Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
OPINION PIECE from the office of Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox There is no question that immigration into Australia is out of control. The government’s numbers are too high, and standards are too low. A sustainable migration program must consider our capacity to provide housing, healthcare, infrastructure and the essential services everyone relies on, and Australians must come first. But Labor’s decision to target Working Holiday Makers Visa holders is not the answer. These people filling vital gaps in our workforce are not the cause of Australia’s housing crisis. In many cases, they are living in accommodation provided by the very businesses that employ them. The National Farmers’ Federation has made the point that Working Holiday Makers generally stay in hostels, caravan parks or purpose-built on-farm accommodation. Resorts usually have on-site staff quarters. They are not the source of Australia’s housing shortage. So why is Labor making it harder for them to come here, when these workers fill genuine jobs that regional Australia holds? Working Holiday Makers fill approximately one in seven farm jobs nationally and are particularly important during peak agricultural periods, which for Dawson, it is right now! Farmers rely on these workers to plant, pick, pack and harvest the produce that ends up on Australian supermarket shelves. Having run one of Australia’s largest tomato farms, at times Working Holiday Makers made up more than 50 per cent of my workforce. Without them, much of our crop simply would not have been picked in time and rotted in the paddock. Some may say, why not employ the Australians who don’t have a job and are on “the dole”? Can I say, this does not work. Most farmers will employ Aussies over travelling backpackers, but many either don’t want to do the work or don’t turn up after the first day. Who picks the fruit or veggies then? Farmers are already warning that visa delays are leaving them without workers. The NFF says approvals that once took days are now facing processing times of up to three months, and this time frame can be the difference between harvesting a crop or losing it. That should concern every Australian already feeling the pressure at the supermarket checkout. The same problem is playing out in tourism. Across Dawson, Working Holiday Makers are an important part of the workforce supporting tourism and hospitality, particularly in the Whitsundays. They help fill shifts, work in hotels and restaurants, support tour operators and keep businesses running through their busiest periods. They also contribute to the local economy. They spend money on food, fuel, attractions and tours, supporting the small businesses that depend on a strong visitor economy. That is why tourism and business leaders across North Queensland are raising the alarm. They understand what happens when a regional business cannot get enough staff: opening hours are reduced, and services are cut, creating a downward spiral. We do need to reduce migration to sustainable levels. We need stronger integrity measures, and we need to crack down on rorts. But responsible migration policy means understanding which parts of the system are creating pressure and which parts are helping Australia function. Working Holiday Makers are not the problem. They are part of the workforce solution for regional. Australia. People have had a gutful of watching their standard of living go backwards. Groceries, fuel, housing and everyday expenses are already putting enormous pressure on families. The last thing Australians need is another reckless policy that makes it harder to produce food, harder to run regional businesses and harder for tourism operators to find the workers they need.
Read the full storySomeone sold a house in Sydney last week for $9 million less than they bought it for four or five years ago. The sellers had bought the property in Sydney’s eastern suburbs for $29 million and sold it for $20 million in a sale forced by their bank. I imagine the sellers are a little disappointed by the government’s decisions on negative gearing and capital gains tax and feeling pretty hurt by the increased interest rates. Australia’s interest rates are on the rise and are now sitting at levels not seen since 2011. Increased cost of living is hurting people around the country and interest rates are playing into that. But the impact of interest rates is not felt evenly around the country. The far-higher property prices mean people in the major cities suffer much more than regional areas with the rates increase. That is certainly not to say people in Mackay are unaffected by the cost of living; it’s just that the impact of interest rates increase on a $400,000 mortgage is much less than the impact on a $1m mortgage. There are other Mackay-specific factors that are in play when discussing the current housing market. The big factor is the role of coal in our economy. Most of the coal extracted and exported from our region is coking coal, which is used to make steel. The price of coking coal is around $280 a tonne, which is about 50 per cent up. Good activity in the coal market translates to good news for the Mackay economy, as it is an economic engine that other cities and regions just don’t have. Good activity in Bowen Basin flows throughout the Mackay economy; Paget workshops, transport, suppliers and related businesses all benefit. But so do other, non-mining-related businesses as they benefit from the general confidence and spending that goes on. The strong mining activity also means mines need to keep their staff levels up and that means more people moving to Mackay. Of course, Mackay is much more than a coal mining town but if the coal sector is going well those other areas definitely benefit. It is a confidence boost for Mackay people looking to get into the housing market and those wanting to upgrade or downsize. It also means continuing strong demand from people wanting to rent a property and it will be interesting to see what sort of activity that creates from investors. Investors have walked away from the big-city markets because they can no longer use negative gearing on established properties that do not have a sufficient yield to be positively geared. Negative gearing has never been a big thing in Mackay because our prices are lower and rental returns continue to be strong so many investors have a positively geared property. Around the country everyone is nervous about the state of play and the probability of more interest rate rises. But strong coal prices and an economy that is performing well mean Mackay might just be presenting an opportunity for buyers and sellers that doesn’t exist in other parts. I remember when national confidence was flying high and Mackay prices were going up significantly that many buyers were saying “I wish we had bought a while ago when the market wasn’t so hot”. I’m not armed with a crystal ball so I’m not here to tell you what is going to happen but I suspect there is a very good buying window right now for those looking for an opportunity.
