Finance experts are calling on the Federal Government to make it easier for Pacific and Timor-Leste workers that come to Australia to access unclaimed superannuation once their visa expires.

More than 31,000 workers participated in the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme in rural and regional Australia in March 2025, helping to fill labour gaps in agriculture, aged care, hospitality and tourism.

PALM workers on a nine-month visa can typically accumulate between $3000-4000 in superannuation before tax, while those on four-year visas can accumulate up to $16,000. It can only be claimed after their visa expires and they’ve returned to their home country, and the process of accessing the funds is difficult and time consuming.

UniSA Senior Lecturer and Manager of the UniSA Tax Clinic, Dr Rob Whait, says the Australian Tax Office holds millions of dollars of unclaimed superannuation owned to workers from the PALM scheme.

“Completing the required paperwork requires workers to be proficient in English, seeing as the forms aren’t available in other languages. It also requires access to a computer and the internet as the forms can’t be downloaded and need to be completed online, then emailed to the relevant authority,” he says.

“In PALM countries, English is a second language, and the internet is not as readily accessible as it is here. The responsibility for making a claim lies solely with the worker, and there is no obligation for the employer here in Australia to provide information about how workers can claim their superannuation.”

Dr Whait and Dr Connie Vitale from Western Sydney University are recommending policy reforms to make it easier for PALM workers to have their superannuation directly paid into their own super fund in their home country while working in Australia, or have the funds paid as part of their wages in lieu of superannuation.

Analysis by Dr Whait and Dr Vitale of the issue revealed several recommended policy reform options to make it easier for PALM workers to claim their superannuation once their visa expires. It was found that allowing workers to automatically have their superannuation paid directly into their own fund in their home country while working in Australia would be the most logical option.

The two researchers travelled to PALM worker locations across SA and NSW late last year to support workers to prepare their Departing Australia Superannuation Payments (DASP) claims and other documentation before leaving Australia.

He says the recent visits to the PALM worker locations revealed that paying superannuation into a super fund in their own country was not the most preferred option by the workers themselves and that payment added up front to their wages was most desired.

“A leader among the PALM workers said that he would prefer Australia to follow the New Zealand approach where superannuation is not paid at all, and instead, they get all their money paid as wages. Another PALM worker said that the superannuation funds in their country are not being managed in their best interests,” Dr Whait says.

“If done correctly, PALM superannuation policy reform presents Australia with an opportunity to rebuild and strengthen relationships with its Pacific neighbours.”

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Pacific and Timor-Leste workers have become a vital part of regional Australia’s workforce, but experts say the system for claiming their superannuation after returning home is too complex and urgently needs reform. Photo supplied

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Aspiring home owners in Queensland will have access to a new shared equity program designed to lower the entry barrier to the property market.

Expressions of interest open July 1 for the Boost to Buy scheme, which allows eligible first home buyers to purchase a home with as little as a 2 per cent deposit, thanks to a government equity contribution of up to 30 per cent for new homes and 25 per cent for existing properties.

The initiative, unveiled in the 2025–26 State Budget, is targeted at singles earning up to $150,000 and couples with combined incomes of up to $225,000. It applies to properties valued up to $1 million.

The scheme is backed by $165 million in funding, which the state government says will support up to 1,000 households. The government’s equity will be secured in the home itself, and buyers will not be required to repay this contribution unless they sell or refinance the property.

Premier David Crisafulli described the scheme as “nation-leading”, arguing it will bring home ownership within reach for more Queenslanders, particularly younger buyers and those without access to family financial support.

“This is about helping Queenslanders who are locked out of the housing market not because they can’t afford repayments, but because they can’t get over the deposit hurdle,” Mr Crisafulli said.

“This initiative, along with our expanded $30,000 First Home Owner Grant and the removal of stamp duty for first home buyers on new builds, forms part of our commitment to turning around Queensland’s low home ownership rate.”

According to the most recent data, Queensland has the lowest home ownership rate in Australia at just 63.5 per cent.

Treasurer and Minister for Home Ownership David Janetzki said the scheme was part of a broader plan to improve affordability and rebuild trust in government-led housing support.

“We’re delivering exactly what we promised and that’s unlocking the door to home-ownership for Queenslanders,” Treasurer Janetzki said.

