Mackay’s Future Takes Root At National Tree Day

Fingers in the dirt, boots muddy and smiles wide – more than 300 local students rolled up their sleeves at Glenfields Park last Friday for a hands-on lesson in giving back to the planet. As part of Mackay Regional Council’s 16th annual partnership with Planet Ark for National Tree Day, children from nine schools across the region planted over 3,000 native seedlings grown specially by the Mackay Natural Environment Centre. The event transformed Glenella’s parklands into a buzzing outdoor classroom, with students helping restore the riparian habitat along Goosepond Creek.

Council Parks Planner Tracie Carlsson said the site’s environmental value made it ideal for long-term revegetation, and seeing last year’s growth was a powerful motivator for students. Backed by groups like Catchment Landcare and Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal, the event is part of a broader greening strategy for Mackay. As the trees take root, so too does a vibrant legacy of environmental stewardship.

Fingers in the soil and smiles all around, local students transformed Glenfields Park into a thriving hub of environmental action, planting native seedlings to nurture Mackay’s natural future. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

Roots Of Change
Students And Locals Celebrate National Tree Day

Last Friday, hundreds of local students swapped pencils for planting gloves as Glenfields Park in Glenella came to life with laughter, muddy boots and thousands of native seedlings.

The event marked the 16th year Mackay Regional Council has partnered with Planet Ark for National Tree Day – Australia’s largest community tree planting and nature care initiative.
More than 300 children from nine schools across the region took part, planting native tube stock grown specially for the occasion.

Grade 2 Slade Point State School student Maleayah said, “We’re planting trees today.”

“It’s important because it’s nature, and animals live in the trees.”

It’s simple wisdom from the youngest planters, and a message echoed by experts who’ve helped bring the event to life.

Tracie Carlsson, Parks Planner with Mackay Regional Council, said the Glenfields Park site was chosen for its environmental value and opportunity for regeneration.

“Today we've had nine schools, 312 children from across the region, who have joined us, and over the weekend we’ll be planting a bit over 3,000 tube stock,” she said.

“That’s specialist tube stock that has been grown by our Mackay Natural Environment Centre, and all of the species that would have been here along Gooseponds Creek originally.”

The planting at Glenfields is part of a long-term revegetation effort.

“This is the second event for National Tree Day that we've held here, and what's really lovely about that is the kids can actually see, 12 months on, what the planting is going to look like,” Ms Carlsson said.

She added that the project had been months in the making.

“For everyone here today, it is a labour of love, and when we see what a wonderful result we’re getting here, it’s all worth it.”

Donna Jackson, Senior Projects Officer with local group Catchment Landcare, said getting children involved builds lasting environmental stewardship.

“Everybody has space for a tree. You can keep trees in pots. Every tree you plant helps our environment, and it helps our native species and our wildlife,” she said.

“It can be food for pollinators, like some of our native bees and birds. Get out there, plant some trees, enjoy being in your yard, and enjoy the beautiful weather we have at the moment… before it gets too hot!”

Ricci Churchill, Manager of Safety, Risk and Environment at Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal, has been part of the council’s National Tree Day effort for a decade.

“I’ve come along every year – this is our tenth year helping council,” she said.

“It’s always a different location. We’ve done the river, the Botanic Gardens – this is our second year here, and it’s always great to be involved.”

The tree planting continued on July 27, where members of the public were invited to join the greening of Glenfields Park.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the initiative is part of a multi-year greening strategy to boost riparian vegetation and restore native habitats.

“It’s been fantastic to see how plants we planted last year along Goosepond Creek have thrived in the last 12 months,” he said.

“This not only supports our natural environment, but also creates a greener, healthier future for the region by encouraging people to enjoy the great outdoors.”

As the trees take root, so too does a shared vision – one where students, families and community members grow something lasting together.

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More than 300 students from nine Mackay schools joined forces at Glenfields Park for National Tree Day, planting thousands of native seedlings to help restore the natural environment. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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We might not have hit orbit, but Australia is now officially in the space game — and that’s something worth celebrating.

This week’s ERIS rocket launch from the Bowen Orbital Spaceport didn’t quite go the distance, reaching an estimated altitude somewhere between 50 and 100 metres before returning to Earth. But in the world of rocketry, altitude isn’t everything, especially not on a maiden launch.