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A local Mackay and Sarina based model has created a dress out of newspapers, including Mackay Life, for her upcoming pageant, representing her region and hometown on the runway as she vies for Miss Diamond International in Brisbane. Zoe Place will be competing this weekend in the three-day event, beginning this Friday 2nd October and ending on Sunday 4th October. The young model spent around a month creating her eco-fashion outfit, using old newspapers as the main material and transforming them into a bodice, skirt and flowers. Red elements were also incorporated into the design to give the dress a bold and glamorous pageant feel. Zoe said, “The entire concept was really about taking something that would normally be thrown away and turning it into something beautiful and meaningful.” Her eco-fashion creation will form part of a busy weekend in Brisbane, with the Miss Diamond International event including photo shoots, interviews, an eco-fashion show and the final pageant. Zoe has been preparing for the event by practising her strut and walking, preparing for interviews and getting comfortable in the different outfits she will wear throughout the weekend. Alongside her love of modelling, pageantry has also provided Zoe with a platform to raise awareness about causes close to her heart, including mental health, while fundraising for Beyond Blue. “Pageantry has given me more of a platform to combine my love for modelling with something that is really important to me.” “When I first started, I was more nervous about putting myself out there and worried about what others would think about me – but I’ve changed a lot through my journey in pageantry.” “Pageantry has also taught me that it’s not about how you look on stage. It’s about the person you are when you step off it.” “Every woman has their own unique journey and that journey is something we should all be really proud of.” “To me, it represents confidence, empowerment, kindness, and using your voice to make a difference.” Zoe said she was looking forward to meeting the other contestants, making new connections and creating memories. “I’m definitely looking forward to meeting all the new contestants and making new connections and creating memories that I will carry with me for a lifetime.” While Zoe hopes to eventually move to the city, her sights are set even further afield, with a dream of one day walking in New York Fashion Week. Mackay and Sarina local Zoe Place has created an eco-fashion dress from recycled newspapers, including Mackay Life, ahead of her Miss Diamond International pageant in Brisbane. Photos supplied
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Trends, reels and the endless cycle of always wanting more has quietly bombarded the minds of countless social media users of all ages, but one former Mackay local has made it her mission to help others understand the effects of social media and find practical ways to break free from online addiction. Alexis Zahner is in Mackay over the next week to teach upcoming generations about social media and the effects it can have on the mind, particularly on identity, self-discovery, as well as the marketing strategies that get viewers hooked and influence their decisions. It is something Alexis knows first-hand can be a useful tool, but also a great disruption to authenticity and the world as we see and experience it. Alexis will hold a free meet and greet and book launch today, Friday 2nd October, at 5.30pm at the Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club, where she will give a talk and answer questions relating to her debut book, Real: Reconnecting to Yourself in a World of Likes and Lies. A former Mackay girl, Alexis spent the past 15 years working across business psychology, marketing and media, with her interest in social media influence beginning during her university studies at James Cook University in Townsville. Her own experience as a social media user, travel blogger and influencer eventually led her to question how much of her identity, decisions and values were being shaped by what she saw online. “The tipping point came for me about 3 years ago when I had this feeling that I couldn't separate influence from my own personal decision making,” she said. “I couldn't separate my own likes, dislikes, values, relationships from what I was being exposed to and being influenced by online.” “I found that I needed to take some time away from social media to recalibrate what was important to me and sort of reconnect and come back to myself.” Alexis said she understood the feeling of questioning who you are outside of social media. “I know what it feels like to live a life under the influence of social media and have that existential crisis of thinking to yourself, who am I? What do I like? What's the kind of life I want to live? and struggling to separate myself from influence.” Alexis is particularly passionate about reaching teenagers, who she says are in an important stage of identity development, and will share this message with Mackay high school students during her upcoming school talks. “Teenagers are really easily influenced by social media. So it's a really important age where we start educating them – not just on the mental health repercussions of things like social media and how it shortens their attention span, but how it actually influences who they become.” “If you're asking yourself these questions, it's not your fault. Social media is actually geared to create this impact on you.” Alexis encourages people of all ages to “start expanding beyond what you see on the platform.” “Dare to indulge in the things that you've always been curious about or things you used to love,” she said. “Don't be afraid to put the phone down to let yourself be curious and have fun.” What: Alexis Zahner's 'Real' Book launch When: 5.30pm Friday 2nd October 2026 Where: Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club Former Mackay local and author Alexis Zahner is returning home to share her experiences with social media and her debut book, Real. Photo supplied
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The Australia Day 2026 Honours List proudly recognises the exceptional service, leadership and commitment to community that exists across the Dawson electorate. This year, Dawson is represented by one outstanding local honoured for distinguished service to the nation, while the Honours List also celebrates former Mackay local and Australian sporting icon Cathy Freeman for her extraordinary contribution to sport, reconciliation and national life.
