The Toastmasters Area 14 Conference will take place on Saturday, 25 October 2025, hosted by the Mackay Regional Council Toastmasters Club. This year’s theme is “The Art of Speaking Stronger Together.

The event will showcase the very best in public speaking, with contestants from the Mackay Clubs competing in four contests: Impromptu, where speakers think quickly on their feet; Evaluation, demonstrating the art of constructive feedback; Humorous, guaranteed to bring plenty of laughs; and the prestigious International Speech Contest, where powerful and inspiring messages are shared.

Winners from the Area 14 Conference will go on to represent the region at the Northern Division Conference with Toastmasters from Rockhampton to Cairns attending, being held in Mackay on the 7th February 2026. From there, competitors have the chance to advance all the way to the Toastmasters International World Championship of Public Speaking held in America.

Mackay is home to five Toastmasters clubs, each offering a supportive environment to grow communication and leadership skills. Members gain confidence in public speaking, learn how to deliver effective feedback, and develop skills that are invaluable in both work and everyday life.

Whether you’re interested in competing, improving your skills, or simply seeing some of the best speakers in action, the Area 14 Conference is an event not to be missed.

Mackay Regional Council Employees, developing their contest skills in preparation for the Area 14 Conference. Left to right: Beno Benty, Muxith Habib, Linda Egbo, Tara Lambert, and Luke Cimpa. Photo supplied

Mackay’s warm tropical climate brings sunshine almost year-round, making it a great place to enjoy the outdoors. However, the strong sun in North Queensland comes with health risks that should not be overlooked. Too much exposure can lead to sunburn, dehydration, heat stress, and an increased risk of skin cancer.

UV levels in Mackay are rated as extreme for much of the year, even when it's cloudy or cooler. You can get sunburnt in as little as 10 minutes during peak UV hours, usually between 10am and 3pm. UV radiation is invisible, so it’s not always obvious when your skin is at risk. That’s why using protection every day is so important.

Queensland has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world, and people in this region are particularly exposed due to the climate and lifestyle. Preventive steps are simple but essential. Wear a long-sleeved shirt, apply SPF30 or higher sunscreen every two hours, wear a wide-brimmed hat, stay in the shade when possible, and use sunglasses that meet Australian standards.

It’s also important to stay hydrated. The heat and humidity can quickly lead to dehydration or heat-related illness. Keep a water bottle on hand, take breaks, and know the early signs of heat stress such as dizziness, nausea or fatigue.

By building sun safety into your daily routine, you can enjoy the best of Mackay’s lifestyle while protecting your health now and into the future.

Mackay Reflects On National Police Remembrance Day

By Hannah McNamara

Mackay paused in quiet respect as police officers, past and present, marched through the city in a heartfelt tribute to colleagues who lost their lives in service. On Monday, 29 September, the streets from Brisbane Street to St Patrick’s Catholic Church were filled with the steady presence of the blue family, joined by friends, families, and community members from across the region, marking National Police Remembrance Day.

Earlier in the week, a candlelit vigil at Old Town Hall Park offered a moment of reflection, allowing the city to honour the fallen and consider the sacrifices made by officers and their loved ones.

Superintendent Dean Cavanagh described the day as a solemn reminder of both loss and solidarity, highlighting the enduring strength of the police community and the support of the wider public. Retired officer and Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton reflected on the courage and dedication of those who continue to serve.

Mackay came together in solemn tribute on National Police Remembrance Day, with officers, families, and community members honouring fallen colleagues through a candlelit vigil and city march. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Candlelight And Comradeship
Mackay Pays Respect To QPS Officers Lost

By Hannah McNamara

Throughout Mackay’s CBD, the sound of polished boots echoed down Brisbane Street, accompanied by the solemn notes of bagpipes, as serving and retired officers, families, and friends marched in tribute to the men and women in blue who gave their lives protecting the community.

On Monday, 29 September, Mackay’s city heart turned blue as members of the Queensland Police Service, alongside retired officers and community supporters, made their way from Brisbane Street to St Patrick’s Catholic Church. The march brought together officers and community members from near and far, to honour National Police Remembrance Day.