As anyone who’s followed spaceflight will tell you, a first launch is rarely flawless. Rockets are complex beasts, requiring thousands of components, perfect timing, and collaboration across aviation, maritime, defence and government. The very act of liftoff is already a triumph. Every second in the air provides priceless data — and every anomaly is an opportunity to learn, iterate, and improve. For Gilmour Space Technologies, TestFLight1 was not a failure, it was ignition.

I was fortunate enough to see a SpaceX rocket launch in person during a trip to the United States in 2022. We visited Cape Canaveral and, during a guided tour, stood in awe before the rocket on the pad during its final preparation. That night, we watched it blast off into orbit, an unforgettable experience that seemed lightyears away from our quiet patch of coastline in North Queensland.

And yet, here we are.

To watch a rocket lift off from our very own Bowen, with local terrain beneath it and an Aussie-built hybrid propulsion system inside, is surreal. We owe a huge congratulations to James and Adam Gilmour and the entire team at Gilmour Space Technologies.

Thanks also to Aussienaut on YouTube, who gave the nation a front-row seat to history with a live stream that captured the moment ERIS kissed the sky.

We’ll be watching, and cheering, as the next chapter in Australia’s space story unfolds. This is just the beginning.

Amanda

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Richglen has proudly donated $31,000 to the region’s two emergency helicopter services, recognising their vital role in supporting workers who travel to and from remote mine sites across Central Queensland.

Through its matched giving program, Richglen employees contribute a portion of their pay to the life-saving services, with the company matching every dollar.

This year’s total donation includes $22,000 to CQ Rescue in Mackay and $9,000 to CapRescue in Rockhampton.

Managing Director Matt Borg said the services were a vital lifeline for Richglen’s workforce.

“For our workforce – whether driving long distances or working on isolated sites – CQ Rescue and CapRescue provide a safety net we hope we never need, but are grateful to have,” he said.

“Their crews are often responding to emergencies in remote locations where time and access matter most.

“It’s great to know they have our back when we’re out bush.

“As Richglen’s workforce grows, so too does its capacity to give.

“The company looks forward to continuing its support in the years ahead, helping to keep these helicopters in the air for the benefit of the entire region.”

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Mackay’s By-Election Candidates Unveiled

On Thursday, 24 July, at the 500 Pavilion, the Mackay community learned that nine candidates will contest the upcoming Mackay Regional Council by-election, set for Saturday, 30 August 2025. This election follows the resignation of former councillor George Christensen on 30 May, with over 90,000 residents expected to participate via a full postal ballot announced by the Electoral Commission of Queensland.

The candidates, consisting of Melissa Milton, Greg Fisher, Andrew Deguara, Ian Christensen, Kimberley Doyle, Anne Baker, Dion Loader, Melanie Laas, and Jeffery Keioskie, bring a diverse and compelling mix of experience and priorities that could shape Mackay’s future. With backgrounds spanning local government service, business ownership, farming, volunteerism, and media production, these contenders reflect a community deeply invested in practical governance and regional progress.

Some candidates draw on long-term council experience and a focus on improving communication with rural residents, aiming to make council projects more transparent and inclusive beyond Mackay’s urban centre. Others highlight their commitment to infrastructure essentials such as road maintenance, park upkeep, and waste management services, recognising these as the foundation for a thriving and functional community.

Will Mackay’s next councillor be the one who champions balance between growth and sustainability, urban and rural needs, tradition and innovation?

Several candidates have underscored the importance of supporting key local industries, notably sugar cane farming, which remains vital to the region’s economy. Advocacy for fair council rates and stronger partnerships with state and federal governments also feature prominently, signalling a desire to maximise funding opportunities and ensure the region’s interests are well represented at higher levels.

Beyond the technical and strategic, the candidates show a strong connection to community life, pledging to energise local events, boost tourism, and foster a shared sense of pride and belonging. Leadership styles vary from pragmatic “no-nonsense” solutions to people-first, inclusive approaches that emphasise respect and professionalism.