“This is about making Queenslanders’ home ownership dream a reality, delivering a place to call home.

“Boost to Buy comes on top of the first home buyer support we’ve already delivered, including the extended $30,000 First Home Owner Grant and abolishing stamp duty for first home buyers purchasing a new build.”

The LNP Government has pointed to the state’s low home ownership rate and rising cost-of-living pressures as evidence that previous policy settings under Labor had failed to keep pace with community needs.

Opposition figures, however, have pushed back on this narrative. Former Shadow Treasurer Shannon Fentiman has defended Labor’s record, citing a stable credit rating during their tenure and questioning the LNP’s projected debt levels.

While the new scheme has been welcomed by industry advocates for providing an alternative pathway to ownership, some housing economists have cautioned that shared equity models are not a silver bullet, and broader supply-side issues still need to be addressed.

Nonetheless, Boost to Buy represents a significant shift in Queensland’s approach to supporting first home buyers — one that will be closely watched as the government moves to implement its broader housing agenda over the coming months.

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You might laugh at the term Netflix Bum, but Australia’s growing obsession with streaming, scrolling and sitting is no joke.

Whether it’s back-to-back episodes or endless TikTok loops, the hours we spend glued to our screens are quietly taking a toll on our health – and our backsides.

According to leading physical activity researcher Professor Corneel Vandelanotte, this modern-day lounge room phenomenon (known to weaken the gluteal muscles) is a symptom of a much bigger problem: Aussies are sitting too much, moving too little, and unknowingly putting themselves at risk of a range of chronic diseases.

“Prolonged sitting is associated with a wide range of health risks, including musculoskeletal problems, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and even some cancers,” Professor Vandelanotte said.

“It can also negatively impact mental health and increase the risk of premature death.

“Breaking up prolonged periods of sitting with movement is crucial for mitigating these risks.”

The average adult now spends more than 6 hours each day glued to screens – from streaming services and smartphones to computers and social media.

Professor Vandelanotte said the Australian Government is taking the issue seriously, with new 24-hour movement guidelines for adults set to be released later this year.

“The new guidelines will recommend a good balance between time spent sitting, being active and sleeping,” he explained.

“Regular moderate to vigorous physical activity can offset many of the health problems caused by prolonged sitting.”

The 10,000 Steps program, led by CQUniversity and supported by the Queensland Government, continues to encourage Australians to take simple, proactive steps to break up their sedentary time.

Tips include standing or stretching every 30 minutes, taking walking meetings or lunch breaks, using standing desks, or building movement into screen time by standing or pacing while watching TV.

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Professor Corneel Vandelanotte

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By Hannah McNamara

A grassroots movement in Mackay is punching beyond barriers in the fight against domestic violence, not just with words, but with gloves, grit and a dash of pink.

Last Wednesday, Project Pink held its official opening and activewear fundraiser at the CWA Hall on Gordon Street, offering locals a chance to support the cause with every $5 item sold helping fund vital programs for women and teen girls affected by domestic violence.

Founded by local mother and entrepreneur Charlotte Heller, Project Pink is a not-for-profit organisation that empowers women and teen girls affected by domestic violence through boxing and self-defence, while offering a safe, supportive environment for healing.

“Project Pink is our not-for-profit organisation that is dedicated to helping women heal either during or post-domestic violence,” Charlotte said.

“We focus on dealing with the trauma, anger, the emotional toll and then also the mental health impacts that are associated with domestic violence.”

With mental health at the core of the program, Project Pink combines physical activity with peer support and life skills to rebuild lives fractured by fear and abuse.

“That is just one part of our program,” she explained.

“That is the physical aspect that I think you can outwork a lot of trauma and anger, as well as lowering mental health impacts by about 20%.”

The vision took shape in February 2022 when Charlotte spotted a building and knew it had to become a haven for victim-survivors.

“I actually saw a building that I was obsessed with, and I was like, I need to have a boxing gym in there, for women affected by DV.”

Three years and countless late nights later, juggling two children and running a business, Charlotte says it’s been “a labour of love,” crediting a beautiful team that have put in countless hours of help.

Project Pink’s impact even goes beyond the gloves. Through parenting programs, daily life coaching, and a community-driven approach, it supports women as they rebuild from the ground up.

