Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
A single-vehicle bus crash has sadly claimed the life of one passenger at Gumlu, north of Bowen overnight. According to initial police investigations, at approximately 4pm on Thursday 14th May, a bus with 29 people on board was travelling south along the Bruce Highway from Cairns to Airlie Beach, when it left the roadway and rolled onto its side. Several other passengers were injured and transported to Townsville, Ayr, and Bowen Hospitals. The bus driver, a 70-year-old Mackay man, was transported to Bowen Hospital with minor injuries. As of Friday morning, three patients are confirmed to be in a life-threatening condition with one assessed on the scene and two airlifted to Townsville University Hospital. Multiple people were injured and transported to Ayr Hospital before being airlifted to Townsville University Hospital by Royal Flying Doctor’s Service. There are eight stable patients in Townsville whilst one remains in a stable condition at Ayr. The Bruce Highway has reopened at Gumlu. This tragic accident comes less than two years after a fatal bus crash on the same stretch of the Bruce Highway, which claimed the lives of three women in on June 3rd, 2024. On this occasion, a Greyhound bus with 33 people on board was travelling north along the Bruce Highway, also near Gumlu, when it crossed over to the wrong side of the road and into oncoming traffic. The bus struck a Land Cruiser station wagon travelling in the opposite direction. A 56 year old Townsville woman and two German women aged 21 and 33 passed away as a result of the incident. The 52-year-old bus driver from North Ward was charged with five counts of dangerous operation of a vehicle causing death or grievous bodily harm, but was subsequently found not guilty. Anyone with relevant dash cam vision of incident last night is urged to contact police. Investigations are continuing
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So, what’s going on with the property market? The thing about the property market is that it doesn’t stand alone in its own little world untouched by the drama going on around it. And there is a fair bit of drama at the moment. Let’s get all the dramas to form a conga line and point them out one at a time. First there’s inflation, an annoying factor that adds to the cost of living and affects people’s ability to buy real estate. Right behind inflation, and I mean very close, is its brother in arms/partner in crime/long-time bedfellow, interest rates. Interest rates have been particularly pesky lately as the Reserve Bank pushes them up in an attempt to bring inflation down. The idea is to make housing less affordable so you can make housing more affordable. Then there’s a war in the Middle East. War is very good for business if you are a weapons producer and part of the military-industrial complex but it’s not very good for everyone else. It certainly isn’t good for confidence and housing markets are pretty big on the old confidence factor. So, not good. This particular war has the additional benefit of taking place in the Persian Gulf, where a fair portion of the world’s oil is transported from Middle East oil producers to the rest of the world. The war has created a traffic jam in the Strait of Hormuz, which is restricting the supply of oil, meaning that in a world of demand and supply the price of fuel at the petrol bowser has gone up significantly. Which means our old friends inflation and interest rates give us another wave from the conga line and remind us of another impact on the property market. The conga line of dramas was joined this week by the Federal Budget and its changes to negative gearing, up until now a key driver in property investment and the supply of rental properties. Nothing changes for people who had negatively geared properties up until Budget night. My Pommy colleague Andy Collins, the Sales Manager at Gardian real estate, pointed out after the Budget that there was no way the changes would include investors’ existing properties because too many politicians own investment properties and the pollies wouldn’t do anything to hurt themselves. It’s up to you whether you think Andy is a sniping little Pommy whinger or an astute judge of human nature. Or can he be both? What Andy correctly pointed out is that from now on investors will be looking for properties that provide such good rental returns that they are positively geared, removing the need for negative gearing. That’s where Mackay’s strong rental returns come into it. Investors from southern markets have been active in the Mackay market because of those rental returns. When they can get returns like $750 a week on properties they have bought for $650,000, those southern investors realise Mackay offers better opportunities than the high-priced, low-rent options in their own cities. Andy was suggesting that it is possible that the budget changes will spur even more investment activity in Mackay because the removal of negative gearing makes investments in other markets unviable. I will delve further into the status of the Mackay market in upcoming columns but there are a few initial points to make. There is no doubt that, like every other market, the conga line of dramas has had an impact and given buyers pause for thought. But we are still seeing strong buyer activity and properties selling. As always, the buoyancy of our coal market and the jobs and business it provides will continue to be a driver of our economy and a key factor in the property market. Will the budget changes create an additional spur to our market and bring more investors in or is that conga line going to have a bigger impact? Stay tuned over the coming months.