Together, this field of candidates offers Mackay residents a chance to choose a leader who not only understands the complexities of regional governance but also shares a vision for vibrant community engagement and sustainable development. As the election approaches, voters will weigh who can best guide Mackay through its next chapter, blending experience, innovation, and heart to serve the region’s diverse needs.

The nine confirmed candidates, listed in ballot paper order, are:

• Melissa Milton
• Greg Fisher
• Andrew Deguara
• Ian Christiansen
• Kimberley Doyle
• Anne Baker
• Dion Loader
• Melanie Laas
• Jeffery Keioskie

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Nine candidates will contest the Mackay Regional Council by-election on Saturday, 30 August 2025, following the resignation of former councillor George Christensen, with a full postal vote set to decide who will represent the region’s diverse and evolving needs. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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OPINION PIECE

The Albanese Labor Government has used its numbers in Parliament to block a proposed Senate Inquiry into the health and future of Australia’s metals manufacturing industry, without providing any explanation for the decision.

The Inquiry, moved by Nationals Senators Susan McDonald and Matt Canavan, was designed to investigate the looming crisis facing the sector, including key processing facilities Glencore’s Mount Isa and Townsville operations.

“These facilities underpin our local economies and are a vital part of Australia’s sovereign capability. Shutting them down would mean significant job losses and a massive blow to our national resilience,” Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox said.

The rejection of the Inquiry comes despite Labor’s own Industry and Innovation Minister, Senator Tim Ayres, recently admitting the Mount Isa closure represents a “very significant economic problem”.

With billions of taxpayers’ funds committed to Labor-designed programs such as the Future Made in Australia plan, the Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility, the Critical Minerals Facility, and the National Reconstruction Fund, time will tell if these programs are tapped into to support these facilities and their workers.

“This government talks up a big game with its commitment to manufacturing, but when it’s time to act, they are nowhere to be seen,” said Mr Willcox.

“Workers, their families and our communities deserve answers and some certainty about their future. Blocking this inquiry sends the exact opposite message. When our metals manufacturing industry shuts down, countries like China and Indonesia fill the void.

“Labor’s decision to block this inquiry is deeply disappointing, but sadly it’s not surprising. For all their talk about building a ‘Future Made in Australia’, this is just more fluff and no substance,” Mr Willcox said.

Andrew Willcox

Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability

Member for Dawson

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The scenic coastal town of Midge Point has welcomed a vital boost to water safety, becoming the newest addition to Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ) as Volunteer Marine Rescue (VMR) Midge Point officially joins the statewide service as its 15th unit.

MRQ Midge Point Unit Commander Gary Considine said waters around the township provided rich fishing and boating opportunities and were a popular spot for locals and visitors to the area.

“The area provides some wonderful opportunities for water activities, but anyone can run into trouble out on the water and if they do, MRQ Midge Point crews will be there to provide support and assistance,” Mr Considine said.

“Our crew are all avid fishers and know the area well, so we stand ready to keep people safe if they need help.

“We’re excited to be the newest members of the service and joining a statewide crew of dedicated marine rescue volunteers.”

MRQ Chief Officer Tony Wulff welcomed MRQ Midge Point into the service and praised the dedication of small units in keeping people safe when out on the water.

“We welcome the commitment of every volunteer who gives up their time to make themselves available to assist people who get into trouble when out on the water,” Mr Wulff said.

“Each volunteer unit is an important link in a vital chain of support along the Queensland coastline.

“By working together, we are able to coordinate resources to deliver assistance where it’s most needed.”

MRQ Midge Point operates from Laguna Quays, supporting the area south of the Whitsunday Islands, out to the southern side of Repulse Bay and as far south as Cape Hillsborough. The unit is on call 24/7 via VHF channel 16 but has a launch time of approximately ½ to 1 hour from Laguna Quays Marina.

Water safety tips:

· Log your journeys from start to finish
· Always wear your lifejacket
· Remember to pack sunscreen, wide-brimmed hat and water (two litres per person)
· If you need help, radio VHF-16 or call Triple Zero (000)
· Check you have extra fuel
· Check the weather forecast before you leave
· Charge your phone and any other devices
· Tell family and friends where you are going.