A few days earlier, on Thursday evening, Mackay Police hosted a vigil at Old Town Hall Park on Sydney Street, where the soft glow of candlelight offered quiet moments of reflection ahead of Monday’s march.

Superintendent Dean Cavanagh said, “The blue family of the Queensland Police Service extends well beyond our current serving members.

“It includes retired officers, both sworn and unsworn, as well as the friends and families of every police officer who has served before.”

He said while the day carried a sense of sadness, it was also an opportunity to acknowledge the unity that binds officers and the communities they serve.

“It can be a very sad and solemn day, but it’s also an important moment to stop and reflect… to look around and see the community, family, friends, and colleagues who come together to remember our lost officers and acknowledge that we’re part of a strong and supportive community.”

Superintendent Cavanagh said policing could be both dangerous and rewarding, and days like this highlighted the importance of solidarity.

“We gather not only as the blue family but alongside the community, supporting each other through the good times and the bad,” he said.

While the Mackay Whitsunday District has lost officers in the past, Superintendent Cavanagh said no new names were added to the roll of honour this year, and it’s a hope he wishes will continue.

“We stop, reflect, and remember their legacy and service. Our wish is that no more names are added to that honour roll.”

“It’s wonderful to see such strong support from both the service and the public,” Superintendent Cavanagh said.

Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton, a retired police officer, also reflected on the day’s meaning.

“As a retired police officer, this day holds deep significance. I reflect on the courage, sacrifice, and quiet strength of those we've lost — and the heavy toll it leaves on their families and fellow officers.”

“To those still wearing the badge — thank you for your unwavering dedication, your resilience, and the tireless work you do to protect our communities every single day.”

With Honour They Served

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Superintendent Dean Cavanagh

Mayor Greg Williamson and Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton MP laying a reef for the fallen police officers.

Officers, families, and community members marched through Mackay’s CBD to St Patrick’s Church, honouring fallen police. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Hi lovely readers,

Can you believe it’s October already? Cue all the Christmas fanatics cheering and unpacking their boxes of decorations, ready to adorn their homes early! My mum is one of those early Christmas fans – but I love her for it (lol).

It’s been a busy week, with an even bigger month ahead, with plenty of fun activities and community events on the calendar. You might just spot me with my camera at this Saturday’s Mackay Family Carnival… so get ready to say cheese!

On another note, it’s been a big week for our region, with the official opening of the $18M Queensland University of Technology (QUT) Mackay-based Pioneer Biopilot – fascinating stuff! You can read more about it on page 3.

Sport in Mackay is thriving as always – our BMX riders have been smashing out Queensland titles, our surf lifesaving legends continue to impress, and the Mackay Tennis Association recently hosted a lively tournament. Our regular sporting contributors, including Bridge and Road Runners, never miss a beat either! Catch all the action on pages 31–33.

Last Thursday and Monday, I attended two ceremonies honouring the Queensland Police Service and all officers in blue who have lost their lives while protecting their community.

Let it be a reminder to always count our blessings, and I pray you all have a wonderful week ahead!

• Hannah

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A Mother’s Heartfelt Thank You To Caring Kids

A simple act of kindness at a local play centre has touched the heart of a Mackay mother, who has praised a group of young girls and their parents for showing compassion and inclusion toward her daughter.

Posting to a local community page, the mother shared how her 12-year-old daughter, who has an intellectual disability, was warmly welcomed by other children while visiting the Kidz Life Play Centre with her carer.

“Unfortunately, I wasn’t there to see it myself,” she said, “but thank you to the parents and the little girls at Kidz Life Play Centre this morning.”

She explained that her children had not always experienced kindness from their peers. “They haven’t always had the best experience with other children and bullying as they are different,” she wrote.

“But this morning a few little girls included my 12-year-old intellectually disabled daughter and spent some time playing with her,” she shared.

The heartfelt message quickly resonated with the community, drawing praise for both the children and the parents who had clearly encouraged empathy and understanding.