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With more than three decades of experience and deep roots in the land, Royce Dunn brings unmatched insight to rural property across the Mackay region. Joining Blacks Real Estate in 1991, Royce is a licensed real estate agent and auctioneer, who has spent the past 25 years as Director leading the agency’s rural department. Over that time, he has built a strong reputation for his knowledge across all areas of property sales and marketing, from farmhouses and grazing land to residential subdivisions. Coming from a rural background and operating his own small farm, Royce understands the realities of life on the land, and the expectations that come with it. That lived experience allows him to connect with clients on a practical level, offering advice that is grounded, honest and tailored to the needs of farming families. Known for his straightforward approach and strong work ethic, Royce is committed to delivering results, working closely with clients to navigate the complexities of rural property transactions and achieve the best possible outcome.
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From wildlife caring, to country kitchens or supporting people with disability – a world of volunteering opportunities awaits at this year’s Volunteer Expo! This year’s event is set to be one of the biggest on record, with 55 community, support and other organisations have registered. The Volunteer Expo is being held at the Mackay Showgrounds on Sunday, May 17 from 9am until midday. Deputy Mayor Karen May said volunteering is at the heart of sustainable and supportive communities. “There are so many benefits to volunteering – from the people and organisations being supported, to those who so generously donate their time and skills. It increases community and individual wellbeing and drives positive change in the community,” Deputy Mayor May said. “What’s great about events like our Volunteers Expo is it gives people a one-stop shop to see what’s out there – and it could be something you’d never thought of,” she said. “Feedback from previous years shows how valuable this expo is to our community groups, with one organisation signing up more than a dozen volunteers on the day.” Data from Volunteering Queensland shows that for every $1 invested in volunteering, there’s a $4.70 return to the community. More than 110,000 jobs were created in 2024 through spending on volunteering – with the sector worth more than $117-billion to the state economy. Cr May said volunteering gives people to build on their passions while learning new skills and meeting new people. “It also opens up opportunities beyond the organisation a person volunteers with – it can help build new professional relationships and create new connections,” she said. “Data from Volunteering Queensland shows the overwhelming majority of people (64 percent) volunteer because they want to help others and the Volunteers Expo has dozens of options for people to help others. Entry to the Mackay Volunteer Expo is free. For more information, visit the event page on Facebook
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Whales of the Whitsundays team celebrating when the Whitsundays was formally recognised as a Whale Heritage Site. Photo supplied
There are a lot of things that make the Whitsundays special. Beautiful islands, the great barrier reef, a wonderful community. But in addition to all of that – this region has special ecological features that the rest of the country can look upon with envy. Every year, the Whitsundays serves as a breeding ground and cohabitation spot for one of planet earths most magnificent creatures: the whale.
A few years ago, a huge effort was put forward by the Whitsunday Conservation Council and Whale of the Whitsundays to make the area a Whale Heritage Area – resulting in a resounding success.
This was particularly special because the Whitsundays was the first whale heritage site located in a UNESCO world heritage area and now features a special whale protection area zone.
“It’s a major birthing zone for humpbacks. A lot of locals don’t realise how many humpbacks visit the area, let alone how significant the East coast population is,” said Kellie Leonard, Master Reef Guide and Whale of the Whitsundays member.
Every year humpback whales migrate from the Antarctic to the warm water of the Great Barrier Reef – this is due to take place in just a few weeks.