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Midge Point has strengthened coastal safety as the newest unit of Marine Rescue Queensland, providing vital support to local fishers and boaters across the region with a dedicated volunteer crew ready 24/7. Photo source: Marine Rescue Queensland

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By Hannah McNamara

It’s no secret that Mackay is in the midst of a homelessness crisis, driven by escalating living costs, limited housing availability, and increasingly complex social challenges. In a climate where shelter has become a luxury for many, one initiative offers a glimmer of hope, in the form of three converted buses designed to give those without a roof over their heads a secure place to sleep.

According to the Queensland Council of Social Service (QCOSS), Specialist Homelessness Services in Mackay assisted 3,193 people during the 2023–24 financial year, with nearly one in four cases (22.9%) involving domestic and family violence — a key driver of displacement.

The rental market paints an equally bleak picture. The median weekly rent in Mackay rose 16% to $580 in the same period, pushing affordable accommodation out of reach for many. Meanwhile, 488 households in the region are registered as homeless or at risk on Queensland’s Social Housing Register, facing an average wait of more than 20 months.

Frontline service providers report not only more people in need but also greater complexity in the support they require. Community Accommodation and Support Agency (CASA) Mackay General Manager William Stafford said the demand is unrelenting.

“We get up to 180 walk-ins and calls daily from people needing help, and have daily outreach with about 65 rough sleepers in Mackay city alone,” he said.

In a timely development, Safe Sleep Mackay (SSM) has successfully secured three Sleepbus vehicles — part of a national initiative to provide safe overnight accommodation for those sleeping rough. Each bus is fitted with secure sleep pods, toilets, and basic comforts like phone chargers, giving people a safe place to rest when few other options are available.

Despite the national Sleepbus organisation ceasing operations in June due to financial hardship, SSM was able to receive the final three buses produced by the charity — two for Mackay and one for Sarina. One bus is specifically outfitted for women and children, offering an extra layer of safety and privacy.

Founder of Sleepbus, Simon Rowe, confirmed the milestone after delivering the final vehicle.

“This brings a 10-year journey for me to an end, however I am so grateful to all the amazing organisations that have stepped up to keep safe sleeps happening around the country.”

Rowe had earlier revealed that refurbishing the third bus was a financial challenge, but SSM persisted. As the final bus made its way north, SSM’s Lisa Jamieson shared an update.

“It’s very exciting that we will get three buses.

“There will be some items needed to fit out the later buses for them to be ready to use. We are currently needing some auto electrical support to help find, potentially, a loose wire in the transmission harness of the first bus.

“So, if there is anyone with Auto-electrician skills that can help out, we’d love to hear from them.”

The buses will be owned and managed by Australian Street Aid Project Limited, enabling local oversight and flexibility tailored to the Mackay region’s specific needs.

In response to the broader housing crisis, the Crisafulli Government’s 2025–26 State Budget has allocated $592 million in additional funding for homelessness support and frontline services. This includes $380 million to expand crisis accommodation initiatives and $208.9 million to extend a 20% funding uplift to specialist homelessness services statewide.

Local services set to benefit include CASA, Kalyan Youth Service, Lowanna House, and the St Vincent de Paul Society. The funding aims to bolster support for individuals and families in crisis, however, systemic challenges remain.

Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton acknowledged homelessness stems from ‘a multitude of reasons.’

“What we need to do is make sure they’re catered for as best as we possibly can whilst they’re homeless – and then progress them into housing when it’s possible.”

Dalton says he’s been a vocal supporter of the Sleepbus initiative since its inception.

“I was very much in favour of the Sleepbus when it was first mooted… I could see real need for it for several groups of people.

He described the buses as “temporary, short-term accommodation” that “needs to be well managed,” but recognised their greater value.

“I’d like to see no need for a Sleepbus… but I know there is. And I hope it’s well used – only because I know there are plenty of people who need it.”

As Mackay waits for an official operational date, the arrival of Sleepbus is a significant step forward in the fight against homelessness. While it may be a short-term solution, it’s a critical safety net for those living on the margins.

From riverbanks to parked cars, couch surfing to domestic violence shelters, homelessness in Mackay takes many forms — some visible, many not. In a region where too many sleep in the shadows, these final buses arrive as a quiet answer for those still waiting in the margins for a place to rest.

