Flood recovery efforts in Clermont and across the Isaac region have been reinforced this week, with federal representatives meeting local leaders and producers as support measures roll out for flood-impacted farmers.

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Julie Collins travelled to Queensland to inspect recovery efforts following the North Queensland Monsoon Trough and ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji. As part of her visit, she held a roundtable in Clermont with Isaac Regional Council, local property owners, grain producers, livestock operators and transport agencies to discuss the shift from immediate clean-up to long-term recovery.

Under joint Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, the Albanese and Crisafulli Governments have announced support including $21.5 million in Disaster Recovery Grants of up to $75,000, $11.3 million for a Primary Producer Support Package, $7 million for emergency fodder assistance, concessional loans of up to $250,000, and freight subsidies.

“Flooding like we’ve seen in North and Central Queensland has a terrible impact on farmers and primary producers, who are not only critical to regional economies, but to our food security,” Minister Collins said.

“North and Central Queensland, including in the Isaac Region, is home to some of the world’s most in-demand beef products, which is why it’s critical to support impacted farmers and producers to get back on their feet.

“Meeting with farmers, primary producers, and agricultural businesses in the Isaac Region was an important opportunity to see the clean-up efforts firsthand, and to reaffirm our Government’s commitment to supporting them at every stage of recovery.”

Isaac Regional Council Mayor Kelly Vea Vea welcomed the visit.

“We appreciate the Minister making the time to be in region to hear first hand from our community,” Mayor Vea Vea said.

“It’s important to hear directly how policies and legislation set in Canberra is working for people in their own backyard.”

Farmers can access further information through the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority and the Department of Primary Industries.

Charolais Beef Cattle Standing Calmly Their Stock Photo 2427618903 | Shutterstock

CAPTION: $21.5 million in Disaster Recovery Grants will be allocated to support local primary producers in North and Central Queensland. Photo source: Shutterstock

‍

Many of us are familiar with ‘Blest be the tie that binds’, a lovely hymn about sharing each other’s joys and woes. But these blessings can be a mixed bunch, hilariously so in Kucom Theatre’s newest offering, a season of one-act plays opening on 12^th March. In The Ties That Bind, a variety of relationships - family, friends, and marital connections – one by one, come under the microscope. And some of them are ever so slightly questionable …

For Whom the Southern Belle Tolls, by Christopher Durang, directed by Anzjuli Venter:

You don’t need to be familiar with The Glass Menagerie to enjoy this parody of what is arguably Tennessee William’s best-known play. Fading Southern belle Amanda (played by Kristyn Everett) is trying to prepare her mentally fragile, hypochondriacal son Lawrence (played by Kucom newcomer Toby Drage) for the arrival of a ‘feminine caller’ - but Lawrence is terrified of people and obsessed with his collection of glass cocktail stirrers. His younger brother Tom (Hayden White, also making his debut with Kucom) likes going to the movies where he repeatedly encounters sailors who need lodging (preferably in his room). And the ‘feminine caller’ Ginny (Richelle Hodson) turns out to be not quite what was expected. Amanda tries to face everything with ‘charm and vivacity,’ but sometimes she just wants to hit somebody.

Looking at the Alps, by Yvette Wall, directed by Maureen Coleman:

Trin and Sally, now in their 70s and both widowed, are best friends who have been sharing the same house for nearly forty years. Sally (played by Tessa King) jokes that she is the ‘bionic woman’ – she has two artificial hips and is getting ready for her second knee replacement - and Trin (Bronwyn Grannall) is a cancer survivor, ‘missing a couple of major body parts’, but that doesn’t stop them from fantasising about being their own version of Thelma and Louise and having sex with Brad Pitt. As they reflect on their past adventures and old wounds are re-opened, they dream up one final, daring plan, testing their lifelong bond in ways they never expected. Funny one moment and deeply moving the next, Looking at the Alps is a joyous celebration of friendship, resilience, and the courage to assume control of your own story—no matter where it takes you.