In 2009, researchers discovered that whales gave birth right here in the Whitsundays. The Whitsundays is proven to be a perfect location for breeding thanks to deep troughs close to shallow reef, where whales can give birth and then move their calves to shallow water. In shallow water there is less chance of predator attack from below and the mother can support the calf near the surface so it can breathe.
The establishment of thriving breeding ground is incredible for a species that were almost wiped out decades ago due to mass illegal whale culling.
“They recovered amazingly from the whaling in the 60s. Their comeback is quite a remarkable story,” shared Ms Leonard.
Another fascinating and beautiful aspect of whales and whale research, is whale’s songs.
The local organisations in collaboration with Queensland University has carried out significant research into one of nature’s most interesting phenomena.
“We have been recoding humpback whale songs in the Whitsundays during the past two whale seasons. The songs are submitted to the University of Queensland, specifically the Centre for Marine Science,” added Ms Leonard.
With the help of the director – Professor Michael Noad and PhD student Genevieve Williams, the research has provided incredible findings.
“The songs of these whales are one of the most complex acoustic displays of any animal known. Social sounds are made by all whales; however only male humpback whales sing songs.”
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The songs even have a structure.
“There are seven individual populations of humpback whales in the southern hemisphere. The Australian East Coast humpback whales are a single population. Amazingly, all males in one population sing the same song.”
Humpbacks can be located based on the content of their song. They listen to each other’s song and incorporate each other’s evolutions as part of their social learning.
Songs are recorded through a hydrophone – an underwater microphone connected to an amplifier and recording device. Humpback whales can be recorded from 5 to 10 kilometres away.
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Kellie has personally recorded whale song off the coast of Hamilton Island and posted it to Facebook.
“Often, I’m in the water with a hydrophone. I can’t see them, but I know they’re there.”
Whale research and sighting may seem reserved for experts, however, Whale of the Whitsundays are actively urging the broader community to get involved.
“There is an app called Eye of the Reef. All you need to do is upload photos and videos of sightings you have.”
Whale of the Whitsundays will be hosting an information night on the 19th May at the Whitsunday Sailing Club at 6.30pm.
WHAT: Whitsunday Whale Heritage Area Information Night
WHEN: 19th May, 6.30pm
WHERE: Whitsunday Sailing Club
Troy Liesch is a Property Specialist with the Taylors Team, bringing many years of experience in the sale of rural and residential property across Central Queensland and the Whitsundays region.
With a strong background in both lifestyle and acreage markets, Troy offers a grounded, practical approach to real estate, supported by extensive local knowledge and a deep understanding of what drives successful property outcomes in regional Queensland. His experience allows him to confidently guide clients through every stage of the selling process, from appraisal through to settlement.
Now part of the Taylors Team, Troy continues to build on his reputation for professionalism, reliability, and commitment to achieving the best possible results for his clients.
Outside of real estate, Troy is firmly rooted in the Whitsundays community, where he lives with his wife and their three children. Family life plays a central role for him, and he enjoys spending his time supporting his children’s sporting activities, attending dance events, and socialising with friends and neighbours throughout the region.
For enquiries or property advice, Troy can be contacted on 0428 646 599 or via email at troy@tpsre.com.au.
Dan has been involved in the property industry all his working life.
His early years were spent in the Lands Department (now the Department of Natural Resources) carrying out rental assessment valuations for Crown Land in various centres of Queensland including Rockhampton, Hughenden, Emerald, Longreach, Winton, Cloncurry and Mackay.
During that time, he became a Registered Rural and Urban Valuer and was promoted to the position of Assistant Land Commissioner prior to his resignation from the Government Department.
In 1984, Dan took over the management of the Valuation Department of Blacks Real Estate before setting up his own private valuation business in 2003, which operated successfully until mid 2013.
Dan and wife Kerry have lived in Mackay for over thirty years and have a son Dylan and daughter Kara.
Outside of work, Dan has an interest in most sports, particularly Rugby. He is a Life Member of Brothers Rugby Club and spent twelve years coaching the senior boys rugby team at North Mackay State High, winning several premierships.