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Many of Mackay’s homeless community find refuge by riverbanks, in cars, or in tents quietly settled around town.

Three Sleepbuses have arrived, with two to serve Mackay and one dedicated to Sarina. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Mackay students are set to take centre stage this month, joining some of Australia’s top professional opera vocalists for a special performance at the MECC.

Opera Australia is Australia’s largest performing arts company, presenting over 700 performances to more than half a million people every year.

The company will return to Mackay with its annual national tour, showcasing crowd favourite La Bohème with a choir of local students as part of the company’s Regional Children’s Chorus program.

The program involves recruiting a local chorus of students in each participating town to perform as part of the touring production, enabling them to take the first steps on their own special journeys with opera.

Led by Choir Leader Nicole Thomson, the students have been hard at work rehearsing, learning music, harmonies, and Italian lyrics – quite the feat for some of the students with limited experience in a language other than English.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for regional singers, they’re learning so much and are all looking forward to performing on stage with Opera Australia,” Ms Thomson said.

For many of the students, this will be their first taste of live performance in front of an audience.

“We can’t wait to showcase our hard work on stage at the MECC, it will be an exciting night for all involved” she continued.

Opera Australia will delight Mackay audiences with the original Italian version of La Bohème, with English surtitles. Led by conductor Simon Bruckard, the cast features some of Australia’s brightest operatic stars including sopranos Danita Weatherstone and Maia Andrews as Mimì, tenors John Longmuir and Nick Kirkup as Rodolfo, sopranos Cathy-Di Zhang and Sarah Prestwidge as Musetta, and baritones Andrew Williams and Benjamin Del Borrello as Marcello.

Director Dean Bryant said, "This is a story about a group of young artists dealing with all the huge things in life for the first time. Growing up in regional Australia, I had the same passion and urgency to be heard, to fall in love, to live, so it's particularly exciting for me to be taking this production, set in Paris in the 1970s, across the country.”

Tickets to Opera Australia’s La Bohème can be purchased at the Box Office on 4961 9777 or online through themecc.com.au.

What: The MECC & Opera Australia presents: La Bohème
When: Thursday 31 July 2025, 7.30pm
Where: MECC Auditorium
Tickets: www.themecc.com.au

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Mackay students will take centre stage alongside Opera Australia’s cast in La Bohème at the MECC this month, performing live as part of the national tour’s Regional Children’s Chorus program. Photo supplied

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Nine-year-old Olivia Hand has emerged as a shining star at the Mackay Show, taking out the Patron’s Champion of the Show award for her impressive entries across multiple Pavilion categories.

From tie-dye and photography to cupcakes and Lego, Olivia’s diverse submissions captured the attention of judges and organisers alike. The young talent placed in almost every section she entered, earning firsts for her decorated box, melted bead art, and Lego creation, demonstrating a flair for creativity well beyond her years.

“She excelled in pretty much most things she entered,” said Olivia’s mum, Tegan Hand.

“She’s always been a creative kid, either drawing, doing crafts, art classes, or taking photos.

“She’s just always loved it.”

Olivia submitted entries in four Pavilion categories, across Arts & Crafts, Home Economics, Photography, and Artwork, meeting the key requirement for the Patron’s Award, which is presented each year to encourage young people to get involved and keep creativity alive.

“She entered in four or more sections, which is part of the criteria for the award,” Tegan said.

Creativity certainly runs in the family. Tegan herself won first place for one of three photography entries this year, while Olivia’s older brother Thomas entered several categories and performed strongly.

While Thomas had a strong showing, this year’s Patron’s Champion was awarded to Olivia individually.

Mr Robert Denman, Patron of the Mackay Show Association, awarded Olivia $500 and a trophy. A retired cane and cattle farmer, Mr Denman is 87 years old and has been involved with the Mackay Show for 72 years. His family farm is the oldest family-held property in Mackay and has been connected to the Denman family for more than 150 years.

Mr Denman donates the award each year as a way of encouraging local children to participate in their regional show and celebrate the spirit of the Pavilion.

While Olivia’s older brother Thomas also entered and did well, this year’s Patron’s Champion was awarded to Olivia as an individual.