The Problem, by A R Gurney Jr, directed by John Irvine:

The final offering in the program is a deliciously quirky, shrewd, sardonic piece about the sex life of a college professor (played by Ben Clutterbuck) and his wife (Anzjuli Venter). Or maybe it’s the lack of sex life – according to the wife, they haven’t made love in ‘five years, more or less … give or take a month or two’. Which explains why they may have a problem, because her husband doesn’t seem to have noticed that she is obviously hugely pregnant! In a very funny but increasingly absurd and convoluted dialogue, the level of their apparent inability to communicate with each other is ratcheted up again and again as one reality gives way to another. The story takes some imaginative swerves, right up to the final twist. Warning: contains sexual references that may induce laughter.

What: The Ties That Bind

Where: Kucom Theatre, 1 Snow Wright Court, Andergrove

When: 12th, 13th, 14th, 19th, 20th, 21st March at 7.30pm, with a matinee on Sunday 15th March at 2pm

Bookings: https://events.humanitix.com/the-ties-that-bind

Many know Corissa Ivory as an established makeup artist. Those who truly know her, however, know she wears her heart on her sleeve, leads with compassion and is always ready with a laugh, both in and out of the salon.

This year marks 20 years of Funk It Up, after two decades of glamour, growth and memorable moments shared with the Mackay community.

“20 years has flown,” Corissa reflects.

“I still remember every special day, every occasion, every location.”

When she pauses to take it all in, she admits it’s “quite an overwhelming emotion.”

While her talent has opened doors to remarkable opportunities, including fast-paced runway events she describes as “the most fun, most adrenaline-filled, highlights of my life,” Corissa is quick to redirect the spotlight to her biggest supporters.

“I couldn’t function without them,” she says of her team.

Many have stood beside her for 10 to 15 years.

“The care is there and the friendships are still solid. Without my team, without my clients, there’d be no Funk It Up still here… I would have crashed and burned a long time ago.”

The salon itself hums with personality and vibrancy.

“We love it when we’re all together. It’s very fun, like home, and loud,” she laughs. “It’s very loud.”

Yet beneath the energy in the room is something far more important – connection.

“I don’t want to be a façade, and I’m definitely not in it for the money. I just want everyone that walks through these doors to feel beautiful and heard.”

For two decades, connection has remained at the centre of Funk It Up.

“I think how you make people feel is probably the most important thing that you can achieve in your day,” Corissa says.

“For me, knowing I’ve achieved that means more to me than anything.”

When clients open up in the chair, she considers it sacred, and a true honour.

“For someone to share something with you is the greatest compliment that you can have as a person, because it means they trust you and they feel comfortable with you… I just love that.”

From pamper parties, now nearing the 800 mark, to more than 1,500 weddings, Corissa has been present for her clients most cherished milestones.

“Highlights for me are being present in those moments,” she says. “I want people to leave here feeling like they’ve had the best experience.”

Watching young girls grow from pamper party guests, into graduates, and even brides has been a full circle moment for the team at Funk It Up to witness.

“I really do love what I do.”

Behind the businesswoman is a devoted mother and wife.

“I’ve made it pretty clear to everyone that he comes first,” she says of her son Logan. “My business isn’t my baby. He’s my baby.”

She credits her husband, and even the partners of her team, for the unseen support that keeps the wheels turning, especially during the whirlwind of wedding season and busy Saturdays. On Sundays, she dedicates her time to her son and husband, recharging for another successful week ahead.

As for the future, renovations may be on the horizon, but the heart of Funk It Up will remain unchanged. As the exclusive Mackay stockists of Australian professional makeup brand Harlotte, she remains “so humble and grateful” for the loyalty that has defined the business with others in the industry.

And at 20 years strong, Corissa isn’t slowing down.

“I have no plans to finish up anytime soon. At the moment, the joy is still here. We still love it.”

Perhaps that’s the secret — not just beauty, but belonging.

“I want to say a huge thankyou to my clients and team members – I couldn’t have done these last 20 years without you!”

‍

Erin Ryley, Branch Manager of Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank, left corporate banking and found purpose, leading a local branch that makes a tangible impact in its customers’ lives.

Erin didn’t set out to build a career in banking; she fell into it.

“I started as a teller at 17, and what began as a job quickly became something much bigger,” she explains.

“I realised I loved the pace, the people, and the impact you can have on someone’s financial future. Early on, I had a young male manager who showed me what leadership shouldn’t look like. Instead of being discouraged, I set a goal: I would become a branch manager by 24 – and I achieved it.”

Now, Erin spends her days leading and building strong teams that genuinely help people make confident financial decisions.