Warrant Officer Class One Michael Killalea, OAM (Mil) – Medal of the Order of Australia (Military Division)
Warrant Officer Class One Michael Killalea of Annandale, Townsville, has been awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (Military Division) for meritorious performance of duty advancing and fostering the Distribution Specialisation trade. His dedication exemplifies the professionalism and steadfast commitment to excellence that are hallmarks of the Australian Defence Force.
The Honours List also recognises distinguished Australians from a broad array of endeavours, including economic leadership, community service, and sporting excellence.
One of the nation’s most revered sporting figures, former Mackay athletics champion and Olympic gold medallist Cathy Freeman AC, is among those honoured in this year’s Australia Day list. A proud Kuku Yalanji woman, Freeman has been appointed a Companion of the Order of Australia, recognising her service to athletics and the reconciliation movement, as well as her positive community impact and status as a role model to young people.
Freeman’s historic victory in the 400 metres at the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games is widely regarded as one of Australia’s most iconic sporting moments and a defining chapter in the nation’s Olympic history.
Freeman, born and raised in Mackay’s Slade Point, began her athletics journey racing on local tracks, including the recreation area now named in her honour, where she first demonstrated the talent and tenacity that would later captivate a nation.
More recently, the Cathy Freeman Sports Performance Centre, part of the Great Barrier Reef Arena’s multimillion-dollar Stage Two development, has been announced in Mackay as a state-of-the-art training hub designed to inspire and nurture future athletes. The facility carries her name as a lasting legacy to her achievements and her belief in empowering young people to pursue excellence in sport.
Andrew Willcox MP, Member for Dawson, said that Australia Day is a time to honour remarkable Australians whose service, courage and commitment strengthen our nation.
“To see Warrant Officer Class One Michael Killalea recognised for his meritorious military service reflects our deep respect for those who serve with distinction in the Australian Defence Force,” he said.
“Townsville, as one of our nation’s strongest garrison cities, has a proud military heritage and a long tradition of producing leaders who embody selfless service and operational excellence.
“And who could forget the inspirational legacy of Cathy Freeman?
“Her breathtaking 400 metres gold medal run at the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games united a nation and remains one of our greatest sporting moments of all time. Growing up in Slade Point, she raced on the old athletics ground that today honours her name, and that same spirit of determination is now reflected in the new sports performance centre at Mackay’s Great Barrier Reef Arena, a facility that will support aspiring athletes for generations.
“It was fantastic to catch up with Cathy last year when she visited the arena, reinforcing how sporting excellence and community pride go hand in hand here in regional Queensland.”
Mr Willcox added that these honourees reflect the best of our community, individuals who serve others, enrich our cultural and sporting landscape, and inspire us all to reach higher.
The Australia Day 2026 Honours List includes 949 Australians recognised across the Order of Australia (General and Military Divisions), meritorious awards, and distinguished defence service medals, representing an increase of more than 200 awards from last year’s list.
Contributed with thanks to the office of Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox
On Saturday 17th January, the Mackay Conservation Group conducted a post-cyclone rubbish clean-up at Harbour Beach, Mackay, following the impacts of recent severe weather.
Cyclones and storms are known to wash plastic and debris onto local beaches, posing a threat to marine life and coastal ecosystems. The clean-up brought community members together to remove rubbish that had accumulated after ex-Tropical Cyclone Yoji, with the group meeting at Mulherin Park before working along the shoreline.
Organisers described the event as an impressive community effort, with volunteers collecting a wide range of debris including plastic bottle tops, piping, foam and other discarded items, highlighting the scale of waste that can be deposited during storm events.
The group urged the community to take simple steps to help keep local beaches clean, including proper waste disposal and reducing plastic use.
Community members joined the Mackay Conservation Group on Saturday 17 January for a post-cyclone clean-up at Harbour Beach, removing storm-washed debris and highlighting the importance of protecting local coastal environments. Photo source: Mackay Conservation Group
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Mackay women are set to benefit from a series of workshops designed to improve financial literacy and security, thanks to inaugural grants from the Queensland Government’s Empowering Women initiative. Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton announced the grants last week, highlighting the impact these programs will have for women across the region.
“This is really exciting news. We’re blessed to have four recipients in Mackay,” Mr Dalton said.
One of the grants will fund a workshop run by the Older Women’s Network, focused on helping women navigate financial decisions and housing options.
Mr Dalton said, “The workshops allow women, particularly those in the later stages of life, to understand their financial responsibilities, accommodation options, and strategies for managing superannuation or downsizing their homes, especially if they live alone.”
Another grant targets women living with autism, ensuring support for those who face unique financial challenges.
A third workshop, hosted at a local neighbourhood hub on Evans Street, will address financial security more broadly for women in Mackay.
The fourth grant will go towards Broken to Brilliant, which will assist women who have experienced domestic and family violence, with programs extending across Mackay, Townsville, and the Whitsundays.
Combined, the four grants represent $40,000 of the $297,000 awarded state-wide, with 29 projects funded across Queensland.