“Our mission is to create a safe and empowering space for women impacted by domestic violence,” Charlotte said.

“Through specialised boxing and self-defence programs… we aim to equip women with the physical and mental tools to regain control of their lives.”

Charlotte encourages others to speak up.

“I want to help remove the stigma, and the shame, guilt, and the feelings that are associated with domestic violence for so many where they are kept silent,” she said.

“I think the way that we can break the power that domestic violence has on so many women and so many families is by bringing it to light… and the way we do that is through truth.”

The team is currently seeking community and business support to secure a permanent space.

“We welcome support from local individuals and businesses who share our vision, as every contribution helps us bring our full program to life and reach more women in need.”

For more information, visit Project Pink on social media.

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Charlotte Heller and Rose Dee from Project Pink at the official opening and activewear fundraiser last Wednesday. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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With Allison Bekker From Skin Transformations

If you’ve ever wished for firmer, clearer, or more youthful-looking skin without going under the knife, there’s a breakthrough worth knowing about — and it’s right here in Mackay.

Skin Transformations is one of only six clinics in Australia to use and recommend the cutting-edge Fusion Plasma USA device. Made in Turkey, this non-invasive plasma treatment is designed to rejuvenate, tighten and heal the skin using advanced argon gas-powered plasma technology. It works by enhancing collagen production — the key to smooth, resilient, and radiant skin — while also addressing a range of common concerns.

Key Features:
Hot & Warm Plasma
Lifts and firms sagging skin
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Supports hair stimulation and fungal nail treatment

🌟 Exclusive Offer: Mention this column and receive a free Plasma Treatment Consultation (valued at $95).

Skin Transformations
15 Stephanie Court, Glenella, Mackay Q 4740
📞 (07) 4942 8193 | ✉️ info@skintransformations.com.au

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In a frantic search for her daughter’s beloved bunny, a Mackay mother turned to a local mums and bubs Facebook page, hoping the power of community could help return her little girl’s most cherished companion.

“Long shot, but us mummabears will do anything for our munchkins,” she wrote.

“Andergrove State School mums and parents, my daughter has misplaced or lost her purple plush bunny at school… She is absolutely devastated.”

The treasured toy – a Frankie & Friends plush bunny – carried more than sentimental value. With her daughter living with ADHD, the well-loved bunny served as a constant source of comfort in moments of overwhelm or distress.

“It has her name written on its tag ‘Emori’ and has stained pink marker on its front stomach and face,” she added.

“This bunny is her big comforter for everything. I hate seeing my little girl so heartbroken.”

Her heartfelt post quickly captured the attention of the community, as messages of kindness and support poured in.

Then came the news that lifted every heart.

“Thank you everyone for your comments and kindness,” the mother wrote in an emotional update.

“A kind soul has handed it into the school office.”

Her daughter was overjoyed to be reunited with her bunny, once again holding close the familiar softness that helps her navigate each day.

“One happy little girl reunited with her bunny again,” the post concluded – a touching reminder that even the smallest acts of kindness can bring joy beyond measure.

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A heartfelt plea on social media led to the joyful reunion of a Mackay girl and her beloved comfort bunny, thanks to the kindness of a caring community. Photo source: Mums and Bubs of Mackay & The Whitsundays (Facebook)

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The 2025 Woollam Art on Show Awards & Exhibition is already generating strong national interest, with entries coming in from across Australia and growing support from art societies, artist groups, and regional advocates.

Now in its 19th year, the exhibition has become a key fixture in Mackay’s cultural calendar and a recognised highlight of the Mackay Festival of Arts. The $10,000 prize pool and the high standard of presentation continue to attract both emerging and well-established artists from interstate, many of whom are entering for the first time.

Art societies across the country are helping to promote the event within their networks, with groups such as the Redcliffe Art Society, Artist Alliance, Blackall Cultural Association and Mackay Creatives actively encouraging their members to get involved. Locally, groups including Mackay Creatives Inc are working together in a collaborative effort to raise the profile of the awards and celebrate the region’s creative talent.

Artspace Mackay has also lent strong support to the event, with Director Tracey Heathwood and her team taking on the important task of managing the logistics of couriered artworks.