“It’s not just numbers,” she affirms; “it’s trust, relationships and community.”

During her years in the industry, Erin has seen banking shift from transactional to relationship-driven. She’s learned that what customers want is authenticity, trust and businesses that genuinely deliver on their promises.

So that’s what she and her teams do; they deliver professional financial services that have genuine local impact, reinvesting profits back into community grants, sponsorships and local initiatives – creating a cycle of support that benefits everyone.

“What makes it special is the shared ownership mindset,” Erin explains. “Customers aren’t just clients – they’re part of something bigger. Every home loan, deposit or account contributes to funding local projects, students, sporting groups and charities.

“It’s banking with purpose – where financial success and community success go hand in hand.”

Erin’s career has taken her all around Queensland, and she managed many branches before settling in Sarina. Her family even recently lived in Seattle, USA, for 2 years – before moving back to the Mackay Region – which she now considers home. Outside her career she spends every moment with family – her loving husband, 3 beautiful kids and her mum – swimming, kicking the footy and walking their 2 dogs.

Looking ahead, Erin sees herself continuing to grow within the organisation and deepening the impact she has on the community she serves.

“I’m passionate about strengthening relationships and ensuring we consistently deliver on what we promise,” she says.

“For me, success is about sustainability – building something meaningful, earning trust, and creating lasting impact for both our customers and our community.”

When asked about the wisdom she would offer future businesswomen, Erin’s advice was clear:

“Self-belief is non-negotiable. If you don’t back yourself, no one else will. Long-term success starts with deciding you’re capable – even before you feel ready.

“Have the courage to set clear goals, to speak up, to walk into rooms where you might feel out of place – and to treat senior leaders as people, not titles. When you stop being intimidated, you start building real relationships.

“And finally, consistency is key. Success isn’t built in big moments. It’s built in the quiet discipline of showing up, following through, and staying focused on where you’re headed.”

What are your top tips for leadership?

Back yourself. Be Intentional. Stay in the room

Describe your personality in three words.

Energetic. Ambitious. Outgoing.

‍

International Women’s Day is a time for celebration, for much has been achieved to advance and support women in terms of opportunities and choices. It’s also a time to reflect on our personal journey and what really matters.

Are you living life on your own terms, based on what really matters to you?

When we engage with women (and men) on career conversations, the focus is not about jobs, salaries or status, it’s far more simple and directly personal. The big question is -

‘What type of life do you want to live?’

Career is more than work – it’s not only how we spend a lot of physical time, but also the time we spend thinking about work and the associated emotional energy.

When you pause and consider life in the context of career, work becomes more about purpose and meaning and progressing towards your ideal thus impacting your choices.

If we consider life in seasons and relate to career – early career is often about establishing ourselves and gaining momentum, whereas later seasons may prioritise balance. Career is less at fever pitch and the preference may be time with family and friends. For example, from an age demographic, the life we want to live in our 20s may be different to the life we want to live in our 40s.

How can I align my career to build the life I want to live and enjoy my personal definition of success?

Before polishing the résumé or leaping to the next opportunity, pause and reflect on ‘what’s the ideal life you want to live?’ and then ‘how can I align my career to the life I want?’.

Focus on what’s important to you for where you are at and where you want to be. Use your values as a starting point. If purpose and service matter to you, a high paying role with little purpose may eventually leave you wanting. If flexibility is important, then a rigid structure may be suffocating.

If you are clear on your values, you will evaluate opportunities not just by what they offer on paper, but by how they align with the life you want to live.

At CareerForce Australia, our focus is on supporting women (and men) to explore the big questions and chart a Career by Design – choosing the life you want to live. If you would like support with navigating your next steps, visit CareerForce Australia’s website or get in touch.

‍

With Dani Melville, Women’s Coach From Mackay MMA (Brazilian Jiu Jitsu)

On the mats at Mackay MMA, strength isn’t measured by size or force. It’s built through patience, technique and the quiet confidence that comes from knowing exactly what you’re capable of. For women’s coach Dani Melville, a 2nd stripe brown belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, the sport has become both a personal lifeline and a powerful platform to empower other women to step into their own strength.

For more than a decade, Dani has been immersed in the discipline, helping cultivate a supportive community within Mackay MMA where women are encouraged to try something new, challenge themselves and grow – both physically and mentally.