With a wealth of experience in the property market, Dan returned to Blacks Real Estate as a Sales Consultant in August 2013.
Last Friday’s Barrier Reef Night Markets brought great energy to the Mackay City Heart, with locals enjoying a vibrant evening of handmade, unique stalls while supporting community causes. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Cadence Rooney, Belinda Rooney, Andrew Rooney and Abigail Rooney
Ella Barr, Elle Jung and Kaylah Dowson
Brock, Aliara, Tayla, Jesse, Anna-Lisa and Nigel
Veleisha, Valerie and Brianna
Paul Te Tau and Bryony Te Tau
Simon
Justin, Natalie, Paul and Chrissy
Brittany, Mikayla and Louella
Nestled in the lush foothills of the Pioneer Valley, Finch Falls Retreat spans 13 acres of open space and native rainforest, offering a tranquil escape where families can reconnect with nature at their own pace. Surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, the retreat is a sanctuary for walking, riding, or simply unwinding amidst the serene environment. Throughout the grounds, inviting seating areas provide the perfect spot to pause, relax, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.
The retreat’s two-bedroom Eco Lodges are thoughtfully designed with families in mind, comfortably accommodating two adults and up to four children. Each lodge features a fully equipped kitchenette and private ensuite, ensuring every stay is convenient and relaxing. Strategically spaced throughout the retreat, each lodge includes its own private deck and undercover BBQ area, which is ideal for enjoying a morning coffee or a family dinner immersed in nature.
Beyond luxury accommodation, Finch Falls Retreat is also a haven for native wildlife. The grounds have undergone a large-scale restoration, with hundreds of native trees and plants introduced to rejuvenate the landscape. As guests wander through the retreat, they may spot an abundance of local wildlife in their natural habitat, making nature an integral part of every stay rather than just a backdrop.
Young explorers are well catered for, with play equipment thoughtfully placed throughout the retreat. Children can enjoy a mud kitchen, cubby house, and playground, while the gently flowing creek offers a safe, shallow space for splashing and exploration most of the year. For those seeking further adventures, Finch Hatton township is just minutes away, offering a playground, pump track, and access to larger natural swimming holes – so why not make it a memorable family day out!
Dining at Finch Falls Retreat is effortless and flexible. Each lodge’s kitchenette includes an induction cooktop, microwave, fridge, and Nespresso coffee machine, making it simple to prepare a relaxed breakfast, picnic-style lunch, or cosy dinner while surrounded by nature.
Finch Falls Retreat is ideally located at 564 Gorge Road, Finch Hatton, Queensland, just 8 kilometres from the town centre and 3 kilometres from the picturesque Finch Hatton Gorge. Accessible via sealed roads, the drive to the retreat takes guests through scenic farmland, rainforest, and mountain landscapes, setting the tone for a restorative stay in the heart of the Pioneer Valley.
Every element of Finch Falls Retreat, from the private Eco Lodges to the carefully restored grounds, wildlife habitats, and family-friendly amenities, has been designed to provide a whole-family experience.
Here, luxury and nature coexist, creating a serene and immersive escape where families can explore, unwind, and make lasting memories together.
finchfallsretreat.com.au
The Whitsundays Writers Festival has been scheduled for Sunday 13 September 2026 with a one-day celebration of local authors, regional stories, and the readers who bring them to life.
Set against the stunning backdrop of the Whitsunday Marine Club, Airlie Beach, the festival promises an engaging, thought-provoking, and community-focused experience for all ages; well worth travelling for.
Festival-goers can look forward to two intimate panel discussions, exploring the journey from inspiration to publication, and the creative sparks that drive storytelling. Hear from talented local authors as they share insights, experiences, and advice for aspiring writers. The day will also feature author readings, the presentation of the Whitsundays Literary Heart Awards, and Stories by the Sea — a lively book buy-and-swap event celebrating local voices and community participation.
