Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
OPINION PIECE from the office of Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox There is no question that immigration into Australia is out of control. The government’s numbers are too high, and standards are too low. A sustainable migration program must consider our capacity to provide housing, healthcare, infrastructure and the essential services everyone relies on, and Australians must come first. But Labor’s decision to target Working Holiday Makers Visa holders is not the answer. These people filling vital gaps in our workforce are not the cause of Australia’s housing crisis. In many cases, they are living in accommodation provided by the very businesses that employ them. The National Farmers’ Federation has made the point that Working Holiday Makers generally stay in hostels, caravan parks or purpose-built on-farm accommodation. Resorts usually have on-site staff quarters. They are not the source of Australia’s housing shortage. So why is Labor making it harder for them to come here, when these workers fill genuine jobs that regional Australia holds? Working Holiday Makers fill approximately one in seven farm jobs nationally and are particularly important during peak agricultural periods, which for Dawson, it is right now! Farmers rely on these workers to plant, pick, pack and harvest the produce that ends up on Australian supermarket shelves. Having run one of Australia’s largest tomato farms, at times Working Holiday Makers made up more than 50 per cent of my workforce. Without them, much of our crop simply would not have been picked in time and rotted in the paddock. Some may say, why not employ the Australians who don’t have a job and are on “the dole”? Can I say, this does not work. Most farmers will employ Aussies over travelling backpackers, but many either don’t want to do the work or don’t turn up after the first day. Who picks the fruit or veggies then? Farmers are already warning that visa delays are leaving them without workers. The NFF says approvals that once took days are now facing processing times of up to three months, and this time frame can be the difference between harvesting a crop or losing it. That should concern every Australian already feeling the pressure at the supermarket checkout. The same problem is playing out in tourism. Across Dawson, Working Holiday Makers are an important part of the workforce supporting tourism and hospitality, particularly in the Whitsundays. They help fill shifts, work in hotels and restaurants, support tour operators and keep businesses running through their busiest periods. They also contribute to the local economy. They spend money on food, fuel, attractions and tours, supporting the small businesses that depend on a strong visitor economy. That is why tourism and business leaders across North Queensland are raising the alarm. They understand what happens when a regional business cannot get enough staff: opening hours are reduced, and services are cut, creating a downward spiral. We do need to reduce migration to sustainable levels. We need stronger integrity measures, and we need to crack down on rorts. But responsible migration policy means understanding which parts of the system are creating pressure and which parts are helping Australia function. Working Holiday Makers are not the problem. They are part of the workforce solution for regional. Australia. People have had a gutful of watching their standard of living go backwards. Groceries, fuel, housing and everyday expenses are already putting enormous pressure on families. The last thing Australians need is another reckless policy that makes it harder to produce food, harder to run regional businesses and harder for tourism operators to find the workers they need.
Read the full storySomeone sold a house in Sydney last week for $9 million less than they bought it for four or five years ago. The sellers had bought the property in Sydney’s eastern suburbs for $29 million and sold it for $20 million in a sale forced by their bank. I imagine the sellers are a little disappointed by the government’s decisions on negative gearing and capital gains tax and feeling pretty hurt by the increased interest rates. Australia’s interest rates are on the rise and are now sitting at levels not seen since 2011. Increased cost of living is hurting people around the country and interest rates are playing into that. But the impact of interest rates is not felt evenly around the country. The far-higher property prices mean people in the major cities suffer much more than regional areas with the rates increase. That is certainly not to say people in Mackay are unaffected by the cost of living; it’s just that the impact of interest rates increase on a $400,000 mortgage is much less than the impact on a $1m mortgage. There are other Mackay-specific factors that are in play when discussing the current housing market. The big factor is the role of coal in our economy. Most of the coal extracted and exported from our region is coking coal, which is used to make steel. The price of coking coal is around $280 a tonne, which is about 50 per cent up. Good activity in the coal market translates to good news for the Mackay economy, as it is an economic engine that other cities and regions just don’t have. Good activity in Bowen Basin flows throughout the Mackay economy; Paget workshops, transport, suppliers and related businesses all benefit. But so do other, non-mining-related businesses as they benefit from the general confidence and spending that goes on. The strong mining activity also means mines need to keep their staff levels up and that means more people moving to Mackay. Of course, Mackay is much more than a coal mining town but if the coal sector is going well those other areas definitely benefit. It is a confidence boost for Mackay people looking to get into the housing market and those wanting to upgrade or downsize. It also means continuing strong demand from people wanting to rent a property and it will be interesting to see what sort of activity that creates from investors. Investors have walked away from the big-city markets because they can no longer use negative gearing on established properties that do not have a sufficient yield to be positively geared. Negative gearing has never been a big thing in Mackay because our prices are lower and rental returns continue to be strong so many investors have a positively geared property. Around the country everyone is nervous about the state of play and the probability of more interest rate rises. But strong coal prices and an economy that is performing well mean Mackay might just be presenting an opportunity for buyers and sellers that doesn’t exist in other parts. I remember when national confidence was flying high and Mackay prices were going up significantly that many buyers were saying “I wish we had bought a while ago when the market wasn’t so hot”. I’m not armed with a crystal ball so I’m not here to tell you what is going to happen but I suspect there is a very good buying window right now for those looking for an opportunity.