“They wanted to award it to the whole family, but in the end, Olivia received it, and so now she’s sharing the prize with her brother,” Tegan said.

The win came as a welcome surprise.

“She was definitely excited and proud… she did really well,” her mum said.

Whether it’s snapping a sunset on her mum’s phone or building something imaginative from scratch, Olivia’s passion for creativity is clear, and her family couldn’t be prouder.

“She’s always grabbing my phone and saying, ‘Mum, the outside looks nice,’ and taking photos,” Tegan said.

With a legacy of community spirit behind her and talent in abundance, Olivia’s future looks bright, and beautifully imaginative.

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Nine-year-old Olivia Hand was named Patron’s Champion at the Mackay Show for her outstanding creativity across multiple Pavilion categories, receiving a $500 award from longtime Mackay Show patron Robert Denman. Photo supplied

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Mackay SHS Students Gain Skills In Animal Care

Every Friday, a group of five Year 11 and 12 students, including Brad Durham, Tui Barber, Jaleesa Bassett, Savannah Bornman and Neveah Douglas, step outside the classroom and into the Happy Paws Happy Hearts program, gaining real-world experience in animal care.

With just four weeks remaining in the program, the students have impressed facilitators with their growing confidence and hands-on skills. From training kittens and puppies to preparing meals for shelter dogs and bathing them, the teens are getting a taste of what it takes to work in the animal welfare sector.

They’ve also taken part in lessons on animal anatomy, learning about horses, rats and guinea pigsknowledge that could prove useful in a range of future career paths.
The program not only supports animal shelters but is also shaping the students’ futures, providing them with practical skills, professional insight and a renewed sense of purpose.

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Each Friday, five senior students gain hands-on animal care experience through the Happy Paws Happy Hearts program, building skills and confidence that prepare them for future careers in animal welfare. Photo source: Mackay SHS (Facebook)

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Dr Danica O’Brien Joins Hanly Dental Studio

There’s a new face at Hanly Dental Studio – and she’s helping Mackay smile with compassion, confidence and clinical care.

Dr Danica O’Brien, a proud local and James Cook University graduate, has returned home to provide quality dental treatment with a gentle, country-hearted approach. From routine check-ups to cosmetic care and emergency appointments, Danica brings precision and warmth to every patient experience.

“Dentistry is more than fixing teeth,” she says.

“It’s about easing pain, restoring confidence and building trust.”

At Hanly Dental Studio, patients are welcomed like family – and that’s exactly how Danica wants it.

“We’re here to listen and help you feel comfortable in the chair,” she says.

“You’re not alone. It’s okay to feel anxious – what matters is that you’ve taken the first step.”

That empathy is matched by experience. Hanly Dental Studio offers a full spectrum of services, including general dentistry, cosmetic treatments, children’s dentistry, snoring and grinding solutions, crowns and bridges and same-day emergency care – all in one trusted location.

Behind the scrubs and scaler is a horse-riding, kind-hearted local who recharges on her family’s cattle property in Habana. Her grounded presence has made her a favourite with patients of all ages, especially those who haven’t seen a dentist in years.

“What stands out the most to me, are the cases where the transformation goes beyond just teeth and truly impacts someone’s life and opinion on dentists in general.

Danica also reminds patients that pain is not the only indicator something's wrong.

“Pain is often a late-stage sign of dental issues,” she explains.

“The misconception is that if you’re not experiencing symptoms like pain or sensitivity, everything is fine. In reality, dental problems can develop silently, which is why routine check-ups and cleans are essential for early detection and prevention.”

With state-of-the-art facilities and a whole-hearted approach, Hanly Dental Studio is redefining what it means to feel safe in the chair. And for Danica, dentistry is a partnership rooted in trust, comfort and care.

“Whether someone comes in with a toothache, for cosmetic work or just a clean, I see every visit as a chance to support their health and confidence.

“Seeing patients leave with a healthy, confident smile warms my heart. I want people to know their comfort and wellbeing are at the centre of everything I do.”

To celebrate Danica’s arrival, Hanly Dental Studio is offering a welcome special:
$249 for a comprehensive exam, clean and x-rays with Dr Danica O’Brien.