Stay tuned for full program details and ticket releases, and don’t miss your chance to be part of the region’s premier literary celebration.
Calling Local Authors – Expression of Interest Now Open!
Are you a published author living in the Mackay region? We’d love to hear from you!
For the 2026 Whitsundays Writers Festival, we’re inviting local authors to express interest in joining two engaging panel conversations.
Local authors can also confirm a dedicated space to sell books directly to festival attendees.
EOI deadline: 11:59pm, Saturday 28 February 2026
Complete the online form: 2026 Expression of Interest – Whitsundays Writers
Start writing! 2026 Whitsundays Literary Heart Awards
We’re excited to announce the 2026 Whitsundays Literary Heart Awards, celebrating the next generation of Australian storytelling. This year’s awards include:
Best Short Story – Adult & Under 18 divisions
First prize: $1,000 | Runner-up: $500Up to 3,000 words of unpublished creative fiction
Poetry PrizeFirst prize: $1,000 | Runner-up: $500Up to 50 lines of unpublished poetry
Judged on originality, creativity, and expressiveness
Entries open 16 March to 30 June 2026 with a $20 entry fee.
These awards are a vital investment in Australian literary culture, giving local and national writers the chance to have their work recognised and celebrated. Don’t miss the opportunity to join a community that champions creativity, imagination, and the power of storytelling.
Contributed with thanks to Whitsundays Writers Festival.
What: Whitsundays Writers Festival
When: Sunday 13th September 2026, 10:30am-4:30pm
Where: Whitsunday Marine Club, 7 Altmann Ave, Airlie Beach
1- The festival is calling for writers across the region to get in touch. Photo supplied
Meet Bella.
Bella is an 8-year-old Cattle Dog Cross with the biggest heart of gold.
This sweet girl has so much love to give and is looking for a home where she can truly shine. Bella adores cuddles and will happily curl up beside you for hours—she’s the perfect companion for quiet nights and cozy mornings.
One of her cutest quirks? She loves to hide her treats instead of eating them right away—saving them like little treasures for later.
Bella is recently desexed, and fully vaccinated. She’s full of love and affection and ready to find her forever home.
Bella would thrive best in a home where she can be the center of attention. Bella prefers not to share her humans with other dogs, so she’s ideally suited to an older couple or a family without other pets. She just wants all the love for herself—and she’ll give it back tenfold.
If you're looking for a loyal, affectionate companion who will adore you endlessly, Bella might just be your perfect match.
Message Lucy’s Lucky Tags and Dog Rescue on Facebook to arrange a meet and greet.
1- Bella is looking for her person – is it you? Photo source: Lucy’s Lucky Tags and Dog Rescue
Seven students from Sarina State High School have been recognised for their musical talent after representing their school at the State Honours Ensemble Program in Rockhampton over the weekend.
Dallas Kuhl, Sarah Bradford, Lily Kuhl, Isabella Bradford, Ebony Hetherington, Lauren McFadzen and Millie Thomsett were selected to take part in the prestigious program alongside some of Central Queensland’s best middle school–aged instrumental music students.
The three-day program brought together talented young musicians from across the region for an intensive schedule of rehearsals and workshops. Over the course of the program, students completed 15 hours of practice under the guidance of some of Queensland’s leading conductors.
The experience culminated in a final concert, showcasing the students’ dedication and musical development following the intensive rehearsal period.
The opportunity provided the Sarina students with valuable experience performing in a large ensemble while collaborating with other young musicians from across Central Queensland.
Photo source: Sarina State High School
After a strong turnout for the first event of the year last weekend, Art in the Park is set to return next month, bringing another day of creativity and community to Sarina.
Hosted by the Sarina Arts Council and Sarina Gallery, the outdoor event will once again take place under the trees at the Field of Dreams from 9am to 2pm.
The event invites locals and visitors alike to browse a range of locally created artworks, meet the makers behind the pieces and enjoy live music in a relaxed park setting.