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A local Mackay and Sarina based model has created a dress out of newspapers, including Mackay Life, for her upcoming pageant, representing her region and hometown on the runway as she vies for Miss Diamond International in Brisbane. Zoe Place will be competing this weekend in the three-day event, beginning this Friday 2nd October and ending on Sunday 4th October. The young model spent around a month creating her eco-fashion outfit, using old newspapers as the main material and transforming them into a bodice, skirt and flowers. Red elements were also incorporated into the design to give the dress a bold and glamorous pageant feel. Zoe said, “The entire concept was really about taking something that would normally be thrown away and turning it into something beautiful and meaningful.” Her eco-fashion creation will form part of a busy weekend in Brisbane, with the Miss Diamond International event including photo shoots, interviews, an eco-fashion show and the final pageant. Zoe has been preparing for the event by practising her strut and walking, preparing for interviews and getting comfortable in the different outfits she will wear throughout the weekend. Alongside her love of modelling, pageantry has also provided Zoe with a platform to raise awareness about causes close to her heart, including mental health, while fundraising for Beyond Blue. “Pageantry has given me more of a platform to combine my love for modelling with something that is really important to me.” “When I first started, I was more nervous about putting myself out there and worried about what others would think about me – but I’ve changed a lot through my journey in pageantry.” “Pageantry has also taught me that it’s not about how you look on stage. It’s about the person you are when you step off it.” “Every woman has their own unique journey and that journey is something we should all be really proud of.” “To me, it represents confidence, empowerment, kindness, and using your voice to make a difference.” Zoe said she was looking forward to meeting the other contestants, making new connections and creating memories. “I’m definitely looking forward to meeting all the new contestants and making new connections and creating memories that I will carry with me for a lifetime.” While Zoe hopes to eventually move to the city, her sights are set even further afield, with a dream of one day walking in New York Fashion Week. Mackay and Sarina local Zoe Place has created an eco-fashion dress from recycled newspapers, including Mackay Life, ahead of her Miss Diamond International pageant in Brisbane. Photos supplied
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Trends, reels and the endless cycle of always wanting more has quietly bombarded the minds of countless social media users of all ages, but one former Mackay local has made it her mission to help others understand the effects of social media and find practical ways to break free from online addiction. Alexis Zahner is in Mackay over the next week to teach upcoming generations about social media and the effects it can have on the mind, particularly on identity, self-discovery, as well as the marketing strategies that get viewers hooked and influence their decisions. It is something Alexis knows first-hand can be a useful tool, but also a great disruption to authenticity and the world as we see and experience it. Alexis will hold a free meet and greet and book launch today, Friday 2nd October, at 5.30pm at the Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club, where she will give a talk and answer questions relating to her debut book, Real: Reconnecting to Yourself in a World of Likes and Lies. A former Mackay girl, Alexis spent the past 15 years working across business psychology, marketing and media, with her interest in social media influence beginning during her university studies at James Cook University in Townsville. Her own experience as a social media user, travel blogger and influencer eventually led her to question how much of her identity, decisions and values were being shaped by what she saw online. “The tipping point came for me about 3 years ago when I had this feeling that I couldn't separate influence from my own personal decision making,” she said. “I couldn't separate my own likes, dislikes, values, relationships from what I was being exposed to and being influenced by online.” “I found that I needed to take some time away from social media to recalibrate what was important to me and sort of reconnect and come back to myself.” Alexis said she understood the feeling of questioning who you are outside of social media. “I know what it feels like to live a life under the influence of social media and have that existential crisis of thinking to yourself, who am I? What do I like? What's the kind of life I want to live? and struggling to separate myself from influence.” Alexis is particularly passionate about reaching teenagers, who she says are in an important stage of identity development, and will share this message with Mackay high school students during her upcoming school talks. “Teenagers are really easily influenced by social media. So it's a really important age where we start educating them – not just on the mental health repercussions of things like social media and how it shortens their attention span, but how it actually influences who they become.” “If you're asking yourself these questions, it's not your fault. Social media is actually geared to create this impact on you.” Alexis encourages people of all ages to “start expanding beyond what you see on the platform.” “Dare to indulge in the things that you've always been curious about or things you used to love,” she said. “Don't be afraid to put the phone down to let yourself be curious and have fun.” What: Alexis Zahner's 'Real' Book launch When: 5.30pm Friday 2nd October 2026 Where: Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club Former Mackay local and author Alexis Zahner is returning home to share her experiences with social media and her debut book, Real. Photo supplied
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Mackay Community Foundation has announced a leadership transition, with outgoing Board Chair Frances Easton handing over the role to local philanthropist Melissa Green, supported by Marcus Pillhofer as Deputy Chair.