“Artspace is proud to be an advocate for this event and wholeheartedly supports the Mackay Art Society in running the event for the first time this year.”

Behind the scenes, eight dedicated volunteers from the Art on Show Committee are working steadily to bring all the elements together, supported by the generosity of 19 cash sponsors and numerous in-kind supporters. The Mackay Show Association continues to back the event with the use of the 500 Pavilion, donated for setup, exhibition, and pack-down.

“This year we have seen early interest from artists across the country,” said Mackay Art Society President, Ben Ranson.

“It’s a great sign that the Woollam Art on Show Awards have truly become a nationally recognised event.

“What makes it even more special is the way our local and regional arts communities are working together to promote and support it.

“It’s a real team effort and we’re proud of what this event means for Mackay.”

Artists are encouraged to register by Monday, 23 June. Completed artworks do not need to be submitted until Saturday, 26 July, providing time to create or finalise work during the school holidays.

The Exhibition will be held in the first week of August 2025 and promises to be a professionally presented, high-calibre event that reflects the growing strength of Mackay's arts sector.

For more information or to register, visit  www.mackayartsociety.com.au

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The 2025 Woollam Art on Show Awards is gaining national attention, cementing its place as a standout event in Mackay’s cultural calendar. Photos supplied

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Local business Professional Inspectors is proudly celebrating 20 years of service to the Mackay region, offering trusted building and pest inspections backed by decades of experience and deep local knowledge.

At the heart of the business is Jeff Keioskie, a well-known and highly respected figure in Mackay’s building industry. With over 45 years of experience, Jeff brings an exceptional level of expertise to every inspection. His background spans housing, group title units, commercial and industrial construction, and project management.

Over the years, Jeff has played a key role in delivering some of Mackay’s most recognisable buildings and was also a multi-award-winning building contractor, honoured by the Housing Industry Association (HIA) over a 25-year career.

Since founding Professional Inspectors in 2005, Jeff has conducted thousands of inspections across the region – many on the same homes more than once as they change hands. This repeat trust from local homeowners and real estate professionals speaks volumes about the integrity and thoroughness of his work.

Every inspection is a team effort, with Jeff working alongside an experienced Pest Inspector, Damian, owner of Integrity Pest Control, who brings hands-on knowledge and the latest in termite detection tools. Together, they ensure each client receives a clear, detailed reports they can rely on when making important property decisions.

“We’re proud to be local and proud to still be here after 20 years,” Jeff says.

“It’s all about experience, honesty, and looking after people.”

As a locally owned and operated business, Professional Inspectors continues to focus on providing personalised service, with Jeff and his dedicated Office Manager, Nathenea MacRae forming a friendly and reliable team that clients trust time and again.

Whether you’re buying, selling, or maintaining your home, Professional Inspectors offers peace of mind through thorough inspections and real experience.

For more information or to book an inspection, visit www.professionalinspectors.com.au or call 0438 848 027.

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Professional Inspectors is celebrating 20 years of trusted building and pest inspections in Mackay, led by industry veteran Jeff Keioskie and known for experience, integrity, and personalised service. Photos supplied

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Stan Camm Park in Midge Point has officially reopened following the completion of significant upgrade works.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the revitalised park was a great example of council’s commitment to improving liveability across the region.

“Creating high-quality public spaces like this is all part of council’s broader vision to enhance liveability for our residents,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Stan Camm Park has always been a much-loved space and these upgrades make it more accessible, functional and welcoming for everyone in the community.

“Whether you’re enjoying a barbecue, playing sport or simply relaxing outdoors, this park now offers a space where people of all ages can connect and enjoy a healthier, more active lifestyle.”

The revitalised park now features:
• A half basketball court and hitting wall.
• A new picnic shelter with additional barbecue and picnic settings.
• A modern amenities block, including a unisex disability cubicle and two ambulant cubicles, replacing the old Windyloo toilet.
• Paths connecting all facilities.
• A formalised car park with a DDA-compliant parking bay and refurbished bus shelter.
• Upgraded fencing with a modern post-and-rail design.

The existing picnic shelter and electric barbecue have been retained as part of the improved layout. However, the old woodfire barbecues have been removed to meet modern safety and environmental standards.

Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm said the project was proudly funded through the Crisafulli Government’s Works for Queensland Program, delivered in partnership with Mackay Regional Council.