“This is a fantastic proportion for Mackay, and these funds will really help our ladies in Mackay gain more financial security.” Mr Dalton said.
For Rosemary Paidley, State Treasurer of the Older Women’s Network Queensland, the grants are a vital step in supporting women navigating the challenges of later life.
“As women get older, circumstances change. Some don’t know how to manage their housing, finances, or superannuation, and others are forced to make difficult decisions about downsizing or living arrangements,” she said.
“Through these workshops, we aim to give them the knowledge and confidence to make the right choices.”
Helen Stanton, co-convener of the network, emphasised the importance of spreading information beyond the immediate groups.
“We bring speakers on topics that matter, and our members take that knowledge into other parts of the community. It’s about supporting women wherever they are,” she said.
Ms Paidley added that the workshops also provide support for women experiencing domestic violence.
“Many women find themselves in unsafe situations or at risk of homelessness. We can’t provide housing, but we can guide them to the right services and give them confidence to take the next steps.”
For the Older Women’s Network, the grant is the first of its kind, and its impact is expected to be long-lasting.
“This funding allows us to bring experts to Mackay, provide face-to-face guidance, and create a safe environment where women can learn and feel supported,” Ms Paidley said.
With the workshops now confirmed, organisers hope to reach as many women as possible, providing the tools and knowledge to improve financial security and independence across the region.
Mackay women will benefit from new Queensland Government–fundeding aimed at strengthening financial literacy, housing knowledge, and long-term security for women across the region.
Helen Stanton, co-convener of the network with Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton MP, and Rosemary Paidley, State Treasurer of the Older Women’s Network Queensland. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
A new cenotaph honouring every Australian Defence Force veteran who has served since 1975 is one step closer to reality in Mackay’s Jubilee Park. With pathways laid and partial funding secured, the project is progressing, however, more support is still needed to bring this long-awaited tribute to completion.
“This is a memorial for everybody who served. It’s not for a particular war or group – it includes everyone,” said Mackay RSL Sub-branch Vice President Mark Preston.
“Instead of three separate services, all will be recognised in one dedicated space.”
Stage 1 of the project is already taking shape, with pathways and the base of the monument in place. Mackay Regional Council generously contributed $40,000 to fund the pathways, allowing the project to move ahead smoothly.
The cenotaph will stand two metres square and two metres high, featuring the Australian Defence Force emblem alongside the Army, Navy, and Air Force logos. In a special personal touch, Mr Preston’s original boots from his first enlistment have been cast into the monument.
Secretary of Mackay RSL Sub-branch Georgia-Lee Ricketts said, “It’s so beautiful. The detail is incredible.”
“It honours all those deployed to the Middle East and elsewhere.
“It’s a recognition that hasn’t existed locally until now.”
A standout moment came when Mackay Harley-Davidson raffled a motorbike and donated more than $13,000 toward the cenotaph.
Ms Ricketts said, “We’re also very grateful that Mackay Harley-Davidson got involved with a donation, which was a wonderful boost for the project.”
Stage 2 of construction is scheduled to commence later this year, with the RSL Mackay Sub-branch aiming to create a lasting tribute that the community can take pride in.
RSL President Ken Higgins said, “It’s going to be fantastic. We can’t wait to see it completed.”
Community members wishing to support the project can contribute by emailing the Mackay RSL Sub-branch at info@mackay.rslqld.net.au. Every donation helps bring this inclusive tribute closer to completion and ensures all veterans who have served since 1975 are remembered and honoured right here in Mackay.
A new inclusive cenotaph honouring all Australian Defence Force veterans since 1975 is taking shape in Mackay’s Jubilee Park, with early works complete and further community support sought to see the tribute finished. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
On Sunday, 18th January a male patient in his 50s was transported to Mackay Hospital in a stable condition with minor injuries after emergency services responded to calls a vehicle had crashed into a pole on the corner of Sams Road and Malcomson Street at 7:46pm.
The Queensland Police Service's Forensic Crash Unit is investigating a fatal traffic crash at Blacks Beach on 16 January, after a pedestrian involved passed away on Tuesday, 20 January. Around 5pm, emergency services were called to Blacks Beach Road following reports a Toyota Hilux had collided with a 83-year-old female pedestrian. The driver of the Toyota, a 39-year-old Rural View man, remained on scene and assisted police with enquiries. The 83-year-old female pedestrian from Blacks Beach was transported to Mackay Base Hospital with life-threatening injuries, however, has since passed away. Investigations are ongoing.
Two people lost their lives as a result of a two-vehicle crash on the Peak Downs Highway, about 20 kilometers North of Nebo on Tuesday, 20 January. At approximately 10:10pm, a westbound Toyota Hilux collided head-on with an eastbound Mitsubishi Triton. The 49-year-old male driver and sole occupant of the Triton was declared deceased at the scene, as was the 39-year-old female driver and sole occupant of the Hilux. The Forensic Crash Unit is investigating the circumstances leading to the crash, and anyone who was travelling in the area around the time of the crash and may have information is urged to contact police and quote the reference number: QP2600128649.