Ms Easton served as Board Chair during a period of significant consolidation and progress for the Foundation, overseeing the strengthening of governance frameworks, the introduction of new operational processes and extensive behind-the-scenes work to position the Foundation for long-term growth and impact.
Incoming Chair Melissa Green will lead the Board alongside Mr Pillhofer, with Board members Ian Joblin, Tina Sanders and Jade McAuley continuing to serve.
Outgoing Chair Frances Easton said the focus throughout her tenure had been on building a strong, enduring foundation for the Mackay community – focusing on the Foundation’s guiding principle to “give where you live”.
“Mackay Community Foundation exists to make sure generosity today continues to benefit our community well into the future,” Ms Easton said.
“A lot of the work has happened behind the scenes, but it has all been about creating a solid, well-governed organisation that can grow and give back year after year to our local community.”
Over the past five years, the Foundation has increased its annual community grant distribution from around $70,000 to approximately $250,000, reflecting both growth in its investment base and a stronger platform for long-term giving.
Ms Easton said she was “confident” the Foundation was well placed for its next chapter.
“The strength of this organisation comes from people who genuinely care about Mackay and want to see local generosity protected and amplified for generations to come.”
Incoming Chair Melissa Green said she was honoured to step into the role and continue that work.
“This Foundation has a unique role in our region. By protecting donations and distributing grants every year, we’re creating lasting local impact, and that’s something I’m proud to be part of.”
Ms Green said the Board remained focused on strong governance and a clear long-term vision.
“Our goal is to grow the Foundation’s investment base to $10 million by 2040 or earlier, so we can distribute in excess of $500,000 in grants every year to organisations right here in Mackay. Everything we do comes back to giving where we live.
“If anyone is interested in learning more about the Foundation, or how to donate, I invite you to contact me directly on melissagreenmky@gmail.com.”
The 2026 grants round will open in March – follow Mackay Community Foundation on Facebook for applications dates and more details.
Outgoing Chair Frances Easton with incoming Mackay Community Foundation Chair, Melissa Green. Photo supplied
This Christmas, Mackay’s true spirit has shone brightly, with local businesses, teams and individuals coming together to support those who need it most. From families facing illness and hardship to women seeking safety, people experiencing homelessness and essential health services, the generosity shown across the region has been nothing short of heart-warming.
Acts of kindness have arrived in many forms — food hampers, toys, clothing, gifts and hands-on volunteering — all driven by a shared desire to bring comfort, dignity and joy during the festive season.
Some of the many recipients include:
• Ronald McDonald House Charities North Australia – Mackay Family Room
• Chances House Mackay
• Whitsunday Foodbank Mackay
• Mackay Hospital Foundation
• Mackay Women’s Services
• BMA CQ Rescue
• Broken Ballerina Inc
• Mackay Salvation Army
• Mackay Pet Rescue Inc
These are just some of the organisations supported this Christmas, with many more quietly receiving help beyond this list.
How wonderful is our region!
When most people hear the word “strength,” they picture heavy barbells or elite athletes pushing their limits. But strength isn’t just for bodybuilders or professional sports. It’s for everyone. Strength is what allows you to carry groceries, play with your kids, recover from injury, and live a long, independent life. That’s why at Fitness Cartel Mackay, we’ve designed a facility that makes functional training, rehab, and mobility just as important as lifting big weights.
What is functional strength?
Functional strength is about building the muscles and movements that carry over to real life. Squatting down to pick something up, twisting to reach, pushing, pulling, balancing — these are everyday actions. Training them in the gym makes you more resilient outside the gym.
For athletes, functional strength means sharper performance. For older adults, it means staying mobile, confident, and safe. For everyone, it means living better, for longer.
A purpose-built functional training zone
To deliver this, Fitness Cartel Mackay features a dedicated functional training zone — a large, purpose-built space designed for everything from individual workouts to high-intensity group sessions. This area is equipped for Hyrox-style training, one of the fastest-growing fitness competitions in the world, combining endurance, strength, and functional movement into a single challenge.
But you don’t need to be an elite competitor to benefit. Our expert Functional Personal Trainers will lead structured functional training classes right here, guiding members of all levels through workouts that improve strength, agility, and conditioning. Whether your goal is to prepare for competition, get fitter for everyday life, or simply mix up your training with something new, this space has been created to deliver.
A facility designed for inclusivity
Not every member wants to dive straight into the deep end of training, and that’s perfectly fine. Our Comfort Zone provides a dedicated space where beginners, older adults, or anyone returning after time away can ease into fitness at their own pace. The design of our facility ensures there’s a place for every goal — from functional strength training to bodybuilding, from rehabilitation to high-performance conditioning.