Book now and experience gentle, personalised dental care – right here in the heart of Mackay.

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Mackay Regional Council has fourteen new positions available for its 2026 Apprentice and Trainee Program and they’re not just for school leavers.

Workplace diversity and flexibility are a major focus of the Apprentice and Trainee intake program.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the Apprentice and Trainee program equips participants with practical skills and experience that pave the way for long-term career success in the region.

"It's a fantastic opportunity for individuals to combine formal study with on-the-job learning, often leading to fulfilling careers right here in the Mackay region," Mayor Williamson said.

“With roles across the board, from libraries to local laws and water services – there is something for everyone,” he added.

"Council is a fantastic place to work and we encourage people from all walks of life to consider taking on a role in our workforce."

There are opportunities in a variety of industries, including:

   Live Production and Staging Trainee (MECC)
   Local Laws Trainee
   Youth Worker Trainee
   Horticulture Trainee
   Civil Construction Trainee
   Water Treatment Trainee
   Apprentice Plumber
   Library Services Trainee
   Business Trainee
   Information Technology Trainee
   Apprentice Chef (MECC)
   Apprentice Electrician
   Apprentice Mechanic (Small Engine)
   Apprentice Heavy Vehicle Mechanic

Council encourages applications from Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people, anyone re-entering the workforce, those from a non-English speaking background, individuals with a disability, impairment or long-term condition, school leavers or an adult worker wishing to change careers or gain new skills.

Applications for the 2026 Apprentice and Trainee Program are now open. Visit mackay.qld.gov.au/traineeintake to apply today.

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Fourteen different apprenticeships and traineeships are being offered at council for 2026 (Photo Supplied)

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A new website has officially been launched by the Finch Hatton Progress Association, providing locals and visitors with a central online hub to discover everything this vibrant township has to offer.

Located at the foot of the Eungella Range in the lush Upper Pioneer Valley, Finch Hatton is fast gaining a reputation as one of Queensland’s hidden gems — and now, thanks to www.finchhatton.org.au, that gem is easier to explore than ever.

Developed by the Finch Hatton Progress Association, the site is a celebration of the town’s unique identity, combining stunning natural beauty, strong community values and a growing adventure tourism scene. It offers an accessible, modern platform to promote local businesses, share community updates and encourage tourism to the region.

Finch Hatton Progress Association spokespersons say the aim was to create a one-stop destination for residents and visitors alike.

“We wanted something that reflects who we are — a town proud of its past, engaged in the present, and excited about its future,” they said.

The site features detailed sections on local events, community news, small businesses, and adventure opportunities including bushwalking, waterfall exploration, and the world-famous Finch Hatton Gorge. It also tracks major projects like the Pioneer Valley Rail Trail and the Stage 1 Mountain Bike Network, which are helping transform the area into a hub for eco-tourism and outdoor recreation.

Whether you're looking for the next market day, a weekend escape, or the best coffee and cane fields to photograph — www.finchhatton.org.au is the place to start.

It’s a major step forward for the town’s digital presence and an open invitation to locals and tourists alike to connect, explore and belong.

Visit the new site today and experience the beating heart of the Pioneer Valley — Finch Hatton.

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Shaye Gaviglio From St Brendan’s Catholic Primary School Mackay

The Spirit of Catholic Education Awards are presented annually to individuals or teams from each of Queensland’s five dioceses, recognising outstanding contributions to the life of the Catholic education community. These contributions may include demonstrating integrity in leadership, improving equity in education, building Catholic identity, providing service to others, or supporting school communities through excellence in teamwork.

This year, Catholic Education – Diocese of Rockhampton has announced Shaye Gaviglio, Assistant Principal: Religious Education (APRE) at St Brendan’s Catholic Primary School, Mackay, as the 2025 recipient of the Spirit of Catholic Education Award.

Gaviglio said she was both surprised and humbled by the recognition.

“There are so many people working in our schools every day who are worthy of this award,” she said.

“The fact that people went out of their way to nominate me, and that I was selected from among all the nominees, I’m very humbled and very appreciative.”

Having been with St Brendan’s since its foundation in 2015, Gaviglio has played a key leadership role in helping the school grow and establish its identity.