On Thursday, 22nd January, paramedics transported one stable male patient in his 60s with minor injuries to Mackay Hospital following a single vehicle crash on Goldsmith Street, East Mackay, at 8:13pm.
The QPS Forensic Crash Unit is currently investigating multiple local incidents. Photo source: QPS
By Hannah McNamara
The Crisafulli Government and Mackay Regional Council are stepping up efforts to address antisocial behaviour in Mackay, while advocating for people sleeping rough and offering accommodation pathways for those camping in public areas including the riverfront, the CBD and Queens Park.
As part of the riverfront activation plan, police crews and council officers have been engaging with people sleeping rough, issuing notices to leave and offering accommodation and housing solutions. Both Mayor Greg Williamson and Mackay Regional Council CEO Gerard Carlyon have confirmed that “All services have confirmed they can accommodate everyone.”
Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said the Crisafulli Government was taking decisive action to improve safety and amenity across the region.
“After hearing from locals at our community forum, the Crisafulli Government has acted quickly with a stronger police presence and bolstered local services,” Mr Dalton said.
“Our top priority is ensuring those who live, work or visit Mackay are safe, while connecting vulnerable individuals to the help and services they need.
“We know there is much more to be done to make Mackay safer, and we will continue to work with residents and businesses to deliver the fresh start we promised.”
As part of the clean-up, abandoned material such as trolleys, tents, mattresses and debris has been removed by council crews. CEO Gerard Carlyon confirmed, “We are not taking people’s personal possessions.”
“Police are key partners in this operation,” he said.
“We work as part of a combined agency group that includes Housing, Health, alcohol and drug services, and mental health services. This has been a multi-month operation, beginning with outreach visits to everyone sleeping rough in the CBD and waterfront areas, where appropriate services were offered.
“We are now at the clean-up stage. There have been some very challenging incidents, including staff being scratched, rocks being thrown, and needle-stick injuries from discarded syringes.”
Mayor Greg Williamson said community safety had reached a critical point.
“The people who are still here now are here by choice. All services have confirmed they can accommodate everyone who has been living here," he said.
“The antisocial behaviour has made the public feel unsafe, and we cannot accept that any longer. This is about making our city safe again for people who want to use the public environment.
“Our workers have been spat at, had rocks thrown at them, and police have also been involved in those incidents. That is not the environment we want for our community, or for these people.”
People who choose to remain camping along the riverfront, in the CBD or in Queens Park will be issued with a 24-hour notice to leave and seek accommodation. If they do not move on, council and police will return to enforce compliance.
CEO Gerard Carlyon said, “If people choose to remain, council and police will return daily to ensure camping ceases in public spaces, including the waterfront, Queens Park and the CBD.”
“We are confident supports are in place. On a daily basis, there are vacancies that people are choosing not to use.
“Our goal is to reclaim public spaces for the public and activate these areas so families, children and the wider community can safely enjoy them.”
Mayor Greg Williamson reiterated that the focus remains on safety, support and restoring confidence in public spaces.
“This is not about criminalising homelessness. It is about saying enough is enough.”
Mayor Greg Williamson and appointed CEO of Mackay Regional Council Gerard Carlyon said the Crisafulli Government and Mackay Regional Council are enforcing public space rules to improve community safety while offering accommodation and support to people sleeping rough across Mackay’s riverfront, CBD and Queens Park. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Councillors are swapping the council chambers for taverns, bowls clubs, halls and hotels as they hit the regions in 2026 for the second round of council’s Let’s Chat – Council Connect sessions.
Following last year’s successful trial of the program, councillors have committed to monthly sessions in local areas starting at Eungella and Finch Hatton next Tuesday (February 3).
Councillors will be at the Eungella Chalet from 1pm to 2pm and then will be at the Cattle Creek Admin Building in Finch Hatton from 5pm to 6pm.
Future sessions will be held at regional communities including Midge Point, Sarina, Eton, Seaforth, Koumala, Mirani, Hay Point, Walkerston, Calen and Marian.
Mayor Greg Williamson said residents had been loud and clear in their feedback last year around engagement with their elected officials.
“Residents, especially in our regional areas, were telling us that they didn’t feel heard and appropriately represented by council,” Mayor Williamson said.
“They wanted to feel that councillors knew them personally, knew their issues and their local priorities and represented them when decisions were made,” he said.
“Let’s Chat – Council Connect is residents’ chance to connect directly with their councillors in a relaxed, informal setting in their local areas.
“These aren’t town hall meetings – rather they are informal chats that let councillors build local relationships and get a handle on regional priorities.”
Residents can simply come along, or if required book a 10-minute time slot to discuss a specific issue or idea with a senior council officer.
To book a 10-minute time slot, go to connectingmackay.com.au, click “Let’s Chat – Council Connect” and then go to “Book a Session” on the right-hand side of the page.
No RSVP is required for general attendance. Just drop in and have a chat.
Tea and coffee will be available.