The science of mobility and rehab
Mobility and rehabilitation aren’t just “add-ons.” They’re essential. Research shows that improving joint range of motion and stabilising key muscle groups reduces the risk of injury, accelerates recovery, and even enhances mental health by reducing chronic pain.
That’s why our facility offers not only the equipment to train strength, but also the tools and expertise to improve flexibility, stability, and function. Whether you’re recovering from an injury, working on posture, or simply want to move better, the support will be here.
Strength is for everyone
At Fitness Cartel Mackay, strength doesn’t belong to one group — it belongs to everyone. From the first-time member learning a squat, to the athlete loading a barbell, to the retiree improving balance, the outcome is the same: more confidence, more capability, and more life.
Because in the end, strength isn’t about numbers in the gym. It’s about freedom outside of it. And that’s something every member of Mackay deserves.
By Michael James – Fitness Industry Professional, Facility Owner & Wellness Coach
A Proper Christmas For Growers
By Joseph Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay
It is that time of year again; we are in the lead-up to the most anticipated time of the year, that being Christmas. A time when it is most important to spend time with those people you hold dear. A time of rest, a time of reflection, and most importantly - Santa Claus making his way around the district.
One difference this year is that Santa won’t have to be worried about weaving his way through sugarcane harvesters, haul-outs, and cane train crossings. For the first time in about five years, the harvest in both the Mackay Sugar and Plane Creek areas will have been completed at least 10 days before Christmas Day. This means that people in the growing, harvesting, and milling sectors will hopefully be able to celebrate Christmas at home on the verandah rather than in the workplace, which has been the case over the last few years.
Although this is a positive, of course, it must be remembered this is the result of a reduced crop size in both areas, which takes the gloss off what has been a slightly improved factory performance. That performance has not reached expectations but is an improvement all the same. The problem is that any gains in this sector have been handicapped by massive logistical shortfalls in cane transport. This has resulted in a tremendously difficult and trying year for harvesting contractors in particular, but also the wider industry.
With the crushing season now concluded, Mackay Sugar has recorded a total harvest of 4.76 million tonnes with a seasonal CCS of 13.6. This is surprisingly close to the five-year average considering the amount of standover cane processed, given that standover cane usually lowers CCS levels due to lower sugar content. Plane Creek Mill ended up crushing about 1.332 million tonnes of cane with a CCS for the season of 13.87, which was also impacted by a significant amount of standover cane.
On behalf of Mackay Canegrowers and the wider growing sector, we would like to thank the wider Mackay community for their patience in this past harvesting season. Those of you who grew up in this district have become accustomed to haul-outs on roads and cane trains amongst others. For the newer residents, it is probably a surprise to see a tractor driving down a major arterial road or even through a subdivision, but these are the logistical challenges the industry faces.
We hope that everyone has a restful, safe, and enjoyable Christmas and New Year with those whom they hold dear. We hope that 2026 dawns brighter and more prosperous for all who live in this wonderful wider Mackay region.
There is no doubt that Mackay truly is the Sugar City.
Plane Creek Harvester parks up after finishing the crushing season for 2025. Photo credit: Jason Borg.
Lauren Neill, Women's, Men's and Pelvic Health Physiotherapist at Women's Health Physio Mackay
Christmas is a wonderful time of year, but it’s also one of the biggest disruptions to our usual routines. Long days, late nights, travel, hosting, extra lifting, more sitting, and less structure can all take a quiet toll on the body. And one area that often feels the impact, without us realising, is the pelvic floor.
The pelvic floor is a group of muscles that supports the bladder, bowel, and pelvic organs, and works closely with breathing, posture, and movement. It responds not just to exercise, but to everyday life. During the festive season, however, everyday life looks a little different.
Travel is a big one. Long car trips to see family, flights, or hours sitting around a table can leave the body stiff and compressed. Many people also change their toilet habits over the holidays; maybe holding on longer in the car, going “just in case,” or delaying trips to the toilet while busy or travelling. These small changes can increase pressure on the pelvic floor and contribute to symptoms like bladder urgency, leaks, constipation, or a feeling of pelvic heaviness.
Food and drink choices often shift at this time of year too, which can quietly affect bowel health. Richer foods, less fibre, more alcohol, and not drinking enough water, (especially in the summer heat) can leave the bowels sluggish and stools firmer than usual. When constipation creeps in, straining becomes more likely, increasing downward pressure through the pelvic floor. Supporting bowel health with regular fluids, fibre-rich foods, and responding to natural urges can help keep everything moving more comfortably.
Christmas also involves more lifting than we often realise. Eskies, suitcases, kids, prams, shopping bags, and rearranging furniture for guests all place extra load through the body. When we rush or hold our breath while lifting, pressure increases downwards onto the pelvic floor; particularly if it’s already fatigued or tense.