“Thank you so much for teaching your children about inclusion,” she said. “You just made my daughter’s and my day.”

In a world often too quick to judge, the mother’s story highlights that compassion, when taught and modelled, can shift someone’s day, in the most meaningful way!

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Queensland University of Technology (QUT) has unveiled an $18 million transformation of its Mackay-based Pioneer BioPilot, now Australia’s leading pilot-scale fermentation facility. Backed by federal and state funding and linked with the Food and Beverage Accelerator (FaBA), the upgrade positions Mackay at the heart of Queensland’s push to become an Asia-Pacific biomanufacturing hub.

Senator Corinne Mulholland said, “This investment positions Australia as a serious player in the global bioeconomy and, importantly, it will make Mackay one of the driving forces for our future economy.”

“Like many, I am passionate about ensuring that Queensland’s regional centres see the economic benefits of transitioning to Net Zero by 2050.

“This transition is not just an investment in our planet, but an investment in the jobs, skills and technology of tomorrow. These facilities are a clear demonstration of that.”

The global bioeconomy, currently valued at US$4 trillion, is predicted by the World Bioeconomy Forum to grow to US$30 trillion by 2050, equivalent to a third of total global economic value.

QUT Centre for Agriculture and the Bioeconomy researcher Professor Ian O’Hara said the QUT Pioneer BioPilot, formerly called the Mackay Renewable Biocommodities Pilot Plant (MRBPP), had played a crucial role for industry for the past 15 years in the real-world translation of research, converting biomass such as sugarcane biogases into biofuels, green chemicals and bioproducts.

“The QUT Pioneer BioPilot is pioneering research and innovation in biomanufacturing, working with government and industry to position Queensland as a globally connected innovation hub,” Professor O’Hara said.

“Real-world impact is at the heart of QUT’s research commitment, where knowledge and innovation tackle global challenges and deliver locally grounded solutions.”

Assistant Minister for Primary Industry Development, Water and Western Queensland Sean Dillon said, “This is about turning Queensland’s agricultural strengths into global opportunities, aligning with our bold vision for primary industries in Prosper 2050.”

“The upgraded MRBPP gives local researchers and industry the tools to turn biomass into high-value products – right here in Mackay.”

Professor O’Hara, who is also Deputy Dean of the QUT Faculty of Engineering, said a key feature of the cutting-edge facility was its fermentation bioreactors, which allowed companies to fast-track product development in the food and beverage sector.

“No one else can provide the capability we are offering Australian industries through the QUT Pioneer BioPilot,” Professor O’Hara said.

“Precision fermentation is a technology that allows us to convert sugars into a range of other food ingredients and products in brewery-style fermentation tanks.”

“The advantages of precision fermentation are that it can lead to new food products and ingredients that supplement production through traditional methods, providing sustainability benefits and increasing consumer choice.”

Using the QUT Pioneer BioPilot, QUT researchers are partnering with Eclipse Ingredients and other institutions in a $5.5 million project to commercialise human lactoferrin, a powerful protein in breastmilk and immune cells with immune-boosting, iron-enhancing, anti-inflammatory properties.

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Queensland University of Technology has unveiled an $18 million upgrade to its Mackay-based Pioneer BioPilot, establishing Australia’s leading pilot-scale fermentation facility and positioning the region as a hub for biomanufacturing, innovation, and sustainable food and bio-product development. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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The Nebo community and surrounding regions were left in shock on Sunday evening, 28 September, when a light aircraft crashed, claiming the life of its sole occupant.

The sudden loss has devastated family, friends, and the local community, as emergency services responded to the harrowing scene.

Police are preparing a report for the coroner following the death of the 47-year-old pilot in Nebo Creek.

Emergency services were called shortly after 6pm to a private property after reports of the aircraft crash.

The pilot tragically died at the scene.

Authorities have confirmed that the Forensic Crash Unit is investigating the circumstances leading up to the incident.

At the time of print, police had not released further details, and inquiries remain ongoing as the community mourns this sudden tragedy.