A full timetable of Let’s Chat – Council Connect sessions for the year is available at connectingmackay.com.au
Should you have any questions or need help making a booking, please contact council's Community Engagement Team on 1300 MACKAY (622 529) or email engagement@mackay.qld.gov.au
Photos supplied
Pheobe is a four-year-old American Bulldog currently in care and ready to begin the next chapter of her life in a loving home.
When Pheobe first arrived, she was frightened and facing a challenging road after testing positive for heartworm. She immediately began treatment and has now completed the most difficult phase. Since then, she has gained healthy weight and continues to grow in confidence, showing more of her gentle and happy personality each day.
Pheobe is a people-loving dog who wants to be everyone’s friend. She walks beautifully on a lead and is just as content spending time indoors with her humans. She is known for greeting people at the door with her enthusiastic wiggle-bum and a big smile, complete with her distinctive front tooth.
She is looking for a slow, calm and loving home where big changes are handled with patience and care. As she continues to recover, Pheobe will need limited exercise, so movie nights in is something she is very comfortable with.
Pheobe is microchipped, desexed and up to date with her vaccinations.
Anyone interested in adopting Pheobe is encouraged to contact Lucy’s Lucky Tags and Dog Rescue to find out more. Donations to support Lucy’s Lucky Tags and Dog Rescue are also welcomed.
Bank details: Commonwealth Bank
Name: Lucys Lucky Tags and Dog Rescue Inc
BSB: 064-722
Account: 1069 7243
Photos supplied
Life in the Mackay region can be a balancing act. Between FIFO rosters, sugar industry demands, or busy professional and family lives, even the strongest marriages can feel strained.
Satellite Psychology, a specialist digital practice serving the region, offers the road map back to ‘Us’. While Clinical Psychologist Cassandra Burford provides quality individual therapy for adults, her passion is Gottman Method couples therapy—a renowned approach based on 40 years of research.
“The Mackay region is unique, but local couples report universal relationship struggles. They find themselves stuck in cycles of endless bickering, reeling from big hurts, or simply lacking closeness.”
“The Gottman Method is gold standard for a reason,” Cassandra explains.
“By studying ‘Master’ versus ‘Disaster’ couples, we know exactly what makes love last. My role is helping couples adjust the patterns that keep them stuck. Using the Sound Relationship House (pictured) as our blueprint, we’ll replace disaster habits with research-backed tools that improve relationship satisfaction.”
Satellite Psychology operates entirely online, a choice Cassandra says is perfect for regional Queenslanders.
“In a town like Mackay, privacy is paramount. Online sessions offer unmatched privacy and flexibility, making sure stretched and busy couples don’t go without support. It allows the work to happen where your relationship actually lives—at home.”
“Ultimately, it’s about more than just surviving each week—it’s building real connection and equipping you both with the tools to restore your relationship for more better days together.”
www.satellitepsychology.com.au
Clinical Psychologist Cassandra Burford, from Satellite Psychology
Residents across the Mackay region are being urged to take extra care during post-rain clean-up efforts, with authorities reminding the community to protect themselves against potentially deadly diseases following recent wet weather.
Four cases of melioidosis, a potentially fatal bacterial disease found in ground water and soil, have been confirmed in the region this week, including one in Bowen, one in Seaforth and two at Armstrong Beach south of Sarina.
The four patients, three males and one female, who range in age from 67 to 89 had been exposed to recent flood waters and mud. They are currently patients at Mackay Base Hospital.
Although these cases were not cause for alarm, Townsville and Mackay Public Health Unit physician Dr Steven Donohue said it served as a timely reminder that the elderly and those who have pre-existing medical conditions were at greater risk during the clean up after Cyclone Koji.
“Melioidosis is just one of many serious infectious diseases which are caused by contact with flood waters and soil,” he said.
“Bacteria can enter the body through any skin break in contact with contaminated water, or by breathing in muddy droplets, causing pneumonia,” he said.
“People at most risk of contracting melioidosis are already unwell, elderly, have existing chronic conditions such as diabetes and kidney disease, or are heavy alcohol users.
“Symptoms of melioidosis include fever, cough, chest pain, weight loss, muscle pain and headaches.”
Melioidosis was treated with intravenous antibiotics, and infections were more likely during the wet season when there was a higher chance of coming into contact with mud and flood water, he said.
Dr Donohue urged people to take simple precautions including avoiding contact with muddy water where possible, wearing protective clothing when working outdoors and covering cuts or sores with waterproof dressings when in contact with mud or floodwater.
“If you have come into contact with muddy water or soil and you feel unwell, then seek out medical help as quickly as possible,” he said.
“Early diagnosis and treatment with antibiotics can be life-saving.”
Symptoms of melioidosis can vary but often include fever, cough, chest pain, difficulty breathing, disorientation, headache, seizures, abdominal discomfort, skin abscesses or ulcerations, joint pain and swelling. The effects can be severe and often require hospitalisation.
To reduce your risk of melioidosis infection:
The Queensland Government has updated crocodile management zones in the Mackay region as part of its ongoing efforts to protect the community while conserving estuarine crocodiles.
The changes are part of the Queensland Crocodile Management Plan (QCMP), which guides how crocodiles are managed across the state based on risk. Estuarine crocodiles, or saltwater crocodiles, are a protected species but can pose significant dangers to humans, particularly in waterways near towns and popular recreational areas.