Add to that the mental load of organising celebrations, caring for others, and keeping everything running smoothly, and it’s no surprise many women feel uncomfortable, sore, or “not quite right” by the end of the festive period.
The good news is that a little awareness goes a long way. Simple habits can help protect your pelvic floor over the holidays. Staying well hydrated supports bladder and bowel health. Taking regular movement breaks during long drives or days of sitting helps reduce stiffness and pressure. Exhaling when you lift, rather than holding your breath, can significantly reduce strain on the pelvic floor. Gentle movement like walking, swimming, stretching, or short resets between events helps your body feel supported rather than overwhelmed.
It’s also important to listen to your body. If you notice new symptoms like leaking, urgency, heaviness, or discomfort, that’s not your body “failing;” it’s communicating. The festive season often highlights issues that have been quietly present under the surface.
As the year wraps up, remember that looking after your pelvic floor isn’t about restriction or perfection. It’s about support. Supporting your body so you can enjoy the festive season with comfort, confidence, and energy — and head into the new year feeling more connected to your body, not at odds with it.
Because Christmas memories are best made when your body feels looked after too.
Pelvic Floor-Friendly Festive Tips1
• Exhale when lifting eskies, kids or suitcases -avoid breath holding.
• Drink water regularly, especially in the summer-heat.
• Include fiber-rich foods tokeep.bowels.moving-comfortably.
•Take movement breaks.on long drives.or travel days.
• Avoid excessive 'just in case' toilet trips.1
• Add gentle movement-like walking, swimming, orstretching.between events.
Lauren Neill
Women's, Men's and Pelvic Health Physiotherapist at Women's Health Physio Mackay
As Christmas arrives, Life Publishing Group extends our warm wishes to the Mackay community and surrounding regions. This season invites a moment to pause, reflect and reconnect with family, friends and the places that feel like home.
Across our towns and neighbourhoods, Christmas is shaped by small kindnesses, shared meals, community events and the quiet generosity that defines this region. It is a time to celebrate resilience, gratitude and the people who show up for one another throughout the year.
To our readers, contributors, advertisers and community partners, thank you for trusting Life Publishing Group to share local stories that matter. Your support allows local voices, achievements and challenges to be recognised and valued.
As the year draws to a close, may the festive season bring peace, rest and renewed optimism for the year ahead. From all of us at Life Publishing Group, we wish you a safe, joyful and meaningful Christmas, and a bright start to the New Year.
Mackay Regional Mayor of Mackay, Greg Williamson. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara and photo sourced.
Community organisations across the Mirani electorate are celebrating a significant funding boost, with a total of $536,000 awarded through Round 124 of the Gambling Community Benefit Fund.
The funding, announced by Member for Mirani Glen Kelly MP, will support a range of local not-for-profit groups, with grants of up to $100,000 helping to cover the costs of delivering essential services, programs and community activities.
The investment is set to strengthen grassroots organisations and enhance opportunities for residents across the region.
Mr Kelly congratulated all the recipients within the Mirani electorate that were successful with their applications.
“There’s some absolute crackers in this round of funding with 10 groups receiving grants for projects to improve what they can provide to the community,” Mr Kelly said.
“These grants are so important to giving our community groups a chance to purchase upgrades, equipment, or help fund events providing levels of funds that are difficult to get through fundraising alone.”
“Walkerston Cricket Club is getting a new mower, and that’s always a great little investment for these clubs, it’ll help them be able to keep those outfields more consistent and provide for a better experience for the players up there.”
Lloyd Blomfield, Secretary of the Walkerston Cricket Club, who received $23,004.12 to install awnings over their walkways said that it will improve wet weather access to the hall.
“Getting the grant money saves us a lot of chook raffles, and allows us to get bigger items that we wouldn’t normally be able to afford.
“As a club we support so many in the community through the teams that play for us so being able to get new equipment helps us to keep that sustainable.
“It’s certainly a Merry Christmas to the groundsman because the money will be buying a new mower to replace our old one that is starting have issues that would have cost the club money to get fixed as well.”
Recipients include:
• Alligator Creek State School P&C – $12,620.35 - Installing a chilled drinking station
• Alton Downs Hall Association Inc. – $9,790.00 - Installing fans and weather protection
• Country United Football Club Inc. – $100,000.00 - Installing a shade structure
• Crediton Hall Recreation Club Inc. – $31,815.28 - Installing a shed and purchasing a mower
• Mackay and District Hack and Pony Club Inc. – $100,000.00 - Facility upgrades
• Rockhampton Water Ski Club Inc. – $82,186.50 - Installing a new dock
• Sarina State School P&C – $82,401.00 - Installing drinking fountains
• C&K Hoey Street Community Kindergarten – $9,573.01 - Facility upgrade
• Walkerston Cricket Club Inc. – $23,004.12 - Purchasing a new mower
To view the full list of Round 124 recipients, and find out more about current GCBF rounds, visit: www.justice.qld.gov.au/initiatives/community-grants.