Interestingly enough, her journey into the sport wasn’t exactly planned.

“I started 12 years ago. I actually took my children in to do judo and accidentally went to the wrong class, and it was a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu class,” Dani recalls.

“From the minute I did the first movement, I just kind of fell in love with it.”

That moment sparked a passion that would shape not only Dani’s life but the lives of many women she now coaches. Today, her entire family trains in the art, including her two daughters, who now assist with children’s classes and help coach the women’s sessions.

Together, they form part of a close-knit community at Mackay MMA, where gym owners Danny and Rozzie Borg have created an environment many members describe as their “second home”.

Within this environment, Dani has become a driving force behind the gym’s women’s program, helping create a safe and encouraging space for women stepping onto the mats for the first time.

While many people associate self-defence purely with physical strength, Dani believes the real lessons run much deeper.

“Self-defence isn't necessarily about winning if you were in a hard situation… it's about being able to survive, not panic, stay calm, stay in your logical brain, and escape.”

The courses introduce participants to practical techniques while also building awareness, confidence and the ability to make clear decisions under pressure.

For Dani, the biggest barrier for many women considering martial arts isn’t ability, but simply taking that first step.

“The hardest part of any class, no matter what it is, is turning up,” she says.

But once they do, women quickly discover a community built on encouragement and mutual support.

And while she mentors many women each week, she says inspiration flows both ways.

“My daughters, very much so,” she says when asked who inspires her most.

“Every single woman that walks through the door is my hero.”

This International Women’s Day, Dani hopes more women will feel empowered to give Brazilian Jiu Jitsu a try. To step onto the mats, challenge themselves and discover a strength they may not yet realise they have.

“Every woman, every man, every child – I 100% think that everybody should do it – especially women.”

Action image – Photo credit: Javier Taveras Photography

On Sunday, 8 March, we will celebrate International Women’s Day – a time to honour the incredible contributions of women across our region. To mark the occasion, we’ve put together a special feature showcasing local women who are making a difference in business, community initiatives, and everyday life. These are the women whose dedication, vision, and leadership are shaping our region for the better.

From business owners and entrepreneurs to educators, community advocates, and creatives, these women are driving innovation, inspiring change, and creating opportunities for others.

What unites them is more than professional success; it’s the impact they have on those around them. Through mentorship, collaboration, and advocacy, they lift others as they climb, proving that leadership is as much about empathy and connection as it is about ambition and results. Their influence can be seen in thriving local businesses, strong community programs, and the countless lives they touch every day.

This feature highlights their achievements and celebrates the diversity of talent and passion among women in our region.

By sharing their stories, we hope to celebrate these women not only for what they do but for how they do it, with courage, integrity, and heart. Their work exemplifies the values of collaboration, community, and empowerment that strengthen our region as a whole.

On this International Women’s Day, we honour these women, celebrate their achievements, and recognise the difference they make in shaping a stronger, more inclusive, and forward-thinking community. Through their dedication and leadership, they remind us that when women thrive, communities thrive.

Happy International Women’s Day!

‍

Mackay Pet Rescue is calling for urgent community action after a surge in dumped kittens and surrender requests has pushed the volunteer-run rescue beyond capacity, forcing it to turn animals away.

Over the last year, the organisation has been contacted about large numbers of abandoned kittens found across Mackay, while continuing to receive daily requests to surrender adult cats and dogs.

With adoption space full and February traditionally one of the slowest months for rehoming, Mackay Pet Rescue is currently unable to take in additional animals.

Mackay Pet Rescue President Janet Amrbose said repeat dumping was being driven by the assumption that rescues will always intervene.

“We are completely full, and it is heartbreaking to have to say no when animals are suffering,” Ms Ambrose said.

“People assume we can always step in, but we are unpaid volunteers, not an emergency service. That misunderstanding is leading to repeat dumping and putting animals at greater risk.”

The rescue currently has six older kittens aged 14-20 weeks who have received no adoption interest, despite being healthy and ready for homes. Without space becoming available, Mackay Pet Rescue’s ability to take on more animals is dwindling.

“The reality is simple – if you cannot afford to desex an animal, or you are not prepared to care for a pet for the next 15 to 20 years, you should not get one.