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OPINION PIECE

Coal has powered Australia for generations, and it still does today. Coal is the central reason the lights turn on, the fridge stays cold, and the air con works. Coal remains the cheapest form of electricity in Australia, and without it, our country would be vastly different, in a poorer way.

But it is not just the electricity it provides. Coal provides our country with economic security. It drives investment, and the revenue raised in taxes and exports generates the wealth to fund much of our vital public infrastructure. It is not just the thermal coal that runs our power stations; it is also the metallurgical coal exported around the world to manufacture steel.

In the Bowen Basin alone, there are around 44,000 people employed directly in the coal industry. That is not counting people employed in service support roles, the ports, the rail and in the businesses that get a boost when these workers spend locally.

As the member for Dawson and the Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability, I am acutely aware of the role coal plays not only in our Central Queensland region but in the success of our country. To the workers in the industry and associated businesses, I say thank you. Whether you're driving trucks in the Bowen Basin, welding buckets in Paget, loading ships at the ports, or running a small business that supports the industry, your hard work is what keeps this country powering ahead. Your work matters. Your job matters. You matter.

But, unfortunately, our coal industry is under attack, not from overseas, but from policy decisions being made in our own backyard. The Albanese Government talks a big game about jobs and regional Australia, but their actions are driving investment away from the very industry that helped build this nation. In sad news, major miners BHP and Anglo recently made sweeping redundancies on the back of lower confidence and return on investment. My thoughts are with every family touched by this news during this time.

It may be easy to attack the mining companies for these decisions, but we have to ask why these decisions are made. Under the current Labor government, it's getting harder and harder tojustify investment when the goalposts keep shifting and the Prime Minister would rather prop up wind and solar. The truth is, these are businesses with shareholders (including many super fund holders) that are expecting to see a return on investment, and if those returns are not what they should be, then the investment goes elsewhere. Think about this - would you choose to put your money in the bank with the lower or higher interest rate returns?

Not long before these cuts were announced, the heads of BHP and Rio Tinto were meeting with Trump, and you can probably guess what those meetings were about – "Come and invest in the USA", where coal, and by and large mining, is not demonised but encouraged. The major mining companies are being very clear. The investment landscape needs to be more than viable. It needs to be a safe bet.

Coal is more than a resource. It's a sovereign asset. It's the backbone of regional Queensland. And if we don't protect it, we risk losing not just jobs, but the heartbeat of towns right across Central Queensland and beyond.

Coal keeps the lights on. Australia can not afford for investment in the Coal industry to dry up. Backing the Coal industry is backing Australia

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In the Community

As we edge closer to Christmas and the end of the year, it’s been another full fortnight of activity in our region and in Parliament. I’ve recently had the pleasure of attending a range of events across Mackay. A highlight was launching the new SES Operational Support Unit trailer, which will serve the Mackay–Isaac–Whitsunday district as a mobile command centre during power outages and emergencies. A big thank you to our SES volunteers for their vital work.

I also marched alongside serving and retired police officers for Police Remembrance Day — a solemn occasion to honour those who have given their lives in the line of duty. It's a powerful reminder of the risks our officers face every day to keep us safe.

In Parliament

Last week, I participated in the Presentation of the Address-in-Reply to Her Excellency the Honourable Dr Jeanette Young AC PSM. This tradition gave Members — including first-timers like myself — the chance to reflect on our goals and speak on behalf of our communities. The Address was formally presented at Government House, reinforcing the strength of our democratic institutions.

Parliament also passed two significant reforms:

• Good Character Evidence Reform: Under the Penalties and Sentences (Sexual Offences) and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2025, Queensland is now the first state to limit the use of character references in court to cases where they show genuine rehabilitation or reduced risk of reoffending.
• Victim Impact Statements: Courts can no longer assume that silence from victims means no harm was done. This ensures the seriousness of crimes is not diminished by trauma-induced silence.