Peter Darby, President Rockhampton Water Ski Club, Glen Kelly MP, Minister for Sport and Racing and Minister for Olympic and Paralympic Games, Tim Mander MP on the floating Pontoon at the Rockhampton Ski Club. Photo supplied
Last Tuesday, the Mackay Bowling Club extended their warm hospitality to 30 residents and carers from Homefield Nursing Home for a delightful Christmas lunch. This heartwarming event was made even more special by having Ruby, founding member and Life member of the club join in the festivities along with Violet another bowler from interstate. The dedicated efforts of the members, who not only prepared the meal but also served it with grace and care.
The atmosphere was filled with festive cheer as the residents enjoyed the delicious food, lovingly cooked by the members. The lunch provided an opportunity for socialising, laughter, and the creation of cherished memories, making it a truly memorable occasion for all involved.
Such events highlight the spirit of community and the importance of coming together to spread joy and kindness. The Makay Bowling Club's commitment to supporting and uplifting the elderly members of the community is truly commendable, and their efforts in organising this Christmas lunch were deeply appreciated by the Homefield Nursing residents.
All in all, the day was a resounding success, filled with goodwill, festive spirit, and the joy of giving.
The residents left with smiles on their faces and warmth in their hearts, looking forward to more gatherings in the future.
A joyous celebration was had by all at this years Christmas lunch, hosted by Mackay Bowling Club. Photos supplied
Hi lovely readers,
It’s officially that time of year!
In the lead-up to Christmas, the stores are crowded, the roads are packed, and our hearts are often fullest when we’re surrounded by the people we love.
You don’t quite realise how much our region is growing until you experience the Christmas traffic!
It’s easy to get caught up in the rush of gift-buying and end-of-year expectations. Sometimes even a little pressure can creep in, so please let this be a gentle reminder to be kind to yourself and give yourself some grace.
We also know Christmas can be a difficult time for some, which makes kindness and compassion towards others more important than ever.
After a recent health scare, (which I’m now recovering well from), I’m especially reminded that gifts go far beyond the material things we can see and touch.
Even just waking up today is a gift!
If you’re spending Christmas alone, or if you’re curious about the true reason for the season, I encourage you to connect with a local church and share in fellowship, because we thrive best when we’re grounded in community.
You don’t have to have it all together to experience the love of God – you just need to be open to receiving it.
Jesus actually teaches us that giving is better than receiving... and what greater gift do we have than the life He has already given us?
2025 has been full of blessings – and lessons – and I can’t wait to see what 2026 holds.
Merry Christmas, and blessings to you all. Stay safe, and I’ll see you in our 9th Jan edition!
Opinion Piece
Dear Santa,
We know you’re busy this time of year, but down here in Australia, we’re hoping you can spare a moment. Christmas under Labor is looking less like It’s A Wonderful Life and more like The Grinch Who Stole Christmas.
We’ve written our wish list, Santa, the same list Labor promised to deliver when they came down the chimney in 2022. Just like countless kids who wake up on Christmas morning to find socks instead of a shiny new bike, Australians are discovering that Labor’s promises don’t quite match the packaging.
So here it is, Australia’s Christmas Wish List, complete with the reality we found under the tree:
What We Wished For: Free, simple, accessible healthcare, a Christmas miracle for families already counting every dollar.
What We Unwrapped Instead:
• GP visits now average over $50 out of pocket;
• Specialist fees have soared, leaving Australians $117 out of pocket per visit;
• Health inflation has climbed 15 per cent.
Medicare was sold as the answer to cheaper care, yet in Dawson bulk-billing is increasingly rare, there are no Medicare clinics, and families still need their credit cards as well as their Medicare cards.
What We Wished For: Stable, affordable electricity to power homes, businesses, farms, factories, and schools. The kind of energy system where turning on the Christmas lights does not require taking out a personal loan.3. 4. 5. What Reality Delivered:
Power bills are up nearly 40 per cent; energy-intensive industries are on the brink, and households are forced to choose between running the air-con or affording Christmas lunch.
It is not just about household bills. When energy is unaffordable, everything becomes more expensive:
• Food costs more to grow, refrigerate, and transport;
• Construction costs have exploded;
• Manufacturing has become uncompetitive;
• Small businesses are buckling under the pressure;
• Supply chains pass every extra dollar on to consumers.
Labor’s reckless, ideologically-driven race to renewables, without firming, without planning, and without a realistic path, has created an energy market as unpredictable as a summer storm. Cheap, reliable energy is the beating heart of everything, from making steel to baking gingerbread.
“Labor Will Make Life Easier for Australians!”