“Our priority has to be the animals already in our care. The only way we can help more is if the community takes responsibility – by desexing pets, using the correct channels for strays and stepping up to adopt.”

Community members who are able to help are encouraged to adopt an older kitten now to urgently free up space.

Find out more about Mackay Pet Rescue and their upcoming adoption days at www.facebook.com/MackayPetRescueInc.

Police have released CCTV footage as part of an ongoing investigation into a series of suspicious fires in Andergrove earlier this year.

According to Queensland Police Service, the incidents occurred across January and February at a business on Celeber Road.

Emergency services were first called to the location about 4.40am on 13 January following reports of a fire at the rear of the building. The blaze was extinguished a short time later and a crime scene was declared at 5.40am.

Police said a second fire occurred at the same address several hours before it was reported at about 7.50am on 14 February. The fire had already extinguished by the time officers arrived.

Investigators believe two unknown people were seen in the area at the time, both wearing masks and gloves. One of the individuals was described as wearing a black and white checkered shirt.

A third fire was reported between 4.45am and 6am on 18 February at the same location. The blaze was extinguished shortly after emergency services arrived, causing minor damage to the building.

Police said two unknown people were seen near the fire before running towards Parkview Court.

A fourth incident occurred between 11.50pm on 27 February and 12.10am on 28 February. During this event, the fire spread to neighbouring businesses before being brought under control by emergency crews.

No one was physically injured in any of the incidents.

Police are appealing to anyone who may have information or relevant CCTV or dashcam footage to come forward as investigations continue.

Reference numbers: QP2600076398, QP2600296924, QP2600320229, QP2600392966

Photo source: Bauer Mackay

Two men have been charged following the seizure of more than 9.5 kilograms of methylamphetamine during a coordinated police operation spanning Rockhampton, the Gold Coast and Mackay.

Detectives from the Queensland Police Service (QPS) Crime Command Organised Crime Gangs Group, alongside officers from Central Region, executed a series of search warrants on Wednesday, 25 February 25, as part of an investigation into the trafficking of methylamphetamine across Queensland.

The investigation was led by the Gold Coast Major and Organised Crime Squad, with assistance from the Mackay Tactical Crime Squad and Rockhampton Criminal Investigation Branch.

Search warrants were carried out at a residential address in Reedy Creek, a property in The Leap near Mackay, and after a vehicle interception in Rockhampton. During the searches, police allegedly located 9.5 kilograms of methylamphetamine, 162 grams of cocaine, more than $175,000 in cash, and seized three vehicles — a Toyota LandCruiser, Toyota Prado and a Ford Ranger.

A 40-year-old man arrested in Rockhampton has been charged with multiple offences, including trafficking in dangerous drugs, possessing dangerous drugs, possessing property obtained from trafficking, and possessing items used in the commission of a crime. He is expected to appear in the Rockhampton Magistrates Court on Friday, 27 February.

A 46-year-old man arrested in Mackay has been charged with several drug-related offences, including possession of methylamphetamine and cocaine, possessing property suspected of being proceeds of crime, and breaching an order relating to access of electronically stored information. He appeared in the Mackay Magistrates Court on 26 February.

Detective Inspector Craig Bowman from the Organised Crime Gangs Group said the operation highlighted the importance of coordinated policing efforts.

“Police are working collaboratively across regions and with specialist and frontline officers to dismantle organised crime networks,” he said.

“This investigation demonstrates our continued focus on targeting all aspects of illicit enterprises, disrupting their activities, and ensuring those responsible are brought to justice to keep our communities safe.”

CAPTION: Two men have been charged after QPS seized 9.5 kilograms of methylamphetamine. Photo source: QPS

‍

By Cr Peter Sheedy

The Mackay Region Planning Scheme helps us manage growth, plan for a sustainable future and guide the way land is used and developed in the Mackay region.

Council resolved to adopt version 4.1 of the planning scheme on December 11, 2024. Details of all planning scheme amendments can be accessed via council’s web site.

In a nutshell, council is the custodian of the planning scheme which underpins the assessment and approval or otherwise for development applications to change the use of land within a designated zone.

Every parcel or group of parcels of land within council’s region of responsibility has a valuation as determined periodically by the Queensland Government.