While in Brisbane, I had the privilege of attending two significant cultural celebrations: the 25th Anniversary of South Sea Islander Recognition, a powerful reflection on history, resilience, and cultural pride; and the African Community Reception, which showcased the vibrancy, contributions, and unity of Queensland’s African-Australian communities.

Good News for Mackay

We’ve had some great funding outcomes recently:
• Mackay Hockey: $800,000 for a new indoor facility
• Great Barrier Reef Arena: $23.5 million to complete Stage 2 upgrades
• Mackay Netball: $1.6 million for shade protection for spectators
These investments are a big win for our sporting community and will benefit our region for years to come.

Get Involved

There’s still time to sign the petition for Women’s Change Rooms at the Mackay Rugby League Grounds — let’s get our athletes the facilities they deserve.

Grants Now Open:

• Gambling Community Benefit Fund – Up to $35,000 available; closes 31 October.
• Tourism Icons Investment Fund – Up to $5 million on a 50:50 co-contribution basis for high-impact tourism infrastructure. EOIs close 8 October.
• Honouring Queensland Veterans Grants –
o Capital Works: Up to $250,000 for memorials and infrastructure
o Community Projects: Up to $75,000 for commemorations and education, now open to schools, P&Cs, councils, and non-profits

If your organisation needs help applying, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

As I near the end of my first year in office, I’m proud of what we’ve achieved together. It’s been a privilege to listen, learn, and advocate for Mackay. I look forward to continuing the work we’ve started.

Until next time.

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A/Inspector Mitch Bensen with Nigel Dalton MP at the Police Remembrance Day

Nigel Dalton MP at Government House – The Hon Pat Weir MP, The Hon Trevor Watts MP, James Lister MP, Dr Christian Rowan MP, The Hon Sam O’Connor MP, Jim McDonald MP, Kerri-Anne Dooley MP, Ariana Doolan MP

Nigel Dalton MP at the launch of the SES Operational Support Unit Trailer. Photos supplied

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Mackay Regional Council has released the draft Mackay Region Housing Strategy, aiming to address a growing mismatch between current housing stock and the evolving needs of residents. The strategy is designed to create more diverse, accessible, and affordable housing across the Mackay and Whitsunday regions.

A recent review of local housing trends highlighted a key concern: while 60 per cent of households in the region comprise just one to two people, only 18 per cent of current housing caters to this demographic. In contrast, 85 per cent of existing homes are detached dwellings, with 90 per cent of those offering three or more bedrooms. Detached homes have dominated the market, making up 95 per cent of all building approvals since 2015.

Mayor Greg Williamson said smaller households are expected to be the biggest growth segment over the next two decades, and housing supply must evolve to match.

“What this strategy aims to do is ensure there is greater diversity of housing in well-located areas, with good access to employment, shops, community services, parklands and public transport,” he said.

“It’s well documented that our community’s housing needs are changing and community feedback is critical to guide future planning and development.

“Residents are the primary users of housing and bring lived experience and knowledge that can help inform our planning decisions.”

Mayor Williamson also stressed the importance of enabling older residents to age in place, saying a variety of housing types – including townhouses, units and multi-dwelling blocks – is essential for liveability and affordability.

The draft strategy not only focuses on future needs but also seeks to address why many approved residential lots remain undeveloped.

“There are almost 5,000 residential lots with a form of planning approval that are yet to be developed,” Mayor Williamson said.

“This backlog isn’t new. In fact, the number of undeveloped lots has sat at more than 4,000 since 2008.”

He added, “It’s important to note that while council administers the Planning Scheme, it doesn’t build houses. Housing is a shared responsibility between council, developers and other stakeholders like the State Government.”

In support of housing development, the region is also set to benefit from $41.66 million in funding under the Crisafulli Government’s $2 billion Residential Activation Fund (RAF). The funding will accelerate eight critical infrastructure projects across Mackay and the Whitsundays, enabling new housing in Cannonvale, Proserpine, Marian, Mirani, Sarina, Beaconsfield and Rural View.

Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jarrod Bleijie said, “The Crisafulli Government’s landmark $2 billion Residential Activation Fund is delivering for Mackay and the Whitsundays with a $41.66 million investment set to fast-track eight critical projects and unlock much-needed housing for Queenslanders.”

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The Mackay SES unit unveiled its new Operational Support Unit (OSU) trailer last Thursday, September 25, marking a significant boost in capability as the service celebrates its 50th year.

The OSU will provide advanced capacity for land and water searches, including the use of new drones, and will act as a mobile operational hub in remote locations for SES, QPS, council and other services during disasters.

SES event co-ordinator Karyn Donnelly said, “This new trailer for the Mackay SES unit, along with the accompaniment of drones, marks a special time for the SES unit, for QPS and for council as we can now provide more technologically based capacity to assist our community when required.”

The trailer is also equipped to strengthen communications in impacted areas.

“It will not replace the emergency operation centre during major events, but it will enhance our capability in those areas where communication is severely impacted,” she added.

Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton commended the work of SES volunteers, acknowledging the vital role they play in emergencies.

“SES is such an important part of the jigsaw in the event that anything happens,” he said.

“We appreciate what you do all the time and we are so glad to see that your communications now will be enhanced so that those operations will be better.”

Mr Dalton also recognised the commitment of volunteers across the region.

“I really thank every single SES volunteer here for the time and effort they put into being a member of this fantastic service… I really do thank you all, from the bottom of my heart… Well done, and keep up the great work.”

Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson said the investment would increase the region’s resilience.

“What this will do here right now is increase our capability of land and sea searches, not just by having this transportable communication base, but also by launching today our ability to do a lot more with drone coverage,” Mayor Williamson said.

“It is a fantastic piece of the kit and it’s great to have this on board in our community.”

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The Mackay SES has unveiled a new Operational Support Unit trailer, equipped with drones and advanced technology to boost search, rescue and communications capabilities across the region. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

(group pic caption) - Local leaders praised the upgrade, highlighting its role in strengthening disaster response, supporting volunteers, and enhancing resilience for the Mackay community. Photo credit: Nicole Pasquale (JP Qual)

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Ergon Energy Retail Celebrates 25 Years Of Partnership With The Royal Flying Doctor Service

Last Friday, Ergon Energy Retail staff in Mackay joined in a heartfelt celebration, marking 25 years of partnership with the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) – a collaboration that has raised more than $20 million through the company’s voluntary customer donation scheme.

Mackay Ergon Energy Retail spokesperson Pam Lynch said the day was about “celebrating 25 years of partnership between Ergon Retail and the RFDS and $20 million raised through our voluntary customer donation scheme.”

The free community event, held at Mulherin Park, invited residents to enjoy coffee, gourmet goods, and conversation while celebrating their contributions. The highlight of the day was the Thank You Circuit truck, a travelling billboard showcasing the first names of around 100,000 Ergon customers who regularly donate to the RFDS.

Mackay Energy Specialist Shelley Gately reflected on how meaningful the initiative is for Ergon staff.

“It’s very rewarding… Events like this are amazing. We get to go out, talk to people, and actually see how much money is being raised.”

Grateful for the recognition, she added, “It’s so nice to get out of the office, have some great food, and be able to have a bit of a chat. We just thank the Flying Doctors for arranging this today.”

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The Royal Flying Doctor Service was honoured by Mackay’s Ergon Energy Retail team last Friday, marking 25 years of partnership and community support.

The Mackay Ergon Energy Retail team in front of the RFDS Thank You Circuit board. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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New data shows there’s been a significant increase in Mackay dog and cat registrations following a successful compliance inspection program.

Local laws officers conducted patrols between October and December last year, with inspections at Mirani, Marian, Mackay, Slade Point, Northern Beaches and Armstrong Beach.

Deputy Mayor Karen May said inspections were done by proactively patrolling from the kerbside, with council officers only entering a small number of properties with the consent of the owner.

“It was terrific to see that many residents took steps to register their pets during the inspection period last year, with more than 400 animals registered during October, which is significantly higher than the trend,” Cr May said.