What We Wished For: A cost-of-living Christmas miracle, with lower inflation, stable interest rates, and room in the weekly budget for a box of chocolates that is not on clearance.
What Reality Delivered: Inflation remains high, and the Reserve Bank of Australia has held the cash rate for the third time in a row, citing Labor’s reckless spending and mounting inflation pressures.
Mortgages are rising, households are squeezed, and hope for relief before Christmas is evaporating.
• Mortgages are $1,800 higher per month since Labor took office;
• Food is 15 per cent more expensive;
• Housing is 19 per cent more expensive;
• Insurance is 37 per cent more expensive.
Labor’s spending is running at four times the economy’s growth, leaving taxpayers to foot $50,000 in interest every minute on Labor’s trillion-dollar debt. Under Labor, Australia has suffered the biggest fall in living standards in the developed world. Some families now have $33 left after essentials, according to Anglicare. That is not festive cheer; that is a cost-of-survival crisis.
“We’ll Help First Home Buyers With a 5% Deposit Scheme!”
What We Wished For: A realistic chance for young Australians to unwrap the keys to their own home.
What We Actually Got: Higher prices, higher mortgages, and a generation staring down 40-year home loans. Only 16 per cent of homes nationwide are affordable for first-home buyers. In some suburbs in Dawson, just 4 per cent of homes are affordable for essential workers: nurses, educators, childcare workers, the people who keep our communities running.
Labor did not make home ownership easier; they simply gave buyers a bigger mortgage and a Christmas stocking full of false hope.
“HECS Relief Will Ease the Burden on Young Australians!”
A 20 per cent HECS wipe sounds generous until you realise it is funded by more debt, fuelling more inflation, which pushes rents and grocery prices up, hurting the samestudents it claims to help. It is like giving a child a present, then sending them the invoice.
Australia does not want extravagance, just fairness, stability, and the chance to get ahead.
Under Labor, it seems the only one enjoying a very merry Christmas is the tax office.
So, Santa, if you have room on the sleigh this year, Australia has a simple Christmas wish: a
government that lives within its means, so Australian families and businesses can, too.
Australians are getting a lump of coal in their stocking this Christmas, with no cost-of-living relief in sight. While families are tightening their belts, Labor keeps delivering higher power bills, rising grocery prices, and bigger mortgages, leaving households paying more and getting less. Photo supplied
If you’re looking to start the year green-fingered, January in Mackay is ideal for planting heat-loving vegetables and tropical plants that thrive in summer conditions.
For vegetables, think fast-growing and resilient.
Tomatoes, capsicum, eggplant, and cucumbers flourish in the tropical heat with plenty of sunlight and consistent watering.
Herbs like basil, coriander, lemongrass, and mint are perfect for adding flavour to summer dishes while being low-maintenance. Beans and zucchini are also reliable summer performers and provide continuous harvests.
Leafy greens like kangkong (water spinach) and amaranth are excellent for warmer months, growing quickly even in tropical humidity.
If you have space, sweet potatoes and pumpkin vines are productive and easy to manage with trellising or ground cover.
Tropical fruit trees and plants also thrive when started early in the year.
Passionfruit, pineapple, papaya, and bananas love the summer sun and can provide a steady yield when established. Mulching around plants helps retain moisture and keeps roots cool, which is crucial during the peak heat of January and February.
Don’t forget companion planting to boost growth and reduce pests—marigolds, basil, and nasturtiums are great allies.
With a little planning, your summer garden can be productive, vibrant, and sustainable, setting you up for a fruitful 2026 from the very start of the year!
The New Year is the perfect time to give your home a fresh start.
After the hustle and bustle of Christmas, a tidy, refreshed space can boost your mood, create a welcoming environment, and even inspire healthier habits for 2026.
Start with decluttering. Clear surfaces, cupboards, and wardrobes, keeping only what you truly use or love. Donate items that are in good condition, and recycle or responsibly dispose of what you no longer need. Decluttering not only frees up space but also makes your home feel lighter and more organised.
Next, consider minor renovations or updates. Even small changes, like a fresh coat of paint on walls, updating door handles, or replacing worn-out cushions, can dramatically refresh a room. Focus on areas you use most, such as the kitchen, living areas, or outdoor entertaining spaces, so you feel the benefits every day.
Lighting can also transform your home. Switch to brighter, energy-efficient bulbs, add a statement lamp, or install LED strip lights under cabinets to create warmth and functionality.
Finally, add finishing touches to make your space feel inviting. Soft textiles, fresh flowers, scented candles, or even a few well-placed artworks can instantly elevate the vibe. Outdoor spaces benefit from a sweep, potted plants, and tidy furniture arrangements.
By decluttering and refreshing your home now, you set the tone for a bright, organised, and energised 2026.
A little effort goes a long way, helping you start the year with a clear mind and a space you’re proud to call home.