“This new-look park is a fantastic asset for the local community, and I’m proud the Queensland Government could support council in delivering it,” Ms Camm said.

“Whether it’s participating in a friendly game of basketball, enjoying a picnic or just spending time outside, Stan Camm Park now has something for everyone.”

For more information, visit connectingmackay.com.au/stan-camm-park-upgrade.

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Stan Camm Park in Midge Point has officially reopened after major upgrades, transforming it into a more accessible, family-friendly space with new facilities funded through the Works for Queensland Program. Photos supplied

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Mackay Festival’s Wild Wedding Kickoff

For fans of weddings with a twist – and a touch of scandal – Confetti and Chaos promises a night of laughter and unexpected drama. This sharp comedy dinner event will headline the opening week of the Mackay Festival of Arts, starting June 27.

The audience becomes the guests caught in the crossfire at Stacey and Will’s surprise wedding reception, a highly immersive and highly improvised comedy.

Audience members can enjoy a three-course meal while they laugh until their sides hurt at this show that has been selling out festivals all around Australia.

Mayor Greg Williamson said Confetti and Chaos would be held at four different venues, sharing the fun of the festival around our region.

“Confetti and Chaos certainly promises to be hilarious – billed as the worst wedding reception you’ll ever go to,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Take your pick of venues, enjoy a three-course meal and laugh until your sides hurt,” he said.

“It’s fantastic to see different events during our festival running all around the region.

“The 2025 Festival of Arts is bigger and better than ever and truly has something for everyone.”

Audiences can catch Confetti and Chaos at the Seaforth Bowls Club on July 2, MECC North Foyer on July 3, Western Suburbs Leagues Club, Walkerston, on July 4 and at the Eimeo Pacific Hotel on July 5.

But, be quick as RSVPs are closing in the coming week, so book a seat today.

Also featured in the Mackay Festival of Arts opening weeks is Tin Can Radio, a family-friendly pop-up radio station.

Festivals and Events Coordinator Phoebe Short said kids aged seven and above and their favourite older person could join the fun at Foodspace Mackay.

“Kids can take over the airways at the fun and playful event for the young and young-at-heart, with the support of experienced facilitators,” Ms Short said.

“They can come along and sign up on the day as a roving reporter, submit top tips and interview questions or simply just enjoy the live radio experience with a meal or snack from Foodspace,” she said.

Tin Can Radio will be on Wednesday, July 2 to Friday, July 4 – during the school holidays – from 8am to 12pm.

Highlights from the first week of the Mackay Festival of Arts include:

On June 27 to 28, Country Fest QLD will feature country music, market stalls, food trucks and a PBR bull ride at the Dittmann Bull Pit, Bloomsbury.

From June 28 to August 3, 'The Brae' in Netherdale will be home to a number of events including an extraordinary exhibition featuring local artists and a series of hands-on workshops for all ages.

From June 28 to July 2 at Mackay State High School is Necklace: an autobiographical tale – an intimate and participatory performance exploring the experience of being treated as a burden on the medical system.

From July 5, Artspace Mackay will feature the 2025 Libris Awards: The Australian artists book prize. The competition culminates in an exhibition of more than 50 finalists’ works in three categories with a total prize pool of $21,000.

For more details and to book for any Mackay Festival of Arts event, visit themecc.com.au/festivals

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Local Author Captures The Untold Stories Of Instrumental Regional Women

With a historian’s lens and storyteller’s soul, local author Kaaren Sephton shines a light on Mackay’s unsung heroines in her self-published book, Shining a Light: Women of Mackay.

Spanning over 160 years, the book celebrates 37 remarkable women who shaped the Mackay region from the 1860s to 2023. From settlers and midwives to artists, entrepreneurs, and a former convict, the collection reveals the evolving roles of women in regional Queensland.

“This book is about visibility,” Dr Sephton said. “So many women played vital roles, yet without documentation, their stories risk being lost. It felt as if they were invisible.”

The project began when Yvonne, a key member of the Pioneer Valley Museum, invited Dr Sephton to explore historical posters. What started as a nod to archives became a passionate, years-long labour of love to preserve local women’s legacies.