This valuation is then provided by the Department of the Valuer General to the council with an unimproved valuation.

The unimproved value then becomes the basis of adjusting all property values within similar land use categories for a relevant range of properties.

Rates are levied by council on all land holders as per the annual budget – with different rates for various rating categories – to recover the cost of delivering infrastructure, including maintenance and depreciation, as well as services across the region.

The Planning Scheme is all about managing land uses in a consistent way for servicing the region cost effectively with fairness and equity to all categories of land use.

Policies of the Queensland Government have to be observed and recognised in our region’s planning scheme, which establishes zones for certain uses, minimum sized subdivisions and certain other requirements. We have areas designated in our planning scheme for industrial and commercial purposes as well as rural and agricultural purposes. Good quality agricultural land has been recognised as special and to be protected.

A Planning and Environment Court has been empowered to deal with complaints about decisions on planning and related matters.

Mackay Regional Council has committed itself to programs for economic development and improving liveability, which can at times present challenges needing to be resolved by the custodians of the planning scheme.

As councillors who have all taken an oath of office, we must be conscious of all the potential consequences of our actions and be informed, as best we are able, to decide matters for the best long-term interests of the Mackay region. This is democracy in action.

Let’s Chat – Council Connect

Residents can catch up with councillors in person at upcoming Let’s Chat - Council Connect sessions held across the region.  Details on upcoming sessions can be found on the Connecting Mackay website.

‍

More than 80 trees will be planted along a popular walking trail, which is also an environmentally significant area.

As part of Mackay Regional Council’s Urban Greening Strategy, semi-advanced native species will be planted at Sandfly Creek, in East Mackay from Monday, 23 February 2026.

Species being planted include the Hoop Pine, which is a signature species in the area and provides height, shade and visual presence, with other species being drawn from the local ecosystem of the area.

More than 60 trees have already been planted this year at Glenfields Park in Glenella.

As part of the Urban Greening Strategy, Mackay Regional Council has set a target of 40 percent canopy cover over pathways and an annual net gain of public tree numbers by 2042.

Increased vegetation not only helps restore and improve ecosystems, but also contributes to urban cooling, increased amenity and improves mental health.

To find out more about council’s Urban Greening Strategy visit Mackay urban greening news at www.connectingmackay.com.au for project updates and stay informed about native plant giveaways, planting projects, activities and events.

‍

St Patrick’s College Mackay has a long history of offering excellence in education as a Catholic Coeducational College in the Diocese of Rockhampton catering for Years 7 to 12.

Families looking for a quality Catholic Secondary education in Mackay are invited to attend the St Patrick’s College Mackay Open Night being held on Tuesday 17 March at the Mercy Campus in Penn Street, Mackay from 4.00pm to 7.00pm.

Prospective parents and students are warmly invited to join us for an enjoyable and informative evening filled with activities and opportunities. Explore our diverse range of subject displays, chat to teachers about our curriculum, whilst admiring students’ work and classroom activities.

Don’t miss the opportunity to discover valuable information about our vocational and sporting programs. Throughout the evening, you’ll also enjoy dynamic performances from the College Cultural ensembles, showcasing the incredible talent and creativity of our students in captivating live performances.

For those attending there is a Treasure Map prize draw at 6:30pm at the Pavilion offering:

First Prize - $200 City Beach Gift Voucher
Second Prize - $100 City Beach Gift Voucher
Third Prize - $50 City Beach Gift Voucher

Why enrol at St Patrick’s College? St Patrick’s is a partnership between students, staff and parents, providing an environment of learning, personal growth and faith development while recognising students as young adults.

St Patrick’s College holds as its central character the motto ‘Seek and Serve Christ’.

With strong academic, vocational, sporting, cultural and spiritual, programs, St Patrick’s College offers positive experiences for students in a dynamic and exciting dual campus environment.

The College is ideally located close to Mackay’s burgeoning Sports precinct with Multi Sports Basketball and Netball Stadium, BB Print Stadium, Junior League Fields, Harrup Park cricket fields, netball courts plus soccer and hockey fields nearby as well as the Paget Business District.

If you would like more information regarding enrolment at St Patrick’s College Mackay, please visit our website www.stpats.qld.edu.au or call (07) 4994 8700.