Organisers said the first Art in the Park for 2026 last Sunday attracted a fantastic turnout, with many people stopping by to chat with artists, support local makers and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
Those who missed the first event will have another opportunity to attend when Art in the Park returns on Sunday, May 3, promising another colourful day celebrating local creativity and community connection.
Photo source: Sarina Arts Council, Sarina Gallery
Residents of Walkerston and the surrounding Pleystowe district are being invited to come together once again for a moving 2026 ANZAC Day Dawn Service at ANZAC Park Walkerston, an early-morning commemoration honouring service and sacrifice.
The service will begin at 4.50am with veterans forming up at the Luscombe Memorial Tree, followed by a wreath-laying ceremony at 4.55am.
A march through ANZAC Park will follow at 5.00am, led by the Parade Commander, before the Dawn Service formally assembles at 5.10am. The program will include the flag at half-mast, the mounting of the guard, and a welcome address from Walkerston-Pleystowe RSL Sub-Branch President Rod Francisco.
The Dawn Service is expected to conclude at approximately 5.30am, after which attendees are invited to join veterans for breakfast at the Duke of Edinburgh Hotel.
Organisers are encouraging the community to attend and take part in the early-morning service, as Walkerston-Pleystowe comes together in reflection, remembrance and gratitude for those who have served.
Honouring Sacrifice And Finding A Service Near You
Attending a Dawn Service remains one of the most meaningful ways the community can honour those who served and sacrificed. Rising early in the quiet hours of the morning is seen as a small but powerful gesture of respect, reflecting the time of day when many soldiers prepared for battle and remembering the courage, loss and resilience of the men and women who served the nation.
Across the Mackay region, communities will come together at dawn and throughout the day on April 25 to commemorate ANZAC Day, with services scheduled across locations including Mackay, Sarina, Walkerston, Seaforth, Mirani, Marian, Eton, Calen and Finch Hatton, as well as other towns across the district. The Isaac region will also hold services, with further details to come.
Mackay Life will publish a comprehensive guide to local ANZAC Day services in next week’s edition.
Behind every successful creative agency are businesses willing to take a leap, back a vision, and commit to building something meaningful. Real Conversations puts the spotlight on those businesses sharing, in their own words, how strategic branding and marketing have shaped their growth.
In today’s fast-moving, high-pressure business environment, good intentions alone aren’t enough. Real impact comes from clear strategy, practical skills and training that translates into the real world.
That’s where Shiift has built its reputation. Led by Judy Porter, whose background in behavioural psychology is matched by extensive real-world leadership experience, Shiift delivers a powerful blend of insight and application, understanding not just what people do, but why they do it.
Despite strong results and a growing track record, the team recognised there was a broader audience they hadn’t yet reached. To unlock that next stage of growth, they made the decision to revisit their brand and marketing approach, engaging redhotblue for a focused strategy and marketing workshop.
What followed was more than a refinement. It sparked clarity, challenged assumptions and opened up new ways of thinking, creating momentum and genuine excitement for the new chapter.
We spoke with Director Judy Porter of Shiift, about that journey.
What clarity did you gain through the strategy and marketing workshop delivered by redhotblue, that you didn’t have before?
We recognised our messaging lacked clarity and our offering hadn’t been refined into a focused suite of services. By trying to do everything, we risked confusing potential clients about where our true strengths lie.
How would you describe your new brand in comparison to your old one?
Now far more targeted. Where we once said “yes” to everything ultimately diluting our brand we’ve taken a more disciplined approach, focusing only on what we do best.
This clarity has strengthened not only our positioning, but also how we communicate our value. Our core strength lies in equipping people with the skills and confidence to lead, manage, and work effectively with others—and by staying true to that, we deliver far greater impact.
How has your approach to marketing shifted since refining your brand?
Our marketing is now highly targeted across messaging, visuals, and tone. Where our social content once felt fragmented, it is now cohesive and recognisable each piece clearly identifiable as Shiift through its consistent use of colour, design, and language.