Using research from the Pioneer Valley Museum and Mackay Family History Society, along with death certificates, oral histories, and interviews, Dr Sephton uncovered stories of Indigenous women, farmers, educators, and a Jamaican-born trailblazer who founded an early private school.

“I grew up here, so I knew some of these women personally or through community,” she said.

“That connection made it important to get their stories right.”

Available through www.inspiringbookshop.com, the book is a vivid tribute to the women who helped build Mackay, inviting readers to reconnect with the past and honour their legacy.

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CQUniversity Australia has officially launched its new micro-credential course, "Decarbonisation and Gas Emissions Scopes."  This free, online course aims to equip local small and medium businesses with the essential skills and knowledge needed to tackle the challenges of decarbonisation.

The course is designed to empower small and medium enterprise (SME) owners, managers, and employees with the foundational knowledge required to begin their decarbonisation journey.  It offers timely, practical support for businesses looking to future-proof operations amidst increasing climate pressures and evolving industries.

Developed with funding from BHP Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA) and delivered through the Chair of Automation and Future Work Skills in collaboration with Greater Whitsunday Alliance, the course provides a practical first step for businesses to understand how to measure and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Professor Rob Brown, BMA Chair in Automation and Future Work Skills at CQUniversity, stated the course is "free, short, and designed specifically for busy professionals—particularly those in regional industries."  He added that CQUniversity is delighted to be involved in an educational project that links the mutual interests of the Greater Whitsunday Alliance, BMA, and the region on this important topic.

Participants will explore different scopes of greenhouse gas emissions, climate impacts, and real-world decarbonisation, from daily business decisions to long-term strategy.  The course takes approximately two hours to complete and includes a digital badge and Certificate of Completion.

Sonia Winter, BMA General Manager, Planning Technical & Environment, expressed enthusiasm for their participation in the new micro-credential course, stating, "We are delighted to participate [in] the development of this important decarbonisation course which will assist and encourage SME businesses to start their decarbonisation journey."

The launch of this course signifies a broader shift in the Greater Whitsunday region, where decarbonisation is increasingly viewed as a unique opportunity rather than solely a challenge.

Ms. Kylie Porter, Chief Executive Officer of Greater Whitsunday Alliance, emphasized that decarbonisation is not just about reducing emissions but also about "securing the future viability of our traditional sectors and creating opportunities in emerging industries."  She added that "every action we take today can contribute to a more sustainable and prosperous tomorrow for our region,"  and that "whether you're in agribusiness, tourism, resources or tech—your role in the low-carbon economy of the future matters."

Ms. Porter noted that the course is about "demystifying those first steps," requiring willingness to start rather than expertise.

This micro-credential course is part of GW3's Decarbonisation Accelerated program, which has been working with local businesses and stakeholders in the decarbonisation space for the past two years. This course complements Decarbonisation Accelerated by offering accessible, self-paced education for individuals across all industries. Ms. Porter concluded, "We want our region to be recognised globally for our leadership in lower greenhouse gas emissions growth. The businesses that take this step today will be the success stories of tomorrow."

The "Decarbonisation and Gas Emissions Scopes" micro-credential course will be discussed in detail at the Resource Industry Network's June Industry Briefing Breakfast on June 13.

Key Course Information:

Title: Decarbonisation and Greenhouse Gas Emissions Scopes
Mode: Online, self-paced
Duration: Approximately 2 hours
Cost: Free
Target Audience: SME owners, managers, and employees (across all industries)
Enrol Now: CQUniversity Course Page

This micro-credential is part of CQUniversity's expanding library of short courses focused on future skills, innovation, and sustainable development, supporting regional goals and addressing national and global climate commitments, including the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

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Community Spirit Shines Through In Relocation Of Vital Outreach Services

Local community advocate Lisa Jamieson has praised Mackay’s incredible spirit, following a successful grassroots effort to relocate essential outreach services in a true example of community collaboration.

“What a great community we have in Mackay,” Ms Jamieson said.

“As I head off on holidays, I have to share how blessed we are living in a community like Mackay. People care and want to make a difference.

“Sometimes it only takes just letting it be known that you need help.”

The recent transition of Orange Sky and food services from St Vincent de Paul on Juliet Street to the Mackay City Girl Guides, just across the road, has helped maintain consistency for those who rely on the support.