‍

The MADEC Hub in Mackay welcomed the community on Tuesday, 3 March, giving locals the chance to explore the newly renovated John E. Smith Respite Home and the David & Irie Dalrymple Home. The open day, held from 9:00am–12:00pm at 615 Mackay Bucasia Road, highlighted accessible playgrounds and sensory spaces funded by North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation and Variety Queensland.

MADEC CEO Jasmine Lowry said, “We’re incredibly proud to open our doors and share this space with the Mackay community. So many people drive past without realising this welcoming, purpose-built facility is here and available to them.

“This is not just a building, it’s a place for connection, respite, independence and belonging. From the sensory garden to the accessible playground, every element has been thoughtfully designed to create a safe and engaging environment for people of all abilities.”

The event showcased the support these homes provide for people with disability and those transitioning to independent living.

NDIS Manager Edmund McMahon explained, “There are around four bedrooms, so at any one time, we can cater for up to four individuals. We also have two sleepover rooms for staff, so there can be two staff on site at any given time.”

He added, “We provide full support for individuals with physical or intellectual disabilities, ensuring they receive holistic care while they stay here. Not only do we provide accommodation, but we also support residents to access the community, making their stay engaging and exciting.”

Ms Lowry also emphasised opportunities for community involvement, saying, “As a community organisation, we rely on the generosity and goodwill of local people and businesses, including valued partners such as NQBP and Variety Queensland. Whether it’s contributing to a project, volunteering time, or supporting upgrades like the future accessible sensory garden at the David & Irie Dalrymple Home, every contribution helps us continue creating a place where everyone feels welcome.”

The open day offered attendees a firsthand look at the upgraded sensory rooms, gardens, and recreational spaces, reflecting MADEC’s ongoing commitment to supporting Mackay residents with disability through practical, accessible, and engaging programs.

For more information, or to donate, visit www.madec.org.au

One of Mackay’s most popular and picturesque community events is gearing up for another standout year, as interest in run tourism and nature based experiences continues to surge across the region.

The 2026 Mackay Airport Twilight City Run is tipped to surpass previous participation records following the enthusiastic response to the brand new course unveiled last year.

The milestone moment also coincides with Mackay Airport marking ten years as the event’s naming rights sponsor. A newly signed agreement will see the partnership continue through to 2028, further cementing the airport’s long standing support of one of the region’s most loved community events.

Mackay Airport Head of Operations Adrian Miles said the popular event continued to go from strength to strength.

“We are proud to have been the naming rights sponsor of the Mackay Airport Twilight City Run since 2018. This incredible local occasion exceeds expectations every year, and we are thrilled to be committing our continued support.”

Participants enjoyed the updated course, which provided more sweeping views of the Pioneer River, Mr Miles said.

“The Pioneer River is one of the only blue rivers on Australia’s east coast. It’s a spectacular backdrop for the Mackay Airport Twilight City Run, particular at dusk when this iconic event is held,” he said.

“Statistics tell us that Australians are increasingly keen to travel regionally for both running events and nature-based attractions. We’ve combined them in one location, along with a fun and inclusive atmosphere.”

More than 1,100 people are expected to take part in this year’s Mackay Airport Twilight City Run, including participants from across Queensland and interstate. The event on Friday 6 March will raise funds for the Leukaemia Foundation.

Scheduled as a precursor to the Mackay Marina Run, the 5km Mackay Airport Twilight City Run is family-friendly and welcomes all ages and abilities, whether running, walking or pushing a pram.

BMA Mackay Marina Run Event Director Tim Magoffin said the event got bigger and better every year.

“We introduced the new course last year to cater to more participants, because there is such a growing demand,” he said.

“The Mackay Airport Twilight City Run follows a nice, flat track so it ticks the box for so many people; visitors who want to explore a new destination, fitness enthusiasts chasing a PB, families, social and gym clubs, corporate teams or locals simply enjoying the best of their hometown.

“Crucially, it also brings together a like-minded community to raise funds for the Leukemia Foundation, who do vital work across our region. We are grateful for the ongoing support of the Mackay Airport team, and their commitment to our community’s economic growth and wellbeing.”

To register for the Mackay Airport Twilight City Run, visit mackaymarinarun.com and click on the ‘Events’ tab. Entrants will automatically go into the draw to win one of three $500 travel vouchers

Photo supplied

‍