What role does consistency now play across your marketing from digital to print collateral?
A far greater role than before. Previously, our approach lacked consistency, and our tendency to continually “change things up” diluted our marketing. While I’m naturally driven to challenge the status quo and seek improvement, I’ve learned the value of discipline and consistency in building a strong brand.
Safe to say, our marketing is now best left in expert hands - thank you team redhotblue.
The countdown is on! The 2026 North Queensland Games are fast approaching, set to ignite the region over the May Day long weekend.
Across the Greater Whitsunday region, families are feeling the pressure right now. The cost of living is hitting hard and many small businesses are doing it tough. Events like this matter as they bring people together and deliver benefits back into the community when it is needed.
We know our region is full of sporting talent. You only have to look at our local clubs each week. Young athletes, volunteers and families all showing up and backing each other. The North Queensland Games gives people a platform – the chance to compete and be part of something bigger without leaving home.
The North Queensland Sports Foundation has developed the Games around grassroot inclusive participation. Athletes of all ages and abilities can take part, build confidence and stay connected to sport. The real value of this event is in the connection it builds and the opportunities it creates across our community.
The economic benefit of hosting is immediate. Previous North Queensland Games have brought thousands of athletes and visitors into the region. What this means is more people are in our town supporting local businesses and enjoying everything this beautiful region has to offer. But beyond the dollars, there is a bigger picture.
The 2032 Brisbane Olympic Games are on the horizon and regional events like the North Queensland Games provide a pathway for our athletes to gain experience and exposure. More importantly, it gives belief that their Olympic journey can start right here.
This is strengthened by Natalie Cook, who joins the 2026 North Queensland Games as an ambassador. Natalie competed in the North Queensland Games early in her sporting journey before going on to win an Olympic gold medal in volleyball. Her story shows what is possible when local opportunity meets hard work and community support.
The same can be said about Liam Paro, our homegrown former boxing world champion. Liam returns to the North Queensland Games as an Ambassador as well this year, a decade on from cutting his teeth as an amateur boxer as a teenager.
Over the long weekend we will see volunteers pitch in, local clubs work together, friends and families cheering from the sidelines. The shared experience is what makes our region stronger and more connected.
When community shows up, we build confidence in our people and we show the rest of North Queensland what our region can do. That is the legacy we build together.
Access to reliable maternity services has long been a concern across regional Queensland, and for communities like Mackay, any step toward strengthening the local health workforce is a welcome one.
The State Government’s new Midwifery Clinical Facilitator Program promises to do just that, creating leadership roles for experienced midwives while boosting the number of graduates entering the system. With Mackay included among the Hospital and Health Services set to benefit, the initiative has the potential to make a real difference where it matters most: on the ground.
The reality is clear. Demand for midwives is rising, and regional areas are feeling the strain more than anywhere else. Workforce shortages, combined with an ageing cohort nearing retirement, mean that without intervention, access to maternity care could become increasingly stretched.
Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Tim Nicholls did not shy away from the challenge.
“Our Workforce Gap Analysis made clear that without targeted action, Queensland will face worsening shortfalls in key frontline and maternity roles like midwifery, particularly in regional and rural communities,” Minister Nicholls said.
“After Labor neglected healthcare in the regions for a decade, the Crisafulli Government is restoring health services where you need them by delivering practical solutions to grow our own workforce, support our existing students and clinicians, and ensure Queensland families can access safe and high-quality health care, including maternity care, closer to home.”
For Mackay, the key will be ensuring this program translates into tangible, lasting improvements. Training more midwives locally is only part of the solution — retaining them is just as critical.
If done well, this initiative could help secure the future of maternity care in the region, ensuring families don’t have to travel far from home during one of life’s most important moments.
Council is stepping up its sustainability leadership, unveiling a comprehensive draft Environmental Sustainability Strategy that delivers real, future focused action.