“It’s been my honour and privilege to be at St Brendan’s since it opened. Being part of setting up a new school is a fantastic opportunity,” she said.

“It takes a lot of work, but it’s incredibly rewarding.”

Shaye has led transformative changes that significantly improved teaching, learning, and equity at St Brendan’s. Her initiatives created classrooms where every learner feels valued and supported, especially in the wellbeing space. She was instrumental in developing the school’s Health & Wellbeing program, designed to improve student engagement and self-esteem.

This program has evolved over the past five years to include the Berry Street and The Resilience Project models. She also tailored the Responsible Thinking process to ensure students are nurtured, valued and respected as they reflect on their actions.

As a result, the school community has become more inclusive, collaborative, and achievement-focused. Through her vision and commitment to equity, she has ensured every student, regardless of background or ability, has the opportunity to succeed and thrive. This is particularly supported through her consistent focus on clear, calm, and predictable routines.

In her role as APRE, Shaye guided teachers in implementing the new Religious Education Curriculum and continues to provide support with teaching, learning, assessment, and reporting.

She is adept at embedding Catholic Social Teachings through both curricular and non-curricular activities, such as promoting Earth Day initiatives, organising charity drives, and inviting relevant guest speakers. Shaye was also instrumental in creating the pedagogical model of St Brendan's, based on the Ignatian Pedagogical Paradigm, a model for teaching and learning in a Jesuit School. With the school given an Ignatian charism, Shaye saw the opportunity to weave the benefits of the model into teaching and learning practices, focusing on the holistic development of students and offering a versatile approach for diverse learning environments.

One of Shaye’s favourite quotes is by St Mary MacKillop: “Never see a need without doing something about it.”

Shaye shares this regularly with those around her and lives it daily, often responding proactively to needs before they are realised by others. Her nurturing and pastoral nature is highly regarded within the school community.

Gaviglio emphasised the collaborative nature of her work and the commitment of the entire school staff.

“It’s all about the kids. That’s why we’re here,” she said.

“Everyone goes that extra mile because we want the best for them. It’s a team effort, and that’s what makes our school great.”

The award will be presented as part of the 2025 State Launch of Catholic Education Week, to be held in Rockhampton on Wednesday, 30 July.

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Shaye Gaviglio of St Brendan’s Mackay has received the 2025 Spirit of Catholic Education Award for her exceptional leadership and dedication to student wellbeing and faith.

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Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank is once again backing the future of local youth, launching its 2026 Sarina State High School (SSHS) Scholarship Program.

Applications are now open for two $2000 scholarships, available to students who will enter Year 11 at SSHS in 2026. The program is designed to support recipients with their studies and personal development throughout their senior schooling years.

More than just a financial boost, the scholarships aim to build confidence and enhance engagement with school and community life.

Community Bank Sarina Deputy Chair Maree Franettovich said the initiative reflects the bank’s deep commitment to the region.

“Supporting youth through education, which is part of our broader commitment to investing in the future of this region,” Ms Franettovich said.

“Scholarships are more than financial support – they provide our younger generation with the confidence and tools to proceed through their final years of school to the best of their ability.

“We believe it’s so important to invest in youth, supporting them to thrive in their education and encouraging community involvement that makes a lasting difference.”

The scholarship program recognises students who demonstrate consistent effort in their studies and actively contribute to school and community life.

One student who has already benefited is current Year 12 student Sophie Steindl, who received a scholarship in a previous round.

“When I first received the scholarship, I couldn’t believe it,” Miss Steindl said.

“It has made a big difference by taking away financial stress in my senior years.

“I have now chosen subjects I’d otherwise have thought were out of reach, and the support has let me focus more on school work and less on costs.

“If you’re thinking about applying, I encourage you to do so. There’s no time like now.”

Applications for the 2026 SSHS Scholarships close on the 31st of August and interested students can apply by emailing executive@sarinacommunity.com.au or by calling 0435 537 012 for more information.

Community Bank Sarina also supports CQUniversity students through a separate scholarship program. For updates and future opportunities, follow Community Bank Sarina on Facebook.

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2023 Community Bank Sarina SSHS scholarship recipient and current Grade 12 Student, Sophie Steindl. Photo supplied

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