“Council has today voted to continue this program, with inspections at properties where an unregistered cat or dog has been identified,” she said.

“Targeted inspections will include the use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) data to determine areas with low levels of animal registration.”

Councillor May said inspections would also be done where a renewal had not been received prior to the end of last financial year.

“Pet registration fees are put towards the costs of running the animal management centre and responding to animal management related service requests, like barking dogs and dog attacks,” she said.

“This fee structure ensures that the costs involved in providing these services are borne by pet owners, rather than all ratepayers, many of whom do not own pets.

“These inspection programs are part of council's ongoing efforts to ensure responsible pet ownership and to meet the community’s expectations for effective animal control.”

Council received 1949 animal management related service requests, which includes requests related to barking dogs, roaming dogs and dog attacks, last financial year.

The inspection programs ensure compliance with the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008 and related local laws.

Dogs and cats over 12 weeks of age must be registered with council.

The compliance program will run from October 1, 2025, to December 31, 2025.

For more details on responsible pet ownership and registering your pet visit www.mackay.qld.gov.au/animalmanagement

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The Crisafulli Government is delivering one new and six expanded transit lounges to help ease pressure on some of the State’s busiest emergency departments and restore health services when locals need them. A new transit lounge will be built at Gladstone Hospital, while expansions will go ahead at Cairns Hospital, Townsville University Hospital, Mackay Base Hospital, Logan Hospital, Redland Hospital and Ipswich Hospital.

All the transit lounges will be operational by late 2026, and additional frontline healthcare workers will be hired to support the facilities. As part of the Crisafulli Government’s key election commitment to address the Health Crisis including ambulance ramping, the initiative will deliver an additional 27 beds and 30 treatment chairs across the seven hospitals, which are home to some of the State’s busiest emergency departments.

These transit lounge projects, which run alongside the works being done under the Crisafulli Government’s Hospital Rescue Plan, are the first tranche of an $80 million investment through the Easier Access to Health Services Plan.

They will provide dedicated interim treatment areas for patients awaiting discharge, admission or transfer, or for outpatient appointments and are an important part of the Crisafulli Government’s long-term strategy to reduce ambulance ramping rates. The Crisafulli Government has committed to reducing ramping rates to below 30 per cent by 2028.

Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Tim Nicholls said transit lounges were a vital link in the patient journey, ensuring emergency departments were not overwhelmed and care was provided in the right setting at the right time.

“We are delivering health services when you need them including new and expanded transit lounges in busy hospitals to help reduce ambulance ramping,” Minister Nicholls said.

“Our public hospitals do a tremendous job caring for people in need, but it’s no secret they have been struggling."

“This will mean patients can get treatment sooner and won’t be delayed from leaving when they’re ready to, while at the same time others can get the treatment they need in our Emergency Departments and hospitals.

“This investment in transit lounges will be a game changer.”

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The Crisafulli Government is investing $80 million in new and expanded hospital transit lounges to ease emergency pressure and cut ambulance ramping below 30% by 2028. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Mackay Hospital and Health Board Interim Chair Monica McKendry has announced the appointment of a Chief Executive for Mackay Hospital and Health Service while the permanent executive recruitment process is underway.

“I am very pleased to advise that Sean Birgan, the current Chief Executive of North West Hospital and Health Service, will commence a secondment as Mackay HHS Interim Chief Executive from 13 October,” Ms McKendry said.

“Sean has more than 38 years of nursing experience, including 20 years in senior leadership and management roles.

“He worked as Queensland Health's COVID-19 System Response Lead, coordinating the state’s COVID-19 operational response.

“He also has a keen interest in disaster management and preparedness and provides ongoing support to Indonesian nurses and health executives in Bali as part of the Bali Memorial Package.

“I am sure he will bring valuable insights to our health service and we appreciate his willingness to support our health service during our permanent CE recruitment process.”

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Sean Birgan will begin as Interim Chief Executive of Mackay Hospital and Health Service on 13 October, bringing 38 years of nursing and leadership experience. Photo source: Mackay Hospital and Health Service

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