes for yourself and the growing community that makes this area so special.

Proudly supported by Urbex, this event reflects their commitment to building welcoming, connected neighbourhoods.

Spots are limited, so head to www.dunesharbourbeach.com.au to reserve yours today!

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By Joseph Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay

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For decades, irrigation was a critical tool for farmers striving to boost yields and weather the region’s subtropical climate. Mackay enjoys a relatively high annual rainfall; however, the timing and distribution of rain can be unpredictable. Extended dry spells or inconsistent rainfall can stress crops, reducing yields and affecting sugar content.

Recent years have seen a noticeable decline in the use of irrigation on sugarcane land throughout Mackay. This shift is the result of a complex interplay between economic pressures, low industry confidence, and environmental considerations. The cost of water has risen steadily, however, electricity prices which are closely linked to the operation of irrigation pumps, have soared over the last decade. The primary reason for this increase is increased government regulation and profit-taking, including the national spot price from the Australian Energy Regulator.

To help counter this, growers have heavily invested in modern low pressure irrigation systems, such as centre pivots, lateral move irrigators and drip lines as well as solar power. Precision agriculture technologies are also making a difference by helping growers make informed decisions about when and how much to irrigate. By targeting water use more efficiently, farmers can try to maintain yields while reducing overall water consumption by maintaining optimal soil moisture levels, promoting steady cane growth and maximising the photosynthesis process, which is vital for increased yield.

Research indicates that irrigated cane can produce up to 30–40% higher yields compared to rain-fed crops. This uplift is significant, translating to millions of extra dollars for the local economy each harvest season. Furthermore, irrigation helps ensure uniform crop maturity. This consistency is crucial for efficient harvesting and milling operations, growers can also better manage fertiliser application, weed control and pest management, all of which contribute to healthier stands and higher sugar recoveries. While the benefits of irrigation are clear, they do not come without challenges.

To protect the Great Barrier Reef lagoon, which lies just offshore, many Mackay cane growers have adopted best management practices, such as scheduling irrigation based on soil moisture monitoring, using low-pressure irrigation systems to reduce evaporation and electricity use, soil moisture sensors, automated irrigation technology, weather forecasting apps, satellite imagery, and establishing vegetative buffer strips to filter runoff before it reaches creeks and rivers.

The prosperity of Mackay’s sugar industry is closely tied to the region’s broader economic and social health. Green paddocks of cane run from the foot of the ranges to the coast, and this region has one of the largest cane footprints in Queensland, that green abundance a testament to the crop’s importance in the regional economy, supporting thousands of jobs and forming the backbone of the area’s agricultural identity.

Irrigation not only boosts farm incomes but supports a network of contractors, mill workers, transport operators, and businesses reliant on the cane supply chain. In dry years, access to irrigation can mean the difference between financial viability and hardship for many families.
At the same time, water and electricity policy requires ongoing negotiation and cooperation between irrigators, Sunwater, Electricity suppliers and government agencies.

For many in the Mackay community, sugarcane is more than just a crop—it’s a way of life. As the industry evolves, growers, millers, policymakers and the wider community will need to work together to ensure that the region remains both productive and sustainable. The days of water running freely through cane fields may be fading, but that is being replaced by water and energy efficient approaches: the spirit of adaptation and resilience that defines Mackay’s farmers is as strong as ever.

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The Government has launched the Empowering Queensland Women (EQW) program, a new grants initiative designed to strengthen women’s economic security and create lasting opportunities across the state.

The program will be delivered across two rounds, with a total of $540,000 in funding available. Round one offers $270,000 in grants, with eligible organisations able to apply for up to $10,000 each. Funding will support projects that focus on financial literacy, training programs, leadership development, networking, and community events aimed at empowering women and girls.

To be eligible, applicants must be an incorporated not-for-profit organisation, an incorporated association, an Indigenous corporation, a Queensland university, or a Queensland local government authority.

Minister for Women and Queensland’s first-ever Minister for Women’s Economic Security, Fiona Simpson, said the grants program was a vital step in helping women break down barriers to participation.

“The Empowering Queensland Women Grants Program focuses on empowering women and girls across Queensland to achieve their full potential by supporting organisations making a real difference in the community,” Minister Simpson said.

“Women in Queensland face unique challenges, particularly in rural and remote areas, and this funding is an opportunity to support crucial initiatives which can help to address these challenges and provide lasting benefits for women and their families.

"The Crisafulli Government is delivering equality and security for women across Queensland back on track after Labor’s decade of decline, with better economic outcomes and real financial security for women and girls.”

National Council of Women of Queensland President Sandy Smith welcomed the initiative, saying it will play a key role in advancing opportunities for women and girls.

"By supporting projects that improve financial literacy, leadership skills and economic security, this program helps to address the systemic barriers that many women and girls face,” Ms Smith said.

“Empowering women strengthens families, builds resilient communities, and drives positive change for all Queenslanders. We strongly encourage organisations to apply and make a lasting impact."

Applications for Round One close on 30 October 2025. Further details, including eligibility criteria and application forms, can be found via the Queensland Office for Women website: https://qldofficeforwomen.smartygrants.com.au/EQW2025

The Queensland Police Service (QPS) is urging all road users to take extra care as October marks the start of Motorcycle Awareness Month.

In just 24 hours alone, two motorcyclists in Queensland tragically lost their lives in separate crashes, bringing the total number of motorcycle fatalities in the state to 46, this year. Riders remain among the most vulnerable road users, with even minor mistakes by others often resulting in life-changing injuries or death.