In the Mackay region, crocodile management focuses on removing problem crocodiles—those that are large, aggressive, or have developed a dangerous association with humans. In high-risk zones, such as rivers, creeks, and wetlands frequented by the public, crocodiles may be removed through traps, direct capture, or monitoring patrols.
The QCMP classifies areas into four zones: Active Removal, Targeted Crocodile Removal, General Management, and Reportable Removal. In Active Removal Zones, all crocodiles are targeted for removal, while in Targeted Removal Zones, large crocodiles and those displaying dangerous behaviour are prioritised.
The plan is supported by the long-running Be Crocwise public safety program, which educates residents and visitors about safe behaviour in crocodile habitats. Authorities emphasise that while removal reduces risk, no waterway can ever be considered completely crocodile-free.
Residents are encouraged to report sightings and remain vigilant near rivers, creeks, and wetlands. The Queensland Government also conducts annual consultations to ensure the management plan reflects the latest science and community feedback.
For more information on crocodile safety and reporting sightings, visit the Be Crocwise website.
Estuarine crocodiles are commonly spotted around the region. Photo credit: Linda K
Sugar Research Australia’s (SRA) breeding program is set to undergo a major transformation, with genomics poised to reshape how new sugarcane varieties are developed.
From next year, SRA General Manager Variety Development Dr Garry Rosewarne will be based at Meringa, leading the rollout of genomic selection within the breeding program. DNA, genomics and big data will become central tools, allowing researchers to assess quality and disease resistance much earlier in the breeding process.
“We will be recombining the existing genes from parents through crossing programs like we have always done but now we will be able to select our parents and their progeny much more efficiently and based on data collected from the best lines,” Dr Rosewarne said.
“Using genomic selection we will be able to check for quality and disease resistance right from the beginning so that everything coming through the pipeline will succeed at the end of the PATs, CATs and FATs in the field for traits such as tonnes of cane per hectare, CCS, fibre, and resistance to Pachymetra and smut.”
The change follows eight years of research, with 8,000 sugarcane clones already genotyped, including all parents in the Meringa crossing plot and FAT clones from the past decade. This data has been used to create “training populations” in the field to develop prediction equations linking DNA to performance.
“We genotype these lines and then we test them in the field for tonnes of cane per hectare, CCS scores, smut resistance, for fibre and for Pachymetra resistance,” Dr Rosewarne said.
“From this work we have a prediction equation which enables us to analyse brand new germplasm straight out of the honeymoon suite by taking a DNA sample from the baby leaves.”
Dr Rosewarne said the approach would allow earlier and more accurate selection of promising lines.
“The impact it has on a breeding program is a complete game changer,” he said.
By Joseph Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay
In the century of Queensland CANEGROWERS, the organisation has supported members weathering floods, droughts, cyclones.
One of the recent wins for growers, in the aftermath of the major floods in the Herbert and Burdekin last year, was successfully advocating to government and gaining the inclusion of plant cane losses in disaster recovery grants.
TC Koji certainly brought significant damage from flooding and erosion for many in the top parts of the Pioneer Valley, and other parts of the region like Koumala, Pindi Pindi and Calen copped some substantial falls. We have seen wash out damage to cane rail track and rural roads, and erosion on farms.
We are urging anyone that has sustained damage to complete the Queensland Department of Primary Industries’ disaster survey, to assist government in understanding where and how to direct any funding.
It has also been positive to see some dispensation to allow landholders affected by flooding to do any necessary clearing associated with clean up efforts. There is a fact sheet available to clarify that.
Monsoon activity is just part of life and farming in the tropics, but we can’t get complacent about the hazards that this can bring.
Swollen flooded creeks can present rapids and turbulence that look fun, but in reality, the creeks in flood are full of hidden snags, whether it’s the regular vegetation along the creek, fences, or flood debris like logs. Not great for swimming, and no-one wants to see a tragedy on our beautiful waterways running through the region.
Equally, people should be aware of the increased risk of risk of melioidosis, a serious tropical disease caused by bacteria found in wet soil, mud, and surface water. There’s plenty of people who like to walk about in the wet with no shoes on, but you really do need to have some sort of footwear.
I know growers who have walked through muddy flood waters and contracted it, and are sadly no longer with us because of it. It’s also worth acknowledging that at the time of writing, four cases had already been diagnosed in Mackay area from this rain event.
The floodwaters that have came with Cyclone Koji have receded, but you can bet we will have another pulse of the monsoon before the end of the wet.
On the whole, the rain, which properly began around Christmas has been welcomed by growers, and it has been good to see the sun break through and help the 2026 get a good kick-along, and that has been a real positive start to the Centenary Year for members of Canegrowers Mackay.
The sugarcane growing sector has weathered cyclones, droughts, market changes and technological revolutions and is a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of Queensland’s farming families.
We’re not just celebrating our past this year, we’re looking ahead to a sustainable and prosperous future, we are working on all those things that support our industry- including the resilience of our people and their farms to the challenges that come, whether social, economic or environmental.