From expanding the urban tree canopy and managing natural environmental assets, to strengthening climate resilience, cutting carbon emissions and transforming waste management, the strategy lays out a clear roadmap to secure a cleaner, greener future for the region.
Council is inviting community members to have their say on the draft Environmental Sustainability Strategy 2026-2031, which sets the direction for how council will advance environmental sustainability over the next five years.
Mayor Greg Williamson said sustainability was about meeting the needs of today without compromising the future of our children and grandchildren.
“As a council, we have a responsibility to lead by example and this Sustainability Strategy sets out how we will continue to do just that,” Mayor Williamson said.
“We will work with other branches of government and local industry and stakeholders to advance regional sustainability, but we also have key actions around improving energy management at council and reducing emissions from our vehicle fleet and assets,” he said.
“There are also exciting advances being made in the waste management space.
“We are investigating environmentally safe opportunities to turn waste into energy to reduce landfill reliance and opportunities to reduce materials currently going to landfill.
“Together, by embracing environmental, social and governance (ESG) best practices, we can ensure that the region we pass on is as environmentally rich, economically strong and socially connected as the one we enjoy today.”
Sustainability Strategic Advisory Committee (SSAC) co-chair Cr Alison Jones said the strategy built on previous sustainability initiatives and outlined how council would embed sustainable practices across its operations, planning, infrastructure and service delivery.
“It also addresses the need to adapt to climate change pressures so that we can build a region that is resilient and able to respond to natural hazards like bushfires, coastal hazards, heatwaves, storms and flooding,” Cr Jones said.
SSAC co-chair Cr Peter Sheedy said the strategy reflected council’s ongoing commitment to protecting the amazing natural assets and hero experiences our region was known for.
“Mackay’s natural environment is one of our greatest assets, especially when it comes to tourism and liveability, and this strategy lays out a clear pathway to ensure we value, protect and enhance it,” Cr Sheedy said.
“There are key actions that involve working with regional partners in restoring high value ecosystems and natural areas and we are committed to continuing our existing initiatives like urban greening and our free plant giveaways,” he said.
“Of course, we are also asking the community to share their ideas and insights so the final strategy reflects local priorities and aspirations.”
The strategy is centred around five strategic pillars that will guide council’s priorities from 2026 to 2031:
Implementation will be delivered annually through key initiatives and supported by a five-year action plan to monitor progress and ensure accountability.
The draft strategy is now available for public comment, and council is encouraging residents, businesses and community groups to provide feedback.
Consultation is open until Sunday, May 10, 2026 at 11.59pm.
Council is committed to protecting and restoring areas of natural environment with plantings and free plant giveaways. Photo supplied
A symbol of friendship between two communities has begun to bloom in Japan, marking another chapter in the long-standing relationship between Mackay Regional Council and its sister city, Matsuura.
Mayor of Mackay Regional Council Greg Williamson said it was special to see the cherry blossom tree, planted during a council visit in 2019, beginning to flower in the Sister Park in Matsuura.
“It was wonderful to receive this photo today showing the Cherry Blossom tree in our Sister Park in Matsuura beginning to bloom,” Mayor Williamson said.
“This special tree was planted during our 2019 visit to Matsuura as part of the 30th anniversary celebrations as a symbol of the strong and enduring friendship between our two communities.”
In Japanese culture, cherry blossoms are widely known for their cultural significance, often symbolising renewal, hope and the beauty of new beginnings.
Mayor Williamson said seeing the first blossoms appear was a meaningful reminder of the connection shared between the two regions.
“Seeing the first blossoms appear is a lovely reminder of the connection between Mackay and our sister city of Matsuura,” he said.
“Our sister city relationships are incredibly important in strengthening cultural understanding, friendship and future opportunities between our regions.”
The cherry blossoms are blooming in Matsuura, symbolising renewal and the enduring sister-city partnership with Mackay.
Mayor Greg Williamson pictured during his visit in 2019 to Matsuura as part of the 30th anniversary celebrations. Photo source: Mayor Greg Williamson
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