Inspector Gareth Bosley, of QPS’s Road Policing and Regional Support Command, said the campaign was a timely reminder of the importance of awareness and respect on the road.

“Motorcyclists are not protected by the safety features that many drivers take for granted. A moment of inattention at an intersection or while changing lanes can have devastating consequences for a rider and their loved ones,” Inspector Bosley said.

“Road safety is about mutual respect. Riders, drivers, cyclists and pedestrians all want to get home safely. We encourage motorcyclists to wear the right protective gear, ride to conditions, obey the road rules and stay visible. At the same time, we ask drivers to actively check their blind spots, allow space when passing and be patient.”

QPS officers will continue working with riders across the state throughout October to promote safe practices and highlight the dangers of the ‘Fatal Five’ behaviours: speeding, drink and drug driving, not wearing seatbelts, fatigue and distraction.

“Every life lost or changed forever on our roads affects families, friends and communities.

Motorcycle Awareness Month is a chance for us all to reflect on how we can play a role in making our roads safer,” Inspector Bosley said.

“Look twice for motorcycles. A few extra seconds can save a life.”

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Cyclones, bushfires and floods can hit with little warning, which is why Mackay Regional Council is urging residents to take steps to be prepared.

This year’s Disaster Ready Saturday has doubled in size, with a new event being introduced in Sarina alongside the long-running Mackay program.

The Mackay event will run on Saturday, the 11th of October, from 9am to 1pm at Caneland Central, outside Peter Alexander. A week later, Sarina residents will have their turn when the event comes to Sarina Beach Shopping Centre, outside IGA, on Saturday, the 18th of October, also from 9am to 1pm.

Both events will feature a wide range of emergency services and community organisations, free emergency information bags, and the chance to enter the draw to win a Honda generator valued at more than $2300, thanks to Mackay Outdoor Power Centre.

Chair of the Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG), Mayor Greg Williamson, said he was pleased to see the initiative expand into Sarina.

“These events are all about giving residents the opportunity to speak directly with council’s Emergency Management Team and members of the LDMG, gather vital preparedness tips and learn how to protect their families and homes,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Over the last decade, Mackay has faced multiple natural disasters – from Cyclone Debbie in 2017 to severe flooding and bushfires in more recent years.

“These events remind us that being prepared isn’t optional – it’s essential.

“That means knowing when to go, where to go, what to take and how to stay informed.

“Disaster Ready Saturday is a great opportunity to get informed, learn how to pack an emergency kit and take those first steps towards preparedness.”

The Mackay event will host representatives from Maritime Safety Queensland, State Emergency Service, Queensland Fire Department, Queensland Ambulance Service, Queensland Police Service, Sunwater, Australian Red Cross, Ergon Energy, NBN Co, as well as council’s Emergency Management and Flood Modelling Teams.

Meanwhile, the Sarina event will include the State Emergency Service, Queensland Fire Department, Queensland Police Service, Queensland Ambulance Service, Ergon Energy, Rural Fire Service and council’s Emergency Management Team.

For more information about preparing for emergencies, residents can visit council’s Emergency Dashboard at disaster.mackay.qld.gov.au.

What: Disaster Ready Saturday
When: 11th of October, 9am to 1pm
Where: Caneland Central

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Both events are free and will have a host of disaster management organisations in attendance as well as Jay and Dave from Triple M broadcasting live. Photo supplied

Producers and agribusinesses across the Greater Whitsunday region are being offered the chance to upskill in some of agriculture’s most exciting technologies, with 35 fully funded training places now available through TAFE Queensland.

The initiative, known as the Greater Whitsunday AgTech Ready - Skills Sponsorship Program, is supported by the Greater Whitsunday Regional Jobs Committee in collaboration with the Greater Whitsunday AgTech Hub. The program has been designed to equip local producers with practical skills in smart technologies that are rapidly changing the way the industry works.

The short, self-paced online courses are free to participants and cover a wide range of future-focused skills, including drone operation, SCADA systems, autonomous equipment, precision farming, geospatial technologies, and the use of sensors and monitoring devices.

Participants will also gain access to the Greater Whitsunday AgTech Hub, with a dedicated private channel for program support, peer-to-peer discussion, and a final interactive session to connect newly learned skills with real-world opportunities in agriculture and aquaculture.

Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) Chief Executive Officer Kylie Porter said the program was about far more than training alone.

“This is a unique opportunity for our producers to gain new skills without financial risk, but the real value lies in what comes next,” Ms Porter said.

She explained that the micro-credentials will be embedded into a Community of Practice, providing ongoing opportunities for collaboration and growth.

“We are embedding these micro-credentials into an AgTech Community of Practice, where producers can continue to share knowledge, stories, skills, and connections,” she said.

At the centre of this network will be AgTech Activators—local champions drawn from the farming and agribusiness community who will help lead the charge.

“The AgTech Activators are growers and agribusiness professionals who understand the realities of farming in our region and are passionate about bridging the gap between technology and farm reality,” Ms Porter said.

She added that the long-term aim was to create both resilience and leadership within the sector.

“This is about building confidence, capability, and connections in agtech. It’s also about positioning our region as leaders in how we adopt and adapt technology to local conditions. We’re proud to be taking this next step in strengthening our agricultural ecosystem,” Ms Porter said.

The program will run from September through to November 2025, with expressions of interest open until the 5th of October. Places are strictly limited and will be allocated on a first-in, best-dressed basis.

Producers and agribusiness professionals are encouraged to seize the opportunity to apply for the Greater Whitsunday AgTech Ready – Skills Sponsorship Program and be part of shaping the region’s future in smart farming.