From the rich soils of the upper Pioneer Valley to the state of the art, industry-best sugar terminal sheds at the Mackay Harbour, the centenary of Queensland Canegrowers stands as a proud reminder of the enduring spirit and unity that has defined the industry for a hundred years—and promises to carry it forward for many more to come: whatever the weather.
With you, whatever the weather. Sarina cane farmers in the 1920’s. Farmers were far more exposed to weather conditions when Queensland CANEGROWERS formed in January 1926. Photo source: Mackay Canegrowers archive.
Sugar Research Australia (SRA) has taken a major step forward in sugarcane research with the installation of a new DNA extraction robot at IRIS Laboratories, a move expected to significantly speed up the development of superior cane varieties.
The advanced equipment will dramatically increase the number of DNA extractions that can be completed each year for genotyping — the process used to identify specific sugarcane traits — allowing researchers to analyse far more plants in a much shorter timeframe.
The robot operates using a multi-channel pipette system, processing eight tubes with 96 wells simultaneously. Sugarcane leaves are macerated and centrifuged by the machine, streamlining what has traditionally been a highly labour-intensive task.
Variety Development Manager Dr Garry Rosewarne said the investment formed part of SRA’s expanding use of genomics within its breeding program and represented a major boost in efficiency.
“Done manually, somebody in the laboratory must grind up leaf tissues by hand using liquid nitrogen and then centrifuge the contents to separate them to extract and sequence the DNA. The total number of plants that can be analysed is around 1,000 in a fortnight,” Garry said.
“However, with a DNA extraction robot that figure can be increased to 10,000 completed in two to three weeks while the technicians can be employed in more strategic tasks.”
The genotypic data collected will be added to SRA’s growing database, which already includes information from 8,000 clones, encompassing all parent plants in the crossing plot at Meringa and FAT clones from the past decade.
“This ‘training population’ has been grown in the field to establish the strength of the traits in the field compared with the data we have collected in the laboratory,” Garry said.
“The result is the development of ‘prediction equations’ for each sugarcane trait which can then be used for analysing new seed that has just been crossed at Meringa.”
Key traits currently being prioritised include tonnes of cane per hectare, CCS, fibre content, and resistance to smut and Pachymetra. Looking ahead, the same technology could be used to identify additional traits such as disease resistance, plant height, tiller number and maturity.
As Garry put it, “The future just got closer!”
Local growers are encouraged to share which sugarcane traits matter most on their farms and what they would like to see developed next by writing in and having their say.
Sugarcane leaf samples, like these, are used for DNA testing to help identify and develop stronger, higher-yielding cane varieties. Photo credit: Bowonpat Sakaew
Dr Jenny Sun, Genomics Scientist in Variety Development at SRA’s IRIS Laboratories will work with the new robot. Photo source: SRA
By Michael James – Fitness Industry Professional, Facility Owner & Wellness Coach
Every fitness journey begins with a goal. For some, it’s rebuilding strength after an injury. For others, it’s improving energy, gaining confidence, or finding a healthier routine. At Fitness Cartel Mackay, our vision has always been to create an environment where every member — no matter their background or starting point — has the opportunity to pursue those goals in a supportive, world-class setting.
More than equipment
Yes, our facility is packed with high-end equipment and cutting-edge spaces. But what makes Fitness Cartel Mackay truly stand out isn’t just what’s inside the walls — it’s the culture we’re building around it. From the outset, we set out to create a place where ambition could thrive, where families would feel welcome, and where the community could connect through health and fitness.
A place for everyone
Walking into a new gym can sometimes feel intimidating, which is why this facility has been carefully designed with inclusivity in mind. With multiple training zones, group fitness studios, a Reformer Pilates studio, and our Comfort Zone, every member can find a space that feels right for them.
It doesn’t matter whether your goal is to lift heavier, move with greater freedom, tone and strengthen, or simply improve your overall wellbeing — the environment has been created to support progress at every level.
Recovery as part of the journey
Training hard is only half the story. Recovery, rejuvenation, and mental reset are equally important. Our Wellness Centre has been purpose-built for exactly that. Featuring a large, 30-person traditional hot-rock sauna and three contrast therapy pools with a combined capacity of over 70 people, along with compression systems and red-light therapy, it offers one of the most comprehensive recovery experiences available anywhere in the country. Whether your focus is performance, wellness, or balance, recovery has a central place here.
Looking ahead
The opening of Fitness Cartel Mackay marks the beginning of a new chapter for health, fitness, and community in our region. What excites me most is not just the facility itself, but the opportunities it creates for people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities to come together in pursuit of their own version of greatness.
For me personally, after decades in the industry and visiting some of the best clubs across the globe, seeing a facility of this calibre come to Mackay is incredibly rewarding. But the real reward will come as our community embraces this space, makes it their own, and uses it as a platform to grow stronger — physically, mentally, and socially.
Because at Fitness Cartel Mackay, the journey is only just beginning. And greatness is waiting for everyone who chooses to step inside.
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