Mackay’s own backyard took centre stage this year, with ten enthusiastic young actors setting out to prove that adventure doesn’t have to come with a boarding pass.
The group spent the month of July rediscovering the region’s family-friendly attractions, inviting the community to see familiar places in a new light.
From the region’s art gallery and local libraries to live football, lush gardens and the Mackay Festival of Arts, the young presenters showcased the breadth of experiences available right across the Mackay region.
Their experiences will launch to the public this week in the new season of Kids Take Over TV, which is a fun and inspiring online travel series where kids aged eight to 12 become the tour guides.
This unique program showcases the best family-friendly destinations across Australia – through the eyes of young adventurers.
Mayor Greg Williamson said the initiative was a wonderful reminder of the richness of Mackay’s community life.
“Our young people have captured the spirit of Mackay beautifully – from our arts and culture to our sporting fields and green spaces,” Mayor Williamson said
“It’s inspiring to see them enjoying these experiences and helping us to showcase them through a new lens,” he said.
“It’s easy to be complacent when you live in a region for many years, but the beauty of having young people front and centre in this series is that their genuine excitement and joy is contagious.
“It makes you really value what we have in our beautiful region and it also helps us to showcase our region to the rest of Australia in a fun, original way.”
One of the young presenters, Archer Finch was blown away by the experience.
“Being part of this series was like having a burst of excitement inside you!” Archer said.
“I felt so important and it was so much fun,” he said.
Mayor Williamson said the project was about more than just highlighting amazing regional experiences.
“It gave these young stars the opportunity to build friendships outside of school, work together as a team and develop valuable skills in communication, presentation and performance,” he said.
“It was a tremendous confidence boost for many of them, and I don’t doubt that we will see more of these young people on stage and screen in the years to come.”
Kids Take Over TV episodes will feature Artspace Mackay, BB Print Stadium and the Mackay Cutters, The Mackay Region Botanic Gardens, DBCT Illuminate and Mackay Regional Council Libraries.
Episodes will drop fortnightly on Mackay Regional Council’s Facebook page and Youtube during the school holidays and will feature young local presenters Harper Semple, Dustin Persson, Dexter Schembri, Millaa Ellis, Natalie Homewood, Isla Muir, Archer Finch, Jules Gaviglio, Ivy Gould, Madison Kennedy and Brayson Oldfield.
Kids Take Over presenters from left, Natalie Homewood, Harper Semple, Ivy Gould, Isla Muir, Jules Gaviglio, Dustin Schembri, Archer Finch, Dexter Schembri and Brayson Oldfield, with Mayor Greg Williamson and videographer Matt Ferguson. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
A simple act of kindness has prompted a heartfelt message of gratitude from a local family, after a frightening fall at the Sydney Street Market car park reminded them just how powerful community spirit can be.
The incident occurred when a local woman fell in the car park, leaving her vulnerable and in pain. Within moments, members of the public stepped in to help, offering calm support and practical assistance while waiting for emergency services to arrive.
Strangers stayed with the woman and her husband until the ambulance arrived, ensuring they were not alone during a stressful and uncertain time. Water was brought to help keep them comfortable, and blankets were placed beneath the woman to protect her from the heat of the road as she waited for medical care.
Her daughter later shared a message of thanks, saying the situation could have been far worse without the quick thinking and compassion of those who stopped to help.
“Thank you to the wonderful people who helped my mum today at Sydney street market car park when she fell,” she said.
“Without such wonderful people like those who helped her and dad, stayed with them until ambulance arrived, got water for them and blankets to put under my mum so road didn't burn her, she would have been worse off.”
The woman has since returned home. While she is sore and bruised, she is safe and recovering – a result her family credits in no small part to the kindness shown by complete strangers. In a moment of distress, their care and compassion reflected the very best of the local community.
Image for illustrative purposes only
Hi lovely readers,
This is our second last edition of the year, and what a wonderful year it’s been.
Next up is our special Christmas edition which is always a joy to read, so be sure to grab your copy.
Last Sunday Adam and I were meant to celebrate our 1st wedding anniversary… although we both completely forgot until the day after (LOL).
Life has been pretty busy lately, so it somehow missed our radar… but hey, that’s life sometimes!
This past week, I spent a little time in hospital. It’s nothing too major, so please don’t worry about me. Adam always finds a way to make me laugh, even in the toughest moments, so it wasn’t all doom and gloom… and that’s one of the many things I love about him.
While I missed home for a few days, I was incredibly well looked after by the wonderful staff, nurses and doctors at Mackay Base Hospital. Their care and kindness, especially during this busy Christmas period made my stay a positive one, and for that I'm so grateful!
My prayers also go out to the victims and families affected by the recent attacks in Bondi, Sydney. Nobody deserves such harm, and my heart goes out to all who are grieving.
May the peace of God comfort them in this difficult time.
Scripture of the week: "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." – Philippians 4:6-7 NKJV
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