“The community that was at St Vinnies in Juliet St with the food services that helped support the laundry provide meaningful connections and conversations for many regular friends,” she said.

“It is so great to see that the friends are keen to keep coming, having a conversation and connected with the move across the road to the Girl Guides.”

Ms Jamieson acknowledged that change can be difficult, but familiar faces and routines make a difference.

“Change can be unsettling but the constant of knowing that you are welcomed, familiar faces and being able to take up a conversation where you left off all bring surety.”

She stressed the importance of reliability in building trust.

“Reliability certainly builds positive connections. Along with the routine it brings, it signifies the importance of being there, of turning up, and the difference you can make in someone’s life.

“The gratitude is heartfelt as the connection is genuine.

“The Mackay City Girl Guides have been so welcoming as we continue to connect at the new location,” she added.

“It has been a great collaborative community effort to bring about the move across Juliet St, and to keep it as consistent for all who connect with the community whether it is for food, conversation, or laundry.

“Every connection is important as there are people who need to be seen, to be connected and be part of a welcoming community.”

Ms Jamieson also thanked the Rotary Club of Mackay West and local contractors for their support.

“The Rotary Club of Mackay West have been awesome with the support they have provided... they have been men of action and helped out where they could.”

She also noted the vital contributions of all involved.

“The area around the Guide Hut has certainly been a hive of activity lately. Thanks to Helen Anderson from the Mackay City Guides, District Manager, for all the time she has offered to let contractors in and see the transformation of the site into what will be a great community place for connections and collaboration.”

Local advocate Lisa Jamieson has praised Mackay’s spirit of collaboration after the successful relocation of outreach services to the Mackay City Girl Guides, highlighting the power of community, consistency, and connection. Photos supplied

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A Colourful Tribute To Community Heritage

A cherished piece of Mirani’s public art has been given a vibrant new life, with the completion of an updated mural at the Mirani Swimming Centre — a striking tribute to the region’s rich natural and cultural heritage.

The original mural, which graced the entrance of the Swim Centre since the early 1990s, was commissioned by then-pool manager Lesley Kelly and painted by local artists Lesley Kane and Maxine Bradshaw of the Pioneer Valley Art Society. The duo fondly recall bringing the valley’s iconic fauna to life using paint donated by Mackay Regional Council.

Now, more than three decades later, the Mirani Swimming Club recognised the fading mural’s historical significance and took action to preserve this piece of community creativity.

In January 2025, the Club applied for a Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) grant, receiving funding in April to support the mural’s revitalisation.

Renowned muralist Joel Fergie, known as “The Zookeeper,” was commissioned to lead the project. Celebrated for his bold, community-centric murals across Queensland, Fergie welcomed the chance to engage with the Mirani community — including a meaningful reunion with the original artists during the creative process.

“I love coming to the Mackay Region to paint,” Fergie said.

“It’s always inspiring to learn about the people and stories behind a place — and this one has such a great history.”

The new mural is a vivid tapestry of colour, heart, and local identity. It showcases scenes that encapsulate the essence of the Pioneer Valley — from joyful moments at Platypus Beach, where native fauna curiously observe, to the enduring symbol of the region’s sugar industry, with a cane train crossing the bridge. Naturally, the platypus retains its pride of place in the artwork.

The refreshed mural has already garnered admiration from locals and visitors alike, praised for restoring warmth and vibrancy to the community hub.

“This mural has always been a part of our town’s story,” said original artist Lesley Kane.

“It’s just so wonderful to see it come alive again.”

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The updated mural at the Mirani Swimming Centre breathes new life into a much-loved local landmark — a vibrant tribute to the Pioneer Valley’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Photo supplied

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After 581 days in Mackay Base Hospital, 45-year-old Dan Honnery was discharged on June 6 to cheers and applause. Diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome, a rare autoimmune disorder that causes paralysis, Dan spent over nine months in ICU and a year in the F0 rehabilitation ward.

Hospital staff formed a guard of honour to farewell one of their longest-staying patients, honouring his resilience and remarkable recovery.

A Mackay Hospital and Health Service representative said Dan now begins a new chapter at home in Collinsville, requiring ongoing support and rehabilitation.

“All the very best wishes for your future, Dan!”

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